Since the mid 1950s, the Lakeshore Players have entertained local audiences. Local and further-afield actors stage three plays each season at the group's theater, located in White Bear Lake at Sixth and Stewart streets. And of course, the Twin Cities' major theatre, symphony, and art venues are just a short drive away. The metropolitan area is home to the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, the Walker Art Center, the Tyrone Guthrie Theater, and the Minnesota Symphony Orchestra. City and township parks offer everything from playgrounds and skating rinks to hiking trails and boat launches.
Golfers have ample opportunity to play their favorite sport on both public and private golf courses.
Within a ten-mile radius public golf courses include Gem Lake Hills, Manitou Ridge, Oneka Ridge and Sawmill Golf Club. Many of these clubs have leagues and private tournaments. Lavish private golf courses with restaurant facilities include Dellwood Hills Golf Club, North Oaks Golf Club and White Bear Yacht Club. Beach, off Highway 96 on Lake Avenue, offers swimming, picnic tables, a free boat launch, concession stand, and restrooms. Visitors to Optimist Beach, on Lake Avenue near West Park, enjoy swimming, a playground, volleyball courts, and picnic area.