“I didn’t expect thrill rides and historic cabins to pair so well.” That thought crossed my mind sometime between a rollercoaster drop and sipping a seasonal IPA at Shakopee Brewhall. Shakopee was more layered than I imagined—part amusement, part memory, part artistry. From the roar of horses to the hush of a greenhouse, this was a day of contrasts that somehow felt cohesive.
Best Things to Do in Shakopee, MN
Canterbury Park
I started the day at Canterbury Park, where the excitement of live horse racing pulsed through the grandstand. Families cheered, kids waved their programs like flags, and the horses thundered past in a blur. I placed a small bet on a horse named Moonlight Tango and cheered like it mattered—because it did, for those two minutes. The scent of hay, popcorn, and sunscreen filled the summer air. “There’s something timeless about this,” I thought, scribbling down my win ($4, but still).
Valleyfair
Adrenaline called, so I headed to Valleyfair, the local amusement park just a short drive away. After a few high-speed loops and a nostalgic ride on the carousel, I grabbed a soft pretzel and sat under a misting fan near the wave pool. It smelled like cotton candy and pavement, and everyone looked sunburned and delighted.
The Landing
To decompress, I spent the afternoon at The Landing, a heritage park along the Minnesota River. It was like stepping into a living diorama—log cabins, costumed interpreters, and gardens brimming with heritage crops. A guide in a bonnet showed me how soap was once made. I stood inside a one-room schoolhouse and thought about how different—and oddly familiar—the past can feel.
Paisley Park
Midday, I made the pilgrimage to Paisley Park—Prince’s former home and creative sanctuary. The tour moved from studio to soundstage to the purple-lit atrium where his legacy still vibrates in every detail. I lingered in the studio where he recorded “When Doves Cry,” a space preserved like he just stepped out for coffee. “Genius leaves a scent behind,” I thought. Here, it was lavender and legacy.
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum felt like a breath of fresh, flower-scented air. I strolled through rose gardens, wandered a maze of prairie grasses, and sat for a long while by a pond surrounded by Japanese maples. A staff member handed me a list of what was in peak bloom. I didn’t need it—I just followed the color. It was quiet, grounding, and impossibly beautiful.
Stans Homestead and Museum Garden
Stans Homestead and Museum Garden was a gentle surprise. A mix of restored buildings and native plants, it told the story of early settlers with quiet grace. Bees buzzed through coneflowers, a hand-painted sign welcomed visitors, and I sat on a bench beside a windmill replica, just listening. It smelled like sunshine on wood and something sweet growing nearby.
Halla Greens Executive Golf Course & Driving Range
For something a little more active, I visited Halla Greens. The executive course was approachable and well-maintained—perfect for casual swings and forgiving fairways. I spent most of my time at the driving range, working out a crooked slice while chatting with a couple next to me who come every Thursday. “This is our therapy,” one of them said. I believed her.
Shakopee Brewhall
I ended the day at Shakopee Brewhall, where the taproom buzzed with locals catching up over flights. I ordered a seasonal IPA and a basket of garlic fries. The beer was crisp, hoppy, and bright—like the whole town in a pint glass. A musician played acoustic covers in the corner, and I stayed longer than planned, content to listen and sip and just be.
Shakopee At a Glance
- Drive Time from Minneapolis: ~30 minutes southwest
- Vibe: Playful, historic, creatively balanced
- Highlights: Horse racing, rollercoasters, Prince’s legacy, wildflower trails, craft beer
- Best Time to Visit: Summer and fall for full attraction access and scenic walks
- Cost: Mix of free parks and ticketed attractions; dining and breweries are moderate
- Hours: Outdoor and heritage parks close early; brewhall and amusement park open later
- Address Base: Begin near Canterbury Park and branch toward the Minnesota River
Travel Tips: Best Time to Visit Shakopee, MN
If you ask me, late spring through early fall (May to October) is the sweet spot. That’s when the parks are open, the festivals are in full swing, and the weather is just right for riverside walks or outdoor events. I usually plan my visits around something fun happening—there’s always something going on!
How to Get to Shakopee, MN
- Driving in? I usually take US-169 or MN-101—it’s an easy drive about 25 miles southwest of Minneapolis. You’ll be there in under an hour with no hassle.
- Taking the bus? Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA) makes it simple. I’ve used it when I didn’t want to drive, and it’s a convenient way to connect from the metro area.
- Flying in? Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is just about 20 miles away. I’ve flown into MSP and picked up a rental car for the short ride—it’s super convenient if you’re coming from out of state.
Where to Stay in Shakopee, MN
- Hampton Inn Minneapolis/Shakopee – I’ve stayed here when I wanted to be close to Valleyfair and Canterbury. You’ll get a clean, modern room, free breakfast, and a short drive to the action—it’s a solid choice.
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Minneapolis Shakopee – This one’s a favorite when I want a sleek, updated space with an indoor pool. You’ll enjoy the comfort and easy access to the freeway, especially if you're hopping around attractions.
- AmericInn by Wyndham Shakopee Near Canterbury Park – If you’re traveling with kids or on a budget, this one hits the mark. I love that it has water slides and a family-friendly atmosphere. Plus, free breakfast is always a win.
Final Thoughts
Shakopee felt like a weekend in a single day—loud, quiet, wild, thoughtful. I came expecting amusement; I left with a full memory reel. Whether you're chasing thrills, walking through history, or just following the scent of hops and hay, Shakopee delivers it with heart.