When most people hear “Minnetonka,” they immediately think expensive homes, lake life, and luxury neighborhoods—and honestly, that reputation is well earned. With top-rated schools, mature wooded lots, proximity to Minneapolis and MSP Airport, and easy access to Lake Minnetonka, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, regional parks, and apple orchards, Minnetonka is one of the most desirable suburbs in the Twin Cities.
Right now, the average resale home price in Minnetonka is around $718,000, and new construction is closer to $740,000 or more if you can even find it. So when I recently started showing homes in a pocket of Minnetonka where prices are still in the low $600,000s, I was genuinely impressed.
A Retro-Built Neighborhood That Lives Large
Most of the homes in this more affordable section of Minnetonka were built in the 1970s and 1980s. And while that era might not sound glamorous at first, these homes have something many modern builds simply don’t: actual rooms.
Instead of one massive open-concept floor plan, these houses typically offer:
4 or more bedrooms
Separate family rooms and living rooms
Kitchens that don’t dominate the entire main level
Flexible spaces perfect for offices, playrooms, or quiet retreats
If you enjoy gathering as a family—but also value the ability to close a door and not stare at the kitchen mess—this style of home just makes sense.
Big Lots, Hills, and Mature Trees
What truly sets this pocket apart is the land.
Many of these properties sit on ½ acre or more, with:
Rolling terrain
Curving neighborhood streets
Towering mature trees
A peaceful, established feel
You’ll find this housing style throughout the Twin Cities, but the combination of lot size, price point, and location is what makes this area particularly special.
Easy Commute & Everyday Convenience
Another major perk? Location.
From this area of Minnetonka, you’re about:
20 minutes to downtown Minneapolis
20 minutes to MSP Airport
Minutes from Target, Cub Foods, and Ridgedale Center
Close to all the restaurants, small shops, and local charm of downtown Hopkins
That’s a rare mix of space and convenience that’s becoming harder and harder to find.
Who This Area Is Perfect For
This neighborhood is ideal if you’re looking for:
A retro home with character
Large yards for kids or dogs
A quiet suburban feel
Short, manageable commutes
And a price that’s below the Minnetonka median
Minnetonka doesn’t usually scream “affordable,” but this hidden pocket proves that great opportunities still exist if you know where to look.
If you’re searching for a home in Minnetonka or anywhere in the Twin Cities and want help finding the smartest value for your budget, I’d love to help. I’m Mary Schumann, a Minnesota relocation specialist, and I help buyers move smart in Minnesota every day.
If you’re looking for a walkable, charming, and convenient neighborhood in Minneapolis, Fulton should be on your radar. Located in the southwest part of the city, this neighborhood offers beautiful historic homes, easy access to nature, and a fantastic local dining and shopping scene. Whether you’re drawn to Lake Harriet, Minnehaha Creek, or the convenience of 50th & France, Fulton has a lot to offer.
Let’s dive into what makes Fulton one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Minneapolis!
Proximity to Lake Harriet & Minnehaha Creek 🌳🚶♀️
One of the biggest perks of living in Fulton is how close you are to Lake Harriet. The lake is one of Minneapolis’ most scenic spots, offering:
Walking and biking trails 🚴♂️
Public beaches 🏖️
A bandshell with live music in the summer 🎶
Beautiful views year-round 🌅
But that’s not all—just south of Fulton, you’ll find Minnehaha Creek, a picturesque waterway with a paved trail that connects to the Mississippi River. Whether you’re a cyclist, runner, or just enjoy peaceful walks, Fulton puts you right in the middle of it all.
Historic Homes & New Construction Trends 🏡✨
Fulton is known for its early 1900s homes, including Craftsman bungalows, Tudors, and other historic styles that give the neighborhood character. However, because Fulton is so desirable, many smaller homes are being torn down and replaced with larger, modern builds.
This means homebuyers have options:
Classic charm – If you love historic homes, Fulton has plenty to choose from.
New construction – If you prefer a modern layout with new finishes, there are opportunities for that too.
With a mix of old and new, Fulton offers a unique blend of history and modern convenience.
Home Prices: A Bargain Compared to Linden Hills? 💰📉
While Fulton is a sought-after neighborhood, it actually offers more value compared to its neighbor, Linden Hills. Here’s how they compare:
Fulton’s average home price:$690,000
Linden Hills’ average home price:$982,000
For buyers looking to be near Lake Harriet and 50th & France, Fulton provides a more affordable way to enjoy everything this area has to offer.
A Highly Walkable Neighborhood with Great Restaurants 🍽️☕
One of Fulton’s biggest selling points is walkability. Whether you’re heading out for coffee, a bite to eat, or boutique shopping, there’s plenty to explore right in the neighborhood or just beyond its borders.
