Spring Adventures in Lakeville

The best part about spring is being able to get back outside after a long winter – and Lakeville offers a variety of ways to do so. We’ve prepared this itinerary to help you take advantage of rising temperatures and all of the fun outdoor activities in Lakeville. Don’t forget to bring your bike or walking shoes along for this spring time adventure!

DAY 1

As you drive into Lakeville, one of the first things you’ll notice is the many paved walking and biking trails that connect the city – more than 100 miles of them! Once you’ve checked into your Lakeville hotel, you’ll explore some of those trails, starting at the Casperson Park and Boat Launch.

If you brought your mountain bike, you’ll want to take a spin through the West Lake Marion Mountain Bike Trail, which can be accessed from the gravel parking lots near the soccer fields. This 5-mile mountain bike single track trail system features segments for beginning, intermediate and advanced bicyclists.

For those who are looking for a gentler ride, or a run or stroll, enjoy the beautiful scenery that awaits you on Juno Trail. As you wind along the paved path, you’re just feet away from the edge of Lake Marion with a canopy of trees overhead. Stay on this trail and it will take you all the way to historic downtown Lakeville.

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, Ritter Farm Park is just across the road from Casperson Park. This wildlife refuge is home to 340 acres of untouched open space, nearly nine miles of hiking and equestrian trails, and gorgeous scenery around every corner.

With a fun day of biking or hiking under your belt, you’re bound to be hungry! Tonight, you’re going to enjoy patio dining at its finest. Make your way to downtown Lakeville, where there are several outdoor dining options to choose from. If you’re a fan of lawn games, get yourself a table on the huge grassy patio at Lakeville Brewing Co. Enjoy a craft beer brewed onsite or a handcrafted cocktail while competing in a game of giant Jenga or corn hole.

DAY 2

This morning, you’ll start the day on the right foot with a healthy breakfast at Nautical Bowls in Lakeville. At this nautical themed quick-service restaurant, you’ll find bowls that are gluten-free, dairy-free, plant-based, soy-free, contain zero refined sugars, and are made with organic, all-natural ingredients.

Afterwards, you’ll take a short drive to the Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley to experience life on the wild side! Minnesota’s largest zoo is situated on 485 wooded acres, with more than 4,500 animals and 505 species in award-winning exhibits. You’ll see typical zoo animals, like lions, tigers and bears, plus a whole lot more, including endangered species and bird shows, close encounters and feeding demonstrations throughout the day.

Springtime at the zoo is especially fun, because the “Farm Babies” are on display. This limited-time exhibit gives you an up-close look at farm life in Minnesota, complete with farm demonstrations, games, music, interactive exhibits, and of course, adorable farm animal babies!

If you’re still up for some walking after the zoo, you’re just a short drive to the Mall of America. With 520 stores under one roof, you’ll find apparel, toys, electronics, specialty foods, beauty and so much more. There’s also family-friendly attractions such as Nickelodeon Universe®, SEA LIFE at Mall of America, FlyOver America flight simulation ride, The LEGO® Store and Moose Mountain Adventure Golf.

For dinner, you’ll be back in Lakeville at Chart House Restaurant. This historic full-service restaurant and banquet center is shaped like a ship with a patio that offers panoramic views of beautiful Lake Kingsley. Known as “the best patio in town,” there’s live music, an extensive drink list, tasty eats and exciting events such as “Wine on the Water.” It’s a great way to wind down after an adventurous day.