Mayer MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Mayer, Minnesota.
1. Discovery Park
LOCAL COMMUNITY PARK
Discovery Park in Mayer serves as the primary outdoor recreation space for residents and visitors, offering a playground, open green fields, and walking trails. It's a gathering place for families and community events, providing a safe and scenic environment to enjoy the fresh Minnesota air. Conveniently located in the heart of Mayer, it is ideal for picnics, sports, and leisurely strolls.
2. Countryside Art Gallery
LOCAL ARTISTIC TALENT
Countryside Art Gallery in Mayer showcases works from local and regional artists in a cozy, inviting space. It highlights a variety of media, including painting, photography, and sculpture, making it a cultural hub for art enthusiasts. The gallery often hosts rotating exhibitions and special events, fostering creativity within the community.
3. Heldt's Bar
HISTORIC LOCAL BAR
Heldt's Bar is a long-standing establishment in Mayer known for its friendly atmosphere and ties to the town's railroad history. It offers classic pub fare, cold drinks, and regular live entertainment, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Its casual setting invites guests to relax and connect with the community.
4. Carver County Historical Society
REGIONAL HISTORY CENTER
The Carver County Historical Society in Waconia preserves and interprets the history of Mayer and the surrounding county. It features exhibits on pioneer life, the Big Woods, Native American heritage, and the impact of the railroad on local communities. The museum regularly offers tours, educational programs, and access to historical archives.
5. Lake Waconia Regional Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
Lake Waconia Regional Park spans over 100 acres along the shores of Lake Waconia, providing a range of outdoor activities just a short drive from Mayer. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and picnicking in scenic natural surroundings. The park also offers a large playground and well-maintained trails for hiking and birdwatching.
6. Minnehaha Park
ICONIC URBAN WATERFALL
Minnehaha Park, located in Minneapolis, is a celebrated destination known for its majestic 53-foot Minnehaha Falls. The park features limestone bluffs, riverside trails, and beautiful picnic areas, attracting over 850,000 visitors annually. Its historic sites and natural beauty make it a must-see attraction within reach of Mayer.
7. Lowry Nature Center
EDUCATIONAL NATURE PRESERVE
Located in Carver Park Reserve, Lowry Nature Center in Victoria offers immersive exhibits and miles of well-marked nature trails through wetlands, forests, and prairies. The center provides hands-on educational programs for all ages focusing on local flora and fauna. Visitors can explore native habitats and observe abundant wildlife in all seasons.
8. Baylor Regional Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR SPACE
Baylor Regional Park offers extensive recreational facilities, including camping sites, disc golf, hiking trails, and playgrounds, making it ideal for families near Mayer. The park features a public observatory for astronomy programs and stargazing events. With lake access and picnic areas, it provides a relaxing setting for outdoor adventure.
9. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
EXPANSIVE BOTANICAL GARDENS
The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska boasts more than 1,200 acres of gardens, woodlands, and prairies. Visitors can explore themed gardens, nature trails, and seasonal exhibits featuring thousands of plant species. Educational programs and rotating art installations make this a year-round destination for nature lovers and families.
10. Chaska Curling Center
WORLD-CLASS CURLING FACILITY
Chaska Curling Center is one of the premier curling venues in the United States, catering to all skill levels. The facility features multiple curling sheets, a welcoming restaurant, and hosts tournaments throughout the year. Visitors can try curling, take lessons, or watch competitive matches in a lively social setting.
11. U.S. Bank Stadium
MAJOR SPORTS AND EVENTS
U.S. Bank Stadium, home to the NFL's Minnesota Vikings, is a state-of-the-art facility in downtown Minneapolis. The stadium hosts football games, concerts, and special events, drawing huge crowds year-round. Guided tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at this architectural landmark and its innovative design features.
12. Parley Lake Winery
SCENIC VINEYARD EXPERIENCE
Parley Lake Winery offers a picturesque setting among rolling vineyards just outside Mayer. Guests can taste award-winning local wines, stroll through art installations, and enjoy live music on weekends. The winery's friendly atmosphere and stunning lake views create a relaxing and memorable escape.
13. Powder Ridge
WINTER SPORTS DESTINATION
Powder Ridge near Kimball is a popular ski and snowboarding resort featuring multiple runs of varying difficulty. The facility offers lessons, equipment rentals, and tubing hills, making it suitable for all ages and abilities. In winter, it's a lively hub for outdoor adventure within reach of Mayer.
14. Hyland Ski and Snowboard Area
ACCESSIBLE SKIING FUN
Hyland Ski and Snowboard Area in Bloomington provides convenient winter recreation with groomed slopes, terrain parks, and a renowned ski school. It's perfect for both beginners and experienced skiers, located just a short drive from Mayer. The area's modern facilities and friendly instructors make it a family favorite.
15. Downtown Excelsior
HISTORIC SHOPPING DISTRICT
Downtown Excelsior, nestled along Lake Minnetonka, features charming 19th-century storefronts, boutique shops, and trendy eateries. Visitors enjoy strolling the picturesque Main Street, attending local festivals, and relaxing at waterfront parks. Excelsior's vibrant community vibe and unique shops offer a quintessential Minnesota small-town experience.