Neighborhood Favorites:
Broders’ Pasta Bar – Some of the best Italian food in the Twin Cities. 🍝
Tinto Kitchen – A Latin-inspired eatery with delicious flavors. 🌮
Colita – Inventive Mexican cuisine and craft cocktails. 🍹
50th & France – A shopping and dining hub with even more options. 🛍️
Having these amazing restaurants and shops within walking distance adds to the charm and convenience of living in Fulton.
Convenience: Easy Access to Downtown & MSP Airport 🚗✈️
Fulton is in a prime location for commuters and travelers alike. You can get to:
Downtown Minneapolis – About 15 minutes by car.
Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) – Around 15-20 minutes away.
Whether you work in the city or travel frequently, Fulton offers easy access to major destinations without sacrificing neighborhood charm.
Grocery Stores & Essentials Nearby 🛒
Living in Fulton means having several grocery stores within a short drive:
Lunds & Byerlys (50th & France) – A high-end grocery store with excellent selection.
Kowalski’s Market (Kenny Neighborhood) – A great spot for fresh, local ingredients.
Aldi (Penn Ave, Richfield) – Budget-friendly shopping nearby.
Whole Foods (Edina) – For organic and specialty foods.
With multiple options, grocery shopping is both easy and convenient in this area.
Schools: Top-Rated Public Education 🎓
For families moving to Fulton, the local public schools are a major advantage. The neighborhood is served by:
Lake Harriet Lower & Upper Schools (Elementary)
Southwest High School – Consistently ranked among the best high schools in Minneapolis
These schools have strong academic programs and great community support, making them a big draw for families considering a move to the area.
Final Thoughts: Is Fulton Right for You? 🤔
With its proximity to Lake Harriet, historic charm, walkability, and great schools, it’s easy to see why Fulton is one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Minneapolis. Whether you’re looking for a classic early 1900s home or a new build, this neighborhood offers options for every lifestyle.
If you’re thinking about buying a home in Fulton or anywhere in the Twin Cities, I’d love to help! Feel free to reach out with any questions.
📩 Contact me today to learn more about real estate in Minneapolis!
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Hey there, welcome back to my neighborhood exploration series! Today, we’re diving into a vibrant neighborhood in Minneapolis: Fulton. Nestled in the southwest part of the city, Fulton is an eclectic mix of urban convenience and historic home charm. Let me show you why this area is an absolute gem.
Click to see a video tour of the area!
Picture this: tree-lined streets, cozy sidewalks, and a thriving community vibe. Fulton boasts a prime location, bordered by 47th and 54th streets to the north and south, France Ave to the west, and Penn Ave to the east.
Easy Commutes!
And let’s talk about accessibility. Need to zip downtown? A mere 10-15 minute journey. Airport dash? You’re just around 20 minutes away from Terminal 1.
Where is Fulton?
Fulton is on the SW side of Minneapolis – you can see the airport on the south east corner of the city boundary.Prime location for pretty views and enjoying one of the best things about Minneapolis – all of the greenspace! + shopping, restaurants etc that are easy to get to on foot, bike, car or public transit.
The one negative… PLANES
Sure, there’s the occasional flight path over Lake Harriet…
😉
Trust me, the community here has adapted like pros, and it doesn’t dent the allure of this neighborhood one bit. But what makes this neighborhood truly special isn’t just its boundaries; it’s what’s within them.
Amenities
From Red Cow and Broders Pasta Bar to the charming antique shops and coffee spots at Xerxes Ave and 50th, Fulton is a hub for foodies and explorers alike. You’ll find yourself surrounded by all the amenities city dwellers crave, without sacrificing that cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Fulton is on the Minneapolis side of the 50th and France shopping and dining area. This is a sweet little hub that is perfect for hitting local shops, cozy restaurants or taking advantage of the newly renovated Edina Theater.
Now, let’s talk about the crown jewel of Fulton—Lake Harriet. This picturesque spot isn’t just a lake; it’s a community hub. Whether you’re riding the Grand Rounds 51-mile bike and walking path, attending festivals year-round, or enjoying lakeside dining at Bread and Pickle, there’s something magical about this place that draws people in.
But wait, there’s more! Beyond Lake Harriet, Fulton offers easy access to Minnehaha Creek and its scenic trails. Imagine biking or walking along a gurgling creek (or I’ll often see kids floating down the creek on inner tubes in summer!), it’s a lush greenspace connecting to Minnehaha Falls and West River Road, bordering the mighty Mississippi. As you make your way along this trail, you can feast on some eye candy of beautiful and gracious old homes lining the parkway.
