Prior Lake is home to one of the finest waterfront communities in the state of Minnesota. The entire lake lies entirely in the city of Prior Lake and is split into upper and lower regions. Combined, upper and lower Prior Lake cover a total of 1,340 acres and is 60 feet at maximum depth. Prior Lake is surrounded by 20.88 miles of shoreline and is home to 6 islands.  

Native American Indians were the first inhabitants of Prior Lake until European settlers came to the area under the Mendota Treaty. Prior Lake itself was not largely inhabited until the construction of U.S. Highway 169 over the Minnesota River and the integration of Highway 13, which brought significant residential growth to the city. With new residents flooding into the bedroom community, the Prior Lake waterfront became a desired location to own property because of all its lakeside amenities.   

Today, the Prior Lake housing market is one of the most expensive in the state. The city itself is the 45th largest community in Minnesota and is split into 5 different neighborhoods. The median value of homes in City of Prior Lake is $314,000, which is higher than the county house value of $225,000. Waterfront property is rare and coveted, placing a significantly higher price tag on lakefront homes. Housing consists of primarily single family homes, but there are also condo, townhome, and apartment units.

Most of the parks within the City of Prior Lake are not situated on the lake itself. However, Lakefront Park, which is the city’s most popular park, is partially bordered by the lake and is home to Watzl’s Beach. Watzl’s Beach is located on the southern end of Lower Prior Lake and offers amenities such as a swimming beach, picnic area, restroom facilities, vending machines, and boat docks. Residents can also rent the 18 boat slips located on the beach during the summer. Fireworks are fired off from Watzl’s Beach as a part of the annual Lakefront Days and 4th of July community events. Performances by the Prior Lake Ski Club are also held near the beach site.

For those looking for small and quiet waterfront park, Grainwood Crossing is the perfect destination. Grainwood Crossing is located on the southernmost end of Lower Prior Lake and consists of just 2 acres of land. The park is mostly visited for its scenic view of the lake and its prime shore fishing and dock fishing locations. Other amenities include a picnic area and grills. A DNR Public Water Access with boating ramps is also available to residents and can be found on the northwest edge of Lower Prior Lake.

Residents of the Prior Lake waterfront community enjoy various unique amenities. The Prior Lake Yacht Club is a members only boating community that hosts events on the lake in the summer. Charlie’s on Prior is beautiful marina and restaurant located on the east bank of Upper Prior Lake. The quaint establishment is settled in a neighborhood and boasts gorgeous  views of the smaller lake through its large pictured windows. Visitors have the option to dine in the upper dining room and bar or on the balcony, which is perched 18 feet above the lake. Charlie’s cooks a wide assortment of special dishes, including walleye tacos, edamame, bruschetta, shrimp and avocado salad, and more. Tap beer, wine, bottled beer, and speciality drinks are also available.

The Prior Lake community relies on its annual events to preserve its rich heritage and unite its fast growing population. Some of these community events are held on Prior Lake. One of the most popular events is the annual 4th of July boat parade and fireworks. The boat parade is held at Charlie’s on Prior and features some of the finest boats on the lake. After the boats are assembled in the marina, they are judged by the Prior Lake Association. Later in the evening, the Prior Lake Association begins to light their fireworks off of Wetzl’s Beach. The annual show in the sky can be seen from all around the shores of the lake and by those in their boats. Prior Lake is also known as an excellent fishing destination, so several fishing tournaments are held each year. The Family Fishing Tournament is held in the month a August and is an enjoyable event for young and old anglers alike. Other events on Prior Lake include ice golf, ice house competition, and an ice cream social.

Prior Lake is an outstanding place to call home for anyone who enjoys a welcoming waterfront community. With beautiful parks, excellent dining, unique events, and breathtaking views, it’s no wonder that Prior Lake has some of the most sought after property in the state.