Living in Minneapolis means having access to some of the best urban lake experiences in the country. Especially near Bde Maka Ska (formerly Lake Calhoun), the opportunities for outdoor recreation, relaxation, and exploration are endless. At Waterbury House, you’re just steps away from it all.
Here are the top 10 lakes activities to enjoy this summer—each one easily accessible from your front door:
1. Stand-Up Paddleboarding at Bde Maka Ska (Lake Calhoun)
Few experiences feel more connected to summer than paddleboarding on calm, sunlit waters. Bde Maka Ska (formerly Lake Calhoun) offers some of the best paddleboarding conditions in Minneapolis, with rental stations conveniently located along the lake. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or perfecting your balance at sunrise, paddleboarding offers a peaceful full-body workout with incredible skyline views. Living at Waterbury House means you can walk your board to the lake in minutes—no driving or parking hassles required.
2. Beach Volleyball at Thomas Beach
Thomas Beach, located along the south side of Bde Maka Ska, is a local favorite for pick-up volleyball games and summer socializing. Courts are open for public use and the atmosphere is casual and inviting, especially on weekend afternoons. Pack a towel, join a game, and afterward, cool off with a swim just a few steps away. It’s the perfect way to stay active and meet new neighbors—all just a short stroll from Waterbury House.
3. Biking the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway
The Grand Rounds is one of Minneapolis’s most celebrated trail systems, looping around Bde Maka Ska, Lake of the Isles, and beyond. With smooth, well-maintained bike lanes and stunning lakeside views, the trail is ideal for everything from relaxed afternoon rides to serious cycling sessions. Waterbury House residents can access the Byway within minutes, making it easy to build movement, exploration, and fresh air into daily life.
4. Kayaking Across the Chain of Lakes
For those who prefer a closer connection to the water, kayaking the Chain of Lakes is a must. Launch a kayak from Bde Maka Ska and paddle through the connecting canals to Lake of the Isles and Cedar Lake. Morning outings offer quiet solitude, while evenings deliver vibrant sunsets reflected off the water. Rentals are available lakeside, but many Waterbury House residents opt to store their own equipment for even easier access.
5. Lakeside Dining Near Waterbury House
After a day outdoors, nothing beats a great meal by the water. Start with a crafted cocktail or casual lunch at Waterbury Restaurant, located right inside the building. For those who want to venture further, nearby favorites include Wakame Sushi for fresh rolls and sake, My Burger for relaxed bites, and Punch Pizza for a post-lake patio dinner. Living here means the best of lakeside Minneapolis dining is always within reach.
6. Sailing Lessons and Boat Rentals
Looking for a new skill—or just an afternoon of adventure? Bde Maka Ska’s sailing center offers sailing lessons, boat rentals, and even organized races throughout the season. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-timer, there’s no better way to experience Minneapolis’s love of the water. Residents of Waterbury House can enjoy spontaneous sailing sessions without the usual logistical hurdles of boat ownership.
7. Running or Walking Along the Lakeshore Trails
A morning run along Bde Maka Ska’s trails is one of the best ways to start the day. The nearly three-mile loop around the lake offers smooth, paved paths with water views, tree-lined stretches, and glimpses of downtown Minneapolis across the horizon. Prefer a slower pace? Evening walks around the lake, with sunset reflecting off the water, are equally rewarding. Waterbury House residents enjoy direct trail access—no need to drive or plan ahead.
8. Outdoor Yoga by the Lake
During the warmer months, local yoga studios often host lakeside classes on the shores of Bde Maka Ska. Imagine flowing through your morning practice with the sound of birds, fresh breezes, and blue skies overhead. Some classes are donation-based and open to all levels, creating a welcoming and inspiring outdoor fitness community just steps from Waterbury House.
9. Canoeing with Friends on the Minneapolis Lakes
Gather a group, rent a canoe, and set off for a leisurely afternoon paddle. Bde Maka Ska’s rental stations make it easy to access the Chain of Lakes by canoe, creating endless exploration routes between the lakes. It’s the perfect weekend activity for residents who want a social yet low-pressure way to enjoy the water—and you can finish your day with a picnic along the lakeshore.
10. Swimming and Sunbathing at Bde Maka Ska Beach
Nothing captures the spirit of a Minneapolis summer quite like a lazy afternoon at the beach. Bde Maka Ska’s north and south beaches offer clean sand, safe swimming areas, and a casual, laid-back vibe. Bring a towel, sunscreen, and a book—and feel like you’re miles from the city, even though you’re just steps from your Waterbury House apartment.
Embrace Lakeside Living at Waterbury House
Living at Waterbury House means you don’t have to plan a special weekend getaway to enjoy the lakes—you live it every day. Whether you’re hitting the water, enjoying the trails, or just taking in the sunset from the rooftop, Waterbury House offers the perfect connection to Minneapolis’s iconic lake lifestyle.