Homes
Now, let’s talk homes. Fulton has a diverse range, from historic early 1900s residences to modern constructions. Whether you prefer a cozy vintage abode or a newly-built dream home, there’s something here for everyone. Prices vary, ranging from $475,000 to $1.4 million, reflecting the neighborhood’s diversity. If any were to come on the market by the lake you’d be paying over $2M. Fair warning.
Brain food
For bookworms, rejoice! Independent bookstores like Comma Books and the whimsical Wild Rumpus children’s store await nearby in the Linden Hills neighborhood. Plus, a stunning branch of the Hennepin County Library is just a stone’s throw away.
Schools
And for families, Fulton’s got you covered. Children will attend Lake Harriet Lower School, Anthony Middle and Southwest High School or a magnet school of their choice. educational options are plentiful.
Pershing Park is located within Fulton and with its sports fields, playgrounds, and wading pool—it’s a kid’s paradise!
So, whether you’re captivated by the serene beauty of Lake Harriet, the bustling local scene, or the fantastic housing options, Fulton offers an inviting blend of city living and community warmth.
Hey, everyone! Today, we’re diving into the heart of Minneapolis to explore the eclectic and bustling Uptown neighborhood. Known for its diverse offerings, from historic single-family homes to modern condos, Uptown is a unique urban environment with a personality all its own. If you are considering a city neighborhood and looking for a bit of a faster pace this one could be for you.
Want to see it IRL?! (or virtually IRL?) take a peek.
Where is it?
Uptown is situated in the southwestern part of Minneapolis, and what sets it apart is its perfect blend of urban living and natural beauty. Whether you’re a foodie, a cyclist, or just someone who loves a vibrant city vibe, Uptown has something for everyone.
One of the standout features of Uptown is its accessibility. The neighborhood is connected to the Midtown Greenway bike path, making it a haven for cyclists. And if you prefer public transportation, you’re in luck – Uptown offers easy access to various transit options, making it a breeze to explore the city.
Photo from Metro Transit
Housing
Uptown boasts a diverse range of homes, from charming single-family cottages to grand Queen Anne Victorian mansions. Many of these single-family homes were constructed in the early 1900s, showcasing stunning woodwork and unique architectural details.
Prices for single-family homes in Uptown vary widely. You can find a cozy cottage for just under $300,000, perfect for those looking to add their personal touch. Meanwhile, if you’re in the market for something truly grand, Queen Anne Victorians can fetch over $2 million, especially if they’re close to the picturesque Bde Maka Ska.
Lakes!
Bde Maka Ska – the jewel of the Uptown neighborhood. This beautiful lake is part of the chain of lakes and serves as a hub of activity. During the summer, locals flock to the pavilion to enjoy a meal and a drink. The lake itself is a playground for water enthusiasts, offering sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and a sandy beach for those seeking some sun.
I took this from my bicycle in July of this year. LOVE this area!
If you’re more inclined towards low maintenance living, Uptown has a fantastic selection of condos. At the higher end, you’ll find modern penthouses with breathtaking views overlooking Bde Maka Ska, priced at over $2 million. For something unique, there’s a converted firehouse with over 3500 square feet, listed just over $1 million. But for most condo seekers, the sweet spot is between $119,000 and $250,000, with options in low-rise buildings dating back to the late 1950s and early 1960s.
Food!
Now, let’s talk about the culinary scene in Uptown because, trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat. One iconic spot that’s been a staple for years is Bryant Lake Bowl – it’s not just a bowling alley, but also a theater and a restaurant. This lively joint is the perfect gathering place from breakfast until the early hours of the morning.
If you’re craving Korean-American cuisine crafted by a James Beard Award-winning chef, look no further than Kim’s. Chef Ann Kim has truly created something special here. And for those with a hankering for authentic French bistro fare, Barbette is a must-visit. The ambiance is as delightful as the cuisine, making it a favorite among locals.
For a cozy dining experience with good food and a warm atmosphere, check out Bryant and Lake Cafe. Picture this: delicious food, a crackling fireplace, and an inviting ambiance – what more could you ask for? And remember, these are just three gems in a sea of fantastic dining options in Uptown.
Now, let’s shift gears a bit. Uptown is not just a feast for the palate but also for the mind. Magers and Quinn, an enormous bookstore, beckons book lovers with its vast collection of new and used books. Lose yourself in the aisles and spend an entire afternoon exploring literary wonders.
Strolling down the same street, you’ll find a beloved spice haven of the Midwest – Penzey’s Spices. Whether you’re a culinary expert or just starting your spice journey, this shop has everything you need to tantalize your Midwestern palate. It’s a must-visit for those looking to elevate their cooking game.
