Shorewood, MN

Shorewood, Minnesota, is a city located in Hennepin County. The area that would become Shorewood was first inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Dakota Sioux, who fished and hunted in the region. European settlers arrived in the area in the mid-19th century, attracted by the beauty of Lake Minnetonka and the accessibility of the surrounding natural resources.

The first notable settler in the area was John Mayall, an Englishman who built a log cabin near what is now known as Gray's Bay. Mayall was known for his adventurous spirit, and he wrote several books recounting his experiences in the region, helping to attract more settlers to the area.

The settlement of Shorewood began to take shape in the late 1800s. The construction of the Minnesota and International Railway in 1883 and the Minneapolis and St. Louis Railway in 1886 facilitated the growth of the community, making it easier for people to access the area.

The name "Shorewood" was chosen due to the town's location along the shores of Lake Minnetonka and its wooded surroundings. The community's development was further bolstered by the establishment of a steamboat line on Lake Minnetonka, making it a popular resort destination for Twin Cities residents. Many grand hotels, summer cottages, and tourist attractions were built during this period.

Shorewood continued to grow into the 20th century, although it remained a primarily rural and agricultural community. The construction of suburban developments and the expansion of the Twin Cities metropolitan area in the mid-20th century led to a shift in the community's character. Many of the farms and natural areas were developed into residential neighborhoods, and the population grew significantly.

Today, Shorewood is a thriving community known for its natural beauty, with Lake Minnetonka serving as a popular recreational area. The city maintains a balance between residential development and preserving its natural resources. Shorewood continues to attract residents who appreciate its waterfront amenities, outdoor recreational opportunities, and proximity to the Twin Cities.

Lake Minnetonka

One of Minnesota's largest lakes, Lake Minnetonka offers a variety of water activities including boating, fishing, swimming, and paddleboarding.

Excelsior Bay

Located on the shores of Lake Minnetonka, Excelsior Bay has a charming downtown area with boutique shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

Excelsior Beach

A popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking, Excelsior Beach provides beautiful views of Lake Minnetonka.

Noerenberg Gardens

A stunning botanical garden situated on the shores of Lake Minnetonka, Noerenberg Gardens features landscaped gardens, walking paths, and a historic 29-acre estate.

Minnetonka Center for the Arts

This art center offers a variety of art classes and workshops for adults and children. It also hosts rotating art exhibits showcasing local talent.

Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical Society Museum

Learn about the history and heritage of the Lake Minnetonka area through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays at this local museum.

Bayside Marina

Located on Lake Minnetonka, Bayside Marina offers boat rentals, boat slips, and a lakeside restaurant.

Ridgeview Excelsior Clinic

Offering healthcare services to the community, the Ridgeview Excelsior Clinic provides primary care, urgent care, and specialty services.

Gale Woods Farm

Situated on the eastern shore of Lake Minnetonka, Gale Woods Farm is an educational farm and park that offers classes, events, and opportunities to interact with farm animals.

Minnetonka Yacht Club

If you enjoy sailing, the Minnetonka Yacht Club provides opportunities for racing, social events, and sailing instruction on Lake Minnetonka.

Shorewood, Minnesota has a humid continental climate, which means it experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are typically warm and humid with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (24-28 degrees Celsius). However, it is not uncommon for temperatures to reach the 90s Fahrenheit (32-35 degrees Celsius) during heatwaves.

Autumns in Shorewood are mild and can be quite scenic with the changing colors of the leaves. Temperatures start to drop in September, with highs ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (18-24 degrees Celsius). By November, temperatures can range from the low 30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (0-6 degrees Celsius).

Winters in Shorewood are cold and snowy. Average temperatures in December and January range from the mid-teens to low 30s Fahrenheit (-8 to 0 degrees Celsius). However, it is not uncommon for temperatures to drop below freezing and stay there for prolonged periods. Snowfall is common and can accumulate to several inches or more.

Spring in Shorewood is mild and gradually gets warmer. March and April can still be chilly with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to mid-50s Fahrenheit (2-13 degrees Celsius), but by May, temperatures start to warm up, ranging from the mid-50s to low 70s Fahrenheit (13-23 degrees Celsius).

Overall, Shorewood experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year due to its location in the upper Midwest region of the United States.

Shorewood is a small city located in Hennepin County, Minnesota. It is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including Lake Minnetonka and multiple parks. Shorewood consists of several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics. Here is an overview of some of the neighborhoods in Shorewood:

Lake Minnetonka Shoreline

This neighborhood is situated along the shores of Lake Minnetonka, offering stunning lake views and water access. It is a highly sought-after area known for its luxury homes, boating opportunities, and scenic beauty.

Minnetonka Mills

Located in the eastern part of Shorewood, this neighborhood is named after the historic Minnetonka Mills that once operated here. It is a primarily residential area with a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. Minnetonka Mills also offers convenient access to shopping centers, restaurants, and other amenities.

Smithtown Bay

Situated on the northeastern side of Shorewood and adjacent to Excelsior, Smithtown Bay is a neighborhood known for its charming lakeside cottages and quiet, serene atmosphere. Residents here enjoy easy access to the lake, as well as nearby walking trails and recreational activities.

Woodland Cove

This newer development is located in the western part of Shorewood, offering a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. Woodland Cove is known for its family-friendly environment, with amenities such as parks, playgrounds, and walking trails. The neighborhood is close to Highway 7, providing convenient access to nearby cities.

Oak Ridge

Located in the southeastern part of Shorewood, Oak Ridge is known for its large lots and spacious homes. It offers a more rural setting, with tree-lined streets and an abundance of nature. Oak Ridge has a peaceful and secluded feel while still being conveniently located near amenities and highways.

Overall, the neighborhoods of Shorewood, MN, offer a range of options for residents, from upscale lakefront properties to quiet and family-friendly areas. Whether you're looking for lake access, a thriving community, or a more secluded setting, Shorewood has something to offer.