Have Fun by the Water in Shakopee

Activities Attractions Best of Shakopee Dining Outdoors Parks and Trails

Beat the heat, enjoy nature, and splash your way through summer at Shakopee’s waterside attractions!  From wave pools to scenic views, here’s where you can have fun by the water in Shakopee.

  1. Soak City at Valleyfair

Zoom down waterslides, relax in the lazy river, and body surf in the wave pool at Soak City Waterpark at Valleyfair.  Soak City offers attractions for all ages, from the tot-friendly Barefoot Beach splash pad to the thrilling, near-vertical Breakers Plunge water slide.  Book a cabana for reserved, shaded waterfront seating with perks like complimentary bottled water and towels.  

  1. The Landing 

Learn about life in 19th-century Minnesota and stroll along the river at The Landing.  The free public park features historic buildings including a fur post, farms, and a village with homes and shops.  The mile-long River Trail has great views of the Minnesota River.

  1. Quarry Lake Park 

Soak up lake life at Quarry Lake Park.  Stay on land and enjoy the lakeside playground, or get out on the water with kayaks available for self-service rental from Rent.fun.  In addition, the lake is stocked with rainbow trout and you can fish from the dock, shore, or non-motorized watercraft.  

  1. Xcel Energy Mountain Bike Park at Quarry Lake Park 

Bike with a view of the water at Xcel Energy Mountain Bike Park, which is located at Quarry Lake Park.  There’s an easy trail along the lakeshore, as well as easy and intermediate loops in the adjacent wooded area.

  1. Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area 

Explore nature at the Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area, which preserves a portion of the Minnesota River Valley.  You’ll find landscapes including wetlands, floodplain forest, and blufftop oak savanna, plus stunning views and plenty of wildlife, especially song birds and waterfowl.  You can hike and birdwatch throughout the park, or follow the Minnesota Valley State Trail along the river.  Check the trail’s website for up-to-date information about possible closures due to high water levels.

  1. Lions Park Splash Pad 

Cool off at the Lions Park splash pad, which is designed to be inclusive for all people of all ages and abilities.  Lions Park is also home to the inclusive Fun For All Playground and an 18-hole disc golf course.

  1. Patio at Dangerfield’s 

Savor a meal with a view of the Minnesota River at Dangerfield’s, which has a screened patio with a natural, woodsy vibe.  The menu includes classic American fare like steaks, ribs, and burgers, plus Mediterranean specialities like kabobs, falafel, and hummus.

Have fun this summer in Shakopee, in the water and out! Shakopee is home to Valleyfair, Canterbury Park and the Minnesota Renaissance Festival. It’s also conveniently located to area attractions like Chanhassen Dinner Theatres and Mystic Lake.

Book your stay in Shakopee today!