Uptown has a slightly bohemian feel, and part of that charm comes from its well-curated vintage shops. Explore these hidden gems to find unique pieces that tell a story and add a touch of history to your wardrobe or living space.
Now, let’s talk about the practical aspects of living in Uptown. For those who value literary exploration, you’ll be pleased to know that the Hennepin County Public Library has a branch right here in the neighborhood. It’s not just a place for books; it’s a community hub where knowledge flourishes.
Need to stock up on groceries? Uptown has you covered. There’s a Cub Foods for your everyday essentials and, if you’re in the mood for a more upscale shopping experience, Lunds and Byerlys is just a stone’s throw away. Whatever your culinary needs, Uptown has the grocery stores to meet them.
If you’re raising a family in Uptown, your children may attend Barton or Lyndale Elementary schools. As they progress, Susan B Anthony Middle School might be the next stop before moving on to Washburn High School. Uptown is also home to families who embrace educational diversity. Many high school students in the area explore magnet schools to tailor their education to specific interests. It’s not just about learning; it’s about finding a passion and nurturing it.
From the diverse culinary delights to literary escapes and spice adventures, Uptown Minneapolis truly is a neighborhood that has it all. Whether you’re a foodie, a bookworm, an avid bicyclist, water lover, or a vintage aficionado, Uptown welcomes you with open arms. If you’ve enjoyed this exploration, don’t forget to hit that like button, subscribe for more content, and let me know in the comments if you’ve visited any of these fantastic spots. Until next time, happy exploring!
If you’re looking for something a little “extra” in your next home, you might be interested in taking a look at these neighborhoods in Edina. Some amazing homes and lots of variety in architecture from traditional to very modern on huge wooded lots. The location can’t be beat either!
A video tour of Indian Hills and Indian Trails
WHERE IS INDIAN TRAILS / INDIAN HILLS?
Indian Trails & Indian Hills are residential neighborhoods located in the city of Edina, Minnesota. They are located in the southwestern part of the city, near the border with the neighboring city of Eden Prairie. The neighborhood is bounded by Highway 169 to the west, Rt. 62 to the north, roughly the high school to the east, and about Valley View Rd to the south around Braemar park.
Indian Trails is located approximately 13 miles southwest of downtown Minneapolis and 11 miles southeast of the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP). Commuting to downtown Minneapolis or the airport from the neighborhood is relatively easy, thanks to its convenient location near the major highways of 169 & 494, along with easy access to 100, 62 or 35.
The neighborhood is located just west of Highway 169, which provides direct access to downtown Minneapolis. Commuters can reach downtown in approximately 20-25 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions.
The airport is also easily accessible from Indian Trails, with several transportation options available. The fastest option is to drive, which typically takes around 16-25 minutes depending on traffic. Additionally, if you wanted to park and take the METRO Blue Line light rail system, it provides direct access to the airport from the nearby Mall of America station, which is approximately 8 miles from Indian Trails. The journey from the Mall of America to the airport takes around 12 minutes. Finally, there are also several taxi and rideshare services available in the area, which can provide convenient transportation to the airport.
WHY LIVE THERE?
Indian Trails / Indian Hills area is known for its large, wooded lots and quiet streets. Many of the homes in the neighborhood were built in the 1950s and 1960s, and feature traditional architecture and well-manicured yards. Some of the homes in the neighborhood are valued at well over $1 million. The median sales price in this area is $982,500, well above the median for the Twin Cities metro, so a little “spendy” as the Minnesotans might say, but if this is in your budget it’s worth looking at, and if it’s NOT, it’s fun to look at the homes anyway! 🙂
If you want to learn about other neighborhoods and suburbs of the Twin Cities, check out my YouTube channel – I have an entire playlist of them that I add to regularly.
One of the things you’ll note about this area are the mature trees, the hilly landscape, and the curving roadways that give this neighborhood a sense of being nestled away from the suburban bustle, even though it has easy access to everything you might want. It definitely has a quiet, secluded and cozy feel.
Parks
The Edina area is home to several parks, including the 29-acre Arden Park, which features trails, picnic areas, and sports fields. But the closest is nearby Braemar Golf Course and Braemar Ice Arena which provide opportunities for golfing and ice skating, respectively.
Braemar Arena has three sheets of indoor ice and one outdoor seasonally.
The Braemar Golf Dome is the largest and longest-hitting indoor practice facility in the Twin Cities with 44 tee areas on two levels.
If you’re not a golfer, it also has an almost quarter-mile turf track which is open from the beginning of November through the end of April under the dome.
