Board the Lady of the Lake, a historic sternwheeler departing from the Port of Excelsior for a scenic Lake Minnetonka cruise. The enclosed main cabin seats 50 at tables, while the second-level covered deck offers the most popular open-air experience (with weather coverings if needed). An uncovered top deck provides additional views. You'll enjoy a live narrated tour by the Captain and crew of the Lady of the Lake, highlighting Lake Minnetonka’s history and scenery. Learn about Big Island, admire waterfront mansions, marinas, gardens, and spot recreational boats. Hear stories of the lake’s 19th-century fame, when grand steamships, luxury hotels, and rail service drew elite families seeking summer escape.

Menu: The Boaters Boxed Lunch Signature Gourmet Chicken Salad on a Croissant with Lettuce, Fresh Fruit, Pasta Salad, Dessert and Soft Drink.

After lunch and touring, reboard the motor coach and transfer to downtown Excelsior to shop in their quaint shops along Water Street. Walk to a variety of stores such as: Caspers - with whimsical home accessories, The Country Look in Antiques - featuring the charm of Colonial New England, and Excelsior Mils, a renovated lumberyard that was built at the turn of the century. It recreates the flavor of the past with a bench lined central “garden” court and half dozen shops filled with distinctive gifts and accessories.

Details of the Day 

11:00 a.m. Leave from Gladstone Community Center, 1945 Manton St, Maplewood 

12:00 p.m. Arrive at Port of Excelsior

12:30 p.m. Boat departs and lunch

1:30 p.m. Guided Tour of Union Depot 

2:30 p.m. Return to dock, board bus for shopping in downtown Excelsior

3:30 p.m. Depart Excelsior

4:30 p.m. Return to Gladstone.