Minneapolis, MN

 

One-half of Minnesota’s famed Twin Cities — the other being the state’s capital, Saint Paul — the dynamic city of Minneapolis is well-known for its colorful nightlife, artistic spirit, and glittering high rises. The meandering blue waters of the Mississippi River bisect the city, ensconced by verdant green spaces that elevate the visual aesthetic of the already charismatic downtown.

 

These parks and waterways are part of Minneapolis’ unique appeal, and the city boasts one of the nation’s best park systems. Incorporated in 1850, Minneapolis retains the highest population in the state and has a long, well-established history. It’s the primary business center between the cities of Chicago and Seattle, as well as a tried-and-true launching pad of musical talents, including those like Bob Dylan, Judy Garland, Prince, and Lizzo.

 

Along the river and within walking distance of the area’s hottest attractions, the swanky condos and high-rise apartments of Downtown Minneapolis are urban retreats for those looking to be in the center of the action. Farther out into purely residential areas and affluent communities along any one of the many lakes, Minneapolis real estate includes a bevy of estates and homes ranging in style and history. Whether it’s a contemporary custom house or a sophisticated historic property, buyers are apt to find a slew of diversity among the residential real estate of Minneapolis.

 

 

Minneapolis is a city full of incredible variance, and its residents — spaced out among dozens of distinctive neighborhoods — are able to benefit from a wide range of amenities, cultural institutions, green spaces, and entertainment. Whether they’re browsing the 2-floors of antiques at Hunt & Gather, getting the latest fashions from the internationally recognized Martin Patrick 3 Boutique, or grabbing a bite to eat at restaurants like the award-winning, speakeasy-themed Young Joni, the residents of Minneapolis have a world of commercial excitement at their fingertips.

 

Though the energetic heartbeat of Minneapolis is its effervescent Downtown Core District, pressed against the Mississippi River, this city houses a myriad of commercial and culinary hotspots enjoyed by visitors and long-time residents alike. For instance, the North Loop neighborhood is a segment of the expansive Downtown area that’s known for its industrial-chic, hipster personality, and innovative facilities like D. Nolo.

 

Across the river from North Loop, the Northeast Brew District is a vivacious conglomeration of top-tier brewing companies and taprooms, situated in a walkable, friendly neighborhood. Southeast of the Downtown Core and adjacent to some of the city’s prettiest lakes, the Uptown District of Minneapolis is a retail and entertainment haven loved by foodies and music enthusiasts.

 

On the opposite, western side of the same lakes, the Linden Hills neighborhood melds historic charm with outdoor recreation and a plenitude of effortlessly cool commercial offerings. Vintage lovers will be swept away by the charisma of Victory, Minneapolis’ nostalgic neighborhood best-known for its unique retail and dining sets.

 

With its number of enviable restaurants increasing by the year, it’s hard for Minneapolis diners to know where to begin. For those new to the area or simply looking to experience the best of the best, a few of the most notable eateries include but aren’t limited to Colita, Martina, Pizzeria Lola, Clancey’s, Alma, Betty Danger’s, Khâluna, and Demi.

In Minneapolis, the fun isn’t limited to retail and dining — the city is also bursting with events, entertainment, and landmarks. Making community connections has never been easier thanks to the city’s constant rotation of festivals, fairs, and celebrations, including the nationally-renowned Uptown Art Fair. Music fills the air at the annual Basilica Block Party, and the seasonal Holidazzle held in Loring Park is the go-to winter destination for family-friendly activities.

 

Established in the 1940s, the multi-day Aquatennial event celebrates the city’s landscape of lakes, rivers, and ponds. Other forms of entertainment include the many sports, events, and arts facilities within the town, including Target Field, home to the MN Twins MLB team and the MN Timberwolves NBA team, and the US Bank Stadium, home to the Minnesota Vikings NFL team. The historic State Theatre and The Guthrie Theater both serve the community through wonderful live performances, and residents can step right into the world of art at the Walker Art Center, which features the city’s famed Sculpture Garden.

 

And if the multitude of urban accouterments isn’t enough to keep locals satisfied, the city also offers up a staggering array of parks and public green spaces, including its many lakes. Foundations like The Loppet ensure that nature is accessible to everyone, and with its great conservation efforts, Minneapolis has produced an impressive number of outdoor spaces including those surrounding Lake Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet, Lake of the Isles, Cedar Lake, Lake Nokomis, Minnehaha Creek, and the Mississippi River.

 

Minneapolis is home to a number of excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:

• University of Minnesota MPLS Campus, notable as one of the nation’s top public research universities
• The Blake School, PK & K-12, highly rated private school ranked as the #3 best private high school in the state
  

What is Minneapolis most known for?

Minneapolis is well known for its arts scene with Walker Art Centre and Minneapolis sculpture gardens among their top attractions. The Walker Arts Center is an ongoing collection that includes over 13,000 contemporary works.

Is Minneapolis Minnesota a good place to live?

Niche ranks Minneapolis as the 20th best American city to live in. Minneapolis is also the 8th best city in America for young professionals. It's one of the healthiest cities in America, with a ranking of #30.

 

Minneapolis Sports

Minneapolis is home to 4 major sports teams, most notably their football team, the Minnesota Vikings, and baseball team, the Minnesota Twins. They also have a basketball team called the Timberwolves. The Vikings were an NFC expansion club and the Twins were created after the Washington Senators migrated to Minnesota for the 1961 season. The Twins have had two WS titles in 1988 and 1991, and have played Target Field since 2010. After a few super bowl losses, the Vikings won the NFL championship in 1976. In 1989, the Minnesota Timberwolves returned to NBA basketball in Minneapolis.

 

Learn about other neighborhoods:

• Edina real estate
• Saint Paul real estate