This article is sponsored by Explore Edina.
Though Edina, Minnesota, is a draw for visitors any time of the year, the summer’s mild temperatures and abundant green space make it ideal if you’re seeking an adventurous vacation and want to enjoy a season of outdoor recreation. Whether you want to hike, bike, golf or swim, Edina is the perfect blend of fun in the sun. With so much to choose from, the hardest part will be deciding what to do first. Need a few ideas for your itinerary? You can’t go wrong with these popular destinations.
Braemar Golf Course
The grass is greener on the new and improved Braemar Golf Course. Recently reopened after a complete renovation, this stunning course is the belle of the ball when it comes to teeing off in Minnesota.
“Braemar is excited to open the new Championship 18 golf course,” said General Manager Joseph Abood. “The Championship 18 is the last piece of a $7.5 million renovation at Braemar Golf Course that also included new putting and chipping practice areas, a remodeled pro shop, and the new outdoor Braemar Courtyard for games and events. Combined with the Academy 9 Par 3 course, outdoor driving range, Red River Kitchen restaurant and Braemar Golf Dome, Braemar Golf Course is now a complete year-round destination for golfers.”
Centennial Lakes Park
A local treasure, Centennial Lakes Park, is an all-in-one destination that always has an event or an activity taking place. You can stroll along the paved pathways, buy local produce, see live entertainment, play games, rent a paddle boat or enjoy some self-reflection by the pond. It’s a little slice of paradise that everyone in Edina loves.
Edina Aquatic Center
Of course, you can’t mention summer outdoor activities and not include a trip to the pool. But why hang out at the hotel pool when you have the entire Edina Aquatic Center to splash and play at?
The pirate-themed center is a water wonderland for swimmers of all ages. Jump into the Olympic-sized pool with two diving boards and lap swimming lanes. Or make a splash at The Lost Wave Surf Simulator, Pirate’s Plunge Body Slide & Tube Slide and Shipwreck Express Zip Line. Younger kids can enjoy Lil’ Lagoon Water Playground.
Nine Mile Creek Bike Trail
Connecting Hopkins and the Minnesota River Bluffs LRT Regional Trail with the cities of Edina, Minnetonka and Richfield, Nine Mile has over 15 miles of trails to explore by bike or on foot. You’ll also find multiple public parking lots, giving you easy access from wherever you are, including the Promenade at Centennial Lakes Park.
On your journey through this winding series of 10-foot wide wooden boardwalks and paved pathways, you’ll find marshlands and forests, a bridge over the namesake Nine Mile Creek and plenty of spectacular nature views. You might even catch a glimpse of the local wildlife! Alternatively, you can stick to the cityscape portions that offer plenty of pit stops for dining and shopping.
