Things To Do
in Lakeville
Lakeville is a vibrant suburb of the Twin Cities located in Dakota and Scott counties. It is known for its abundant lakes, parks, and family-friendly neighborhoods that blend small-town charm with modern services. The city offers a growing dining scene, good schools, and convenient access to the metro via major roadways.
Located just south of Minneapolis, Lakeville serves as a convenient base for exploring southeastern Minnesota and the broader Minneapolis–Saint Paul area.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Lakeville Historic District, where you can stroll through charming streets lined with beautifully preserved buildings. Stop by the Lakeville Area Arts Center to admire local art exhibits and perhaps catch a morning class. Enjoy a breakfast at a cozy café, sampling some homemade pastries and locally roasted coffee.
After lunch, head over to the Lakeville Heritage Center, where you can learn about the history of the area through interactive displays and guided tours. Spend some time at the nearby Lakeville Library, which often hosts afternoon events such as author readings or community workshops. As the sun shines down, take a leisurely walk around the scenic Lakeville Civic Center Park, enjoying the flower gardens and peaceful pond.
As evening approaches, dine at one of Lakeville's popular restaurants, where you can savor dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. After your meal, catch a performance at the Lakeville Area Arts Center, featuring everything from theater productions to musical concerts. End your night with a stroll around the park, where twinkling lights illuminate the paths and create a magical atmosphere.
Begin your day with a refreshing walk through the scenic trails of the Lakeville Lakes Regional Park. The morning air is crisp, perfect for spotting local wildlife such as deer and various bird species. Bring along a picnic breakfast to enjoy by one of the many lakeside benches as you take in the serene surroundings.
After your morning nature experience, take part in a guided nature hike that delves into the local flora and fauna of the region. You might even discover hidden trails that lead you to breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the lakes. At midday, enjoy a packed lunch or grab a bite at a nearby café, fueling up for an afternoon of exploration.
As dusk falls, settle in for a relaxing evening at the park, where you can rent a canoe or kayak to paddle on the lake. The sunset views over the water are simply stunning, making for perfect photo opportunities. Once back on land, enjoy a casual dinner at a local eatery, sharing stories of your day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥗Meal at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $1,200-1,800 per month |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Family-friendly neighborhoods and abundant parks and lakes
- Strong access to the broader Twin Cities metro and amenities
- Limited nightlife directly in Lakeville; more options in nearby cities
- Average commute times to central Minneapolis can be longer during peak hours
Places to Visit in Lakeville
Visit one of these nice places.
Scenic lake views with water reflections, wetlands, and wildlife—particularly beautiful at sunrise or golden hour.
Historic storefronts, signage, and street activity provide charming, postcard-worthy scenes as light fades.
Short trails with birdlife and water vistas; a quiet spot for nature photography and tranquil landscapes.
Food in Lakeville
Lakeville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Minnesota classic—crispy fried walleye served with fries, coleslaw, and lemon; commonly found at lake-area taverns and family diners.
Must-Try!
A comforting Minnesota casserole featuring ground meat, vegetables, and crunchy tater tots baked together.
Creamy soup made with wild rice and herbs; a cozy option at many local eateries in cooler months.
German-Norwegian/Danish-inspired baked goods—lefse (potato flatbread) or kringle (pastry) found in bakeries and cafes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring local produce, honey, baked goods, and crafts from area growers and artisans.
Seasonal markets in neighboring towns with farm-fresh goods and prepared foods; a good option when visiting other parts of the metro.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hello, hold doors for others, and queue patiently in lines. Americans generally value punctuality and direct, polite communication.
Respect residential quiet hours and be mindful of neighbors when enjoying outdoor spaces and late-evening activities.
Safety
Tipping in Lakeville
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, tipping is customary at 15–20% of the pre-tax bill. For counter service, tipping is discretionary. Tipping is also common for hotel staff and taxi or rideshare drivers.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted. Digital payment apps (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common at many venues and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming trees; keep an umbrella handy for occasional showers and muddy trails.
Warm to hot days with long daylight hours; mosquitoes are common near water, so bring repellent and plan lake outings in the mornings or evenings.
Crisp air and vibrant fall foliage; great for scenic drives and outdoor photography along lakes and parks.
Cold temperatures with possible snow; layering is essential and lakes may offer ice-skating and winter trails when conditions permit.
Lakeville at Night
Hiking in Lakeville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of trails with scenic overlooks and forested terrain just a short drive from Lakeville.
Beautiful prairie and woodland trails along the Mississippi River bluffs, offering challenging and easy hikes.
Airports
How to reach Lakeville by plane.
Major regional and international hub about 25–40 miles from Lakeville, with frequent flights and convenient ground access via highways and public transit.
Smaller regional airport serving general aviation and regional flights; a shorter drive for certain itineraries and charter services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong school systems and abundant parks attract families seeking a suburban lifestyle.
Commuters and remote workers benefit from easy access to the metro and growing local amenities.
Quiet neighborhoods, safe streets, and community events appeal to retirees seeking a relaxed pace.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in schools and local leagues; fall weekends feature games and community events.
A Minnesota staple with youth and adult leagues during winter months.
Common summer sports in parks and school facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lakeville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Navigate menus by choosing produce-forward dishes, salads, soups, and veggie-forward entrées; most restaurants offer sides that can be paired to make a satisfying vegetarian meal.