Welcome to Excelsior, MN
Nestled along the southern shore of Lake Minnetonka, Excelsior is one of the Twin Cities metro’s most beloved small towns, and our dental practice is proud to serve the families and neighbors who call it home. Whether you need a routine cleaning, cosmetic dental work, teeth whitening, dental implants, or restorative care, our team delivers thoughtful, patient-centered treatment in a comfortable and welcoming environment. We have an office right in Excelsior, making it easy to fit quality dental care into your busy day.
A Brief History of Excelsior, MN
Excelsior was platted in 1853, making it one of the earliest European-American settlements on Lake Minnetonka. Its name, drawn from the Latin word meaning “ever upward,” reflected the optimism of its founders, who envisioned a thriving resort and trading community on the lake’s scenic shores.
Through the late 1800s, Excelsior blossomed into a popular summer destination. Steamboats carried visitors from Minneapolis and St. Paul to the town’s hotels, amusement parks, and lakefront promenades. The Excelsior Amusement Park, which operated for decades before closing in 1973, was a regional landmark that generations of Minnesotans remember fondly.
The arrival of the streetcar in the early 20th century further connected Excelsior to the broader Twin Cities metro, fueling commercial growth along Water Street and cementing its role as a community hub. Even after the resort era faded, Excelsior held onto its small-town character, preserving its historic downtown architecture and its deep sense of community pride.
Today, Excelsior is a thriving town that honors its history while embracing modern amenities. Its tree-lined streets, restored Victorian storefronts, and vibrant local events make it one of the most distinctive communities in Hennepin County.
Living and Working in Excelsior
Life in Excelsior offers a rare combination of small-town warmth and metro convenience. Residents enjoy direct access to Lake Minnetonka for boating, paddleboarding, and fishing, along with a walkable downtown filled with locally owned shops, restaurants, and boutiques. The Minnetonka school district serves families in the area with strong academic programming, and the surrounding neighborhoods offer a range of housing options from charming historic homes to newer lakeside builds.
For professionals, Excelsior sits within easy commuting distance of major employment centers in Minnetonka, Eden Prairie, and downtown Minneapolis. It’s the kind of place where neighbors know each other by name and community events draw real crowds, from the beloved Excelsior Farmers Market to the annual Fourth of July parade.
The Must-Sees of Excelsior
Excelsior packs a lot of character into a small footprint. Here are some local highlights worth exploring:
- Water Street: The heart of downtown Excelsior, Water Street is lined with independent retailers, art galleries, and cozy cafes. It’s the kind of main street that reminds you why small towns matter.
- Excelsior Commons and Lake Minnetonka Regional Trail: This beautiful lakefront park is perfect for picnics, summer concerts, and watching the sun set over the lake. The adjacent regional trail connects Excelsior to the broader Three Rivers trail system.
- Maynard’s Restaurant: A Lake Minnetonka institution, Maynards offers waterfront dining with a menu that spans everything from casual burgers to fresh seafood. The deck views alone make it worth a visit.
- The Original Pancake House: Excelsior: A local breakfast favorite with a loyal following, this spot is a go-to for weekend mornings before a stroll around the lake.
- Tonka Bay Marina Area: Whether you’re a boater or just a fan of the view, the marina area captures everything that makes Lake Minnetonka so special to this community.
- Excelsior Brewing Co.: A community gathering spot housed in a beautifully restored downtown building, this local brewery offers craft beers and a welcoming taproom atmosphere.
Schedule Your Visit With a Dentist Near Excelsior
Our practice is committed to serving the Excelsior community with the kind of personalized, high-quality dental care that this special town deserves. Whether you’re due for a cleaning or ready to explore restorative or cosmetic options, our team is here to help. Use our online scheduling tool to book your appointment at a time that works for you.