We all know how stressful gift shopping can get during the holidays. But guess what? It doesn’t have to be! The Lake Minnetonka area is full of amazing local spots that make it super easy (and fun!) to find the perfect gifts — and you’ll be supporting our community at the same time.
Whether you're on the hunt for an experience gift your kids will never forget, a unique treasure from a local artist for a friend, or a gift card that tells a co-worker, "I thought of you," this guide has you covered.
Here are some of our favorite local gift ideas in the Lake Minnetonka area, including Excelsior, Wayzata, Orono, Mound, and Hopkins.
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Experience Gifts in The Lake Minnetonka area
Give the gift of adventure and memories this holiday season! From family-friendly activities to classes and events, experience gifts are perfect for everyone.
Williston Fitness Center Membership
- Location: 14509 Minnetonka Drive, Minnetonka MN 55345
- Contact: https://www.minnetonkamn.gov/our-city/williston-fitness-center
- Why we love it: Williston is a city-run fitness and recreation center with activities for the entire family! Amenities include indoor pool and splash pad, Treehouse indoor play area, Gym, Indoor Pickleball, Fitness classes and more!
Stages Theatre Tickets
- Location: 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343
- Contact: https://www.stagestheatre.org/
- Why we love it: Fantastic shows that are fun for the whole family! Purchase the full season pass or create your own ticket package to experience the great upcoming performances including Don't Let Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical and When You Trap a Tiger.
Know of other experience gifts in Excelsior, Wayzata, Orono, Mound, or Hopkins should include? Let us know at jennifers@macaronikid.com.
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Locally-Owned Stores in The Lake Minnetonka Area
From locally-made T-shirts and baked goods to specialty stores, let's make this a year that we all buy local! Each purchase from a Lake Minnetonka area-owned business makes such a difference to local shop owners. These local shops offer a range of unique gifts that we love:
The Thinking Spot
- Location: 3311 County Road 101, Suite 4, Wayzata, MN 55391
- Contact: https://www.thethinkingspot.us/
- Offerings: A unique community gathering place for exploring and interacting with science. This bookstore offers curated science-themed books and gifts for adults and children.
General Store of Minnetonka
- Location: 14401 Hwy 7, Minnetonka, MN 55345
- Contact: https://generalstoreofminnetonka.com/
- Offerings: Family-run since 1984, the General Store of Minnetonka is everyone’s favorite shopping tradition. With two stories of boutique shopping in a gorgeous space, you’ll find perfectly curated gifts and goods in endless variety – and don’t miss the made-from-scratch Café & Bistro!
Do you have a favorite locally-owned shop in Excelsior, Wayzata, Orono, Mound, or Hopkins? Share their info with us at jennifers@macaronikid.com.
Gift Cards for Lake Minnetonka Area Shops & Restaurants
Not sure what to get? A gift card to a local restaurant, boutique, or shop is always a great idea. Here are a few standout options:
Lagos Tacos
- Location: 30 Water St, Excelsior, MN 55331
- Contact: https://www.lagotacos.com/
- Why It’s Great: A modern spin on Mexican food that is a crowd pleaser from the littlest kids to parents and grandparents.
Benedict's
- Location: 845 Lake St E, Wayzata, MN 55391
- Contact: https://benedicts.com/
- Why It’s Great: A wide variety of delicious breakfast and brunch foods in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.
Know of a great local spot in Excelsior, Wayzata, Orono, Mound, or Hopkins we should feature? Email us at jennifers@macaronikid.com.
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Seasonal Markets & Pop-Up Shops in The Lake Minnetonka Area
Support local vendors and find an array of holiday treasures at Lake Minnetonka area craft fairs, seasonal markets and pop-up shops this season! Check out these spots for unique holiday finds:
- Santa Claus Lane - Excelsior - Weekends from Nov 29 - Dec 22
- Excelsior Christkindlsmarkt - Excelsior - Nov 29 - Dec 1
- Holiday Boutique at Juniper Apartments - Minnetrista - Nov 30
Know of other seasonal markets in Excelsior, Wayzata, Orono, Mound, or Hopkins? Submit it here.
Celebrate the Lake Minnetonka area's amazing local businesses this holiday season by choosing to shop local as much as you can. We hope this guide helps you find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. Happy holidays from all of us at Macaroni KID Minnetonka!
