Excelsior, MN

Travel Guide

An aerial view of a marina surrounded by autumn foliage.
An aerial view of a town with a mix of residential and commercial buildings, a parking lot, and a waterfront.
An aerial view of a town with a river, parking lots, and autumn-colored trees.
A snow-covered park with benches and trees.
A sunset over a field of tall grass.

Where to stay in Excelsior

Find the best Excelsior areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Excelsior
Learn more about Excelsior
A small island surrounded by calm water, with docks and boats.

Greenwood

Greenwood is well-liked for its theaters. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Excelsior area, you might plan a trip to Paisley Park or Lake Minnetonka.

Wyndham Bloomington - Mall of America

Wyndham Bloomington - Mall of America

3 out of 5
1901 Killebrew Dr Bloomington MN
$122 nightly
The price is $142 total per night from Nov 10 to Nov 11
$142 total
Nov 10 - Nov 11
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this family-friendly hotel in Bloomington. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and 2 indoor pools. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in ...
Wyndham Bloomington - Mall of America
Mystic Lake Casino Hotel

Mystic Lake Casino Hotel

3.5 out of 5
2400 Mystic Lake Blvd. Prior Lake MN
Book a stay at this spa resort in Prior Lake. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
Get rates
Mystic Lake Casino Hotel
The Royal Sonesta Minneapolis Downtown

The Royal Sonesta Minneapolis Downtown

4.5 out of 5
35 S 7th St Minneapolis MN
$108 nightly
The price is $126 total per night from Nov 15 to Nov 16
$126 total
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury hotel in Minneapolis. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff and ...
The Royal Sonesta Minneapolis Downtown
See all 1,767 properties in Excelsior
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Roami at Century Plaza

Roami at Century Plaza

4 out of 5
1111 3rd Ave S Minneapolis MN
Stay at this aparthotel in Minneapolis. Enjoy free WiFi, parking (surcharge), and in-room washers/dryers. Popular attractions U.S. Bank Stadium and The Armory ...
Roami at Century Plaza
Kasa Bryn Mawr Minneapolis

Kasa Bryn Mawr Minneapolis

4 out of 5
265 N Girard Ave Minneapolis MN
Stay at this aparthotel in Minneapolis. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Popular attractions U.S. Bank Stadium and Target Field are ...
Kasa Bryn Mawr Minneapolis
CozySuites Marquee

CozySuites Marquee

4 out of 5
1410 Nicollet Ave Minneapolis MN
Stay at this apartment in Minneapolis. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center. Popular attractions U.S. Bank Stadium and Target Center are located ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (12 reviews)
"Close to convention center. Sushi train a couple of blocks down is really good."

Reviewed on Nov 4, 2026

CozySuites Marquee
See all properties in Excelsior
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Excelsior attractions

Excelsior Bay Books

Take the family on an outing to Excelsior Bay Books during your trip to Excelsior. Stroll along the area's lakeside or experience its lively festivals.
See properties

Things to do

SEA LIFE at Mall of America

SEA LIFE at Mall of America

$30
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
SEA LIFE at Mall of America
Mall of America: Nickelodeon Universe Unlimited Ride Pass

Mall of America: Nickelodeon Universe Unlimited Ride Pass

$47
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Mall of America: Nickelodeon Universe Unlimited Ride Pass
Saint Paul Gangster Tour

Saint Paul Gangster Tour

$55
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Saint Paul Gangster Tour
Minneapolis River Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Minneapolis River Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

$12
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Minneapolis River Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Narrated Scenic Tour on the Minneapolis Trolley

Narrated Scenic Tour on the Minneapolis Trolley

$50
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Narrated Scenic Tour on the Minneapolis Trolley
A Fan Favorite

The Selfie Company | Minnesota's Premier Selfie Experience

$22
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
The Selfie Company | Minnesota's Premier Selfie Experience
See all activities in Excelsior

Frequently asked questions

Is Excelsior worth visiting?
Excelsior is worth visiting for its unique attractions, such as Excelsior Bay Books and the Lake Minnewashta Off-Leash Dog Area. Travelers can also explore a variety of dining options, with choices ranging from North American to Italian cuisine, offering diverse flavors for any palate.
When is the best time to visit Excelsior?
The best time to visit Excelsior is from May through September, when the climate is most pleasant for exploring. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of November through February are a good bet. During this period, Excelsior experiences its cooler and snowy season, offering a different, peaceful experience.
What is Excelsior known for?
Excelsior is known for being home to Excelsior Bay Books and the Lake Minnewashta Off-Leash Dog Area. Travelers can enjoy these specific attractions, alongside a distinct North American food culture. This city offers a blend of literary exploration and outdoor recreation.
What is a good itinerary length for Excelsior?
A good itinerary length for Excelsior is two to three days to enjoy Excelsior Bay Books, the Lake Minnewashta Off-Leash Dog Area, and a Lake Minnetonka cruise like the Boats and Burgers or Elvis Dinner Show. An extended stay of four to five days allows for trying all the cruises and exploring local North American, Italian, or Asian dining.
What are the top things to do in and around Excelsior?
Excelsior offers a blend of local spots and scenic lake experiences for travelers to enjoy:

  • Explore Excelsior Bay Books, a local landmark.
  • Visit Lake Minnewashta Off-Leash Dog Area for outdoor recreation.
  • Enjoy a Boats and Burgers Cruise on Lake Minnetonka.

How do I plan a trip to Excelsior?
Plan your trip to Excelsior by booking flights, hotels, and activities like a Boats and Burgers Cruise on Lake Minnetonka or visiting Excelsior Bay Books in advance. A rental car offers flexibility. For outdoor plans, such as Lake Minnewashta Off-Leash Dog Area, have indoor alternatives ready for weather flexibility.
What cuisines can you find in Excelsior?
In Excelsior, you can find Japanese cuisine, with dishes like sushi, ramen, and tempura. Travelers can also enjoy Italian favorites such as pasta and pizza, along with Latin American options like tacos and empanadas. The area also offers coffee shops and wine bars.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Excelsior?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Excelsior by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Excelsior with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Excelsior trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Excelsior?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Excelsior can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Excelsior trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Excelsior trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Excelsior trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Excelsior trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Excelsior?
If it's your first trip to Excelsior, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Excelsior hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Excelsior hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Excelsior

A garden pathway under a pergola with hanging flower baskets and a variety of plants.

Chanhassen

A stone bridge over a calm river reflecting city lights, with a snow-covered area and modern buildings in the background.

Eden Prairie

An aerial view of a marina surrounded by autumn foliage.

Minnetonka

A gazebo in a park with fallen leaves and trees.

Chaska

Explore a world of travel with Expedia