Eden Prairie is a vibrant city located in Hennepin County, Minnesota, just southwest of Minneapolis. With a population of over 60,000 residents, Eden Prairie is the 12th largest city in the state. The city boasts a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century when it was first settled by European immigrants. The city’s name originates from the biblical Garden of Eden, reflecting the area’s natural beauty and abundance.
1. Visit the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a sprawling 1,200-acre botanical garden and arboretum located just off of Highway 494 in Chaska. The arboretum is home to a diverse collection of plants, including trees, shrubs, flowers, and grasses. Visitors can wander through the arboretum’s many gardens, including the Japanese Garden, the Woodland Garden, and the Rose Garden. The arboretum also features a number of special exhibits and events throughout the year, such as the Spring Flower Show and the Winter Lights Festival.
2. Explore Purgatory Creek Park
Purgatory Creek Park is a large park located in the northern part of Eden Prairie. The park features a number of amenities, including a playground, a walking trail, and a picnic area. The park is also home to Purgatory Creek, a small stream that flows through the park. Visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, or canoeing in the creek. Purgatory Creek Park is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
3. Go Shopping at Eden Prairie Center
Eden Prairie Center is a large shopping mall located in the heart of Eden Prairie. The mall is home to a variety of stores, including department stores, clothing stores, and specialty stores. Visitors can also enjoy a meal at one of the mall’s many restaurants or cafes. Eden Prairie Center is a great place to find everything you need for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
4. See a Show at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts
The Ordway Center for the Performing Arts is a performing arts center located in downtown Saint Paul. The Ordway Center hosts a variety of shows, including Broadway shows, concerts, and dance performances. The Ordway Center is a great place to see a live show in a beautiful setting.
5. Visit the Science Museum of Minnesota
The Science Museum of Minnesota is a science museum located in Saint Paul. The museum is home to a variety of interactive exhibits that explore science, technology, and engineering. Visitors can learn about everything from the human body to the solar system. The Science Museum of Minnesota is a great place for families and children to learn about science in a fun and engaging way.
6. Take a Walk or Bike Ride on the Cedar Lake Regional Trail
The Cedar Lake Regional Trail is a paved trail that runs along the shores of Cedar Lake. The trail is a great place to go for a walk or bike ride. The trail is also a popular spot for fishing and picnicking. The Cedar Lake Regional Trail is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some fresh air.
7. Visit the Eden Prairie Historical Society
The Eden Prairie Historical Society is a museum located in the old Eden Prairie Schoolhouse. The museum tells the story of Eden Prairie’s history, from its beginnings as a farming community to its development into a major suburb. The museum has a variety of exhibits, including a collection of artifacts from Eden Prairie’s past. The Eden Prairie Historical Society is a great place to learn about the city’s history.
8. Attend a Festival or Event in Eden Prairie
Eden Prairie is home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year. These events include the Eden Prairie Art Festival, the Eden Prairie Music Festival, and the Eden Prairie Farmers’ Market. These events are a great way to meet new people, learn about local businesses, and enjoy some live music and entertainment.
9. Play a Round of Golf at the Eden Prairie Golf Course
The Eden Prairie Golf Course is an 18-hole golf course located in the southern part of Eden Prairie. The golf course is a challenging but fair test of golf for players of all skill levels. The golf course also features a driving range and a putting green. The Eden Prairie Golf Course is a great place to enjoy a round of golf with friends or family.
10. Visit the Eden Prairie Library
The Eden Prairie Library is a public library located in the heart of Eden Prairie. The library has a large collection of books, DVDs, and CDs. The library also offers a variety of programs and events for children and adults. The Eden Prairie Library is a great place to learn something new, relax with a good book, or just browse the shelves.
In addition to the activities listed above, Eden Prairie is also home to a number of other attractions, including the Eden Prairie Community Center, the Eden Prairie Aquatic Center, and the Eden Prairie Ice Arena. The city also has a number of parks and trails, making it a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Eden Prairie is a great city to visit any time of year, but it is especially beautiful in the spring and summer months when the flowers are in bloom and the weather is warm.
Culture
Eden Prairie is a diverse city with a rich culture. The city is home to a number of different ethnic groups, and this diversity is reflected in the city’s restaurants, shops, and festivals. Eden Prairie is also home to a number of different arts organizations, including the Eden Prairie Art Center and the Eden Prairie Players. The city’s culture is vibrant and welcoming, and there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Best Months to Visit
The best time to visit Eden Prairie is during the spring and summer months (April-September). The weather during these months is generally mild and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities. However, Eden Prairie is also a beautiful place to visit during the fall and winter months. The leaves change color in the fall, and the city is covered in snow during the winter. There are a number of different activities to enjoy in Eden Prairie during the winter months, such as ice skating, sledding, and snowshoeing.
Nearby Transportation
Eden Prairie is located just southwest of Minneapolis, and it is easily accessible by car or public transportation. The city is served by several major highways, including Interstate 494 and Highway 169. Eden Prairie is also served by the Metro Transit bus system. The city’s public transportation system is efficient and affordable, and it is a great way to get around the city.
Local Food
Eden Prairie is home to a number of different restaurants, serving a variety of different cuisines. Some of the most popular restaurants in the city include:
- The Eden Prairie Grille
- The Cornerstone Grill & Wine Bar
- The Salty Tart
- The Crave
- The Wildfire
These restaurants are all located in the heart of Eden Prairie, and they offer a variety of different dishes to choose from. Whether you are looking for a quick bite to eat or a fine dining experience, you are sure to find something to your liking in Eden Prairie.
Best Hotels
Eden Prairie is home to a number of different hotels, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury accommodations. Some of the most popular hotels in the city include:
- The Hilton Garden Inn Eden Prairie
- The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Eden Prairie
- The Hampton Inn & Suites Eden Prairie
- The Comfort Inn & Suites Eden Prairie
- The AmericInn by Wyndham Eden Prairie
These hotels are all located in convenient locations, and they offer a variety of different amenities to choose from. Whether you are looking for a place to stay for a business trip or a family vacation, you are sure to find a hotel in Eden Prairie that meets your needs.
Conclusion
Eden Prairie is a vibrant and welcoming city with something to offer everyone. The city’s diverse culture, beautiful parks, and variety of attractions make it a great place to visit any time of year. Whether you are looking for a fun family vacation or a romantic getaway, Eden Prairie is the perfect destination.
