Nestled on the southern shore of Lake Minnetonka, Excelsior offers a picturesque blend of lakeside living and historic charm just 15 miles southwest of downtown Minneapolis. This small community of about 2,500 residents showcases its rich heritage through preserved Victorian-era homes and a historic downtown district that's listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The walkable downtown area features locally-owned boutiques, antique shops, ice cream parlors, and restaurants housed in beautifully maintained 19th-century buildings.

Rental options in Excelsior include renovated historic homes, modern townhomes, and boutique apartment communities that blend with the town's architectural heritage. The average rent ranges from approximately $1,264 for one-bedroom units to $2,115 for three-bedroom homes. The Excelsior Commons, a 13-acre lakefront park established in 1854, provides residents with green space, beach access, and a gathering spot for community events like the annual Apple Days festival.

Commuters have access to Minneapolis via Highway 7, with typical drive times of about 30 minutes to downtown. Water recreation opportunities abound on Lake Minnetonka, from swimming at the public beach to boarding the historic Steamboat Minnehaha during summer months. Notable areas include the historic downtown district with its preserved commercial buildings and residential neighborhoods featuring well-maintained older homes with character and modern updates. The combination of small-town atmosphere and proximity to city amenities makes Excelsior an appealing Lake Minnetonka community.