12 Fun Activities To Explore In Prior Lake, Mn

If you're looking for a fun-filled getaway in the Midwest, look no further than Prior Lake, MN. This charming town boasts a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. From water sports on the stunning lake to exploring the town's history at local museums and parks, there's never a dull moment. If you're planning a trip to Prior Lake, we've got you covered with our list of 12 fun activities that are sure to make your visit unforgettable. So pack your bags, and get ready to experience the best of what Prior Lake has to offer!

Mystic Lake Casino

Prior Lake, Minnesota is known for its beautiful natural environment, vibrant community, and exciting attractions. One of the most popular destinations in the area is Mystic Lake Casino, a premier casino and hotel complex owned and operated by the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community. With its wide range of gaming options, luxurious amenities, and top-notch entertainment offerings, Mystic Lake Casino is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Prior Lake.

Gaming Options at Mystic Lake Casino

Hotel and Dining Options

In addition to its gaming facilities, Mystic Lake Casino also features a luxurious hotel with over 600 rooms and suites. Guests can choose from a variety of room types, including deluxe rooms, suites, and villas. The hotel also offers a fitness center, pool, and spa, making it the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway.

When it comes to dining, Mystic Lake Casino has something for every taste and budget. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a gourmet meal, you'll find it at one of the many dining options at the casino. From the casual café-style menu at The Buffet to the fine dining experience at Mystic Steakhouse, there's a cuisine for every occasion.

Entertainment Options

Final Thoughts

For anyone visiting Prior Lake, Minnesota, Mystic Lake Casino is a must-visit destination. With its many gaming options, luxurious amenities, and top-notch entertainment offerings, the casino offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or a night out on the town, Mystic Lake Casino is the perfect choice.

The Wilds Golf Club

Characteristic	Description
Name	The Wilds Golf Club
Type	Golf course in Prior Lake, Minnesota
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.3 / 350
Address	3151 Wilds Ridge Ct, Prior Lake, MN 55372
Phone	(952) 445-3500
Hours	Wednesday - Open 24 hours Thursday - Open 24 hours Friday - Open 24 hours Saturday - Open 24 hours Sunday - Open 24 hours Monday - Open 24 hours Tuesday - Open 24 hours
Profiles

The course was designed by renowned architect Tom Weiskopf and has been named one of the top 100 courses in the country. With 18 holes of championship golf, players of all skill levels will be challenged and rewarded by the course's unique layout.

One of the standout features of The Wilds is its commitment to the environment. The course was built with a focus on sustainability, and the club has implemented numerous measures to conserve water and reduce chemical use. The course is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, fox, and waterfowl.

In addition to the world-class golf course, The Wilds offers a variety of amenities to its members and visitors. The clubhouse features a pro shop, locker rooms, and a restaurant with stunning views of the course. The club also has a driving range, putting green, and chipping area to help golfers improve their skills.

Overall, The Wilds Golf Club is a must-play course for any golfer in the Prior Lake area. With its beautiful setting, commitment to sustainability, and world-class amenities, it truly is a gem of the Midwest.

Lakefront Park Beach

The beach itself is stunning, with soft, white sand stretching out to the clear, sparkling water. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and playing games with family and friends. The beach is also home to several volleyball nets, allowing beach-goers to enjoy a friendly game while soaking up the sun.

In addition to the beach, there are plenty of other activities available at Lakefront Park. The park boasts a large playground, perfect for kids to burn off some energy, as well as various picnic areas and a pavilion perfect for hosting events or large family gatherings. There are also plenty of walking paths and a fishing pier for those who enjoy more leisurely activities.

Perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of Lakefront Park is the fact that it's free to access. This makes it an ideal destination for families and others looking for an affordable day out. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own picnic lunches and snacks, making for an even more affordable and enjoyable experience.

All in all, Lakefront Park Beach in Prior Lake, MN, is a fantastic destination for those looking for a fun and relaxing day in the sun. With plenty of activities, amenities, and stunning views, it's no wonder why it's such a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. Whether you're looking to swim, play, or simply soak up some rays, Lakefront Park Beach is the perfect place to be.

