If you are thinking of building a lake home in Minnesota, you have a lot of options to choose from in the “Land of 10,000 Lakes.” The Chain of Lakes boasts five beautiful lakes-Cedar Lake, Brownie Lake, Lake of the Isles, Lake Calhoun, Lake Harriet- that are connected by land and lake. On any given day you will find lots of people running, walking, swimming, rollerblading, biking, and sailing along the paths and on the lake. Minneapolis’ ‘Chain of Lakes’ is one of the most beautiful spots to build your home in the city. Each lake retains its own personality and offers different attractions, so read our blog to find the perfect lake for you and your family:
Cedar Lake
Cedar Lake runs next to Lake of the Isles with three swimming beaches at the lakes. This lake is part of the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway, connecting with Theodore Wirth Park on the north end and Bde Maka Ska and Lake of the Isles on the south end via the parkway system. Cedar Lake is an ideal location for those who bike to work and anyone in search of a balanced, modern lifestyle with the charm of southwest Minneapolis.
Lake of the Isles
Lake of the Isles is nestled away at the west end of Franklin Avenue. While there are no beaches canoeists or kayakers can navigate a canal to Cedar lake, which has beaches on three sides. Two islands serve as wildlife refuges, so there are more geese and wildlife on this lake than all of the ‘Chain of Lakes.’ The most baronial houses are found here so if you would like to live in a neighborhood surrounded by classic architecture with a modern flair, this is the lake for you.
Bde Maka Ska
Bde Maka Ska is the largest lake with three beaches; it’s often used for windsurfing and sailing. Popular for many outdoor activities, the lake is surrounded by parkland and circled by biking and walking trails to enjoy when the weather allows. Lake Street passes between Lake of the Isles and Bde Maka Ska and heralds the Uptown neighborhood, just to the east. Bikes can be rented here, and every kind of food found — ice cream, smoothies, and coffee. It’s also a restaurant and hopping center, boasting one of the liveliest neighborhoods in the city both day and night. If you enjoy being in the heart of the action, Bde Maka Ska offers a wide range of activities — from sailing to eating a delicious dinner.
Lake Harriet
Nearby a vintage streetcar connects Bde Maka Ska to the next largest lake, Lake Harriet, the prettiest and most family-oriented lake. Around Lake Harriet, the Rose Garden is a favorite spot, as well as the two beaches, the bandshell, which has free concerts in the summer, and a playground just beyond it. For growing families this lake offers a perfect mix of urban flair with the Minneapolis skyline and family-fun with lake rentals.
Designing Your Dream lake home with Gordon James
Building and designing your dream lake home is not an average design or construction process. Consulting with a reputable builder with experience building waterfront custom homes should always be your first step. An experienced builder has the ability to guide you through the myriad of steps involved in building your dream lake home.
Gordon James has years of experience building luxury homes on waterfront property in the Minneapolis, Wayzata, Orono, and the surrounding Minnesota area. Partner with the professionals at Gordon James in Minnesota to start designing and planning your dream lake home. For more information, contact us at info@gordon-james.com or call us at 763-479-3117 today.