I’m not a golfer, and not a mall walker, sometimes you just want a place to stretch your legs that is “semi” outside feeling but without the risk of breaking your neck or your leg on icy sidewalks.
The track is free and open to the public. Make sure you wear layers as the facility maintains a temperature 40 degrees above the outside temperature. That sounds kind of toasty when it’s 35 degrees out, but maybe not as much when it’s below zero? You are allowed to use a stroller if you want to bundle up your little and walk.
Schools
Indian Trails is located within the Edina Public Schools district, and is served by Creek Valley Elementary School, Valley View Middle School, and Edina High School.
Shopping
Indian Trails is located near several shopping destinations in Edina and the surrounding areas. Here are a few options:
Southdale Center: Located approximately 5 miles north of Indian Trails, Southdale Center is a large indoor shopping mall with over 100 stores, including anchor tenants like Macy’s, JCPenney, and AMC Theatres. It takes up a large area between York & France Aves just south of 66th street. You’ll also find store like Target, whole foods, Lunds and Byerly’s groceries in this area. Trader Joes and Total Wine & Spirits is just south of this area at France & 494. In addition there is some upscale shopping all along France including inside the Galleria Mall.
Another option is to head about 6 miles west to Eden Prairie Center. Eden Prairie Center is another large indoor shopping mall with over 90 stores, including anchor tenants like Von Maur, JCPenney, and Target.
If you like an outdoor shopping area that is easy to navigate on foot, check out the intersection of 50th & France approximately 4 miles northeast of Indian Trails. It is a popular shopping district in Edina with a mix of independent shops and restaurants. In addition there is a small independent movie theater (The Edina Theater) that has recently been updated and is a real contribution to the area if you like movies and are also interested in seeing some of the smaller films that may not be blockbusters. Located in the same area is another Lunds and Byerly’s grocery.
Libraries
If you need your Public Library fix, the neighborhood is located almost exactly equidistant from the Eden Prairie Library just west of 169 across the street from the Eden Prairie Mall. It’s convenient if you’re running to Target over there or grabbing a bite at one of the many restaurants nearby. I believe that this library recently had a fairly significant update, and it was pretty nice to begin with! This is not a small library, but one of the larger libraries in the Hennepin County library system.
Eden Prairie Library:
Edina Library
The other options are the Edina Public Library which is just west of 100 where it crosses 50th street, also a lovely building that is a pleasure to spend time in or the 3rd option in Edina is the Southdale Library on York. This may be the only time you hear me say anything negative about a library, but I am not a fan. It’s pretty ugly, it doesn’t feel like a place I want to spend time. It harkens back to the earlier days when it was paired with a court building. Something about that doesn’t fit well. I dare you to disagree with me … THIS is the Southdale Library. (thumbs down).
They had planned to move this library into an empty department store at Southdale Mall before the pandemic, and then shelved those plans. I thought that was an innovative way to fill a large empty anchor spot at that mall and draw more people over there. While we are talking about that mall, it hosts a fairly new edition in the form of the LifeTime fitness health club. This place is a palace, with restaurants, co-working space, pools, soccer fields, spa, tennis and pickleball courts etc.
This mall also has the closest Apple Store in case you need some help or a new piece of tech. However, a library in there wouldn’t hurt. 😉
Overall, Indian Trails is a highly desirable neighborhood in Edina, known for its peaceful surroundings, natural beauty, and strong sense of community.
Do you have another community that you’re interested in? Drop a comment down below and I will add it to my list – I love getting content ideas from people that read my blog or watch my videos because it helps me give you what you’re looking for!
I suffer from nostalgia and I’m a sucker for charming old homes and neighborhoods that remind me of movie sets. And that’s why I feel squishy inside when I spend time in Highland Park in St. Paul. It’s a condition, don’t mock me!
Types of homes
The Highland Park neighborhood of St Paul is right next to the MacGroveland neighborhood and shares so many of the same characteristics. The homes are here older and filled with all of that original charm. St. Paul was settled before Minneapolis and the housing stock there reflects it in many areas.
Many of the homes were built in the early 1900’s and often have original hard wood floors, beautiful wide wood moldings, built-ins, plaster walls, detached garages and other features of homes built at that time. Another feature that I love on old homes that you’ll often see here are porches where you can sit and enjoy the gorgeous weather that we have here spring through fall. I think porches and sidewalks encourage a sense of community and give opportunities to see and talk to neighbors.
As you enter the neighborhood from the west on Ford Parkway you’ll notice a large construction site which is a planned community / new construction development, so if you want the city lifestyle and access but AREN’T interested in old homes, this can be a great option for you. It’s called Highland Bridge and its a couple of different developments including row homes and a senior living development, community park, shops and restaurants. This won’t be where you find a bargain – row homes are at the upper end of the pricing for this part of St. Paul at $1.5M+, there are also custom single family homes being built with lot prices starting at around $500K.
