600 Lake Street, Wayzata MN 55391
Explore the stunning Panoway on Wayzata Bay, a must-visit destination along the scenic shores of Lake Minnetonka. This innovative community project has transformed Wayzata’s waterfront into a vibrant space that blends natural beauty, local history, and modern amenities. From the charming Lakewalk and public parks to inviting dining options and sweeping lakeside views, Panoway offers an enriching experience for visitors and locals alike. Whether you’re looking to unwind by the water or explore Wayzata’s cultural gems, Panoway on Wayzata Bay provides the perfect backdrop for your lakeside adventure.
Panoway Plaza
At the heart of Panoway on Wayzata Bay lies the stunning Plaza Park, a versatile, multi-use space where families and friends can gather, play, and soak in the majestic lakeside views overlooking Wayzata Bay on Lake Minnetonka.
Lakewalk
Stroll along the 1,200-foot-long Lakewalk boardwalk, which traces the restored shoreline of the lake. This tranquil pathway offers an enchanting perspective of the water’s edge. (under construction)
Dakota Rail Trail
Panoway extends the Dakota Rail Regional Trail, a popular pathway for walkers, joggers, and cyclists, ensuring easy access to the scenic beauty of Lake Minnetonka.
Image courtesy City of Wayzata.
Docks
Panoway introduces transient docks on Lake Minnetonka, providing boaters a welcoming spot to dock and explore the town’s many charms. (under construction)
Section Foreman House
The historic Section Foreman House will be transformed into a new lakefront learning center, where visitors can delve into the history of Wayzata and its connection to the lake.
Wayzata Depot
The Wayzata Depot, a historic landmark, will soon boast a new park, adding to the town’s appeal as a place to enjoy both history and the great outdoors. Additional public bathrooms will also be added. (to be built)
Image courtesy Lake Minnetonka Historical Society.
Goals of Panoway
Panoway has a clear vision that extends beyond enhancing the immediate lakefront.
Its goals include:
Improving the Lakeside Ecosystem: By carefully tending to the lake’s ecosystem, Panoway ensures a harmonious coexistence with nature.
Greater Public Access: Panoway aims to provide the community and visitors with enhanced and more accessible opportunities to enjoy the beauty and recreational activities that Lake Minnetonka offers.
Preserving Wayzata’s History: The project seeks to honor and preserve the rich history of Wayzata, fostering a deeper connection between the past and the present.
Vibrant Downtown Commerce: By attracting more visitors to the area and creating a lively, welcoming atmosphere, Panoway supports and invigorates the local commerce scene, helping businesses to flourish.
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Light Up the Lake Returns November 21 — A Wayzata Holiday Tradition Arrives One Week Early
WAYZATA — One of Wayzata’s most beloved celebrations returns earlier than usual this year, as Light Up the Lake welcomes residents and visitors to Lake Street on Friday, November 21, 2025, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. The annual gathering — a hallmark of Wayzata’s lakeside charm and community spirit — takes place the Friday before Thanksgiving this season, offering families…
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James J. Hill Days 2025: Wayzata’s Festival of Rails, Lakes, and Community
Wayzata’s lakeshore will come alive September 5–7 as the community gathers for the 51st annual James J. Hill Days, a celebration that honors the town’s history while showcasing its vibrant present. Organized by the Wayzata West Metro Chamber of Commerce, the festival is expected to draw more than 80,000 visitors to Lake Street and downtown…
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Scene in Wayzata: Flapjacks and Freedom at Sunrise
On the morning of July 4th, more than 1,100 neighbors and visitors gathered at the Wayzata Depot & Panoway Lakewalk for one of Wayzata’s most beloved Independence Day traditions: the Flying Flapjack Breakfast, hosted by the Lake Minnetonka Chapter of the Children of the American Revolution. Now in its 20th year, the event served up…
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LMCD Denies Wayzata’s Request to Convert Public Docks to Private Rentals
At its May 14 meeting, the Lake Minnetonka Conservation District (LMCD) Board voted to deny the City of Wayzata’s application to convert two transient slips at the Depot docks into private rental slips for use by Tonka Bay Rentals. Despite code compliance and city support, the board cited recent noncompliance, public access concerns, and broader…
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City Responds to Boater Complaints with New Dock Bumper Trial at Panoway
Wayzata — A year after boaters first raised concerns about damage sustained while docking at Wayzata’s Panoway, the City is piloting a fix: vertical dock bumpers designed to better protect vessels from rubbing or striking against exposed edges during waves or wind. The trial comes after a full season of feedback and growing frustration. “Last summer,…
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Wayzata Art Experience Returns with Expanded Offerings for 2025
WAYZATA — The Wayzata West Metro Chamber of Commerce has officially announced the return of the Wayzata Art Experience (WAE) for 2025, promising more artists, more live music, and an expanded footprint for one of Lake Minnetonka’s signature summer events. Set along the scenic shores of Wayzata Bay, the annual festival will take place Saturday…
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Wayzata Passes Emergency Helmet Ordinance for Youth Riders of Motorized Bikes and Scooters
WAYZATA — With summer approaching and scooter use surging along the Dakota Rail Regional Trail, the Wayzata City Council has unanimously adopted Emergency Ordinance 850, requiring all persons under the age of 18 to wear helmets while riding electric-assisted bicycles, motorized bicycles, and motorized foot scooters within city limits. The new rule, introduced at the…
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Come Spend the Weekend in Wayzata: Sunshine, Shopping, and the Shores of Lake Minnetonka
WAYZATA, Minn. — It’s a picture-perfect Friday morning in downtown Wayzata, and the weekend forecast couldn’t be more inviting. With just a slight chance of showers late this afternoon and clear skies returning tonight, now’s the time to plan your visit to the lakeside charm and luxury of Wayzata and the Panoway on Lake Minnetonka.…
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Scene in Wayzata: Sunday at the Water’s Edge
Scene in Wayzata: A flawless 77-degree Sunday on Wayzata Bay—boats fill the Broadway docks at Panoway, flags flutter lightly in the 8 mph breeze, and not a cloud interrupts the sky. It’s the kind of afternoon that once greeted summer passengers stepping off the Great Northern Railway, drawn here by word of cool lake breezes…
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Scene in Wayzata: Sunday Serenity on the Panoway
It was the kind of April evening that reminds you why we live here. At 66 degrees, with sunshine pushing through soft clouds and barely a whisper of wind, the Panoway Plaza and Lakewalk came alive with the quiet joy of spring. My wife, our middle daughter, and I set out just before sunset and…
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