A Local’s Guide to the Best Things to Do in Woodbury, MN
Woodbury, MN offers a variety of activities throughout the year. Here are five recommendations for things to do in Woodbury for each season:
Spring:
- Woodbury Lakes Shopping: Enjoy the spring weather while exploring Woodbury Lakes, an outdoor shopping destination with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
- Tamarack Nature Center: Take a nature walk at Tamarack Nature Center, where spring brings blossoming flowers and vibrant greenery. The center offers trails, wildlife viewing, and educational programs.
- Prestwick Golf Club: Tee off at Prestwick Golf Club, which opens in the spring. Enjoy a round of golf in a beautiful setting with well-maintained greens.
- Woodbury Community Theatre: Attend a performance at the Woodbury Community Theatre, which often has shows scheduled in the spring. Check their calendar for entertaining productions.
- Ojibway Park: Have a picnic or go for a hike at Ojibway Park. The park offers scenic views, playgrounds, and walking trails, making it a great spot for outdoor activities.
Summer:
- Carver Lake Park: Spend a day at Carver Lake Park, which features a beach, swimming area, and water activities such as paddleboarding and kayaking.
- Woodbury 10 Theatre: Catch a summer blockbuster at Woodbury 10 Theatre. It’s a great way to beat the heat while enjoying the latest movies.
- Eagle Valley Golf Course: Play a round of golf at Eagle Valley Golf Course, a challenging 18-hole course surrounded by picturesque landscapes.
- Health Fairview Sports Center: Attend a sports event or join a fitness class at the Health Fairview Sports Center, a multi-use facility offering various recreational activities.
- Woodbury Dog Park: Bring your furry friend to the Woodbury Dog Park for some off-leash fun. The park has separate areas for large and small dogs and provides a great space for socialization.
Fall:
- Afton State Park: Experience the vibrant fall colors by hiking the trails at Afton State Park, located nearby. The park offers stunning views of the St. Croix River Valley.
- Fall Harvest Festival: Attend a local fall harvest festival, where you can enjoy seasonal activities like pumpkin picking, corn mazes, and hayrides.
- Woodbury Lakes Shopping: Explore Woodbury Lakes for fall shopping, with many stores featuring autumn-themed decorations and seasonal sales.
- Lake Elmo Park Reserve: Take a scenic drive or hike through Lake Elmo Park Reserve to enjoy the changing foliage reflected in the park’s lakes.
- Woodbury Public Library: Cozy up with a good book at the Woodbury Public Library. Fall is an excellent time to explore new literature and attend library events.
Winter:
- Woodbury Ice Skating Rinks: Embrace the winter spirit by ice skating at one of Woodbury’s outdoor ice rinks. Some parks offer warming houses for a cozy break.
- Woodbury Lakes Holiday Shopping: Discover unique gifts and decorations while holiday shopping at Woodbury Lakes. Many stores feature festive displays during the winter season.
- Health Fairview Sports Center Ice Arena: Enjoy a day of indoor ice skating or catch a hockey game at the Health Fairview Sports Center Ice Arena.
- Snowshoeing at Tamarack Nature Center: Experience the winter wonderland by snowshoeing through the trails at Tamarack Nature Center.
- Woodbury 10 Theatre: Escape the cold by catching a movie at Woodbury 10 Theatre. It’s a great indoor activity for chilly winter days.
These recommendations offer a mix of outdoor and indoor activities, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Woodbury throughout the year.
Explore Woodbury’s Parks and Trails
If you’re a nature lover, Woodbury has no shortage of parks and trails to explore. The city has over 3,000 acres of parkland and 140 miles of trails, making it a haven for hikers, bikers, and walkers. One of the best parks to visit is the beautiful Carver Lake Park, which features a large lake for fishing, a beach for swimming, and picnic areas for family outings. Woodbury also has many other parks to explore, such as Colby Lake Park, Ojibway Park, and Shawnee Park.
Go Shopping
Woodbury is also known for its many shopping options. The city boasts several shopping centers, including Woodbury Lakes and Tamarack Village. These centers offer a variety of stores, from high-end boutiques to popular chain retailers, so there’s something for every budget and taste. If you’re in the mood for some window shopping, head to the Woodbury Commons, which is home to several specialty stores and artisanal boutiques.
