The Commons: Then & Now

The Commons has a rich history, having gathered every generation for leisure and festivity since its designation in 1854. The 13-acre parcel overlooking Gideon’s Bay and Excelsior Bay was set aside as “public ground” in the original village plat, to be owned by the public in perpetuity. 

Home to a beach, lakefront park, baseball diamond, walking paths, and endlessly picturesque views, The Commons became the focal point of local festivities. For example, the 4th of July celebration can be traced as far back as 1870, and today it is a major regional attraction. 

Vintage photography from the early 20th century shows that baseball has always been a mainstay. Over the century, structures were added to the area around the ball field: a bandshell, bath house, restrooms, and a concession area. These amenities have supported all the events and activities happening at The Commons, and they require ongoing renewal both aesthetically and functionally.

With this long-term vision in mind, The Commons Master Plan was created in 2017 with input from residents, businesses, and visitors. In the past few years, Community for the Commons brought to life numerous components of the plan, including a renewed bandshell, pavilion, plaza, and ball field.

Today, people from across the region come to The Commons for rest and activity. You may find a family enjoying ice cream cones on the dock, a school group having a picnic, or visitors admiring the view from the vista point before heading to an Excelsior restaurant or movie theater. In the early morning, you might see people fishing from the shore, going for a run, walking a dog, or playing catch on the ball field.

The Commons can provide an environment for vibrant festivity, and also tranquil peace. On a lake with 125 miles of highly-developed shoreline, it provides one of the only large expanses of public quiet spaces remaining on Lake Minnetonka. The Commons is a truly unique place, worth preserving for future generations to enjoy.