Waconia is a former resort town and a current water recreation hub
Waconia, Minnesota was founded in the mid-1800s as a resort community on the shores of Lake Waconia. Located 35 miles west of Minneapolis and 45 miles west of St. Paul, it became a place for people to get out of the city and into the fresh air. While many resorts closed with the invention of the automobile, Jeff Schulz, a lifelong resident and Realtor with Re/Max Advantage Plus-Waconia, says Waconia is still a destination. “It’s an amazing town that always has activity,” he says. “It’s small-town living, but you can drive 40 minutes to a Twins game or a Vikings game. There are community centers, walking trails, bike trails. It has stuff for everyone, young and old.” Schulz does have a warning for visitors, though. He says, “Careful when you come here, because you may never want to leave.”
Waconia has an historic downtown.
Waconia is a quaint town west of the twin cities.
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Waconia homes vary widely in age, price
Homes in Waconia vary widely in style and price. Craftsman and ramblers are popular home styles, and many new builds feature takes on the modern farmhouse design. Home prices can range anywhere from $325,000 for a 1910 three-bedroom house located downtown to $900,000 for a 2023 five-bedroom home located on the edge of the city. The market in Waconia is pretty active, and the median sales price stays around $471,000, which is higher than the national median. Schulz says he sees a mix of homebuyers in Waconia, from first-time owners to empty nesters.
Some recent home developments are located along the lake.
Recently constructed craftsmans are found in various developments.
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Celebrate Nickle Dickle Day in Waconia
Every September, Waconia residents gear up to celebrate Nickle Dickle Day. The festival was started more than 60 years ago by business owners who wanted to attract people to shop downtown. Many items were available for a nickel, and dickle is derived from a German word for bartering, honoring the town’s German heritage. The festival is now held in City Square Park and features an arts and crafts fair, library book sale, car and truck show, duck races, live music and more. While the festival attracts tens of thousands of visitors annually, Schulz says, “Obviously things aren’t a nickel these days, but you can still get nickel beers."
Lake Waconia offers swimming, boating, fishing
There’s no shortage of parks in Waconia, with many concentrated along the lakeshore. Lake Waconia Regional Park is split into two sections, one on the mainland and one on Coney Island of the West, an island a half mile offshore. On the mainland, there’s a swimming area with a sandy beach and launches for both kayaks and boats. On the island side, there’s a walking trail and dock. During the cold Minnesota winters, residents can walk across the frozen lake to the island, and many still go out with their icehouses to ice fish. “People throw icehouse parties," Schulz says "There are probably 1,000 ice houses that are like lodges and fully heated.”
Lake Waconia has a regional park with a beach.
Lake Waconia is a popular ice fishing destination in the winter time.
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Waconia has a coveted Mackenthun location, lakeside restaurant
Downtown Waconia has many older buildings that remain from its early days, including a mix of repurposed shingled homes and some more traditional brick storefronts. Today, these are now filled with local shops including a bakery, hair salon, movie theater, florist, and assorted bars and restaurants. For a meal with a water view, Lola’s Lakehouse serves up seafood and American fare with views of Lake Waconia. Waconia is also home to one of three Mackenthun’s locations – a grocery store known for its award-winning meat department, homemade sausage and baked goods.
Mackenthun's is the major grocer in the Waconia area.
Main Street in downtown Waconia is home to restaurants and businesses.
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State Highway 5 connects Waconia to Twin Cities
State Highway 5 runs through Waconia, connecting residents to the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and to downtown St. Paul. The airport is about 33 miles away, while St. Paul is 45 miles away. To get to Minneapolis, residents can use Highway 5 to get to Interstate 494. The nearest hospital is the Ridgeview Medical Center, which is located right in downtown Waconia.
Waconia Public Schools district is 30th best in Minnesota
Waconia is part of the Waconia Public Schools system, or Independent School District 110. The district earns an A-minus rating from Niche and is named the 30th best district in the state. The district has three elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. The student-teacher ratio is low, at 15:1.
Waconia Middle School is ranked 44th in Minnesota middle schools
Waconia high School has a 97 percent graduation rate.
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Important to know
Waconia has a typical northern climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Winter lasts about five months, and the area averages more than 50 inches of snow annually. Waconia is served by the Carver County Sheriff’s Department, so crime data for the city is not readily available.
