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The Lafayette Club in Minnetonka Beach, Minnesota, is a prestigious and historic private club that has been a beloved landmark on the shores of Lake Minnetonka for over a century. With its picturesque setting, charming architecture, and a rich tradition of providing its members with exceptional dining, social, and recreational experiences, the Lafayette Club is a cherished destination for those seeking a refined and inviting atmosphere.

Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely round of golf, savoring gourmet cuisine, or simply taking in the breathtaking lakeside views, the Lafayette Club offers a timeless blend of sophistication and relaxation in the heart of this beautiful lakeside community.

Lafayette Club History and Founding

The Lafayette Club, located in Minnetonka Beach, Minnesota, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1899. It was established as a private social and recreational club by a group of prominent local businessmen and community leaders. The club was named after the French General Marquis de Lafayette, who played a crucial role in the American Revolutionary War and was a symbol of the strong historical ties between France and the United States.

The architectural design of the Lafayette Club’s main clubhouse is attributed to Cass Gilbert, a renowned architect of the time. Cass Gilbert is best known for his work on iconic structures like the United States Supreme Court building in Washington, D.C., and the Woolworth Building in New York City. His architectural expertise is evident in the club’s beautiful and timeless design, which features elements of classic American architecture.

Over the years, the Lafayette Club has maintained and preserved its historic charm while also expanding its facilities and offerings to meet the changing needs and preferences of its members. Today, the Lafayette Club continues to be a cherished institution on the shores of Lake Minnetonka, providing an exquisite setting for dining, social gatherings, and various recreational activities.

Famous Golf Tournament held at Lafayette Club

The Lafayette Club in Minnetonka Beach, Minnesota, has hosted several prominent golf tournaments throughout its history. Here are a few of the most notable:

U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship: The Lafayette Club hosted the U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship in 1902 and 1913. The tournament is one of the most prestigious events in women’s golf, and its winners include some of the greatest players in the game, such as Babe Zaharias, Patty Berg, and Annika Sörenstam.
Minnesota Golf Association Amateur Championship: The Lafayette Club has hosted the Minnesota Golf Association (MGA) Amateur Championship on multiple occasions, most recently in 2022. The MGA Amateur Championship is the premier amateur golf event in Minnesota, and its winners include some of the state’s most accomplished golfers, such as Tom Lehman, Tom Byrum, and John Harris.
Western Amateur Championship: The Lafayette Club hosted the Western Amateur Championship in 1924. The Western Amateur Championship is one of the most prestigious amateur tournaments in the United States, and its winners include some of the greatest players in the game, such as Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Tiger Woods.

These are just a few of the many prominent golf tournaments that have been held at the Lafayette Club. The club’s rich history and challenging course have made it a popular destination for amateur and professional golfers alike.

Lafayette Club Membership Costs and Dues

The Lafayette Club is a private club in Minnetonka Beach, Minnesota, and as such, does not publicly disclose its membership costs and dues. However, based on information gathered from various sources, it is estimated that the initiation fee for membership is between $50,000 and $100,000, with annual dues ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. Additionally, there are likely monthly food and beverage minimums that members are required to meet.

Here is a breakdown of the estimated costs:

Initiation Fee: $50,000 – $100,000
Annual Dues: $10,000 – $20,000
Monthly Food and Beverage Minimums: $200 – $500

It is important to note that these are just estimates, and the actual membership costs may vary depending on a number of factors, such as the type of membership, the applicant’s financial situation, and the current market conditions.

Here is some additional information about Lafayette Club:

It is a private club located on the shores of Lake Minnetonka in Minnetonka Beach, Minnesota.
The club was founded in 1899.
It has an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, swimming pools, a fitness center, and several dining options.
The club hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including weddings, parties, and corporate functions.

Lafayette Club Amenities

The Lafayette Club in Minnetonka Beach, Minnesota, offers a range of amenities and facilities to provide its members with a well-rounded and enjoyable experience.

Here are some of the amenities commonly associated with the Lafayette Club:

Golf: The club features a golf course with well-maintained fairways and greens, providing an enjoyable and challenging golfing experience for its members.
Dining: The club offers various dining options, including formal dining rooms, casual dining areas, and outdoor patios. Members can enjoy a diverse menu of culinary delights and fine dining experiences.
Social Events: Lafayette Club hosts a variety of social events, including parties, galas, and special occasions, creating opportunities for members to connect and socialize.
Boating and Lake Activities: Given its proximity to Lake Minnetonka, members often have access to boating, water sports, and other lake-related activities.
Tennis and Recreation: Some private country clubs offer tennis courts, swimming pools, fitness facilities, and other recreational amenities to promote an active and healthy lifestyle.
Private Events and Weddings: Lafayette Club may offer event and banquet facilities, making it an attractive venue for weddings, corporate events, and other private gatherings.
Clubhouse: The historic clubhouse serves as the centerpiece of the club, providing a beautiful and welcoming setting for members to relax, socialize, and enjoy the club’s various amenities.