Dine at Local Restaurants
When it comes to dining, Woodbury has no shortage of delicious restaurants to choose from. If you’re in the mood for classic American fare, head to The Tavern Grill, where you can enjoy burgers, sandwiches, and salads in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. For something more upscale, try out Angelina’s Kitchen, which serves up traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist. If you’re a sushi lover, head to Osaka, where you can enjoy fresh sushi and sashimi in a contemporary setting.
Attend Local Events
Throughout the year, Woodbury hosts a variety of local events that are perfect for residents and visitors. One popular event is the Woodbury Days Festival, which takes place every August and features live music, food vendors, and a parade. If you’re a fan of the arts, check out the Woodbury Community Theatre or the Merrill Arts Center, which both put on several productions throughout the year. The city also hosts several farmer’s markets during the summer months, where you can enjoy fresh produce and artisanal goods from local vendors.
Relax at a Spa
If you’re looking for some relaxation, head to one of Woodbury’s many spas. The city has several day spas that offer a range of treatments, from massages and facials to pedicures and manicures. One of the best spas to visit is Spalon Montage, which has been voted the best spa in Minnesota for several years running. The spa offers a range of treatments, including body wraps, waxing, and makeup application.
Get Active Indoors
If the weather isn’t cooperating or you’re looking for an indoor activity, head to one of Woodbury’s many indoor activity centers. The city has several options, such as Sky Zone Trampoline Park, where you can bounce around and burn off some energy. For something more low-key, check out the Woodbury YMCA, which offers a range of fitness classes and facilities, including a pool, basketball court, and weight room.
Take a Day Trip
If you’re looking to explore beyond Woodbury, there are plenty of nearby attractions to visit. One popular destination is the Mall of America, which is located just a short drive away in Bloomington. The mall features over 500 stores, as well as attractions like an aquarium, theme park, and movie theater. You can easily spend an entire day at the mall, shopping, and having fun with family and friends. Another great day trip option is Afton State Park, located just a short drive east of Woodbury. Afton State Park features scenic hiking trails, a swimming beach, and a beautiful river valley. It’s the perfect place to spend a day in nature and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors. So why not pack a picnic lunch and head out for a day trip adventure? The possibilities are endless!
Shop till You Drop at Woodbury Lakes
Woodbury Lakes is a shopper’s paradise with over 50 stores, restaurants, and cafes. From popular brands like Victoria’s Secret and H&M to local boutiques like Cora & Violet and Jenson’s Department Store, there’s something for everyone at Woodbury Lakes. The outdoor mall has a relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of seating areas to rest and enjoy the surroundings. You can also grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants, such as Five Guys or Cossetta’s.
Take a Hike at Carver Lake Park
Carver Lake Park is a hidden gem in Woodbury. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature. The park has several trails, including a paved trail that’s perfect for biking or rollerblading. You can also hike through the woods or around the lake, which is home to several species of fish. Carver Lake Park also has picnic areas and a beach for swimming.
Enjoy a Game of Golf at Eagle Valley Golf Course
Eagle Valley Golf Course is a beautiful 18-hole course that’s perfect for golfers of all skill levels. The course features challenging holes and beautiful scenery, including a pond that comes into play on several holes. There’s also a driving range, putting green, and chipping area where you can practice your skills. After your round, stop by the clubhouse for a bite to eat and a cold drink.
Learn About Local History at the Woodbury Heritage Society
The Woodbury Heritage Society is dedicated to preserving the history of Woodbury and the surrounding area. The society operates a museum that’s open to the public, where you can learn about the early settlers of Woodbury and see artifacts from the past. The museum also hosts events and educational programs throughout the year, such as guided tours and hands-on activities.
Have Fun at Sky Zone Trampoline Park
Sky Zone Trampoline Park is a great place to have fun and get some exercise. The park features a variety of trampoline-based activities, including dodgeball, basketball, and a foam pit. There’s also a toddler area for younger children. Sky Zone is a great place to bring the whole family or to have a fun outing with friends.
Conclusion
As you can see, there’s no shortage of things to do in Woodbury, MN. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, shopping, or entertainment, this city has something for everyone. From exploring the beautiful parks to enjoying a game of golf or a day of shopping, Woodbury has it all. So why not plan a visit and experience it for yourself?