Amenities
One of the things I like about city living is the access to sidewalks and bike lanes as well as the ability to get to restaurants parks and shops relatively easily, on foot, on bike, or in a vehicle. Highland Park is home to all of these things, it has a robust commercial area so you won’t need to go far to grab a bite or do some shopping and recreation is convenient as well, it has a golf course, and easy access to the massive park system along the Mississippi River with all of the bike trails that run throughout (72 miles along the Mississippi rover alone!) and connect to so many local and regional trails in the Minneapolis St Paul region.
Another stand out to me was the local library branch and the Highland Park Rec Center which offers Highland Park Community Center offers educational programs, after school activities, open gym, tot-times, family events, fitness center memberships, youth and adult athletics, S’more Fun childcare, Highland Park Community Center Theatre, field rentals, rental space for parties, meetings, and events, and so much more.
Home prices
The average home price in Highland Park for the typical house is a little more than $441K, its charming neighbor, MacGroveland is just a little bit more from an average home price perspective.
Access
This neighborhood also has easy access to both Minneapolis and St. Paul for work – as well as the freeways that lead to the South, SW and SE suburbs, or anywhere that you want to go within the metro area. Typically if you work on one side of the river you try to live on that side for easy commuting, but I think Highland Park benefits from a great central location from a commuting perspective. Light rail is also within 1 mile of the neighborhood and there is a bus system in St. Paul.
It seems like one of the big benefits of the suburbs would be easy access to stores like Target, and Highland Park actually has an adorable little Target in their main commercial area off of Ford Parkway & Cleveland.
Shopping
Groceries are within easy reach at the Target, Lunds and Byerlys or a short drive to Kowalskis.
Schools
Children living in this area will attend St. Paul public schools Horace Mann Elementary, Highland Park Middle School, and Highland Park Senior High.
Whether you like historic homes with that old fashioned charm or you’re looking for new construction urban townhomes, this neighborhood has both, along with all the things that people choose city living for.
Prior Lake is a good place to consider if you’re looking for the following things – LAKES, parks, space around your house, a cute downtown and proximity to the cities! Watch the video if you want to see for yourself.
Where is Prior Lake?
Prior Lake is a suburb south of the Twin Cities, in Scott County MN. It sits about 20 miles from the Minneapolis border on the SW side of the city, and if you’re concerned about commutes or getting to the airport, it’s approximately 25 minutes to MSP and likely about 10-15 minutes more to downtown Minneapolis or into St. Paul.
If you like the idea of taking a commuter bus line into the city you can ride the express (no stops!) Minnesota Valley Transit Authority bus from Prior Lake into Minneapolis. I think some people have a knee jerk reaction to busses and believe they are dirty and uncomfortable but these busses are similar to tour busses. Pure luxury. 😉 and in true Minneapolis fashion they have bike racks!
Quality of life – from the actual people that live there!
96% of residents rated the quality of life in Prior Lake as good or excellent! There are some happy people down there. Approximately 25,902 of the 27,000 people that live there are happy! You still have a 4% chance of running into someone who is a little salty, but odds are better that you’ll be bumping into someone that’s blooming where they’ve been planted.
Prior Lake has that charming downtown that many people like, but most of the city is zoned as rural subdivisions & “low density residential”. It’s not what I would consider “walkable” for the great majority of residents. I do think this will appeal to people who like a bit more space around their homes, the city does have remaining agricultural areas, as well as denser neighborhoods of townhomes and an older town center with homes that are older, closer together and more walkable.
Prices for homes
Prices in Prior Lake range widely – there were 2 condos that were priced at or around $200K when I looked at current listings, but the median price for homes in Prior Lake is $475K. Single family homes in the $300’s tended to be either townhomes or 1960’s to 1980ish split levels. Homes that were built before the boom of subdivisions down there. Split levels can be a little controversial, I feel like people love them or hate them, but the good points are that they typically have a large amount of living space and if they were built in this time period the lots are generally larger as well. I saw one home listed with deeded lake access (not lake front!) in the mid $500’s. There are new construction homes in Prior Lake starting in the $600’s. But, if you want to be ON the lake you’ll pay a premium and will likely be spending upwards of $1M.
SINGLE FAMILY Median pricesAll property types compared to neighboring areas
I pulled median pricing for neighboring areas over the past three years as well and here you can see how Prior Lake compares to Lakeville and Savage (which I have a video for, check that out if you’re curious!).
