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.
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