1070 Ferndale Road W, Wayzata
Listing courtesy of Leyendecker Realty.
(952) 473-1000
Real Estate Company
Nestled just 20 minutes west of downtown Minneapolis, Lake Minnetonka is more than a destination—it’s a legacy. With its sparkling bays, historic estates, and discreet luxury, this 14,500-acre playground has long attracted some of the richest and most famous individuals in Minnesota—and beyond. From captains of industry to iconic athletes, musicians, and movie stars, Lake Minnetonka is a quiet haven for those who could live anywhere, but choose to live here.
Lake Minnetonka’s golden age began in the late 1800s, when steamboats ferried well-dressed guests to grand hotels like the Lafayette and the Hotel Saint Louis. The area quickly became a Midwestern retreat for the elite. Jay Cooke, James J. Hill, and the Pillsbury family built summer compounds that mirrored East Coast grandeur. That heritage lives on today—restored, reimagined, and often tucked behind private gates along leafy streets like Ferndale Road and Breezy Point.
What makes Lake Minnetonka so appealing to high-net-worth individuals isn’t just its scenic beauty—it’s the balance between visibility and seclusion. A-list amenities meet small-town charm. Helicopters might buzz overhead en route to MSP, but the vibe remains grounded in heritage and community. Private docks, hidden beaches, and iconic estates—like those along Northome Boulevard, Smithtown Road, and the storied channels of Robinson’s Bay—offer the perfect backdrop for a low-key yet luxurious lifestyle.
The eastern edge of Lake Minnetonka, particularly Wayzata, serves as a hub for refined living. Think: five-star dining, curated boutiques, elevated coffee spots, and one of the most walkable lakefronts in the Midwest. It’s no wonder this stretch of shoreline often draws celebrities and CEOs who crave both sophistication and a sense of belonging.
As a top-selling realtor on Lake Minnetonka, I’ve had the privilege of representing estates that rarely hit the open market—properties whispered about at yacht clubs, behind closed doors, and at the helm of vintage Chris-Crafts. Whether you’re relocating to the lake, upgrading to a point lot, or looking for a discreet off-market opportunity, I know where the real stories live—and I’ll help you write yours.
Let’s talk when you’re ready to move from dreaming to docking.
While Lake Minnetonka’s most recognizable names often prefer their privacy, it’s no secret the area has attracted celebrities both homegrown and nationally known.
The Andrews Sisters were a famous American vocal group consisting of LaVerne, Maxene, and Patty Andrews. They were renowned for their close harmony singing style during the 1930s-1950s and were particularly popular during World War II, known for songs like "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy" and "Rum and Coca-Cola." Their music boosted morale for American troops during the war, earning them the title "Sweethearts of the Armed Forces."
During their childhood, the Andrews Sisters would spend summers in Mound on Lake Minnetonka and frequent the Casino, initially known as the Chapman Place Hotel, for roller skating. The Casino featured a bowling alley, a malt shop, and a restaurant on the ground floor, along with an upstairs skating rink. Today, this location is recognized as Surfside Park. The City of Mound has also named a trail after The Andrews Sisters.
Prince, full name Prince Rogers Nelson, was an iconic musician from Minneapolis, Minnesota. Known for his genre-blurring music and flamboyant style, he released hit albums like "Purple Rain" and famous songs like "When Doves Cry" and "Kiss." Prince's music was influenced by his Minneapolis roots, and he had a special connection to Lake Minnetonka, as it served as the backdrop for the iconic "Purple Rain" film, featuring some of his most memorable performances. Paisley Park, Prince's recording studio / home is located in Chanhassen on Highway 7, approximately 4 miles south of downtown Excelsior.
George Brackett, a former mayor of Minneapolis and the founding commodore of the Lake Minnetonka Yacht Club, made a significant purchase in 1880 when he acquired Starvation Point along the northern shore of the lake. This location, now recognized as Brackett's Point, served as the venue for numerous early sailing regattas.
Brackett was celebrated for his famous bean recipe, prepared in cast-iron pots buried underground for a full 24 hours, and generously shared with more than 100 hungry sailors after their races. Furthermore, Mr. Brackett opted to rename his property Orono, a nod to his early home in the East. Over time, the site came to be more commonly known as Brackett's Point, with the name Orono encompassing the entire township.
In 1868, Samuel Gale erected the Maplewood Inn in Woodland on a hill located to the south of Breezy Point. This structure is believed to have been the inaugural summer cottage on the lake. Over time, it transformed into a boardinghouse, undergoing expansion to accommodate up to 20 guest rooms. Subsequently, it evolved into a hotel, complete with a lakeside pavilion. Tragically, in 1903, the inn was ravaged by fire. Nevertheless, the laundry shed miraculously endured and found new purpose as a school for the children of summer visitors in the months of September and May.
