Edina, MN Outdoor Activities

Since 1985, the experienced captains and crews at Paradise Charter Cruises and Minneapolis Queen have been shepherding guests along the azure surfaces of Lake Minnetonka and the Mississippi River. Their fleet of five vessels steers customers around the area while accommodating them with full-height glass windows, enclosed outer decks, bar and restaurant options, and karaoke performances by prize-winning big-mouth bass. Boats glide along the coastline of Lake Minnetonka, catching sights of small lakeside towns, and down the Mississippi River to the backdrop of the Minneapolis skyline, Saint Anthony Falls, and the setting sun.

Water cascades over the precipice of a towering rock face, forming an elevated waterfall that overlooks the recently renovated 18-hole circuit at Malt-Tees Mini Golf. Featured in CBS Minnesota's Best Things to Do in Richfield, the course winds through a labyrinth of colorful gardens and flowing streams, which players navigate via a system of bridges and putter pole-vaulting challenges. After rounds, appetites piqued by celebratory putter-gnawing can find relief at the malt shop, which serves up malts, ice cream cones, espresso, soft drinks and light snacks.

The eco-friendly steeds at Segway Evolve navigate sidewalks just as easily as they roll over lakeside terrain during self-guided Segway tours of the area’s lakes, trails, and nature preserve. The second-generation Segways feature LeanSteer technology, which responds to subtle shifts in balance, and include dynamic stabilization to prevent riders from tipping when they round corners or board rollercoasters. Segway Evolve outfits explorers with a helmet and suggested routes, and provides a complimentary 15-minute rider orientation. 

Several years ago, Ken Smith and Chase Williams were typical door-to-door salesmen. In need of a gimmick to boost sales and a quicker mode of transport, the duo tried riding Segways and immediately fell in love. Eventually, they turned their love for the two-wheeled transporter into their current venture, All American Segway. Their company provides all manner of Segway engagement, including guided Segway tours that offer rolling educations in local history and wildlife. Customers can also discover the revolutionary devices on their own by renting out Segways for recreational use, private parties, or as a friend for a lonely office chair or shopping cart.