15 Top-Rated Activities In Burnsville For An Unforgettable Trip

Nestled in the heart of Minnesota, Burnsville is a charming city that offers a myriad of exciting attractions for all ages. Whether you are looking to immerse yourself in nature, indulge in some retail therapy, or delve into the local culture, there's something here for everyone. To help you plan your perfect getaway, we have narrowed down the top 15 activities that are must-dos during your visit to Burnsville. From scenic hikes to adrenaline-pumping rides, get ready to embark on an unforgettable trip filled with endless adventure and fun.

Buck Hill Ski and Snowboard Area

Burnsville, Minnesota is home to one of the premier skiing and snowboarding destinations in the Midwest: Buck Hill Ski and Snowboard Area. This popular winter attraction offers an array of outdoor activities for people of all ages and skill levels, making it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.

Located just a few miles south of the Twin Cities, Buck Hill has been a winter playground for over 60 years. It was originally built as a ski jumping site, launching the career of former Olympian and current world record holder, Lindsey Vonn. Today, Buck Hill has evolved into a full-service ski and snowboard area, featuring 16 downhill runs with varying degrees of difficulty.

The slopes at Buck Hill are known for their well-groomed terrain and picturesque views of the surrounding area. Snowmaking machines ensure that the runs are covered in snow throughout the winter season, and the hill is equipped with state-of-the-art lights for those who want to ski or snowboard in the evening.

For those who are just starting out on the slopes, Buck Hill also offers ski and snowboard lessons. Their experienced instructors can teach beginners the basics or help more advanced skiers and snowboarders improve their technique. Private and group lessons are available, and the hill also hosts day camps for kids during school breaks.

Aside from skiing and snowboarding, Buck Hill has other winter activities to enjoy. There are two snow tubing parks with multiple lanes, providing a fun and thrilling experience for the entire family. Guests can also warm up in the chalet, complete with a cafeteria, lounge area, and fireplace.

Burnsville Center Shopping Mall

The mall features over 150 stores, with a diverse mix of national and local retailers. Popular stores in the mall include Macy's, J.C. Penney, Kohl's, and Sears. Burnsville Center Shopping Mall has everything from fashion and jewelry to electronics and home goods. Shoppers can also find popular specialty stores like Victoria's Secret, Bath & Body Works, and Best Buy Mobile.

The mall is not just a destination for shopping and dining. It also hosts several community events throughout the year. The events include seasonal festivals, family-friendly events, and live entertainment. These events offer shoppers a unique opportunity to enjoy the mall's vibrant atmosphere and connect with their community.

Despite being a large mall, Burnsville Center Shopping Mall is designed for convenience and hassle-free shopping. The mall features ample parking space, free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating areas, and a play area for children. It’s designed to provide an enjoyable experience for everyone.

In conclusion, Burnsville Center Shopping Mall is the perfect destination for all shopping needs. With a wide variety of stores, dining options, and community events, it offers an experience that is both enjoyable and convenient. Whether you are looking to shop, dine or simply spend quality time with your family and friends, Burnsville Center Shopping Mall has something for everyone.

Crystal Lake Beach

Nestled in the heart of Burnsville, Minnesota, lies a hidden gem known as Crystal Lake Beach. This picturesque beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike who are looking for a tranquil escape from the bustling city life.

One of the most remarkable features of Crystal Lake is its pristine shoreline. The beach is surrounded by a thick canopy of trees, which offers plenty of shade. The crystal-clear waters provide the perfect setting for swimming or wading in the lake.

If you're looking to relax and unwind, the beach has a designated area for sunbathing, where you can enjoy the warmth of the sun while listening to the soothing sound of waves crashing on the shore.

For those who love fishing, Crystal Lake is an ideal spot to cast a line. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, northern pike, crappie, bluegill, and more.

The beach also has designated picnic areas equipped with tables, grills, and trash bins, making it an ideal place for family gatherings and picnics with friends.

Overall, Crystal Lake Beach is an ideal destination if you're looking for a peaceful getaway from the chaotic city life. Whether you're interested in fishing, swimming, picnicking, or just relaxing in a serene environment, Crystal Lake Beach is a must-visit destination in Burnsville, Minnesota.

Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve

Characteristic	Description
Name	Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve
Type	Park in Minnesota
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 658
Address	15501 Murphy Lake Blvd, Savage, MN 55378
Phone	(763) 694-7777
Hours	Tuesday - 5 AM–10 PM Wednesday - 5 AM–10 PM Thursday - 5 AM–10 PM Friday - 5 AM–10 PM Saturday - 5 AM–10 PM Sunday - 5 AM–10 PM Monday - 5 AM–10 PM
Profiles

One of the main features of the park is its extensive trail system. There are over 20 miles of trails to explore, ranging from easy to difficult. The trails wind through beautiful wooded areas, around lakes, and across rolling hills. Along the way, visitors may spot deer, squirrels, rabbits, and a variety of birds.

For those who enjoy fishing, Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve has two lakes that are stocked with fish. The lakes are great for fishing from the shore or from a boat. Visitors can catch a variety of fish, including sunfish, bass, and northern pike.

In addition to hiking and fishing, the park also has picnic areas, a playground, and a disc golf course. These amenities make it a great place to bring the family and spend a day enjoying the outdoors.

Overall, Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve is a fantastic destination for anyone who enjoys spending time in nature. With its diverse range of activities and beautiful scenery, it is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Burnsville, Minnesota.

Minnesota River Bottoms Trail

Burnsville, a beautiful suburban city in Minnesota, is known for its amazing natural attractions and outdoor recreation areas. One of the most popular outdoor destinations in Burnsville is the Minnesota River Bottoms Trail, which is a 16-mile trail system for hikers, bikers, and horse riders.

The Minnesota River Bottoms Trail is located along the Minnesota River and runs from the city of Bloomington to the city of Shakopee. The trail is a natural surface trail that takes you through some of the most unspoiled areas in the state. You'll enjoy breathtaking views of the river, wetlands, marshes, and forests.

The Minnesota River Bottoms Trail is very popular among bikers and hikers. The trail is relatively flat, which makes it perfect for a leisurely bike ride or a long hike. The trail is also famous for its technical sections, which challenge bikers and hikers. You'll have to maneuver through rocks, mud, and sand to reach your destination.

One unique feature of the Minnesota River Bottoms Trail is that it crosses several bridges over the river. These bridges offer some of the most picturesque views of the river and the surrounding areas. The trail also passes along several historical landmarks, including the remnants of an old railroad bridge.

The Minnesota River Bottoms Trail is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. You'll be able to spot several species of birds, including herons, bald eagles, and woodpeckers. You'll also be able to see other wildlife, such as deer, coyotes, and foxes.

In short, the Minnesota River Bottoms Trail is one of the best outdoor destinations in Burnsville. It's an excellent place to enjoy nature and experience the beauty of Minnesota's natural landscapes. If you love biking, hiking, horse riding, or birdwatching, the Minnesota River Bottoms Trail is a must-visit place in Burnsville.

Burnsville Performing Arts Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Ames Center
Type	Performing arts center in Burnsville, Minnesota
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 705
Address	12600 Nicollet Ave, Burnsville, MN 55337
Phone	(952) 895-4685
Profiles

Located in the heart of Burnsville, the Burnsville Performing Arts Center is a state-of-the-art venue that has been designed to showcase creativity and talent in various forms of performing arts. The Burnsville Performing Arts Center offers a unique blend of music, theatre, dance and comedy to local residents as well as visitors.

The Burnsville Performing Arts Center has a seating capacity of 1,014, with the stage being large enough to accommodate a wide range of productions. Equipped with advanced acoustics, lighting and sound systems, the center is capable of providing an immersive experience for both the performers and the audience.

The Burnsville Performing Arts Center hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, ranging from music concerts by internationally acclaimed artists to off-Broadway theater productions. The center has also been home to several popular musicals such as Chicago, Hairspray and The Sound of Music. With high-quality performances, the Burnsville Performing Arts Center has become a favorite destination for art lovers.

