Why Shakopee is a Great Destination for your Summer Vacation

Activities Attractions Best of Shakopee Events Festivals History Hotels Museum Outdoors Parks and Trails Shop

Shakopee, Minnesota is a great destination for summer travel. Here are some reasons why:

• Valleyfair Amusement Park: This popular theme park features over 75 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, Soak City Waterpark, and family-friendly activities. Also, Valleyfair hosts numerous special events throughout the season including Grand Carnivale and 4th of July Fireworks.

• Canterbury Park: Horse racing, live music, and special events are just some of the things you’ll find at this entertainment complex. Visitors can also enjoy dining and gaming options in the Canterbury Casino. Special events include Dog Race Days, Food Truck Festivals, and a fireworks show on July 3. Click HERE for Canterbury Park’s special events.

• Shakopee’s Historic Downtown District: This charming area features unique shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Visitors can stroll the streets and take in the local culture, visit one of the local retailers, visit one of the two breweries, or eat at one of the local restaurants.

• Minnesota Renaissance Festival: This annual event is a must-see for anyone visiting Shakopee in the late summer months. Visitors can step back in time and experience life in medieval times. The Renaissance Festival features over 250 artisans in the marketplace, 16 stages of exciting entertainment, hundreds of memorable characters, and unique dining options.

• Rhythm on the Rails: This summer concert series takes place Wednesday evenings from June 21 through August 9 (no concert July . Visitors can enjoy live music performances while also exploring the local food and beverage vendors. This year’s act include Martin Zellar, Rocket Club, Xpedition, Mall Rats, Songs of the South, The Fabulous Armadillos Party Band, and Josh Baldwin and Maryanne George as part of Shakopee Community Spirit Night.

• Mystic Lake Casino Hotel: Just a short drive from Shakopee, this casino features over 4,000 slot machines, table games, special events, and live entertainment. The Mystic Lake Amphitheater also hosts a range of outdoor concerts and events during the summer months. In addition, the Mystic Showroom hosts a range of concerts, comedy shows, and other performances throughout the year.

• Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store: Located just a short drive from Shakopee, this candy store boasts an impressive collection of sweets, including over 3,000 varieties of candy from around the world, a wide assortment of unique sodas, fresh-baked goods, and more.

• Lakefront Music Festival: This annual two-day festival in Prior Lake, just a short drive from Shakopee, features a lineup of national and regional musicians and bands, spanning a range of genres from rock and pop to country and hip-hop. This year’s lineup includes Lynyrd Skynyrd, REO Speedwagon, Darius Rucker, Tyler Hubbard of Flordia Georgia Line, and more.

Accommodations: Shakopee offers a range of lodging options, including hotels and campgrounds. Visitors can choose from affordable chain hotels to more upscale options, all within easy access to the area’s top attractions.

Overall, with its wide range of entertainment and cultural offerings, Shakopee is the perfect summer destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.