There’s something about the end of August in Minnesota that makes us want to squeeze just a little more out of summer.
The State Fair is winding down, evenings are getting shorter, the first hints of fall are barely starting to show, and before we know it, we'll be talking about colorful leaves, apple orchards, cider and sweater weather… But we're not there quite yet!
With plenty of warm days still ahead, September is a great time to enjoy some of our favorite summer activities around Edina. Here are seven ways to make the most of these last few weeks of the season.
1. Take a summer stroll around Centennial Lakes
Just minutes from Cedars of Edina, Centennial Lakes Park is one of our favorite places to enjoy a beautiful day close to home. Take a leisurely walk along the water, find a bench and enjoy the gardens, or stick around for an evening stroll. The park's walking paths are open daily, making this an easy way to enjoy the outdoors while summer is still hanging on.
2. Get out on the water
If you've spent all summer saying, "We should rent a paddle boat sometime," consider this your reminder! Paddle boats are still available at Centennial Lakes Park, weather permitting, offering a completely different way to explore the park. Paddle through the interconnected waterways, under bridges and past the gardens while everything is still green. Alternatively, make your way to the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes and rent a kayak or a canoe and spend an entire day on the water!
3. Treat yourself to one more ice cream
Do we really need an excuse? Before pumpkin spice takes over everything, there's still time for another scoop from one of the many great ice cream spots around the area.
Not sure where to go? Check out our Ultimate Summer Ice Cream Guide Near Cedars of Edina for a few of our favorites!
4. Shop the Centennial Lakes Farmer’s Market
Late summer offers some of the best produce options! The Centennial Lakes Farmers Market runs through October 1 every Thursday 3-7pm. Featuring fresh produce, baked goods, prepared foods and other finds from local growers and vendors, this is a summer treat you’ll want to enjoy as late into the season as possible!
5. Hit the trail
Soon enough, our green Minnesota landscape will start turning shades of gold, orange and red. Until then, take advantage of the warm weather with a walk or bike ride. The Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail is a local favorite, but if you want to keep it close to home, simply take a stroll around our beautifully landscaped grounds right here at Cedars. Feeling adventurous? Take a long weekend and go explore one of Minnesota’s many stunning State Parks.
6. Dinner Al Fresco
Patio season is precious in Minnesota! Whether you’re enjoying dinner at a favorite Edina restaurant, grabbing coffee outside on a sunny morning, packing a picnic, or simply eating a meal outside on your balcony or patio, take advantage of the opportunity to eat outdoors while the weather is still cooperating. A beautiful September evening and a table outside? We'll take it.
7. Stop and take in the last remnants of the season…
Not every summer memory needs an itinerary. Watch the sunset, sit outside to read, take an evening walk, sit by the water, bring a picnic to the park, spend a little extra time on the patio or balcony. These quieter moments are often some of the best parts of the season, especially when we know cooler days are on their way.
Summer Isn't Over Yet!
We love autumn here at Cedars of Edina, and there is certainly plenty to look forward to as our grounds shift into a variety of gorgeous fall colours, but we're not rushing summer out the door just yet. So grab an ice cream cone, take an evening walk, visit the farmers market or get out on the water. There are still a few beautiful weeks left to enjoy summer in Edina, fall can wait just a little longer.
