Who We Are
Shakopee’s Official Destination Management Organization
Discover Shakopee is the official destination management organization (DMO) for Shakopee, Minnesota, operated by the Shakopee Chamber and Visitors Bureau. Our mission is straightforward: help travelers, families, groups, and meeting planners discover everything that makes Shakopee one of the Midwest’s most exciting destinations.
We partner with local businesses, the Shakopee Chamber of Commerce, the City of Shakopee, Downtown Shakopee, Explore Minnesota Tourism, Hospitality Minnesota, and the Minnesota Tourism Association to promote our community’s attractions, accommodations, dining, shopping, and events — fueling economic growth throughout Scott County.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a family vacation, a corporate meeting, or simply looking for things to do near Minneapolis, Discover Shakopee is your trusted starting point.
The Destination
Shakopee, Minnesota — Where the Midwest Comes to Play
Located in Scott County along the scenic Minnesota River Valley, approximately 25 miles southwest of downtown Minneapolis, Shakopee delivers big-city entertainment in a welcoming community setting. Easy to reach. Hard to leave.
From the excitement of Valleyfair — the Upper Midwest’s largest amusement park — to the pageantry of the Minnesota Renaissance Festival, and the thrill of live horse racing and gaming at Canterbury Park, there is something here for everyone every season of the year.
Beyond the headline attractions, Shakopee sits at the heart of the Minnesota River Valley, with trails for hiking and biking, the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, the Mystic Lake Amphitheater bringing world-class concerts to the area, and the legendary Chanhassen Dinner Theatres just minutes down the road.
Top Experiences
Shakopee’s Premier Attractions & Experiences
From amusement parks to casino resorts to living history, Shakopee and the surrounding area offer a year-round lineup of experiences unique to the Midwest.
Valleyfair Amusement Park
The Upper Midwest’s largest amusement park — 75+ rides and attractions, Soak City water park, live entertainment, and Valleyscare each fall.
Canterbury Park
Minnesota’s premier live horse racing destination — thoroughbred and quarter-horse racing mid-May through September, plus a year-round smoke-free card casino.
Minnesota Renaissance Festival
One of the nation’s largest Renaissance Festivals — live jousting, 16 stages of entertainment, 250+ artisan vendors, and seven themed weekends every summer and fall.
Mystic Lake Casino Hotel
A premier resort casino operated by the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community — gaming, world-class concerts, multiple restaurants, and a full-service hotel.
The Landing — MN River Heritage Park
An 88-acre living history park along the Minnesota River depicting life in the 1840s–1890s with costumed interpreters and seasonal special events.
Minnesota River Valley & Trails
Hiking, biking, river fishing, and wildlife watching along the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge — year-round outdoor recreation at Shakopee’s doorstep.
Mystic Lake Amphitheater
An outdoor concert venue on the Mystic Lake Casino grounds bringing world-class musical acts to the Twin Cities. One of the region’s premier live music destinations.
Chanhassen Dinner Theatres
Just minutes from Shakopee — the nation’s largest professional dinner theater has presented Broadway-caliber shows with dinner included since 1968.
Dining & Nightlife
Craft breweries, beloved family diners, upscale steakhouses, and award-winning pizza — Shakopee’s dining scene has something great for every taste and budget.
Our Mission
Promoting Shakopee — Fueling the Local Economy
Discover Shakopee exists to grow visitor spending in Shakopee and Scott County, enriching the lives of residents and supporting a thriving local business community. We market Shakopee to leisure travelers, meeting planners, tour operators, and travel media — regionally and nationally.
A strong tourism economy benefits everyone: it funds parks and public amenities, supports local restaurants and shops, creates jobs, and puts Shakopee on the map. Every visitor we welcome is an investment in the community we love.
We are proud partners of Explore Minnesota Tourism and the Minnesota Tourism Association, working alongside the Shakopee Chamber of Commerce, the City of Shakopee, and Downtown Shakopee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything You Want to Know About Shakopee
Planning a trip or just curious? Here are answers to the most common questions about visiting Shakopee, Minnesota.
What is Discover Shakopee?
Discover Shakopee is the official destination management organization (DMO) for Shakopee, Minnesota, operated by the Shakopee Chamber and Visitors Bureau. We promote Shakopee and the surrounding Minnesota River Valley region as a top Midwest travel and meetings destination — connecting visitors with local attractions, hotels, restaurants, and events while supporting Scott County’s economy.
Where is Shakopee, Minnesota located?
Shakopee is in Scott County, Minnesota, approximately 25 miles southwest of downtown Minneapolis along the Minnesota River Valley. It’s easily reached via US Highway 169 and sits within the greater Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro area — an ideal day trip or weekend getaway from the Twin Cities.
What are the top things to do in Shakopee, MN?
Top attractions include Valleyfair Amusement Park (the Upper Midwest’s largest), Canterbury Park (live horse racing and year-round card casino), the Minnesota Renaissance Festival (one of the nation’s largest Renaissance Festivals), Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, and The Landing living history museum. The area also offers hiking and biking in the Minnesota River Valley, local dining, boutique shopping, and year-round events.
Is Shakopee a good destination for families?
Absolutely. Shakopee is consistently recognized as one of Minnesota’s top family vacation spots. Valleyfair delivers thrills for every age, the Minnesota Renaissance Festival is a beloved multigenerational tradition, The Landing brings history to life for kids, and the Minnesota River Valley trails are perfect for the whole family outdoors.
How far is Shakopee from Minneapolis?
Shakopee is about 25 to 30 miles southwest of downtown Minneapolis — roughly a 30 to 40 minute drive via US Highway 169. It’s a popular Twin Cities day trip and equally great as an overnight stay to take full advantage of everything the area has to offer.
When is the Minnesota Renaissance Festival?
The Minnesota Renaissance Festival runs on weekends from mid-August through late September each year, plus Labor Day and one special Festival Friday. It is held on its permanent grounds located seven miles south of downtown Shakopee on Highway 169. Check our events calendar for current 2026 dates.
What hotels are in Shakopee, MN?
Shakopee has a wide range of lodging — major hotel brands, budget-friendly options, and campgrounds along the Minnesota River. Nearby Mystic Lake Casino Hotel offers a full resort experience with gaming, dining, and entertainment on-site. See all options on our Stay page.
Can I plan a meeting or corporate event in Shakopee?
Yes. Shakopee has flexible venues for corporate meetings, team outings, social events, and group travel — from Canterbury Park’s event facilities to hotel conference rooms and unique outdoor settings. Visit our Meet page to get started.
Start Planning Your Shakopee Adventure
From amusement parks to casino resorts to living history, Shakopee has something unforgettable waiting for you in 2026.