Parks
Speaking of lakes – if you’re not one of the fortunate ones that owns a little slice for yourself, Prior Lake does have two swimming beaches as part of their extensive park system. They have two major regional parks – Cleary Lake and Spring Lake which are part of the exceptional Three Rivers Park District, as well as having easy access to nearby Murphy Hanrehan Regional Park.
The city has 55 parks within it, mainly community parks, and lays claim to 100 miles of trails and sidewalks. The park district also has two large athletic complexes, an archery range and 14 lakes with fishing piers, boat slips, beaches and green space. The park district sponsors all kinds of sports including the super popular Pickleball, beanbag, and volleyball leagues. In winter the park district maintains 6 outdoor skating rinks.
Fests
Minnesotans love a good festival or celebration and Prior Lake sponsors several. In summer they have a large music festival which attracts bigger acts – Lynyrd Skynyrd headlined this year. Freebird!
In fall they host a candy crawl for the kids, and there is a new and I think, interesting event called Chalk Fest. They invite professional sidewalk chalk artists to create works and non-professionals can compete for prizes as well.
If you have school-aged children they will attend Prior Lake Savage Area Schools. There are 7 elementary schools, 2 middle schools and one high school serving the area. You can look up information on their web site, check out what Great Schools and Niche.com have to say about the schools, but schools welcome prospective parents and students for tours as you consider your options and I always think that’s a good step.
If you love books and all the programming and services that the library provides you’ll find that at the Prior Lake Library, which is one of the six branches of the Scott County Library System. It’s located right in the heart of the little downtown area of Prior Lake. The library also hosts Club Prior which is its senior citizen programing.
And the moment you’ve all been waiting for! You can have up to 4 chickens! but only 3 “regular” pets like cats and dogs. Fences are allowed if they aren’t banned by an HOA (thinking about the Wilds golf community where I believe it’s unlikely that you’ll have either of these).
Fences must have 50% transparency in front (picket etc) and be no higher than 4′ and 6 ft with total privacy in back, if you want to build a great wall higher than 7′ tall you’ll need to get a permit from the city.
You should check out the rest of the places I’ve profiled! I have an entire playlist of neighborhoods and suburbs on my YouTube Channel. Lots of good info out there is you’re trying to pick a place to live.
Reach out if you have questions, always happy to help.
I’m sticking closer to home today and taking you on a tour of the Armatage neighborhood in Southwest Minneapolis! If you want to see what the homes and area look like – watch this video!
Homes in the Armatage neighborhood began to be built in the 1940s, and by 1960 most of the neighborhood was established. The homes in the area really reflect the time period, a lot of post-war (WWII!) bungalows and as the construction reached the ’60’s they began putting up what Minnesotans call “ramblers” and the rest of the country calls “ranch” homes. You still see some 1 car garages, and most garages are accessed off the alley which gives the street and yard areas of the homes a really beautiful feel because they aren’t broken up with driveways, cars and trashcans.
Easy commutes!
Prices
I did a comparison of median home prices for Armatage and the surrounding areas including Edina which is the suburb which borders the neighborhood on the west, the Kenny neighborhood to the east and the city of Minneapolis over all. You can see where Armatage stacks up and how it compares to prices in the city overall.
The highest priced home on the market in Armatage today is a house that was originally built in 1948, but has since undergone a complete renovation and has had a second floor added. It was priced at $799,900. It has 5 bedrooms, 5 baths, a 4 car garage and nearly 3,000 sf. This is not a typical home in the area, but we have seen a lot of homes pop upward like this as people try to stay in the neighborhood but want more living space than the 1940’s or 1950’s bungalows provide.
A more typical house for sale right now is a bungalow priced near the median at $445K, built in 1951 and still reflecting the character of the day. It has about 2000 sf and has 3 beds, 3 baths and a 2 car garage. The lowest priced home I saw currently listed is at $285, a 3 bed, 1 bath home that has been used as a rental and can probably use a bit of TLC.
Neighborhood association
Armatage has a very active neighborhood association and they hold several events throughout the year including a chili cook off, a holiday light display competition, free movies in the park in summer, a fire-on-ice winter celebration with bonfires and ice skating at the park rink, food truck nights and a summer festival. If you have children the park district has after school programs through community education at Armatage Park Community Center and they also have all day programming there throughout the summer.
Children in the neighborhood are currently zoned for Armatage Elementary (formerly a Montessori magnet school) In 1952, the Armatage Community School was built, children move on to Susan B Anthony Middle School which is International Baccalaureate School, and then Southwest High School.