Cleary Lake Regional Park

Characteristic	Description
Name	Cleary Lake Regional Park
Type	Park in Scott County, Minnesota
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 528
Address	18106 Texas Ave, Prior Lake, MN 55372
Phone	(763) 694-7777
Hours	Wednesday - opens at 5 AM and closes at 10 PM Thursday - opens at 5 AM and closes at 10 PM Friday - opens at 5 AM and closes at 10 PM Saturday - opens at 5 AM and closes at 10 PM Sunday - opens at 5 AM and closes at 10 PM Monday - opens at 5 AM and closes at 10 PM Tuesday - opens at 5 AM and closes at 10 PM
Profiles

One of the main attractions at Cleary Lake Regional Park is its picturesque lake. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the pristine waters of Cleary Lake. The park has a boat ramp and a fishing pier, making it convenient for visitors to indulge in their favorite water activities.

For those who love to hike, bike, or run, the park has several trails with varying difficulty levels. The trails wind through forests, prairies, and wetlands, providing breathtaking views of the natural surroundings. Many visitors also come to the park for birdwatching as it is a habitat for various species of birds, including the bald eagle.

The park is also home to the Cleary Lake Golf Course, a public 18-hole golf course that spans over 6,500 yards. The golf course is known for its challenging holes and scenic views, and golfers of all skill levels are welcome to play.

Overall, Cleary Lake Regional Park is a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park offers something for everyone and is an excellent place to immerse oneself in nature and enjoy some fun-filled activities with family and friends.

Tamarack Nature Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Tamarack Nature Center
Type	Nature preserve in White Bear Lake, Minnesota
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 1,093
Address	5287 Otter Lake Rd, White Bear Township, MN 55110
Phone	(651) 266-0360
Hours	Wednesday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Thursday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Friday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Saturday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Sunday - opens at 12 and closes at 4 PM Monday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Tuesday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM
Profiles

If you're looking for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Tamarack Nature Center in Prior Lake, MN is the perfect place! Situated on 320 acres of beautiful forests, wetlands, and prairies, the center offers a wide range of outdoor activities and educational programs for visitors of all ages.

One of the highlights of Tamarack Nature Center is its extensive network of hiking trails, which wind through a variety of ecosystems and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, you're sure to find a trail that suits your needs.

In addition to hiking, Tamarack Nature Center also offers a variety of other outdoor activities, such as birdwatching, fishing, and canoeing. The center's staff are knowledgeable and passionate about the local flora and fauna, and are always happy to answer questions and provide guidance.

For those interested in learning more about the natural world around them, Tamarack Nature Center offers a variety of educational programs, workshops, and events throughout the year. From guided nature walks to hands-on workshops on topics such as gardening and composting, there is always something new and exciting to learn.

Overall, Tamarack Nature Center is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun and educational outdoor experience in the Prior Lake, MN area. With its beautiful natural surroundings, wide variety of activities, and knowledgeable staff, it is sure to be a highlight of your visit to the region. So pack your gear, grab your family and friends, and head to Tamarack Nature Center today!

Farmington Dew Days Festival

The Farmington Dew Days Festival is an annual event held in Farmington, a small city in Dakota County, Minnesota. This festival takes place during the last week of June and includes a variety of fun activities for people of all ages.

One of the main features of the Dew Days Festival is the parade, which travels through the heart of downtown Farmington. This parade includes floats, marching bands, and various community groups showcasing their talents as they pass by the crowds. Besides the parade, there are plenty of other activities for the entire family to enjoy.

There are several carnival rides, food vendors, and a beer garden where attendees can relax with a cold beverage. The event also includes live music and other performances throughout the day. The Kid's Zone is an excellent attraction for children, with face painting, games, and other activities to entertain them.

However, one of the highlights of the Farmington Dew Days Festival is the Grand Parade, which is held on the weekend. The Grand Parade brings together businesses, organizations, and community groups to celebrate and offer entertainment for the crowd. In addition to the parade, there's also a street dance and fireworks display to enjoy.

Shepherd's Hill Farm

Nestled in the serene countryside of Prior Lake, Minnesota lies Shepherd's Hill Farm, a peaceful haven where visitors can experience nature in its purest form. Shepherd's Hill Farm is a family-owned farm that offers a wide range of activities, from visiting the cute animals to learning how to grow fresh produce in their vegetable gardens. This beautiful place is a must-visit for those seeking relaxation and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

One of the farm's most popular attractions is its petting zoo. Here, visitors can interact with a wide range of farm animals like sheep, goats, chickens, ducks, and rabbits. Children can't get enough of the baby goats, making it a perfect place for a family outing. The farmer owners offer guided tours of the petting zoo and take pride in explaining about the animals' living and breeding conditions as well as the nutritional values of fresh farm produce.

