Lake Calhoun North Beach

Near Lake Calhoun, there are several excellent dining options. Lake & Irving Restaurant & Bar offers a refined menu of eclectic American bites, craft beer, and cocktails in a warm gastropub setting. The Lowry is a hip spot with classic local eats, craft cocktails, and microbrews, featuring patio seating. Barbette is an all-day French bistro with a vibrant atmosphere, presenting French fare and live music. For Italian cuisine, The Bungalow Club offers handmade pasta dishes and steak in a smart, leafy setting. These restaurants provide a diverse range of dining experiences, from casual to upscale, and are popular among locals and visitors alike.

For accommodations near Lake Calhoun, several hotels offer convenient and comfortable stays. Hyatt Regency Minneapolis provides modern amenities with an indoor pool and dining options. Hilton Minneapolis offers cozy rooms and suites with an indoor pool and multiple ballrooms. Moxy Minneapolis Uptown is a contemporary hotel with a trendy lounge and gym. These hotels cater to different preferences and budgets, ensuring a pleasant stay for travelers.

Lake Calhoun offers a variety of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The lake features restrooms, picnic areas, and rental equipment for activities like canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding through Wheel Fun Rentals. There are also volleyball courts and athletic fields available for use. The surrounding park area includes a 3-mile loop for walkers and a separate path for bikers, connecting to the larger trail system. Additionally, the park provides parking facilities, making it easily accessible for visitors.

Lake Calhoun is renowned for its diverse outdoor activities. Swimming is a popular pastime at its three beaches: North Beach, 32nd Street Beach, and Thomas Beach. The lake is also ideal for boating, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. For those interested in sports, there are volleyball courts and athletic fields nearby. During winter, the lake transforms into a hub for ice fishing and skating, offering a unique experience for winter sports enthusiasts.

Lake Calhoun and its surrounding park area offer several accessibility options. The beaches and trails are designed to be wheelchair accessible, with ramps and accessible restrooms available. Additionally, many nearby restaurants and shops provide wheelchair-accessible entrances and seating, ensuring that visitors with disabilities can fully enjoy the area's amenities.

Parking near Lake Calhoun is convenient, with pay parking lots available. The proximity of these lots to the beach and surrounding amenities makes it easy for visitors to access the area. While parking fees apply, the lots are generally well-maintained and provide ample space for vehicles. Additionally, some nearby restaurants and shops offer free parking options, further enhancing the accessibility of the area.

Lake Calhoun, or Bde Maka Ska, holds significant historical and cultural importance. Originally named by the Dakota Indians, it was later renamed after U.S. Secretary of War John C. Calhoun. In recent years, the lake has reverted to its original name as part of an effort to honor Native American heritage. The lake is also famous for its diverse fish population, including tiger muskellunge, and has hosted notable fishing records. Additionally, the lake's surroundings are home to several historical sites and museums, such as The Bakken, which focuses on medical electricity.

Lake Calhoun is surrounded by several attractions that complement its natural beauty. The nearby Uptown area is known for its vibrant nightlife, upscale shopping, and dining options. Calhoun Square offers a variety of national retailers and restaurants, making it a popular destination for shoppers and food enthusiasts. The lake is also part of the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway, connecting it to other lakes like Lake of the Isles and Lake Harriet, creating a scenic route for exploration.