W ater, water everywhere, but what is there to do? The Twin Cities has an abundance of aquatic activities, and we've scoured the area for classic and quirky lakeside fun. Whether you're a water nut or someone who prefers a spot just outside the splash zone, we have something for you -- plus some hidden gems, insider's tips and great summer deals. After all, lounging lakeside isn't just a Minnesotan's favorite pastime; it's a summertime requirement. Make the most of it while the water's liquid.
Picnics on the shore
Looking for dining right on the water? Try the almost-in-the-lake restaurant Tin Fish at the Lake Calhoun Pavilion (3000 E. Calhoun Pkwy., Mpls., 612-823-5840) for low-cost, family-friendly meals. And though it's not directly on the water, the Sea Salt Eatery (4825 Minnehaha Av. S., Mpls., 612-721-8990) in Minnehaha Park is only a quick stroll from the falls. With convenient locations inside two of Minneapolis' most popular destinations, both provide a casual atmosphere and reasonably priced seafood.
Port of Excelsior (1 Water St., Excelsior, 952-474-0937) is another great spot to grab a bite to eat with the family if you want sandwiches, salads, burgers or wraps. Check out the daily lunch special, weekdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. And, because the restaurant is run by Haskell's, the menu has plenty of wine options for adults. A frugal way to enjoy Lake Minnetonka, Port of Excelsior doesn't have the waterfront seating and boat parking of pricier neighbors like Maynard's (685 Excelsior Blvd., Excelsior, 952-470-1800), but its patio still offers a great view of the lake.
Couples who can sneak away for a weekend can also try the Covington Inn (100 Harriet Island Road B3, St. Paul, 651-292-1411), a converted tugboat on the Mississippi. Its days of travel up and downriver are over but it's taken on a new life after being docked at Harriet Island in 1995. At this bed-and-breakfast, children under 13 are not allowed to stay overnight. Recapture a slice of the past here -- and maybe some of that old spark, too. Rates range from $150 to $235 a night.
Toe-dippers
The metro area has more acres of fishable water than any other major city in the country, says Sybil Smith, author of the "Twin Cities Fishing Guide." For best results, shore-fishers should seek out spots with moving currents and access to deep water; dams can be particularly good places to drop a line. Smith suggests casting a line at lakes Harriet, Minnetonka, Phalen and Peltier, plus river fishing at Hidden Falls Park, the Rum River and the confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi rivers. Fish-consumption guidelines vary from lake to lake, so be sure to check the Minnesota Department of Health's recommendations at www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/fish/index.html before you dig in.
The Twin Cities area is well known as a haven for biking enthusiasts -- the League of American Bicyclists ranks Minnesota fifth among bike-friendly states. The Twin Cities Bicycling Club ( www.biketcbc.org ) is holding a biking weekend July 31-Aug. 2 with a catered picnic in Winona, Minn. There are also good solo rides around the Minneapolis chain of lakes, the Mississippi and in public parks, but if you're looking for a quieter spot, try the Spring Lake Park Reserve near Rosemount.