Another feature of Shepherd's Hill Farm is its spacious gardens spread across acres of land. The garden is carefully cultivated with organic farming methods that include growing vegetables, herbs, and fruits without the use of pesticides, making it a great place to learn about sustainable living. Visitors can take a stroll along the garden's beautiful walking paths and enjoy the beautiful scents and sights of nature.

Lastly, visitors can choose to stay overnight in the beautifully designed "Glamping" tents that provide all the comfort of a hotel stay while still allowing you to embrace the outdoors. The tents are equipped with a queen bed, a small kitchenette, and a private patio, making them the perfect getaway from urban life.

In conclusion, Shepherd's Hill Farm in Prior Lake, Minnesota, is a place that anyone seeking a peaceful escape into nature will surely enjoy. From the petting zoo to vegetable gardening and glamping tents, there's something for everyone. Make a visit to this serene getaway and experience the beauty of nature at its best.

Prior Lake Players Community Theatre

Characteristic	Description
Name	Prior Lake Players Community Theatre
Type	Non-profit organization in Prior Lake, Minnesota
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	5 / 4
Address	5660 Credit River Rd SE, Prior Lake, MN 55372
Phone	(952) 913-8786
Profiles

The Prior Lake Players Community Theatre is an all-volunteer organization that not only produces exceptional entertainment but also provides a platform for local actors and theatre enthusiasts to showcase their talents. The group is composed of actors, producers, directors, costumers, set designers, and more - all working together to put on a great show.

Over the years, the theatre has staged popular plays such as "Grease," "Little Shop of Horrors," and "The Odd Couple." They also have a special focus on family-friendly shows like "Annie" and "The Wizard of Oz."

The theatre group puts on performances throughout the year, with a regular season starting in late fall and their summer musical productions. They perform at the Twin Oaks Middle School Theatre, which provides excellent acoustics and visibility for the audience.

The Prior Lake Players Community Theatre also provides educational opportunities, offering workshops and classes for both adults and children. They have even developed a children's theatre program called "Young Players" to foster a love of the arts at an early age.

In addition to their regular shows, they also participate in community events such as the annual Lakefront Days Parade and hold fundraisers like their annual "Murder Mystery Dinner."

Overall, the Prior Lake Players Community Theatre is a vital part of the Prior Lake community. With their continued commitment to producing quality entertainment while promoting community involvement, it's no wonder they have been so successful for nearly five decades.

Prior Lake Association Fishing Contest

The Prior Lake Association's annual fishing contest is one of the most highly-anticipated events for freshwater fishing enthusiasts in Prior Lake, Minnesota. This exciting event gives anglers the chance to compete against each other for prizes and bragging rights as they try to catch the biggest and most impressive fish in the lake.

The Prior Lake Association Fishing Contest is open to anglers of all ages and skill levels. Participants can register for the contest at the event's official website or in person at the event registration booth. The contest is typically held in the Summer season, when the fish are more active and can be found in greater numbers in the lake.

Participants can fish from the shore or from a boat, although prior registration and verification procedures are required for boaters. The contest rules require the use of artificial lures or live bait, and participants must adhere to all local laws and regulations regarding fishing permits, catch and release guidelines, and terminal tackle restrictions.

During the day of the contest, participants must check in at the registration booth to obtain their official entry number, which must be displayed on their fishing equipment. They are then free to fish anywhere in the lake, as long as they do not disturb other anglers or pose any risk to themselves or others.

Prizes are awarded in different categories based on the weight, length, and type of fish caught. There is also a special award for the angler who catches the largest Bass, which is considered to be a highly sought-after prize among fishing enthusiasts.

In addition to the competition itself, the Prior Lake Association Fishing Contest also features live music, food vendors, and various outdoor activities. It's a great way to spend a summer day with family or friends, even if you're not an avid angler.

Overall, the Prior Lake Association Fishing Contest is an exciting event that brings together anglers from different areas to enjoy the natural beauty of Prior Lake while competing against each other. Whether you're an experienced angler or just beginning, this contest is a great way to test your fishing skills and have some fun in the process. So mark your calendars and start practicing, because this year's event is sure to be bigger and better than ever before!

Prior Lake Snowmobile Association

The Prior Lake Snowmobile Association is a non-profit organization that focuses on ensuring the safety and enjoyment of snowmobilers in the Prior Lake area. Snowmobile enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels are welcome to join the association and participate in its events and activities.

