Plymouth, Minnesota: 10 Best Things to Do Near This Lakefront City

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10 Fun Things To Do Near Plymouth, Minnesota (Hennepin County)

Looking for easy, fun things to do in and around Plymouth, Minnesota? Whether you live here or you’re just visiting the Twin Cities area, this Hennepin County suburb is a great home base for exploring lakes, trails, parks, and family-friendly attractions. Below are 10 things to do near Plymouth, MN that are perfect for a weekend, staycation, or day trip.

1. Spend a Relaxing Day at Clifton E. French Regional Park

If you only have time for one stop in Plymouth, make it Clifton E. French Regional Park on the north shore of Medicine Lake. You’ll find:
  • Long, easy walking and biking trails
  • A huge lakeside playground that kids absolutely love
  • Swimming beach with changing facilities in summer
  • Canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals (seasonal)
  • Picnic areas and grills
On warm days, it feels like a mini vacation without leaving town. Pack a cooler, bring a blanket, and plan to stay longer than you think—you probably will. Tip: Try a sunset walk along the lakeside boardwalk. The colors over Medicine Lake can be stunning, especially in late summer and early fall.

2. Walk, Bike, or Skate the Luce Line State Trail

The Luce Line State Trail is one of the best ways to see the west metro. This converted railroad line stretches for dozens of miles, and it passes close to Plymouth and other Hennepin County suburbs. Along the trail you’ll see:
  • Quiet wetlands and wooded areas
  • Small lakes and ponds
  • Wildlife like birds, deer, and rabbits (especially around dusk)
You can:
  • Bike for a few miles and turn back
  • Go for a jog or brisk walk
  • Rollerblade or push a stroller on the paved portions
It’s an easy way to get outdoors without driving far. If you’re visiting from out of town, this trail gives you a feel for Minnesota’s love of nature and open space.

3. Enjoy Year-Round Fun at Parkers Lake Park

Parkers Lake Park is another local favorite right in Plymouth. Think of it as a “do-it-all” spot in one compact area. In the warmer months, you can:
  • Swim at the guarded beach area
  • Launch a canoe or kayak
  • Use picnic shelters for birthday parties or family gatherings
  • Let kids run wild on the playground
In winter, conditions allowing, you’ll often find:
  • Ice skating
  • Snowy walking paths
If you’re looking for something simple and local near Plymouth, MN, Parkers Lake is an easy yes.

4. Explore the Shops and Restaurants at The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes (Maple Grove)

Just a short drive northwest of Plymouth, you’ll hit Maple Grove and its popular shopping district, The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes. Here you can:
  • Browse name-brand and boutique shops
  • Dine at a wide range of restaurants and bars
  • Relax on patios in warmer weather
  • Enjoy seasonal events and light displays
If you like to mix a little shopping with your travel, this is one of the best places near Plymouth to do it. It’s also a nice backup plan for a rainy day.

5. Visit the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden & Walker Art Center

When you’re ready to head closer to downtown Minneapolis, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is a must-see, and it’s only about 15–20 minutes from Plymouth. Highlights include:
  • The famous Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture
  • Dozens of outdoor art pieces you can walk around freely
  • Beautiful views of the Minneapolis skyline
Right next door is the Walker Art Center, known for contemporary and modern art. You can combine both in one trip:
  • Start outside in the Sculpture Garden
  • Then head indoors to the museum
If you’re traveling with a mix of art lovers and “I’m-not-so-sure-about-museums” people, the open-air sculpture garden is a nice, low-pressure way to enjoy art.

6. Cheer on a Game at Target Field or Target Center

One perk of staying in Plymouth is how close you are to downtown Minneapolis and its sports scene. Depending on the season, plan a trip to:
  • Target Field – home of the Minnesota Twins (MLB)
  • Target Center – home of the Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA) and Minnesota Lynx (WNBA)
Target Field is especially fun, even if you’re not a huge baseball fan. You’ll get:
  • Great views of the city
  • Classic ballpark food (yes, there are hot dogs)
  • Outdoor seating under the summer sky
From Plymouth, it’s a straight shot into downtown on major highways, so it’s easy to make an evening of it.

7. Discover Downtown Wayzata and Lake Minnetonka

Head south from Plymouth and you’ll quickly reach Wayzata, a charming lakeside town on the north shore of Lake Minnetonka. In downtown Wayzata you can:
  • Walk along the lakeside boardwalk
  • Watch boats cruise in and out of the marina
  • Enjoy outdoor patios with lake views
  • Grab ice cream or coffee for a relaxing stroll
Lake Minnetonka is one of the most well-known lakes in the Twin Cities area. Spending an afternoon here gives you that classic “Minnesota lake life” feel—just a short drive from Plymouth.

8. Hike, Ski, or Snowshoe in Theodore Wirth Regional Park

Often called “the city’s backyard,” Theodore Wirth Regional Park is technically in Minneapolis and Golden Valley, but it feels like wilderness right next to the city. Things to do here:
  • Hiking and walking trails
  • Mountain biking trails (seasonal)
  • Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter
  • Disc golf and golf courses
If you’re staying in Plymouth and want a bigger outdoor adventure without driving hours up north, Wirth Park is a great compromise. It’s close, but it feels surprisingly wild.

9. Explore the Chain of Lakes in Minneapolis

Just a bit farther east, you’ll hit the famous Minneapolis Chain of Lakes, a connected group of lakes that includes:
  • Lake Bde Maka Ska
  • Lake Harriet
  • Lake of the Isles
Around these lakes you can:
  • Walk or bike on paved loops (many around 3 miles)
  • Rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards in summer
  • Relax on the sand at designated beaches
  • Listen to live music at the Lake Harriet Bandshell (seasonal)
If you love lake views, people-watching, and easy walking, the Chain of Lakes is one of the top things to do near Plymouth and across Hennepin County.

10. Take a Day Trip to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

A little southwest of Plymouth, near Chaska, you’ll find the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, run by the University of Minnesota. It’s a peaceful escape and worth the short drive. You’ll enjoy:
  • Miles of walking paths through gardens and woods
  • Seasonal flower displays and themed gardens
  • Fall color drives and special events
  • A visitor center with a cafe and gift shop
If you’re visiting in spring or fall, this spot really shines. But even in summer, it’s a calm, beautiful place to slow down and reconnect with nature after busy days in the city and suburbs.

Planning Your Trip to Plymouth, Minnesota

Plymouth, MN might not be the first name you think of when you picture a getaway, but that’s part of its charm. It’s:
  • Close to big-city attractions in Minneapolis
  • Surrounded by lakes, parks, and trails
  • Easy to reach from major highways
Whether you’re:
  • Booking a hotel in Plymouth for a business trip,
  • Visiting friends or family in the Twin Cities, or
  • Planning a relaxed weekend escape,
you’ll find plenty of things to do in and near Plymouth, Minnesota without spending hours in the car.

What Did We Miss? Share Your Favorites!

Do you have a favorite park, cafe, trail, or hidden gem near Plymouth that should be on this list?
  • Drop your suggestions in the comments.
  • Share this post with friends or family planning a trip to the Twin Cities.
The more local tips we collect, the better this guide becomes for everyone exploring Plymouth and Hennepin County.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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