Kevin Sorbo is an American actor best known for his portrayal of the titular character in the television series "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys," which aired from 1995 to 1999. In this popular show, Sorbo played the role of Hercules, the mythical Greek hero known for his incredible strength and adventures.
Born on September 24, 1958, in Mound, Minnesota, Sorbo has appeared in various film and television roles throughout his career. In addition to "Hercules," he has starred in other productions, including "Andromeda" (2000-2005), where he played Captain Dylan Hunt, and various movies, such as "Kull the Conqueror" (1997) and "God's Not Dead" (2014).
Sorbo has also been involved in voice acting, producing, and directing projects in the entertainment industry. He has garnered a dedicated fan base for his portrayal of iconic heroic characters and his work in the science fiction and fantasy genres.
Jimmy Jam, whose real name is James Samuel Harris III, is an American record producer, songwriter, and musician. He is best known for being one half of the Grammy Award-winning production duo Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, with Terry Lewis. Together, they have produced numerous hit songs for various artists across multiple genres, including R&B, pop, and hip-hop.
Jimmy Jam's home had been located on Hardscrabble Point in Minnestrista Minnesota, however the property was torn down after many years of vacancy and two new homes have been constructed on the site.
Alex Rodriguez, often known as A-Rod, is part of the ownership group controlling the Minnesota Timberwolves, with partner Mark Lore. Prior to owning the Wolves, he was primarily associated with Major League Baseball (MLB).
Alex Rodriguez is a former professional baseball player who had a highly successful career in MLB. He played for several teams during his baseball career, including the Seattle Mariners, Texas Rangers, and New York Yankees. A-Rod is considered one of the greatest baseball players of all time and holds numerous MLB records, particularly as a power-hitting shortstop and later a third baseman.
A number of references have been made in recent years to Rodriguez taking up residence on the shores of Lake Minnetonka.
Kevin Garnett is a former NBA player known as one of the greatest power forwards in the league's history. Born on May 19, 1976, he was drafted directly from high school in 1995. Garnett spent much of his career with the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he achieved great success, including winning the MVP award in 2004. He also had a successful stint with the Boston Celtics, winning an NBA championship in 2008. Garnett's legacy is marked by his intense defensive skills, versatility, and leadership on the court, earning him 15 All-Star selections and numerous other accolades. After retiring, he remained active in various media and business ventures while continuing to be a prominent figure in the basketball community. Garnett kept a home on Fox Street in Orono that was located both on Maxwell Bay and on Stubbs Bay.
In 1852, George Bertram, a tailor hailing from New York City, embarked on an expedition to explore Lake Minnetonka. Following his exploration, he went on to establish the Excelsior Pioneer Association. Upon his return to New York, Bertram proceeded to sell shares in the association, which granted members the rights to obtain both farmland and village lots. In the year 1853, these association members made their way to settle in Excelsior. However, Bertram himself relocated to Wright County, Minnesota, several years later.
Lorie Line is an accomplished American pianist, composer, and performer renowned for her contributions to contemporary instrumental music. She has a diverse and devoted fan base that appreciates her unique blend of classical, pop, and holiday-themed compositions.
One of Lorie Line's defining achievements is her annual Christmas concert tours, which have become a cherished holiday tradition for many. These shows showcase her exceptional piano skills and are accompanied by elaborate stage productions, creating a memorable experience for her audiences. Line lives on Forest Lake Bay in Orono.
Fred C. Pillsbury, a prominent Minneapolis industrialist and heir to the Pillsbury milling empire, was instrumental in shaping Ferndale’s identity. With a vision for refined lakeside living, he began acquiring parcels of land in the early 1900s, transforming the former Harrington farmland into a grand summer estate that set the tone for Ferndale’s future as a bastion of elegance on Lake Minnetonka.
Joe Mauer born and raised in the area, stayed loyal to the lake lifestyle even at the height of his MLB fame.
Rumors have swirled around visits from Justin Timberlake, Jessica Biel, and members of the cast of Fargo, who’ve sought refuge in the lake’s understated elegance while filming locally.
Tech founders, Fortune 500 execs, and heirs to generational wealth quietly slip into lakeside retreats—often with legacy boats, vintage Mercedes SLs, and custom watercraft moored just steps from their patios.
A prominent Minneapolis banker and civic leader in the early 20th century. As president of Northwestern National Bank, he played a central role in the city’s financial growth during a period of urban expansion and architectural ambition. In 1912, he commissioned Purcell & Elmslie to design a modern summer residence above Wayzata Bay—what would become one of the Prairie School’s most refined lakefront homes. Though the house is now lost, Decker’s vision helped shape the legacy of Bushaway Road as a corridor where architecture and aspiration meet.
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