Lake Calhoun Thomas Beach

Near Thomas Beach, there are several excellent dining options. Barbette is a French bistro known for its vibrant atmosphere and live music, offering a wide range of French dishes. Taberna is a popular Mexican restaurant with a lively vibe, offering great cocktails and a variety of Mexican dishes. For those looking for a gastropub experience, Lake & Irving Restaurant & Bar provides eclectic American fare and craft beer. The Breakfast Club MPLS is a favorite for breakfast and brunch, offering a cozy atmosphere and creative dishes. Lastly, Chilango offers a mix of American and Mexican cuisine with a focus on dinner service.

For accommodations near Thomas Beach, several hotels offer convenient access to the area. The Moxy Minneapolis Uptown is a modern hotel with stylish rooms and a trendy lounge. The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Minneapolis - Park Place offers classic accommodations with an indoor pool and spa. For extended stays, the Homewood Suites by Hilton Minneapolis - Saint Louis Park at West End provides fully equipped kitchens and free WiFi. Lastly, the Ramada by Wyndham Minneapolis Golden Valley offers straightforward rooms with free breakfast.

Thomas Beach offers a variety of amenities to enhance visitor experience. The beach features a sand volleyball court and a floating swim dock, making it a lively spot for both relaxation and activity. The surrounding park area includes picnic tables and public restrooms, providing convenience for those spending the day outdoors. Additionally, the nearby walking and biking trails offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding landscape. For those interested in water activities, canoe and kayak rentals are available nearby, allowing visitors to explore the Chain of Lakes.

The area around Bde Maka Ska is well-maintained, with landscaped ponds and native flowers adding to its natural beauty. The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board ensures that the facilities are well-maintained, offering a clean and safe environment for visitors.

For dining and shopping, the Uptown neighborhood is just a short distance away, offering a variety of restaurants, cafes, and boutiques.

Thomas Beach and the surrounding area offer a wide range of activities for visitors. Swimming and sunbathing are popular during the warmer months, while sailing and kayaking provide opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. The beach's sand volleyball court is a great spot for friendly competitions or casual games. For those interested in exploring the area, the walking and biking trails around Bde Maka Ska offer scenic views and a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the lake.

Fishing is another popular activity, with Bde Maka Ska being home to various fish species. The lake is also a great spot for ice fishing during the winter months. Additionally, the nearby Uptown neighborhood offers cultural events, art fairs, and nightlife, providing something for everyone.

For those interested in history, the area includes historical sites like the Cloudman's Village mission station, which commemorates the early settlement and the creation of the Dakota alphabet.

Thomas Beach and the surrounding park area offer several accessibility features. The beach and nearby walking paths are designed to be wheelchair accessible, ensuring that visitors with mobility impairments can enjoy the area. Additionally, the nearby restrooms are wheelchair accessible, providing convenience for all visitors. The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board prioritizes accessibility, ensuring that facilities are well-maintained and inclusive for everyone.

Parking near Thomas Beach is generally accessible, with options available in the surrounding park area. Visitors can find parking lots and street parking spots, although availability may vary depending on the time of day and season. It is advisable to arrive early to secure parking, especially during peak summer months when the beach is more crowded. The proximity of the parking areas to the beach makes it convenient for visitors to carry their gear and enjoy the day without worrying about long walks.

Additionally, the Uptown neighborhood nearby offers additional parking options for those who wish to explore the local shops and restaurants after visiting the beach.

Bde Maka Ska, where Thomas Beach is located, has a rich history dating back to the Dakota Indians, who named it Bde Maka Ska, meaning White Earth Lake. The lake was later renamed Lake Calhoun after U.S. Secretary of War John C. Calhoun but was officially renamed back to Bde Maka Ska in recent years to honor its Native American heritage.

The lake is part of the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway and is known for its vibrant outdoor activities, including sailing and fishing. In 1991, a state record tiger muskellunge was caught in the lake, highlighting its reputation as a great fishing spot.

The area around the lake has been restored with native grasses to improve water clarity and reduce the number of Canada Geese, making it a more sustainable and enjoyable environment for visitors.

Thomas Beach is part of the larger Bde Maka Ska Park, which offers a variety of attractions. The park includes a 3-mile loop for walking and biking, connecting to other lakes in the Chain of Lakes system. Visitors can enjoy sailing and water sports on the lake, and the nearby Calhoun Square offers shopping and dining options. The area is also home to the Bakken Museum, which focuses on medical electricity and electromagnetism, providing a unique educational experience.

For those interested in history, the park commemorates the early Dakota settlements and the creation of the Dakota alphabet at Cloudman's Village. The nearby Uptown neighborhood is vibrant with cultural events and nightlife, making it a great place to explore after a day at the beach.

The Como-Harriet Streetcar Line connects Bde Maka Ska to Lake Harriet, offering a scenic ride and additional recreational opportunities.