Written By
Tanner Harding
Video By
Stewart Taveras
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On average, homes in Waconia, MN sell after 52 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Waconia, MN over the last 12 months is $475,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Peaceful one-level living with tranquil backyard views overlooking a scenic neighborhood lake in beautiful Waconia. This 4-bedroom, 3-bath home offers a brand-new updated kitchen with white enameled cabinetry, beautiful countertops, and a stylish backsplash. The inviting great room features built-ins with shelving and a gas fireplace flanked by stone, creating a warm and comfortable central
Welcome to The Covington—a stunning 4-bedroom, 4-bath multilevel residence offering 2,344 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, where modern luxury meets everyday comfort. Crafted by Pulte Homes, one of the nation’s most respected builders, this home is nestled within a vibrant new Waconia community rich with amenities, growth, and neighborhood connection. Step inside to discover an
New Waconia "Holbrook" Neighborhood Now Open! Ask how you can receive $10k off this home. Don't settle for old when BRAND NEW is possible! June ready Northfield lookout plan on private site which overlooks pond. Pictures are model representation. Main floor boasts a high vaulted ceiling and an open concept flow. Tons of natural light pouring into the home, making it easy to entertain! This 3 car
Carolyn Albright-MahonPulte Homes Of Minnesota, LLC
Peaceful one-level living with tranquil backyard views overlooking a scenic neighborhood lake in beautiful Waconia. This 4-bedroom, 3-bath home offers a brand-new updated kitchen with white enameled cabinetry, beautiful countertops, and a stylish backsplash. The inviting great room features built-ins with shelving and a gas fireplace flanked by stone, creating a warm and comfortable central
Welcome home to this exceptional home in Waconia! It's all here...enjoy the in-ground, 40x20 pool and deck overlooking the private yard. Large yard to stretch out, with outdoor firepit and pergola area! (16'x16') New roof last year with a 10-year warranty. 4 bedrooms upstairs, double vanity in the bathrooms. Large primary bedroom has a private full bathroom. On the end of a quiet cul-de-sac.
Welcome to the Eldorado, a new two-story home that is available at the beautiful community of Fields of Waconia in Waconia, Minnesota. The Eldorado offers a spacious open-concept family room, kitchen and dinette on the main level. The kitchen is full of upgrades such as quartz countertops, tiled kitchen backsplash, cabinet hardware and stainless-steel appliances. There is abundant storage in the
Welcome to The Hudson floor plan, a new home offered at Fields of Waconia in Waconia, Minnesota. The main level starts with a study/flex room perfect for a home office or a den. As you walk further into the house, you will see an open concept floor plan with the kitchen, dining room and family room connected. In the family room, there are options to add an electric fireplace and hard flooring.
Choose from several front elevations, each complementing this attractive floorplan, as you personalize this stunning basement villa floorplan to your liking. The Grayson boasts 1,752 square feet, which includes two main-level bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a den. Use this front den space for a home office or multi-purpose room. The spacious lower level can be finished to include a recreation room,
Model Home - Not for sale at this time. Ask about our current promotions on available homes! Welcome to this beautiful new community that is on the edge of downtown Waconia built up by D. R. Horton, America’s Builder. Walking distance to the fairgrounds, across from the ball fields and middle school. A short drive to the hospital, movie theatre, many restaurants, shops, and groceries! Waconia is
This new two-story townhome design combines comfort and convenience with a double-height foyer to welcome residents and guests into the home. Down the hall is a Great Room for shared moments, a dining room for memorable meals and a modern kitchen for adventurous cooks. Through sliding glass doors is a patio to provide serene outdoor moments. The upper level is occupied by three restful bedrooms,
This spacious two-story home features an open-concept layout with the kitchen overlooking the dining room and Great Room. The first-floor flex space offers endless possibilities. On the second floor are the luxe owner's suite and three secondary bedrooms — all with walk-in closets — while a central loft offers versatility.
The Andover is a beautifully designed two-story home that combines functionality, comfort, and modern style. With 3–4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and options to personalize your living space, this floorplan is perfect for growing families or anyone who loves open, flexible living areas.