Neighborhood Amenities
Armatage has a close community feel and has the benefit of easily accessible local favorites for restaurants including Pizzeria Lola,Red Wagon Pizza, Book Club, Colita, & Cafe Ceres. It’s a quick ride to shopping to Edina for Southdale Mall or any of the surrounding shops and restaurants including the Galleria for more upscale shopping. Groceries are easy to find at nearby Lunds and Byerly’s or Kowalskis, or if you’re just down the street in Edina you can hit Whole Foods or Trader Joes. Costco people will find the St. Louis Park location the closest – but in my opinion it’s also the craziest one – always mobbed and worth it to drive to Eagan or Eden Prairie instead.
In addition to the large community park, Armatage is well located to reach the paths around Lake Harriet or Minnehaha Creek. As with all areas of Minneapolis, there is a large focus on bicycling and public streets have bike lanes which are heavily used. The city of Minneapolis also has sidewalks lining both sides of the street so you’ll be safe if you decide to walk up to the lake or creek as well.
If you’re curious about other area of the city or suburbs, check out my playlist on YouTube! I cover a bunch of them and I’m always adding more, if there is an area that you’re interested in and you don’t see a video – reach out and I may add it to the list, but can at least answer questions.
Need access to the cities but want a small town feel, White Bear Lake has it! I love where I live but every single time I go to White Bear Lake I want to move there! This suburb of Saint Paul just has a good feel to it – from the historic downtown to the lake and parks. If you’re looking for a walkable lifestyle this should be on your list of places you consider! Watch the video below to see what I mean – lots of footage of the downtown and the homes.
White Bear Lake sits north of St Paul (so if you’re not from around here that’s the east side of Minneapolis St. Paul), if you work in downtown Saint Paul you’re about a 15 minute commute or to downtown Minneapolis it’s about 25 minutes. Getting to the airport will take a little longer because it’s on the opposite side of the city, but if you’re only heading there periodically it shouldn’t be a problem, it’s less than 30 minutes in decent traffic.
Downtown White Bear Lake drips CHARM from top to bottom. Most of the homes in the downtown area have a historic look and feel, but are well maintained. As you move out away from that central downtown area homes get a little newer but this is not the place to look if you want new build / subdivision feel. WBL was an old resort town and escape from the city and the rail line still runs right up to it, it retains that feeling of a lakeside vacation area today. The old downtown has a ton of options for restaurants, pubs, bakeries, shops and other services like salons or day spas. The library is downtown as well, it’s a busy bright and modern space that is part of the Ramsey County Library System.
In the summer and fall, Grab your morning coffee and a muffin from one of the bakeries and then enjoy the community and seeing your neighbors while you shop for locally produced eggs, honey, fruits and vegetables at the farmers market held in downtown every Friday morning from June through October.
For a small town white bear lake has a pretty big focus on the arts and you can take classes or take in a show at the White Bear Center for the Arts, The Player’s Theater or the Children’s Performing Arts.
HOUSING
Home prices in WBL range from the mid-$200’s for a townhouse to $1.2M for a new construction lake front home. If you want to live directly on the lake, prices are consistently over $1M, but you can find something more moderately priced with lake front access.
Currently White Bear Lake has a tighter sellers market than the metro area as a whole – they are sitting at only .7 months of inventory whereas the twin cities is a little over a month on average.
Schools
White Bear Lake Area Schools are the big cahuna in this part of the metro they serve all or parts of Birchwood, Gem Lake, Hugo, Lino Lakes, Little Canada, Maplewood, North Oaks, Vadnais Heights, White Bear Lake and White Bear Township.There are a lot of schools in the district, so do your research and see which one will work best for your kids. You can look at sites like Great Schools or Niche.com, but schools welcome visitors that want to tour and get questions answered before making a decision.
Parks
White bear lake is home to 24 parks including access to docks at the lake, a disc golf course, and access to Bald Eagle-Otter Lakes Park which is one of 4 Ramsey County regional parks. This park has a playground, boat launch, fishing pier, access to the Tamarack Nature Center and an off-leash dog area. If you’re looking for swimming, White Bear Lake County park has a swimming beach, this park is located just north of the downtown area.
A city in Minnesota couldn’t hold up it’s head if they didn’t have an ice arena – White Bear Lake is home to the Sports Center Ice Arena where you can participate in or watch the state sport of MN – ice hockey – or for those without the urge to body check someone simply some ice skating. You don’t have to be a member to use the ice here, it’s pay as you go!
Hey – if you have questions about anything real estate or living in the Twin Cities related, let me know! I’m happy to help!
I went out and looked at some of the homes on the Parade of Homes tour and this custom build was so pretty. Click to watch my tour with the listing agent. It was a truly grim day on the outside, but bright and comfortable inside!
