Quick Summary:

  • Where is Shakopee located?
    • Shakopee is nestled in the southwest corner of the Minneapolis/St. Paul Twin Cities, situated along the Minnesota River.
  • What makes Shakopee unique?
    • Shakopee offers both the charming spirit of a small town and the conveniences of a vibrant cosmopolitan city.
  • Why is Shakopee called a booming river town?
    • Shakopee is a booming river town, thriving along the Minnesota River with a growing community and expanding opportunities.


  • Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Canterbury Park ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Activities
Canterbury Park | Culture & Recreation in Shakopee, Minnesota
© Courtesy of jentz5262 - Fotolia.com

2. Valleyfair ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Valleyfair | Culture & Recreation in Shakopee, Minnesota
© Valleyfair

3. The Landing

The Landing | Culture & Recreation in Shakopee, Minnesota
© Courtesy of AGPhotography - Fotolia.com

4. Paisley Park

Category: Activities
Paisley Park | Culture & Recreation in Shakopee, Minnesota
© Paisley Park

5. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

Category: Activities
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum | Culture & Recreation in Shakopee, Minnesota
© Courtesy of Sylvi - Fotolia.com

6. Stans Homestead and Museum Garden

Category: Activities
Stans Homestead and Museum Garden | Culture & Recreation in Shakopee, Minnesota
© Stans Homestead and Museum Garden

7. Halla Greens Executive Golf Course & Driving Range

Category: Entertainment
Halla Greens Executive Golf Course & Driving Range | Culture & Recreation in Shakopee, Minnesota
© Courtesy of Alexstar - Fotolia.com

8. Chaska Curling Center

Category: Attractions
Chaska Curling Center | Culture & Recreation in Shakopee, Minnesota
© Courtesy of ronstik - Fotolia.com

9. Bluff Creek Golf Course

Category: Entertainment
Bluff Creek Golf Course | Culture & Recreation in Shakopee, Minnesota
© Courtesy of Daniel Thornberg - Fotolia.com

10. Shakopee Brewhall

Category: Food & Drink
Shakopee Brewhall | Culture & Recreation in Shakopee, Minnesota
© Shakopee Brewhall

11. Wings of the North Air Museum

Category: Museums & Culture
Wings of the North Air Museum | Culture & Recreation in Shakopee, Minnesota
© Courtesy of Mak - Fotolia.com

12. Stevie Ray’s Comedy Cabaret

Category: Entertainment
Stevie Ray’s Comedy Cabaret | Culture & Recreation in Shakopee, Minnesota
© Courtesy of BillionPhotos.com - Fotolia.com

13. Turtle’s Bar and Grill

Category: Food & Drink
Turtle’s Bar and Grill | Culture & Recreation in Shakopee, Minnesota
© Courtesy of JJAVA - Fotolia.com

14. Heartbreaker’s Bar & Grill

Category: Food & Drink
Heartbreaker’s Bar & Grill | Culture & Recreation in Shakopee, Minnesota
© Courtesy of nd700 - Fotolia.com

15. Badger Hill Brewing Company

Category: Food & Drink
Badger Hill Brewing Company | Culture & Recreation in Shakopee, Minnesota
© Badger Hill Brewing Company

16. Sever’s Fall Festival

Category: Entertainment
Sever’s Fall Festival | Culture & Recreation in Shakopee, Minnesota
© Courtesy of Subbotina Anna - Fotolia.com


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. Hampton Inn Minneapolis/Shakopee – A comfortable stay close to major attractions. Visit the Minnesota Renaissance Festival – Experience a lively medieval fair with entertainment and food.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, ideal for outdoor adventures. Canterbury Inn – A cozy stay near Canterbury Park and Valleyfair. Explore Valleyfair Amusement Park – Enjoy thrilling rides and water attractions.
Fall (September-November) – Cool temperatures and scenic autumn foliage. AmericInn by Wyndham Shakopee – A budget-friendly stay with great amenities. Visit Mystic Lake Casino – Try your luck at gaming and enjoy live entertainment.

Plan Your Trip