Excelsior, city in Hennepin County, Minnesota, United States
Excelsior is a small city on the southern shore of Lake Minnetonka in Minnesota, home to about 2,300 people. The downtown area features Victorian buildings, tree-lined streets, shops, restaurants, and theaters, while the waterfront park includes a swimming beach, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
The city was founded in 1853 and officially became a town in 1878, mainly by settlers from New York. In the late 1800s, it became known for lakeside resorts, and later for Danceland, a large dance hall that hosted performances by famous musicians.
The name Excelsior comes from Latin and means "ever upward," reflecting the early settlers' hopes for progress. This spirit still shapes the community today, where Victorian buildings and local gatherings create a shared sense of identity.
The city is about a 20-minute drive west of Minneapolis and is easily accessible by car. Summer visits are popular for beach time and outdoor activities, while fall and spring offer pleasant walking conditions.
Danceland hosted performances by the Beach Boys and the Rolling Stones during their early tours in the 1960s. The city also has an unconfirmed connection to the Rolling Stones song "You Can't Always Get What You Want," as Mick Jagger was possibly inspired by a visit to a local store.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
Big Island Amusement Park
3.5 km
Excelsior Public School
253 m
Peter Gideon Farmhouse
2 km
Wyer House
358 mLake Minnewashta Regional Park
3.5 kmBig Island Regional Park
2.9 km
Lake Ann Beach
3.9 km6
4.2 km14
3.7 kmOld Log Theatre
1.1 kmSails
314 mAnchor Sculpture
302 mSculpture, Work of art
209 m8
4.1 kmSota Sims Golf
1.6 km10
3.9 km3
4.4 km12
3.5 kmWater Street Gallery Ltd
17 m13
3.7 km2
4.3 km7
4.2 km1
4.3 km9
4 kmThe Light and Sound of God
3.7 kmScenic viewpoint
688 mScenic viewpoint
700 mScenic viewpoint
231 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes