Playground Beach

Right on the water in Excelsior, this spot pulls double duty as both a beach hangout and a solid playground — which honestly makes it one of the better family stops on Lake Minnetonka. The equipment covers the basics well: slides, swings, and a merry-go-round that the younger kids absolutely lose their minds over. Older kids tend to migrate to the basketball court once they’ve had their fill of the play structures. Pack a lunch, because the picnic tables are well-placed with decent lake views, and there’s parking plus restrooms so you’re not scrambling. Plan to stay longer than you think — it’s one of those places where nobody wants to leave.