Things To Do
in Eden Prairie
Eden Prairie is a family-friendly city in the southwest Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro area, built around lakes and parks. It blends suburban comfort with easy access to urban amenities, making it popular with families and outdoor lovers. Visitors enjoy extensive trails, parks, and lakefront scenery alongside shopping and dining within a well-planned community.
Located just outside Minneapolis, Eden Prairie serves as a relaxed base for day trips and local exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Minnesota Zoo, located just a short drive from Eden Prairie. Enjoy a refreshing breakfast at the zoo cafe before delving into exhibits featuring animals from various ecosystems. This engaging experience allows you to connect with wildlife and learn about conservation efforts.
After dinner, take your time exploring the zoo's expansive grounds, where you can visit the Tropical Rainforest and the Discovery Bay. Don't miss the opportunity to watch an educational presentation showcasing the amazing talents of some of the zoo's inhabitants. Complete your visit by stopping by the gift shop for a souvenir.
Wrap up your day with a lovely dinner at a nearby restaurant offering regional cuisine. Savor the flavors of the evening while discussing the day's highlights and planning your next adventure. Spend a leisurely evening at your hotel or a stroll through a nearby park.
Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast at a local cafe before heading to the Eden Prairie Center, the area's premier shopping destination. Explore the wide variety of stores and boutiques, finding everything from fashion to home decor. Take your time strolling through the mall and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
After lunch at one of the mall's diverse dining options, consider catching a movie at the on-site theater. Enjoy the latest blockbuster in comfortable seats as a relaxing afternoon treat. If you have energy left, why not explore some more shops or indulge in a little spa time?
In the evening, venture out to a local restaurant for dinner. Enjoy a delightful meal while absorbing the ambiance of Eden Prairie's charming downtown area. After dinner, consider visiting a local brewery to mingle with residents and sample some craft beers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $3-6 |
| 🏨One-night hotel | $120-180 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $70-150 |
| 🚗Gasoline for a short road trip | $3-4 per gallon |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Abundant outdoor spaces and lake access
- Safe, family-friendly environment with shopping and dining nearby
- More low-key nightlife compared to downtown Minneapolis
- Car-centric layout in some areas; limited rapid transit within Eden Prairie itself
Places to Visit in Eden Prairie
Visit one of these nice places.
Lakeside viewpoints with reed beds and sunset reflections, ideal for wide-angle and landscape shots.
Waterfront piers and calm shoreline provide strong composition opportunities and golden-hour lighting.
Panoramic views of river valleys and woodlands, perfect for expansive landscape photography.
Food in Eden Prairie
Eden Prairie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Midwest casserole featuring meat, vegetables, and creamy sauce; widely available in diners and community gatherings.
Must-Try!
Minnesota’s state fish, commonly served fried with fries and tartar sauce at casual eateries and fish fries.
Creamy soup made with wild rice, mushrooms, and chicken or vegetable stock; a comforting cafe staple.
Norwegian flatbread often enjoyed with butter or sugar, found in bakeries and Scandinavian-inspired spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, honey, baked goods, and ready-to-eat snacks; best for morning visits.
Rotating trucks around parks and events, offering tacos, burgers, Asian-inspired dishes, and more.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents are typically friendly; a quick hello and courtesy behaviors are appreciated.
Respect lines and maintain a comfortable personal space in public areas.
Most venues are casual; practical, comfortable clothing is suitable for daily activities.
Safety
Tipping in Eden Prairie
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, tipping 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is standard. Some places may include a service charge for larger groups. Tipping for casual service is appreciated but not always expected.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days with blooming trees and returning birds; rain showers are common, so pack a light rain jacket and plan flexible outdoor time.
Warm to hot days with long daylight hours; ideal for lake activities, hiking, and outdoor markets. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen.
Crisp air and colorful foliage; great for scenic drives and trails. Pack layers and prepare for variable weather.
Cold temperatures with possible snow; opportunities for winter sports, ice skating, and cozy indoor dining. Dress in layers and keep footwear warm and dry.
Eden Prairie at Night
Hiking in Eden Prairie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Expansive network of trails through woodlands and meadows with varying elevations.
Riverside trails offering scenic overlooks and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Combination of paved and natural paths around a scenic lake, suitable for all ages.
Airports
How to reach Eden Prairie by plane.
Major international and domestic gateway located roughly 20-25 miles from Eden Prairie; accessible by car and regional transit connections.
Public-use general aviation airport in Eden Prairie; primarily serves private aircraft and corporate flights.
Regional airport offering general aviation services; additional options for shorter trips in the metro area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence of families due to parks, schools, and safe neighborhoods.
Commuters and residents who appreciate the suburb–city access and community amenities.
Active senior community with nearby services, healthcare access, and lakeside recreation.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in Minnesota, with community leagues and youth programs widely available.
Court access in parks and community centers; seasonal leagues and pickup games common.
Local parks feature fields for youth and adult play throughout warmer months.
Several courses in the region provide recreational golf and practice facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Eden Prairie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers will find vegetable-forward options in most eateries; look for salads, veggie burgers, grain bowls, and cheese-based dishes. When in doubt, ask for meatless versions of local classics.