WACONIA
COMMUNITY | GUIDE 2025
A beautiful destination in west metro
Located about 30 minutes west of the Twin Cities, Waconia boasts plenty of reasons why it is possibly the brightest gem of a city in all of Carver County.
For starters, it offers an ideal mix of small town charm, an expanding population, a diverse business community, and a plethora of recreational opportunities.
Unlike some cities, Waconia is enjoying healthy residential growth. More than 13,000 people called Waconia home according to the 2020 U. S. Census, compared to only 6,900 people in 2000. City officials have encouraged and maintained the growth, keeping the city’ s identity intact while welcoming new citizens at the same time.
According to city officials, around 125 new home units were built in 2024, and just over 400 new home units have been built in the past four years. In total, the city issued 2,125 building permits in 2024- almost double the number from five years ago. The total construction value of all building permits in 2024 amounted to about $ 65.2 million.
The city features a strong commercial and industrial base, which provides a wide variety of goods, services and job for local citizens. The business community is aided by the proactive Waconia Chamber of Commerce.
Recently, the Highway 5 corridor in Waconia received numerous upgrades, improving the city’ s transportation system. Waconia features outstanding public and parochial schools, medical facilities and other amenities— and, of course, beautiful Lake Waconia.
The lake and its famous Coney Island have long been popular. The Coney Island Hotel opened in 1866 and during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Coney Island became a popular vacation destination for local travelers. The University of Minnesota even held its pre-season football practices on the island in the early 1900s.
Usually, a wide variety of events and activities make Waconia a special place all year round. In the summer, regular events include a prestigious marching band festival, a rib fest competition, car show and the Carver County Fair. In the fall, visitors flock to Waconia to enjoy its wineries, the chamber’ s annual Nickle Dickle Day celebration and other events. Come winter and spring, catch the Waconia Lions’ Wild Game Dinner, and Star Power, a premiere show choir event.
This annual guide, the 34th of its kind, will provide a brief look at the many services, features and special events that make Waconia a wonderful place.
2025 | WACONIA COMMUNITY GUIDE | 5