Centennial Lakes Park
About
Centennial Lakes Park is Edina's crown jewel for family fun, offering a stunning 24-acre oasis where kids can paddle boat across scenic lakes, putt through mini golf courses, and splash in fountains during summer. With paved walking paths perfect for strollers, winter ice skating, and beautifully landscaped grounds, this versatile park delivers year-round entertainment that keeps families coming back season after season.
Highlights
- ✓Paddle boat rentals on the scenic lake (seasonal)
- ✓18-hole miniature golf course
- ✓Interactive fountains perfect for hot summer days
- ✓Ice skating on the frozen lake in winter
- ✓Wide paved paths ideal for biking, scootering, and stroller walks
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on summer weekends to snag paddle boats,they're first-come, first-served and lines form quickly after 10am
- 2.Bring quarters for the fountains; kids love making wishes and the water features are a free way to cool down on hot days
- 3.Park in the south lot near France Avenue for easiest access to mini golf and paddle boat rentals
- 4.Pack a picnic to enjoy at the lakeside pavilions, but arrive by 11am on nice days to claim a shaded spot
- 5.Download the app or check the website for special events like outdoor concerts and movie nights,many are free and family-friendly
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (9-11am) offer the best experience with shorter lines for activities and plenty of parking. Summer is peak season for paddle boats and mini golf, while winter transforms the park into a magical ice skating destination. Avoid Saturday afternoons during summer when weddings and crowds peak.
What to Know
Paddle boat and mini golf rentals require separate fees (cash and cards accepted). Free parking is available in multiple lots, and the park features clean restroom facilities. The adjacent shopping center offers dining options, and paved paths are fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Seasonal Notes
Summer (May-September) offers full activities including paddle boats, mini golf, and fountains. Winter transforms the park into an ice skating wonderland (weather permitting). Spring and fall are perfect for walking and biking. The park hosts seasonal events including holiday lights in December and outdoor concerts in summer.
Nearby Eats
The adjacent Centennial Lakes Promenade shopping area features kid-friendly options like Noodles & Company and Chipotle for quick casual meals. For sit-down dining, try Hazelwood Food & Drink, which offers a kids' menu and is just across the street from the park.
More Activities Near Edina
Bredesen Park
Bredesen Park is a peaceful neighborhood gem in Edina that offers the perfect blend of nature exploration and classic playground fun. Families love the scenic walking trails that circle a tranquil pond where kids can spot turtles, ducks, and other wildlife, while the well-maintained playground and picnic shelters make it ideal for everything from quick afternoon outings to full-day family gatherings.
Edina Art Center
The Edina Art Center is a welcoming community art hub where families can create together through hands-on workshops, pottery classes, and seasonal programs. With its highly-rated family workshops and dedicated children's summer camps, it's the perfect spot for budding artists to explore painting, ceramics, sculpture, and mixed media in a supportive, creative environment.
Minnehaha Creek Greenway
The Minnehaha Creek Greenway offers families a beautiful, paved multi-use trail that winds alongside the tranquil Minnehaha Creek through Edina. It's an ideal spot for easy family bike rides, nature walks, or letting kids practice their rollerblading skills in a safe, scenic environment away from traffic. The gentle terrain and peaceful creek views make this trail accessible for even young riders with training wheels.
Braemar Arena
Braemar Arena is a top-notch ice skating complex offering families both indoor and outdoor refrigerated rinks perfect for all skill levels. Whether your kids are learning to skate for the first time or are seasoned hockey players, this premier facility provides public skating sessions, learn-to-skate programs, and a cozy warming house to take breaks between ice time.