Built in 1883 by Charles H. Burwell, the secretary and manager of Minnetonka Mills Company, the Charles H. Burwell House was a prized possession post his wife's death. He lived in the home with his second wife and 4 children. The house also contains a small outhouse where he kept his widowed mother to live. He took pride in the construction and never made any changes on the outside till his death in 1917. All the remnants of the house were kept as it is and most of the restoration is done over time. The house was then donated to the Minnetonka Historical Society that converted this house into a museum and was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.
The Minneapolis Institute of Arts boasts an impressive selection of Impressionist paintings. Originally constructed in 1915, the Institute has been amazing gallery-goers with its substantial collection of over 85,000 pieces of American and European artists' works for roughly a century. Works on display here range from those by such legends as Matisse and Kandinsky to Picasso and Rodin. In addition to American and European paintings, there is also an excellent Asian collection.
What commenced as a Sunday School started by Harriet Bishop has now turned out to be one of the most sought-after churches in Minnesota, called the First Baptist Church of St. Paul. The school was initially started as Harriet found 32 children with no school facilities and resources. It was constructed in 1874 and is built by Monroe and Romaine Sheire. It traces the renowned Gothic Revival style of architecture and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
Visit the mean machines of World War II at the Commemorative Air Force Minnesota Wing in Hanger 3. With bombers like B-25 "Miss Mitchell", trainer aircraft like BT-13 Vultee and Ryan PT-22, along with planes like L-5 Sentinel and L-17 Navion, the museum has an impressive collection of military jets. Not only airplanes, but also a handful of ground fleet is on display here. Take a tour of the facility and check out war mementos, uniforms, photographs, and an array of interesting items here. Do not miss out on a chance of attending their parades and air shows. Visit their website to know more about their collection and upcoming events.
Located in an old train depot, Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical Society operates a local history museum dedicated to preserving and promoting the incredible history of the Lake Minnetonka region. Home to a significant collection of historical items, artifacts, records, and photographs, the museum is an incredible introduction to understanding the local culture. Private tours are available with a prior appointment.