Things To Do
in Chanhassen

Chanhassen is a vibrant city located in Carver County, Minnesota, known for its beautiful parks, lakes, and family-friendly atmosphere. It is home to the famous Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, which provide a unique dining and entertainment experience. The city offers a mix of suburban comfort and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

With a rich history and a strong community spirit, Chanhassen is a delightful destination for visitors of all ages.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day at the scenic Lake Ann Park for a refreshing walk or picnic by the lake.

afternoon
:

Visit the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres for a matinee performance followed by lunch at their café.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, then take a stroll through the picturesque downtown area.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Hike the trails at the nearby Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, experiencing the local flora.

afternoon
:

Explore the local shops and boutiques in downtown Chanhassen, then grab a bite at a food truck.

evening
:

End your day with a relaxing evening at a local brewery, sampling craft beers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$8
Coffee$4
🍕Pizza (Medium)$15
🍺Craft Beer$6
🍽️Dinner for Two$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings with plenty of parks and lakes.
  • Family-friendly attractions and activities.
  • Rich cultural scene with live performances and dining options.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Potentially high living costs in some areas.
  • Cold winters may deter some visitors.

Places to Visit in Chanhassen

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Ann Park

A beautiful park with serene lake views, perfect for capturing sunsets and nature shots.

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

A stunning array of gardens and landscapes, ideal for vibrant floral photography.

Chanhassen Dinner Theatres

Capture the essence of local culture and entertainment at this iconic venue.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chanhassen

Chanhassen offers a delightful culinary scene that combines local flavors with diverse dining options, perfect for food enthusiasts.

Chanhassen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Wild Rice Soup

A creamy soup made with locally sourced wild rice, often served with bread.

Must-Try!

Juicy Lucy

A cheeseburger with the cheese inside the patty, creating a delicious melt.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Chanhassen Farmers Market

Held weekly, this market features fresh produce, local artisan goods, and delicious baked treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chanhassen experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging in the 70s and 80s °F (21-30 °C), while winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Spring and fall bring pleasant weather with moderate temperatures and beautiful scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Residents appreciate polite conversation and manners; greetings are common.

Respect for Nature

As a community that values its parks and lakes, it's important to clean up after yourself.

Punctuality

Being on time for appointments and meetings is considered respectful in Chanhassen.

Safety Guide

Safety

Chanhassen is generally a safe community with low crime rates. However, it is always advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in less crowded areas. For emergencies, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance.

Tipping in Chanhassen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip service staff 15-20% depending on the quality of service.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, and mobile payments are increasingly popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and plenty of outdoor activities as the snow melts.

Summer

Enjoy warm weather with many festivals, lake activities, and lush greenery.

Fall

Experience beautiful autumn foliage, making it a great time for hiking and photography.

Winter

Be prepared for cold weather and snow, ideal for winter sports and holiday festivities.

Nightlife Guide

Chanhassen at Night

Chanhassen's nightlife is relatively low-key but offers a variety of options including bars, breweries, and live music venues. The Chanhassen Dinner Theatres provide a unique combination of dining and entertainment, showcasing live performances. Local pubs and breweries often host events, making it a cozy place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Chanhassen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Carver Park Reserve

A large park with extensive trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, offering scenic views and wildlife.

Cedar Lake Regional Trail

A beautiful trail that connects several parks and lakes, perfect for hiking and biking enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Chanhassen by plane.

Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)

Located about 25 miles from Chanhassen, MSP is the primary airport serving the Twin Cities area with numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chanhassen is moderately walkable, with many parks and local shops accessible on foot. The downtown area features pedestrian-friendly pathways, although some residential areas may require a car for convenience. Sidewalks are well-maintained, making it suitable for leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Chanhassen is known for its family-friendly environment, attracting many families with children.

Retirees

The city appeals to retirees due to its peaceful surroundings and access to outdoor activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

A favorite pastime in Minnesota, with numerous local teams and arenas for enthusiasts.

Golf

Chanhassen boasts several golf courses, making it a popular sport among residents and visitors, especially during the summer.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Chanhassen is generally light, especially compared to larger urban areas. Public transportation options include local bus services, but many residents prefer to drive due to the city's layout. Traffic congestion can occur during peak hours, particularly on main roads leading to Minneapolis and surrounding suburbs.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chanhassen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Gluten-Free Options

Many local restaurants offer gluten-free menu items and can accommodate dietary requests.

Vegan-Friendly

Several eateries provide vegan options, ensuring a variety of choices for plant-based diets.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Chanhassen has several healthcare facilities, including clinics and urgent care centers. The nearby city of Minnetonka offers larger hospitals for more comprehensive medical needs. Health insurance is advisable for visitors in case of emergencies.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide