Waconia

 

Waconia takes its name from the scenic lake on which it is located. A growing community currently undergoing a healthy amount of economic development, it is known for its many lakes and parks as well as its excellent healthcare facilities and great schools, all just 30 minutes from the Twin Cities metropolitan area of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Beginning in the 1880s, the lake became a popular summer destination for surrounding residents and it became known as the “Paradise of the Northwest.” The early 2000s saw an influx of new residents rediscovering the area as a modern-day paradise. There are a variety of home styles available in Waconia with modern homes and Craftsman Bungalows being especially popular.

 

Waconia is especially popular with families, but anyone would enjoy living here. It’s earned a reputation as one of the most up-and-coming suburbs in the Twin Cities area. The lake is the second largest in the area, and the public beach is a popular gathering spot during the summertime. There are also local breweries, vineyards, and boutique shops in the downtown area, as well as easy access to other nearby natural areas.

 

• Lovely scenery
• Recreational activities at Lake Waconia
• Up-and-coming community
• Close to the Twin Cities urban centers
• A family-friendly and pleasant place to live
• Quaint downtown
• Peaceful community
  
  

Waconia residents love that the community has maintained a small-town feel while being so close to Minneapolis. It has a laid-back, friendly, suburban atmosphere, and people living here value having access to outdoor activities and the restaurants and shops downtown close by. Families especially appreciate the highly regarded schools and the world-class care at the recently opened Ridgeview Medical Center.

 

There is no shortage of good dining options in Waconia. The locals’ favorite place for a great meal is Lola’s Lakehouse on Lake Waconia. Besides the great location, it has the perfect blend of elegance with a family-friendly, neighborly atmosphere. Iron Tap Restaurant is a fun, neighborhood-style pub with craft beer and scrumptious BBQ. Waconia Brewing Company is another favorite for local craft beer connoisseurs.

 

For food, drinks, and fun, Garage Bar and Bowl is a family-run boutique bar with a bowling alley and fun for the whole family. The Schram Vineyards and Brewery and The Winery at Sovereign Estate are great options for enjoying locally-made wine. For something stronger, J. Carver Distillery produces great spirits made from Minnesota-sourced grains and ingredients.

 

For shopping, Waconia has big box stores for convenience. There are also some nice local shops in the quaint historic downtown and surrounding areas. The Stash of Waconia, Waconia Apparel, and Unearthed Arts are popular shops along Main Street.

 

Despite being a peaceful town, there’s no shortage of fun activities in Waconia. Lake Waconia is one of the Twin Cities’ prime places for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water sports. In the winter, it’s a great place for ice fishing and ice skating. In the middle of the lake, you’ll find Coney Island, once the site of a theme park modeled after the famous one of the same name in New York. Today, there are trails, picnic areas, and kayak launches. Reitz Lake, Piersons Lake, Parley Lake, and Hydes Lake are all also nearby.

 

Emagine Waconia is a luxury-style theater that shows the latest Hollywood flicks. Island View Golf Club is just outside of town overlooking the lake and Coney Island.

 

The area’s premier annual event is the Carver County Fair, held every year in late summer and featuring rides, live music, and lots of great food. Residents also love the unique Nickel Dickle Day which features a car show, live music, duck races, and arts and craft fair.

 

The schools in Waconia are run by the Waconia School Public Schools Independent School District 110. Some local schools of note are:

 

• Laketown Elementary School
• Waconia Middle School
• Waconia High School
• St. Joseph Catholic STEM School
  
  

Ready to move to Waconia? Get in touch with an agent whose expertise will make your process a smooth one. Chad Haasken is ready to help you today.