The association works closely with local law enforcement agencies and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to ensure that snowmobiling is done responsibly and safely. They also organize safety training courses and provide educational materials to promote safe snowmobiling practices.

In addition to safety, the Prior Lake Snowmobile Association also organizes fun and exciting events for its members. These events include group snowmobiling rides, charitable fundraising events, and social gatherings.

The association also plays an integral role in maintaining and grooming snowmobile trails in the Prior Lake area. Volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that these trails are well-groomed and safe to ride on.

Overall, the Prior Lake Snowmobile Association is a vital organization for the local snowmobiling community. Its commitment to safety and enjoyment ensures that snowmobilers in the Prior Lake area can have fun while also being responsible and respectful of their surroundings. If you're a snowmobile enthusiast in the area, joining the association is a great way to get involved with the local snowmobiling community and enjoy all that this exciting winter sport has to offer.

Prior Lake Rotary's Dan Patch Days

Every year, the Prior Lake Rotary Club hosts Dan Patch Days in Prior Lake, MN. This four-day festival celebrates the history of the famous harness horse named Dan Patch, who set a world record in Prior Lake in 1906.

One of the highlights of Dan Patch Days is the parade on Saturday morning. The parade features marching bands, floats, and local businesses showcasing their products and services. It's a fun-filled event for the entire family to enjoy.

Another popular attraction at Dan Patch Days is the carnival, which features thrilling rides and games for all ages. From the Ferris wheel to the roller coasters, the carnival has something for everyone. There are also plenty of food stands serving up delicious treats like funnel cakes, corn dogs, and cotton candy.

For those who love live music, Dan Patch Days has you covered. On Friday and Saturday nights, the festival features live music from local bands and musicians. It's the perfect opportunity to dance the night away while enjoying good music with friends and family.

Dan Patch Days also includes a marketplace where vendors sell a variety of goods, including handmade crafts, jewelry, and clothing. It's a great place to shop for unique gifts or just browse and enjoy the atmosphere.

In addition to all of the fun and entertainment, Dan Patch Days also supports a good cause. Proceeds from the festival go towards the Prior Lake Rotary Club's charitable projects, which help to make a positive impact on the local community.

Overall, Dan Patch Days is a must-attend event in Prior Lake. With something for everyone, it's a great way to celebrate the history and culture of the area while having fun with family and friends.

Jeffers Petroglyphs Historic Site

Characteristic	Description
Name	Jeffers Petroglyphs
Type	Museum in Cottonwood County, Minnesota
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 301
Address	27160 Co Rd 2, Comfrey, MN 56019
Phone	(507) 628-5591
Profiles

Located in the southwestern region of Minnesota, near the town of Norden, lies the Jeffers Petroglyphs Historic Site. This unique destination boasts a collection of ancient rock carvings, or petroglyphs, created by Native American tribes thousands of years ago. If you're interested in history and want to learn more about the cultural heritage of Minnesota, a visit to Jeffers Petroglyphs is a must.

The petroglyphs at Jeffers Petroglyphs were created by the Plains Indians, dating back as far as 7,000 years ago. These carvings depict a wide range of images, such as animals, humans, and other symbols. They were also used to convey messages, record events, or serve as a form of artistic expression by the Native American tribes that once inhabited the area.

Today, visitors to Jeffers Petroglyphs can explore the site and view over 2,000 petroglyphs, located on approximately 20 rock outcroppings. The petroglyphs are a mixture of carvings and peckings made with a variety of tools, including stone, bone, and antler. The petroglyphs are protected by the Minnesota Historical Society, and there are strict rules in place to preserve them for future generations.

The site is open from May through October and offers guided tours with knowledgeable staff who provide insight into the significance of the petroglyphs and the history of the area. There are also hiking trails, picnic facilities, and a visitor center with exhibits showcasing the unique culture and traditions of the Plains Indians.

In addition to being an educational experience, Jeffers Petroglyphs is a beautiful and serene natural setting. The site features rolling hills, wildflowers, and native prairie grasses. Visitors can hike the trails, visit the nearby prairie restoration area, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of this remote location.

If you're planning a trip to the Prior Lake, MN area, make sure to include a visit to Jeffers Petroglyphs Historic Site on your itinerary. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience that offers a window into the rich cultural history of the region.

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