Things To Do
in Edina
Edina, Minnesota is an affluent Minneapolis suburb known for its tree-lined streets, high-quality amenities, and family-friendly atmosphere. Nestled just southwest of downtown Minneapolis, it offers upscale shopping at the 50th & France district and easy access to lakes and parks. The city blends residential neighborhoods with corporate campuses and cultural venues, making it convenient for both day trips and extended stays.
While rooted in suburbia, Edina serves as a gateway to the Twin Cities' vibrant arts and outdoors scene.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk around Centennial Lakes Park, where you can enjoy the serene beauty of the landscaped gardens and tranquil water features. Grab a coffee from a nearby café and take in the morning sun as you stroll along the paths. Don’t forget to stop by the paddleboats for a quick ride on the lake!
After a leisurely morning, indulge in a picnic lunch at one of the many scenic spots within the park. Spend the afternoon exploring the park’s unique art installations and engaging in recreational activities like frisbee or lawn games. As the sun continues to shine, take a moment to relax by the water and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
As the evening approaches, find a cozy spot at a local restaurant to enjoy dinner, perhaps trying some of the area’s famous cuisine. After dinner, take a peaceful stroll around the park again to witness the sunset reflecting off the water. Conclude your day with a visit to a nearby ice cream shop for a sweet treat under the stars.
Begin your day with a visit to the Edina Art Center, where you can explore captivating exhibitions showcasing local artists. Participate in a morning art class to unleash your creativity and learn new techniques in a welcoming environment. Enjoy the vibrancy of the center that fosters community engagement through art.
After your artistic morning, take a break for lunch at a nearby café, sampling some local favorites. Spend the afternoon wandering around the art center’s gallery, immersing yourself in diverse forms of art and perhaps even purchasing a piece to take home. If time allows, check out any workshops or events scheduled for the day.
In the evening, attend a local theater performance or art lecture at the center, soaking in the cultural offerings of Edina. Following the show, enjoy dinner at a gourmet restaurant nearby, where you can discuss your favorite moments of the day. Finish off with a nightcap at a local bar, appreciating the vibrant nightlife of the area.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or small drink | $3-5 |
| 🍕Pizza or mid-range dinner for two | $25-60 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $60-120 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $120-250 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affluent, safe, well-maintained neighborhoods
- Easy access to Minneapolis/St. Paul via car or public transit
- Limited nightlife within Edina itself
- Can be pricey for dining and lodging compared to some neighboring suburbs
Places to Visit in Edina
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque, lakefront park with walking paths, bridges, and fountains—great for sunrise shots and reflections.
Charming storefronts and tree-lined streets provide ambient urban photography, especially during golden hour.
Scenic lake with walking trails and open skies ideal for landscape and nature photography.
Food in Edina
Edina Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Minnesotan classic often served with potatoes or wild rice; available at many local seafood restaurants.
Must-Try!
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Farmers markets in nearby suburbs offer seasonal produce, baked goods, and local treats (check seasonal schedules).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Timeliness is valued; be on time for appointments and meetings.
Maintain a polite, relatively quiet demeanor in shared spaces; avoid loud phone conversations in public areas.
Safety
Tipping in Edina
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tipping 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is customary in the U.S. for good service.
Most places accept credit/debit cards; cash is accepted too. Contactless payments (Apple Pay/Google Pay) are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm temperatures and long days; expect humidity and occasional thunderstorms. Great time for outdoor dining, lakes, and evening strolls.
Mild days with colorful foliage; pleasant for walking and outdoor photography.
Cold, snowy days with short daylight; plan for layering and indoor activities like cafes, galleries, and indoor parks.
Mud season and variable weather; blooming trees provide vibrant color and opportunities for outdoor photography.
Edina at Night
Hiking in Edina
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Urban hiking options around the Minnehaha Creek and waterfall.
Rural-wooded trails with scenic overlooks in nearby Bloomington.
Paved loops around a tranquil lake in the Normandale area.
Airports
How to reach Edina by plane.
Major international and domestic airport about 15-25 minutes from central Edina by car, with many commuter and long-haul flights.
Smaller regional airport offering some general aviation services; limited commercial flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large share of Edina's population are families with children, drawn by highly rated schools and safe neighborhoods.
Many residents are professionals who commute to Minneapolis or nearby corporate campuses.
A solid portion of residents are retirees or near-retirees who value suburban amenities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular winter sport across Minnesota; you’ll find local leagues and public rinks nearby.
Common in community leagues and schools; several parks host local games.
Active in parks and school facilities during warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Edina.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Edina, many restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for salads, veggie burgers, pasta with vegetables; request modifications and check menus for meat-free dishes.