Centennial Lakes – An oasis in the city!
Tucked away just a short walk from Cedars of Edina is a gorgeous 24-acre park with over 1.5 miles of trails around a series of interconnected lakes. Centennial Lakes Park features beautifully landscaped grounds with sculptures and swinging benches strewn throughout. Opportunities for outdoor activities abound with lawn games, paddleboats, and a small-scale putting course in the warmer months, and go skating on the 10-acre lake in the winter. Seasonal events include a weekly farmer’s market, outdoor concerts, and the Edina Fall into the Arts festival.
Summer at Centennial Lakes
Though the park does not have a traditional playground, there is no limit to the fun to be had! Work your way through the paved maze, watch the sun rise or set while swinging from one of the benches, or take a paddle boat ride in an oversized swan or duck boat! The free family-friendly concerts and performances at the amphitheater also provide great entertainment. Then there’s the 18 greens of the miniature (not mini!) golf course, complete with sand traps, ponds, boulders, and planter beds! Centennial Lakes also offers opportunities for catch-and-release fishing. Bring a blanket and a picnic or grab some popcorn and ice cream from the pavilion and enjoy all that the season and the park have to offer!
The Edinas Model Yacht Club, which consists of radio-controlled model boats, hosts an annual Parade of Boats. This free event occurs in June and is open to the public. The club also hosts an event called Lighthouse Night which occurs in August.
Winter at Centennial Lakes
Walk into a winter wonderland! There’s nothing quite like ice skating on a frozen pond under twinkling lights with the prospect of a hot chocolate to warm you up afterwards. Skating is free and skates are available for rent at the Hughes Pavilion.
Events at Centennial Lakes
Fall into the Arts Festival
This festival is held the first weekend after Labor Day and features nearly 250 vendors and artists. Stroll through the exhibits and grab a snack from a food truck or one of the food vendors while enjoying the late summer scenery at Centennial Lakes.
https://www.edinafallintothearts.com/
Centennial Lakes Farmer’s Market
Held weekly, 3-7pm on Thursdays from June to October the farmer’s market provides an opportunity to purchase goods directly from farmers, growers, and producers. From fresh fruits and vegetables to prepared foods and snacks, there is truly something for everyone.
https://www.edinamn.gov/683/Farmers-Market
The Edina Promenade
If you’re looking for a lovely place to take a walk or a leisurely bike ride, consider the Edina Promenade, a ¾ mile greenway that connects Centennial Lakes Park to the surrounding area. The path accommodates both pedestrians and cyclists, providing both with stunning views, well-manicured gardens, and beautiful art installations.
Private Events at Centennial Lakes
The pavilion offers rentals from mid-March to November for private events. Rent the Fireside Room, the Parlor Room, or the entire Pavilion depending on your needs. Guests have access to the park’s amenities including putting courses, paddle boats, lawn games, gardens, and trails.
The Fireside Room can accommodate up to 40 guests, and the Parlor room can accommodate up to 72 guests. Both rooms feature a full wall of windows overlooking the lake.
The entirety of the Hughes Pavilion can also be rented, with a capacity for 120 guests. Friday and Saturday rentals of the pavilion include private use of the lakeside patio area.
Please note, food for private events must be provided by a licensed caterer with plated, buffet, or drop-off service. Centennial Lakes Park has contracted with Complete Beverage Service to provide all alcoholic beverages at events in the park. Package prices include ample amounts of beer, wine, sodas, juices and mineral waters, plus uniformed bartenders. Cash bars and hard liquor are not permitted at the park.
A popular location for outdoor weddings due to its gorgeous landscaping and built-in seating, the Amphitheater is also available for private events.
For more information on rentals at Centennial Lakes Park click the link below:
https://www.edinamn.gov/162/Rentals
Centennial Lakes – Know before you go!
Free parking is available on site near the Hughes Pavilion. The park’s hours vary seasonally and by activity, so be sure to check the website before visiting.
https://www.edinamn.gov/1826/Centennial-Lakes-Park
