Excelsior
Excelsior is the smaller, quieter cousin of Wayzata — a historic village on the south shore of Lake Minnetonka with a genuinely walkable downtown, local shops, and a strong community identity. It has the feel of a New England coastal town, with summer concerts on the dock, ice cream on the boardwalk, and a pace of life that feels different from the rest of the metro.
Who It's Best For
Lake lovers, small-town seekers, aging-well buyers, people who want walkability and water.
Housing
Historic cottages, lakefront homes, new construction, and some downtown condos.
Market Positioning
Premium. Lakefront and downtown-adjacent properties command strong prices.
Walkability & Transportation
Very walkable downtown. Car-dependent in residential areas.
Water, Parks & Nature
Lake Minnetonka, regional trails, Luce Line Trail, nearby parks.
Arts, Food & Culture
Historic downtown, waterfront dining, summer concerts, Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical Society.
Schools & Education
Minnetonka public schools — excellent reputation.
Healthcare Access
Close to Ridgedale area clinics and Minneapolis medical systems.
Climate & Property Considerations
Lake proximity provides natural cooling. Some low-lying areas near the lake.
What Residents Love
"It feels like a summer town that you get to live in year-round."
Honest Tradeoffs
Limited inventory. Can be seasonal. Fewer urban amenities.
Related Communities
Wayzata
Charming lakeside town on Lake Minnetonka with boutique shopping, waterfront dining, and a resort-like feel 15 miles from downtown Minneapolis.
Edina
Affluent first-ring suburb with excellent schools, mature trees, the walkable 50th & France district, and a blend of classic and contemporary homes.
Minneapolis
Minnesota's largest city — a cultural hub with world-class arts, major healthcare systems, an extensive park system, and the Chain of Lakes.