Lafayette Club Event Information and Dining Options

The Lafayette Club in Minnetonka Beach, Minnesota, offers a variety of events and occasions that members can celebrate. While specific events and celebrations may change over time, here are some common types of events that members can enjoy at a private club like the Lafayette Club:

Holidays: Private clubs often host special events and celebrations for major holidays such as Christmas, New Year’s Eve, Thanksgiving, and Independence Day. These events may include festive dinners, parties, and themed activities.
Themed Dinners: Clubs frequently organize themed dinner events where members can enjoy cuisine from different regions, cultures, or culinary traditions. Wine and food pairing dinners are also popular.
Wine Tastings: Wine tastings and wine pairing events provide an opportunity for members to sample a variety of wines and learn about wine appreciation from experts.
Golf Tournaments: If the club has a golf course, they may host golf tournaments and events, including member-only tournaments and charity golf outings.
Family Events: Family-oriented events can include activities like family brunches, picnics, and children’s parties, creating a welcoming environment for members of all ages.
Cultural Events: Some clubs may host cultural events, such as art exhibitions, live music performances, or guest lectures, to provide members with intellectual and artistic enrichment.
Weddings and Special Occasions: Members can celebrate their personal milestones, such as weddings, anniversaries, and birthday parties, by hosting private events at the club.
Seasonal Celebrations: Seasonal events, such as summer BBQs, fall harvest festivals, and spring galas, offer members a chance to enjoy the changing seasons in a social setting.
Club Traditions: Many private clubs have their own unique traditions and annual events that members look forward to, such as member-guest tournaments or club anniversary celebrations.
Social Mixers: Informal social mixers and cocktail parties provide opportunities for members to network and socialize with fellow club members.

The Lafayette Club in Minnetonka Beach, Minnesota, typically offers a range of dining options to cater to the culinary preferences of its members. While the specific menu offerings and dining venues may evolve over time, here are some common dining options you might find at the Lafayette Club:

Formal Dining Room: The club often features a formal dining room where members can enjoy elegant, fine dining experiences. This may include a menu with gourmet dishes, upscale ambiance, and attentive service.
Casual Dining Areas: In addition to formal dining, there are often casual dining areas that offer a more relaxed atmosphere. These areas may provide a diverse menu of more casual and approachable dishes.
Outdoor Dining: Given its scenic location on the shores of Lake Minnetonka, the Lafayette Club may offer outdoor dining options during the warmer months. Members can dine al fresco while enjoying beautiful lakefront views.
Private Dining: Members often have the option to reserve private dining rooms for special occasions, business meetings, or intimate gatherings.
Specialty Menus: The club may feature specialty menus for specific events or occasions. For example, wine-pairing dinners, holiday-themed menus, and chef’s tasting menus are common offerings.
Bar and Lounge Area: Many clubs have a bar and lounge area where members can relax, have a drink, and enjoy a more casual dining experience.
Catering and Events: Lafayette Club often provides catering services for private events and special occasions held at the club, such as weddings, parties, and corporate functions.
Clubhouse Snacks: Some clubs offer snacks and light fare for members to enjoy while socializing or taking a break from recreational activities.

Lafayette Club Dress Code and Guest Policy

Dress codes and guest policies at private clubs like the Lafayette Club are typically designed to maintain a certain level of decorum, uphold the club’s standards, and provide a pleasant and respectful environment for members and their guests.

Here’s a general overview of what you might expect:

Dress Code: Private clubs often have dress codes that vary depending on the time of day and specific areas within the club. Here are some common elements of a dress code:

Casual Wear: For casual dining and outdoor areas, casual attire such as collared shirts, slacks, and neat, clean attire is typically acceptable.
Business Casual: Some dining areas and events may require business-casual attire, which can include dress slacks, collared shirts, blouses, and closed-toe shoes.
Formal Wear: For formal dining or special events, formal attire such as suits, dresses, and ties may be required.
Golf Attire: On the golf course, clubs often have specific dress code requirements, which may include golf shirts, golf shorts or slacks, golf shoes, and appropriate golfing attire.
Swimwear: Swimwear is usually reserved for designated areas like the pool, and cover-ups are often required when transitioning to and from these areas.

Guest Policy: Guest policies can vary from club to club, but they typically include the following elements:

Guest Limits: There may be limits on the number of guests a member can bring to the club at one time.
Member Responsibility: The member is often responsible for their guests’ behavior and adherence to the club’s rules and policies.
Reservation Requirements: Members may be required to make reservations in advance for their guests, especially for dining or special events.
Member Accompaniment: Some clubs may require that guests be accompanied by the member during their visit.
Guest Fees: Clubs might charge guest fees or guest meal charges, which the member is responsible for paying.

Lafayette Club in Minnetonka Beach, Minnesota, stands as a time-honored institution that offers its members a blend of history, elegance, and recreational opportunities on the picturesque shores of Lake Minnetonka. With a rich tradition of fine dining, social events, and a range of amenities, the Lafayette Club creates an inviting and sophisticated atmosphere for its members.

While specific offerings and policies may evolve over time, this cherished club continues to provide a sanctuary for those seeking a balance of refinement and relaxation in the heart of a beautiful lakeside community.

Lafayette Club Minnetonka Beach MN | Membership Cost, Amenities, History, What To Know When Visiting