The center is also used for community events such as school performances, local theater productions, and dance recitals. The Burnsville Performing Arts Center has an educational outreach program that ensures that local school children have access to various forms of performing arts. The outreach program has brought music, dance and theatre to more than 10,000 students from the Burnsville-Eagan-Savage school district.

The Burnsville Performing Arts Center has proven to be a major economic boon to the city of Burnsville. It attracts local residents and visitors from nearby towns, generating revenue for the local businesses. The theatre has also helped to place Burnsville on the national map as one of the premier destinations for performing arts in the region.

Overall, the Burnsville Performing Arts Center provides an avenue for local talent to showcase their skills while also providing the community and visitors an opportunity to experience quality performances. It's a destination that has something for everyone, and it's no surprise that visitors return time and time again to witness the magic that is the Burnsville Performing Arts Center.

Burnsville Ice Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Burnsville Ice Center
Type	Ice skating rink in Burnsville, Minnesota
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 228
Address	251 Civic Center Pkwy, Burnsville, MN 55337
Phone	(952) 895-4651
Profiles

Located in the heart of Burnsville, Minnesota, the Burnsville Ice Center is one of the most popular recreational and entertainment venues in the city. This amazing ice center is home to a variety of ice sports like ice hockey, figure skating, and synchronized skating along with being a hub for community events and activities.

The Burnsville Ice Center is a premiere facility that offers two full-size indoor ice rinks that are open throughout the year. These two rinks are equipped with state-of-the-art ice-making equipment, comprehensive locker rooms, and excellent amenities that cater to both professional and recreational skaters.

The professional-grade facilities in the Burnsville Ice Center have become the go-to place for ice sports training and competition in Minnesota, if not in the United States. The venue hosts numerous leagues and tournaments on an annual basis, with players and teams from different parts of the country participating in the events.

The Burnsville Ice Center is also popular among recreational skaters, casual players, and families. The venue is open to the public for open-skate sessions and ice-skating lessons. These sessions are generally scheduled during the afternoon and weekends and provide individuals and families with an opportunity to experience a fun-filled ice skating experience.

Beyond its amazing facility, the Burnsville Ice Center is also a great venue for hosting give-back events and promoting community engagement. The center regularly hosts charity events and fundraisers which helps support different charities and non-profit organizations. The venue also serves as a go-to place for community events and activities such as summer camps, concerts, and trade shows, making it a multi-purpose venue for people from all walks of life.

In conclusion, the Burnsville Ice Center plays an essential role in the recreational and community life of the city of Burnsville. With its world-class recreational facilities, training resources, and community engagement initiatives, it is easy to understand why Burnsville Ice Center has become a beloved institution among the local community.

Alimagnet Dog Park

When you think of a perfect day out with your furry friend, what comes to mind? Long walks? Playtime? Socializing with other dogs? If you're a Burnsville resident, Alimagnet Dog Park may just be your way to make all those ideas a reality. Located at the heart of the city, this off-leash park is a favorite among local dog owners. So what exactly makes Alimagnet a must-visit spot for Burnsville's canine community? Let's find out.

First of all, the park is massive. With an area of over 7 acres, there's plenty of room for your dog to run around and explore. Walking trails, open fields, and wooded areas provide plenty of opportunities for your furry friend to stretch their legs and enjoy the sunshine. The park is also fenced in, which means you can let your dog off-leash without worrying about them wandering off.

But Alimagnet Dog Park isn't just about exercise. It's a social hub for dogs and their owners alike. The park draws an incredibly diverse crowd, with dogs of all shapes and sizes mingling with one another. Your four-legged friend will have the chance to play with new friends, while you get to chat with other dog owners and maybe even make some new friends of your own.

One of the best features of Alimagnet Dog Park is its accessibility. The park is open year-round, from dawn until dusk, providing a safe and fun place for your dog to play no matter what the weather is like. Plus, it's completely free! There's no admission fee or membership requirement, so you can visit as often as you like without breaking the bank.

Of course, no article about Alimagnet Dog Park would be complete without mentioning the amenities. The park is equipped with dog waste bags, water stations, and even separate areas for small dogs and large dogs. There's plenty of seating for owners, as well as shaded areas for dogs who need a break from the sun. The park is well-maintained, and volunteers often organize events like clean-up days and agility course trials.

In conclusion, Alimagnet Dog Park is a fantastic resource for Burnsville dog owners. Whether you're looking for some off-leash time, a chance to socialize with other dogs and their owners, or simply a place to stretch your legs, this park has got you covered. So next time you're out and about with your furry friend, consider making a stop at Alimagnet Dog Park. Your dog (and your social life!) will thank you.

Nicollet Commons Park

Located in the heart of Burnsville, Nicollet Commons Park is a beautiful and relaxing place that is often overlooked by visitors. Despite its seemingly small size, this park offers a variety of activities that make it a perfect destination for families, couples, or individuals seeking a tranquil spot to enjoy some fresh air and nature.

One of the main attractions of Nicollet Commons Park is its stunning fountain. The water seems to dance and sparkles like diamonds under the sun, making it a popular spot to take photos or play around with children. During the summertime, this fountain transforms into a splash pad with multiple water jets that shoot streams of water in all directions. It's a refreshing way to cool off on hot days, and children love running through the water and playing together.

In addition to the fountain, there are plenty of other things to do in Nicollet Commons Park. Visitors can enjoy a picnic or BBQ with friends and family at the provided picnic tables and grills located across the park. The lush green grass is perfect for playing games or just relaxing with a book. Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll on the park’s paved walkways, which are perfect for a light jog or bike ride.

For those who love musical and theatrical performances, Nicollet Commons Park hosts a summer entertainment series that showcases diverse, local artists and performers. These events are free of charge and run all summer, so visitors can enjoy outdoor music and dance in the beautiful surroundings.

Finally, Nicollet Commons Park is home to the Burnsville Farmers Market. The market runs every Thursday from 12-5 pm, from May to October. Visitors can pick up fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and other locally made products. With its relaxed atmosphere and friendly vendors, the Burnsville Farmers Market is the perfect place to spend a Thursday afternoon.

If you are looking for a fun, family-friendly place to visit in Burnsville, look no further than Nicollet Commons Park. From splashing in the fountain, walking the trails, picnicking, and enjoying entertainment, there is something for everyone. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Nicollet Commons Park is well worth a visit.

Ames Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Ames Center
Type	Performing arts center in Burnsville, Minnesota
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 705
Address	12600 Nicollet Ave, Burnsville, MN 55337
Phone	(952) 895-4685
Profiles

Located in the heart of Burnsville, Minnesota, the versatile Ames Center is a beloved cultural hub and a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The Ames Center has been the center of cultural events in Burnsville since its opening in 2009, and it is a venue that has hosted everything from concerts, dance performances, theater productions, and much more.

The Ames Center has two primary performing spaces: the Main Stage and the Black Box Theatre. The Main Stage can seat up to 1016 guests and has hosted major events such as the Minnesota Ballet, the National Lutheran Choir, and the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra. With its state-of-the-art sound system, ample backstage space, and modern lighting system, the Ames Center is perfect for large-scale productions and concerts.

On the other hand, the intimate Black Box Theatre can seat up to 150 guests, and it is perfect for smaller productions such as plays, musicals, and small concerts. This versatile space is also a preferred venue for conferences, meetings, and seminars.

The Ames Center is also home to an art gallery, which features rotating exhibitions of local and regional artists. With its elegant design, the Ames Center offers the perfect ambiance for both artistic and social events.

Apart from its artistic and cultural offerings, the Ames Center also offers a range of services that aims to provide their guests with a complete experience. Catering services for social and corporate events are available at the Center’s own in-house restaurant, Apothecary Bar & Lounge. The Ames Center also has an experienced in-house event team that can provide support in event planning, marketing, and ticketing.

In conclusion, the Ames Center is a vital cultural resource in the Burnsville community, with its state-of-the-art performing spaces, art gallery, catering services, and experienced staff, the venue is a top choice for both artistic and corporate events. For those who are looking for a cultural experience in the Burnsville area, the Ames Center is a must-visit venue.

Black Dog Coffee and Wine Bar

Located in the heart of Burnsville's downtown district, Black Dog Coffee and Wine Bar is a popular destination for coffee and wine enthusiasts alike. This rustic yet contemporary bar offers a warm and inviting space to relax and socialize, complete with a cozy fireplace, comfortable seating, and live music performances.

One of the main attractions of Black Dog is their extensive selection of coffee and tea. From classic espresso drinks to specialty lattes, the baristas at Black Dog take pride in crafting the perfect cup of coffee. Guests can also enjoy a variety of loose leaf teas, hot chocolate, and other non-alcoholic beverages.

But what sets Black Dog apart from other cafes is their selection of wine. Featuring a variety of reds, whites, and sparkling wines from around the world, the bar offers flights, glasses, and bottles to suit any taste and budget. Additionally, they offer a small but well-curated selection of local craft beers and ciders.

To complement their beverages, Black Dog also offers a range of sweet and savory snacks, including pastries, sandwiches, soups, and salads. All of their menu items are made in-house using high-quality ingredients, ensuring a delicious and satisfying experience.

The atmosphere at Black Dog is always lively and welcoming, with patrons ranging from business professionals to students and families. Every Friday and Saturday night, the bar hosts live music performances from local artists, creating a fun and intimate concert experience.

Overall, Black Dog Coffee and Wine Bar is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee or glass of wine in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. So next time you're in Burnsville, be sure to stop by and experience all that this unique bar has to offer.

Buck Hill Tubing Park

Burnsville, Minnesota is home to one of the most popular winter sports attractions in the state - the Buck Hill Tubing Park. The park is the perfect destination for anyone who loves tubing, skiing, or snowboarding.

Owned and operated by the Buck Hill Ski Resort, the tubing park features ten tubing lanes that are specifically designed for maximum fun and excitement. The runs are groomed to ensure a smooth and fast ride that will keep you coming back for more.

One of the most unique features of the Buck Hill Tubing Park is the conveyor lift. The conveyor lift is a conveyor belt that takes visitors to the top of the hill, making it easier to navigate back up to the starting point after each run.

If traditional tubing isn't thrilling enough for you, the Buck Hill Tubing Park also offers "Cosmic Tubing". Cosmic Tubing involves tubing under the light of neon lights while music plays in the background. Cosmic Tubing is held on Friday and Saturday evenings and is a favorite for visitors of all ages.

The Buck Hill Tubing Park is open seven days a week during the winter season, and admission is affordable. Visitors can rent tubes on-site or bring their own.

In addition to tubing, Buck Hill Ski Resort also offers skiing and snowboarding on 16 downhill ski runs, making it the perfect destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

In conclusion, the Buck Hill Tubing Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun and exciting winter activity. With an array of tubing runs, the conveyor lift, and Cosmic Tubing, the park is a guaranteed good time for people of all ages. So, if you're in the Burnsville area, be sure to add the Buck Hill Tubing Park to your list of things to do this winter season.

Burnsville Skate Park

Located in the southern suburbs of Minnesota lies a hidden gem — the Burnsville Skate Park. This park has become a sanctuary for skateboarders, BMX riders, inline skaters, and scooter riders from all around the area.

Built in 2005, the Burnsville Skate Park has been a one-of-a-kind place where skaters can put their skills to the test. The park offers over 13,000 square feet of skating terrain that features different levels of difficulty, from the beginner's area to the advanced-level bowl. The park’s design provides skaters with a unique and challenging experience, making Burnsville Skatepark a favorite for many skateboarders.

The Burnsville Skate Park is not just any park. It has a series of obstacles that make it unique and appealing to professional skaters. Skaters can find anything from rails, stairs, boxes, quarter pipes, and even banks. Besides the different challenges, the park operates with safety as a top priority. The park has been designed with safety features, including an eight-foot-tall fence encircling the area to prevent anyone from getting hurt.

The park is managed and operated by the City of Burnsville's Parks and Recreation Department, which ensures that the park is always in top condition. The park is open to the public all year round, and there is no fee required to skate.

The Burnsville Skate Park is more than just a place to skate. It has become a source of inspiration, unity, and community for skaters of all ages and skill levels. The park has hosted numerous skateboarding events, contests, and gatherings that bring the skating community together. The annual Skate/BMX Camp runs for five days during the summer, which aims to help both beginner and advanced skaters improve their skills in a supportive and friendly environment.

In conclusion, Burnsville Skate Park is a must-visit location for anyone who is interested in skateboarding, BMX, inline skating, or scootering. With a unique design, excellent facilities, and a welcoming community, the park has become a premier destination for local skaters. The Burnsville Skate Park is a reflection of the city's commitment to its residents and visitors, ensuring that it is a perfect place for skaters to have fun, learn, and improve their skills.

Twin Cities Harvest Festival and Maze in Fall

Characteristic	Description
Name	Twin Cities Maze
Type	Festival in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 685
Address	8001 109th Ave N, Brooklyn Park, MN 55445
Phone	(952) 992-9326
Hours	Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - Closed Thursday - Closed Friday - Closed Saturday - 10 AM–6 PM Sunday - 10 AM–6 PM Monday - Closed
Profiles

As the leaves turn to orange and the air becomes crisp, fall in Burnsville brings one exciting tradition for families and visitors to enjoy. The Twin Cities Harvest Festival and Maze is an annual fall event that provides visitors with a superb pumpkin picking experience and autumn-themed activities. The event takes place every year in October, and is a must-visit for anyone looking to embrace the spirit of fall.

At the heart of the Twin Cities Harvest Festival and Maze is, of course, the corn maze. It is among the largest in the Midwest, with over 20 acres of twists and turns that will take visitors on a fun-filled adventure. The maze is not one simple trek but rather takes shape in the form of seven themed checkpoints. There is no end to the maze, which allows visitors to stroll through at their own pace and take in the delights of fall.

As part of the festival, visitors also get to enjoy hayrides and a pumpkin patch. With pumpkin carving and painting activities, visitors get to pick their pumpkins and take home the joy of the season. Special events such as pony rides and face painting make it enjoyable for visitors of all ages.

The Twin Cities Harvest Festival and Maze is not only a fun fall activity but is an event that gives back to the community. Each year, a portion of the proceeds raised through the event is donated to a selected charity. This aligns with the spirit of giving and community that defines Burnsville and its residents.

In conclusion, The Twin Cities Harvest Festival and Maze is a fall essential for residents and visitors to Burnsville. With its corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and other autumn-themed activities, it is a delightful event that showcases the charm of the community. Not only does it bring families and friends together, but it also gives back to those in need - a heartwarming initiative to celebrate the season of giving.

Burnsville Lions Playground at Cliff Fen Park

The Burnsville Lions Playground at Cliff Fen Park is a popular destination for families in the Burnsville area. The playground, which opened in 2013, offers a wide variety of equipment for children of all ages.

The highlight of the playground is undoubtedly the large play structure, which features multiple levels and a variety of slides, swings, and climbing features. The structure also includes several interactive elements such as a spinning wheel and a maze panel.

In addition to the play structure, the playground also includes several other pieces of equipment such as a zip line, a rope climbing structure, and a musical play area. The playground is designed to be accessible for children of all abilities and includes equipment that is wheelchair-friendly.

The playground is located in Cliff Fen Park, which is a beautiful natural area featuring wetlands, woods, and open meadows. Visitors to the park can hike on the various trails, have a picnic in one of the many picnic areas, or enjoy a game of frisbee golf on the course located in the park.

The Burnsville Lions organization played a major role in funding the playground, which features the organization's logo on the equipment. The Lions are a service organization that has been active in Burnsville for many years, supporting a variety of community projects and initiatives.

Overall, the Burnsville Lions Playground at Cliff Fen Park is a great destination for families looking for a fun and engaging outdoor experience. With a variety of equipment for children of all ages and abilities, and a beautiful natural setting, the playground is a must-visit for any family in the Burnsville area.

Frequently asked questions