Meet The Holcombe, a new home with charming curb appeal offered at Fields of Waconia in Waconia, Minnesota. The interior is immediately very inviting with a spacious family room that is open to the kitchen and dinette. The kitchen is a highlight of the home with a corner walk-in pantry, beautiful quartz countertops, cabinet hardware, tiled backsplash, an island with breakfast bar, and
Ask how you can receive a 5.50% Conventional or 4.99% Government 30 yr fixed rate mortgage PLUS up to $5,000 in closing costs on this home! Welcome to The Whitney Plan by DR Horton! This 5 bedroom, 4 bath home offers beautiful white and arid cabinets, open concept, main level bedroom and a formal and informal dining room area. The upper-level boasts walk-in closets in ALL of the bedrooms, a large
MODEL HOME, NOT FOR SALE AT THIS TIME. Ask about our current promotions on available homes! Welcome to this beautiful new community that is on the edge of downtown Waconia built up by D. R. Horton, America’s Builder. Walking distance to the fairgrounds, across from the ball fields and middle school. A short drive to the hospital, movie theatre, many restaurants, shops, and groceries! Waconia is a
Nestled in the picturesque heart of Waconia, MN, Uptown Waconia redefines luxury apartment living with boutique elegance and exceptional craftsmanship. Locally owned and operated, this thoughtfully designed community offers more than a place to live—it offers a lifestyle. Just steps away, enjoy serene lake activities, upscale dining, and the rich historic charm that makes downtown Waconia truly
Drawing inspiration from the surrounding community and environment, The Otto is an inviting apartment building featuring an elevated level of design so you feel right at home. With thoughtfully curated interiors and modern amenity spaces, The Otto provides an ideal suburban community in a park-like setting. You'll have access to beautiful outdoor spaces, while surrounded by exceptional dining,
Welcome to Wilford, nestled in the heart of downtown Waconia where residents will enjoy an elevated lifestyle enhanced by the charm of this easily accessible community. Whether you're stepping out for a stroll along the lake or entertaining friends with lakefront views, Wilford sets a new standard for upscale apartment living in Waconia.Wilford's thoughtful design extends beyond individual
Live Where Adventure Meets Comfort – Welcome to Prairie Village! Step out your door and into nature — with scenic trails, Lake Waconia, parks, and wineries just minutes away. Then come home to a spacious apartment packed with modern features and unbeatable value.Inside Your Home Open-concept layout with wood-style floors & plush carpeting Sleek kitchen with updated appliances
Property Id: 1221435This is a great 1 BR rental available July 1st near downtown Waconia. It is an owner-occupied home and seeking 1 roommate only. You will share in the use and cleaning of common areas. Free Laundry, central air conditioning. Located in Waconia within walking distance to parks, downtown, and Waconia Lake. No pets and no smoking. Property has a deck for BBQ and hanging
Property Id: 4696414 Bedroom Twinhome Available in Waconia! Over 2000 Sq FtSplit Entry Layout w/2 Bedrooms up, Kitchen, Dining, Full Bath, Linen Closet in Hall for extra storage2 Lower Level Bedrooms, Family Room, Full Bath, Laundry Hook ups, and Closets for StorageClose to Schools, Target, Shopping, Dining, Lake Waconia, & More!Damage Deposit - 1 months
2025 New Construction - Never Lived In! Welcome Home to this Incredible One Story 4 Bed, 3 Bath Home with a Finished, Walk Out Basement! The Home Boasts a Modern Kitchen with a Layout that Ensures Light Flows Through the Home! The Main Floor Features 9' Ceilings, Oversized Windows, Premium Laminate Flooring, and an Incredible Primary Suite with a Spacious Walk-In Closet and Private Bathroom. The
Ken HaaskenChestnut Realty Inc
$2,750 per month
Charming 4-Bedroom Home in Waconia with Spacious 2,140 Sq Ft Living Space!
Welcome to this stunning 4-bedroom home in the heart of Waconia, Minnesota! From the moment you arrive, you're welcomed by great curb appeal and inviting presence. Step inside to discover an open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, creating a spacious and airy atmosphere in the updated kitchen, living, and dining areas. The modern kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring sleek black stainless steel
Avail July 1st for move in. Great Location! End unit across the street from Oakpoint Park which has playground, tennis, pickle ball and basketball courts. Beautiful 2 story townhome with 3 bedrooms and full bath on upper level and spacious living on main level with 1/2 bath. Cherry hardwood floors through out the home. Stainless steel appliances plus a washer and dryer. Good sized double garage
Cindy JamisonHomeFront Realty
$2,995 per month
All New From Top To Toe, Gorgeous Home with Stunning Kitchen, Primary Suite, Family Room & More!
Lovingly remodeled by professional designer to Owner's exacting standards, this classic Waconia bungalow has been completely updated and ready for its first tenants ever! Fabulous Gourmet Kitchen with acres of Quartz Countertops, Custom Cabinetry and High-End Appliances. All New Luxury Plank Flooring and Upgraded Carpeting throughout. Main Level Primary Suite with Walk-Thu Closet and En-Suite
Enter this RECENTLY BUILT, simply gorgeous 3 BR 3BA Home from the large pillared front porch to finding stylish LVP flooring leading to an enormous chef's kitchen boasting massive granite countertops and high-end appliances, all overlooking the large family room featuring a beautiful fireplace. The elegant staircase will take you to the upper level where you will find a large loft along with two
Barry LibengoodColdwell Banker Realty - Southwest Regional
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