Explore All Carver County has to Offer During National Travel and Tourism Week

As summer approaches, cooler temperatures give way to warmer weather, making it an ideal time to get out and explore. In Carver County, 20 miles southwest of Minneapolis, you’ll find a bit of everything at your fingertips. From a diverse range of outdoor recreational options, to a vibrant scene for dining, drinks and shopping, Carver County is rich in activities for every type of visitor. As 2025’s National Travel and Tourism Week approaches, Choose Carver County!

What is National Travel and Tourism Week?

National Travel and Tourism Week, set for May 4-10, was established in 1983 to highlight the importance of travel in bolstering local economic growth. In the United States, one in every 11 jobs depends on travel, a nearly $3 trillion industry for all 50 states. In addition to helping stimulate economies of communities across the country, National Travel and Tourism Week encourages visitors to connect with the unique corners of the U.S. they visit.

Outdoor Recreation in Carver County

Carver County features over 4,000 acres of parks, each with a unique charm. For those seeking to soak in the outdoors, Baylor Regional Park visitors can enjoy quick hikes on the Prairie and Maple trails.

The 9.2-mile Minnesota River Bluffs Regional Trail offers longer outdoor excursions. Following an old railroad route, the trail presents views of the forested Minnesota River Valley, Shady Oak Lake, Miller Park and Riley Lake Park. Trail connections offer easy access to downtown Hopkins and Chaska for your next adventure!

Are you a golf fan? You're in luck because Carver County has 11 courses to choose from, 14 if you add the disc golf courses! Chaska’s Hazeltine National Golf Club is internationally known, having hosted 12 major tournaments since opening for play in 1962. It is also slated to host the 2026 Women’s PGA Championship and 2029 Ryder Cup. Hazeltine is a private golf club not open to the public for play. But there are many others you’ll want to check out! Experienced golfers and beginners will have a blast at The Loop at Chaska, a course featuring accommodations for golfers with physical and sensory impairments.

The 1,200-acre Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska is another can’t-skip activity. Featuring nearly 6,000 species of plants, it also boasts three art galleries, a conservatory and a horticultural library. The Arboretum is explorable via two three-mile paved paths, accessible year-round, which can be done on foot or by car. Purchase your tickets in advance to ensure admission!

Breweries Galore

Nothing will hit the spot better than a tasty meal and cold drink following a day of exploring in Carver County. To that end, be sure to investigate the region’s breweries. Try the Ruby Red IPA with a soft pretzel at Enki Brewing in Victoria. Or one of Waconia Brewing’s flagship beers, such as the 255 Amber Ale. Visitors to Chaska won’t want to leave without stopping by Schram Haus Brewery, where German-inspired brews such as the Nacht Nacht lager can be paired with tasty snacks and local cookies.

Historic Carver County

The 11 communities of Carver County take immense pride in their historical origins. Several of Carver County’s towns – such as Hamburg, New Germany and Cologne – offer evidence of the strong roots planted by German immigrants beginning in the 1860s. Around the same time, Swedish settlers also migrated to the area, congregating in East Union and Watertown. History buffs will want to explore the Carver County Historical Society (free of charge!) in Waconia. Carver County has 172 properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including homes, city buildings, farms, bridges and other architecture.

Arts and Culture

When it comes to the arts and culture, one of the crown jewels within Carver County is Paisley Park, home and studio of iconic artist Prince, a winner of seven Grammy Awards whose music has sold more than 100 million records worldwide. Paisley Park is located just west of Chanhassen and is open five days a week (closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays). Tickets are required for tours.

Carver County has Something for Everyone

Whether you’re looking for a round of beers or a round of golf, Carver County is excited to welcome you. From exploring our towns to stopping for a bite to eat or enjoying the outdoors, we look forward to your visit and hope you’ll Choose Carver County!