The City of Excelsior is located 20 minutes from downtown Minneapolis, on the shores of Lake Minnetonka. You can find a relaxed and personalized atmosphere in this one-square-mile area with a population of 2,397. The City is a unique blend of old and new. Besides antique shops, there is also a variety of specialty shops, restaurants, a theater, and a bed-and-breakfast inn.
History is important in Excelsior. Excelsior was founded in 1853 by colonists from New York. It has served as the focal point of the South Lake Minnetonka area. The small downtown and historic ambiance sets Excelsior apart from other suburban communities. A bit of that history is preserved in the recently restored steamboat, "The Minnehaha", which in summer takes passengers round trip from Excelsior to Wayzata and back. There is also a restored streetcar and a museum, all preserving part of the City's history.
The Southwest Regional Light Rail Transit Trail, a favorite of bicyclists and walkers, passes through downtown Excelsior. At the north end of town is The Commons park and recreation area with a swimming beach, playground, tennis courts, baseball diamonds, and picnicking.
Throughout the years, Excelsior's Water Street has been the home to many businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and merchants. Today, Excelsior works hard to maintain its historical identity while renewing various elements of the downtown area.
Excelsior was home to the Excelsior Amusement Park from 1925 to 1973.
The Minnehaha Steamboat, a Steamboat used for passenger travel on Lake Minnetonka near the turn of the century, was raised from the bottom of Lake Minnetonka, restored, and is now available for rides from the Excelsior port during the summer.
Legend has it that the city of Excelsior resident Jimmy Hutmaker, was the inspiration behind the Rolling Stones song "You Can't Always Get What you Want" after an encounter during a 1964 Stones concert. "Mr. Jimmy", as people called him, died on October 3rd, 2007.
There are a number of community events held each year in Excelsior, which are sponsored by the South Lake-Excelsior Area Chamber of Commerce. Thousands of visitors come to Excelsior each year to attend the Art in the Park, Fourth of July Festitivies, and Apple Day festivities.
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