14 Incredible Waterfront Restaurants Everyone In Minnesota Must Visit
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Jo Magliocco
Author
It’s patio season in Minnesota, and in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, that means waterfront patios are the most sought after places to spend a few hours in the evenings and on weekends. From Lake Minnetonka to the Mississippi River, there is no shortage of waterfront dining in this state. Here are 14 of our favorites (in no particular order), that everyone needs to visit at least once!
This is the beloved party place on Lake Minnetonka. Maynard's is a classic, and the crowds rarely dwindle. Happy hour on the Maynard's Wharf is true bliss.
Ernie's is another one of those places that people visit every year on vacation. With a beautiful patio and marina on Gull Lake, plus live music, this place is always a win in our book.
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With epic views of canal park and Lake Superior, plus classic food, Grandma's is always worth a visit. It's definitely a Duluth favorite.
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Lake Pepin views from two levels are just the start at this Lake City favorite. The food is unbelievably good!
On gorgeous Lake Calhoun, Tin Fish is the perfect place for seasonal lakeside dining in the city, but if you miss them in the winter months, they also have a second location in Edina, although, without the waterfront views.
Enjoy the scenic St. Croix river at this restaurant. It's a great place to eat or host a party with river views.
6Smith in Wayzata takes lakeside dining to a new level with amazing food and drinks, a patio AND a rooftop. Prepare to be blown away.
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On the beach at Lake Nokomis you can find delicious locally sourced foods and a bright, sunny patio at this seasonal restaurant.
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This restaurant on the harbor in Grand Marais has amazing views of Superior turns out amazing locally sourced food, and is a wonderful place to kick back by the water.
With beautiful views outside and inside, the Boat House is the best place to see the Mississippi River views in Winona on sunny, summer days.
Psycho Suzi's Motor Lounge in Northeast Minneapolis is the perfect Mississippi River relaxation spot. It's tiki theme and party atmosphere makes it feel like you're on a tropical vacation, regardless of the season.
Another Lake Minnetonka classic, Lord Fletcher's is a beloved neighborhood spot has amazing food, live music, and more space than you can imagine. This place is like a resort with multiple venues, many seating areas, and enough bars for even the biggest crowds.
Moonlite Bay is the place to spend evenings on the lake. You'll love them for the music, patio views, and fun atmosphere!
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Admiral D's has an amazing patio on White Bear Lake and is the place to be all season long. They have some of the best live music on the water!
Where else do you like to dine on the water in Minnesota? We’ll see you out on the patio!
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