Minneapolis is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural tapestry, diverse communities, and unique neighborhoods—each offering its own distinct character and charm. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, an investor, or simply looking to relocate within the city, understanding the nuances of Minneapolis neighborhoods is essential to finding the right place to call home. In this article, we’ll explore some of the city’s most sought-after areas, highlighting key features, amenities, and lifestyle benefits to help you make an informed real estate decision.
Downtown Minneapolis
Downtown West is the heart of the Minneapolis business district, with a great retail community and residential condos in high demand. Downtown East, which lies east of Highway 35W, has seen remarkable renovations of historic mills along the waterfront, offers charming condos and lofts for a 21st century lifestyle. The backdrop could not be prettier: Stone Arch Bridge, St Anthony Falls, and Mill Ruins Park by the Mississippi. The fun-filled Mill City Museum was once the world’s largest flour mill. The Guthrie Theater presents classic and modern drama—and cafes and ice-cream parlors wait for you after the show. The West Bank (Cedar-Riverside) offers has plenty of riverside condos, such as Riverview Tower, Stonebridge Lofts, and The Legacy. Just south, Seward is home to the Playwrights Center.
North Loop
The North Loop Neighborhood, bordered by Highways 94 and 394 and the Mississippi River, is the city’s historic warehouse district. The fastest-growing Minneapolis neighborhood, it offers classic rock at Target Field, local foods at the Minneapolis Farmers Market, the best restaurants in town, and an emerging fashion and retail scene. And let’s not forget the Acme Comedy Club, with the fabulous comedians and open-mic Mondays. Live, love, and laugh in the North Loop neighborhood.
Marcy-Holmes
This neighborhood is on the west side of the University of Minnesota and just west of the Como Neighborhood and Prospect Park, and east of the Mississippi. Marcy-Holmes is a diverse community, with walkable downtown areas in St Anthony Main and Dinkytown. Shop where the locals go: Lund’s & Byerly’s Grocery Store. The Village Lofts at St Anthony Falls attract keen attention among condo shoppers given the desirable locale, near St Anthony Main, Nicollet Island, great nearby cyclers’ attractions such as Boom Island Park, and the shops of East Hennepin. Windom Park is a great ice skating destination.
Nicollet Island / East Bank
Framed by the Mississippi and Hennepin Avenue East, Nicollet Island has several nearby condo communities, including La Rive Condos, and Falls and Pinnacle. Look out over downtown Minneapolis and the Stone Arch Bridge. The beautifully restored Nicollet Island Pavilion is available as a spectacular venue for weddings and other events. And the Nicollet Island Inn is beloved by tourists and locals alike.
Stevens Square and Loring Park
Stevens Square (its full name is Stevens Square – Loring Heights) is the southernmost neighborhood the central Minneapolis community. Lyndale Avenue, Franklin Avenue, and Interstates 94 and 35W mark its boundaries. Here, you’ll find old brownstone apartments and mansions converted to condos. Much of the neighborhood is a National Historic District. Loring Park is a key feature of Central Community of Minneapolis, home the Loring Park Artists’ Festival and right near the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. Surrounding the park is an active, engaged population and a thriving business community, and plenty of local restaurants.
Elliot Park
Elliot Park is south of Downtown West and Downtown East, and adjacent to Loring Park, Elliot Park is a vibrant and historic neighborhood in the heart of Minneapolis. Known for its rich character and ongoing revitalization, the area is anchored by major institutions such as Hennepin County Medical Center and North Central University. Elliot Park continues to grow as a residential and cultural hub, with an expanding array of dining options, local businesses, and community amenities. At the center of the neighborhood lies its namesake, Elliot Park—a beloved green space offering picnic areas, a tot lot, wading pools, and peaceful walking paths, making it a welcoming retreat for residents and visitors alike.
Bde Maka Ska-Isles
Southwest of Downtown Minneapolis, bordered by Lake of Isles, Lake Bde Maka Ska (formerly Calhoun), and Cedar Lake, you’ll find this desirable Minneapolis Chain of Lakes neighborhood. Social highlights include the Uptown Art fair east of the lakes, and the Uptown Business District, with its trendy night life.
Great condo shopping awaits you in Chain of Lakes niches:
- Put Bancroft on your list, for affordable single-family homes in tree-lined avenues.
- The best of all worlds, Bryn Mawr is bordered by parklands and the suburbs.
- Kenwood is home to—of course—The Kenwood.
- Frank Lloyd Wright designed the Frieda and Henry J. Neils House, beside Cedar Lake in the upscale neighborhood of Cedar-Isles-Dean.
- Lowry Hill, in the eastern section, has Thomas Lowry Park, and for dining there’s The Lowry, Rinata, and so much more. Common Roots Restaurant is the place for students and bookish types looking for WiFi and a beer.
- Further east, the Whittier neighborhood—named, wonderfully, for poet John Greenleaf Whittier—is the home of the Minneapolis Institute of Art and many fine restaurants.
Southeast Minneapolis
Here you’ll find houses and condos in some of the most gorgeous surroundings.
One of the most beloved natural attractions in the Twin Cities, Minnehaha has stunning waterfalls surrounded by parklands and forests. There is a great dog park close by, too, and plenty of scenic picnic spots. Yes, the falls are a must-see in winter.
Just south of Phillips, the neighborhood of Corcoran is one of the best places to live in Minnesota. Powderhorn Lake is beloved by ice skaters, and Powderhorn Park is the delightful home of the May Day Parade—and the May Day Café. Standish-Ericsson is bounded by Hiawatha and West Cedar Avenues. The Standish-Ericsson Neighborhood is a close-knit, engaged community beside—and dedicated to protecting—Lake Hiawatha. It has plenty of dining spots and watering holes, and it’s also part of the Powderhorn community. Are you a cyclist who likes a perfect cup of coffee? Then Standish-Ericsson is your community. And the Hiawatha Golf Club offers snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in wintertime.
South Minneapolis: Lyndale and Bryant
The Lyndale and Bryant neighborhoods offer an ideal blend of urban vibrancy and community charm. Bordered by Interstate 35W, West Lake Street, and Lyndale Avenue, Lyndale is known for its dynamic mix of shops, highly regarded schools, lively social scene, and access to beautiful parks.
Together, Lyndale and Bryant support four flourishing community gardens where residents can rent plots to grow their own produce and flowers. A local favorite for entertainment and dining is the iconic Bryant-Lake Bowl, a one-of-a-kind venue offering bowling, theater, and a full-service restaurant and bar.
For those interested in locally sourced food and expert landscape design, nearby Tangletown features popular destinations like Wise Acre Eatery and Tangletown Gardens, both showcasing a commitment to sustainability and artistry.
Phillips
Located just east of the Whittier neighborhood and south of downtown Minneapolis, the Phillips neighborhood is named in honor of renowned abolitionist Wendell Phillips. Known for its rich cultural diversity and strong sense of community, Phillips offers a predominantly residential atmosphere complemented by vibrant local initiatives.
The neighborhood includes the Midtown Phillips area, which actively participates in the city’s Open Streets program—an initiative that celebrates local businesses, promotes sustainable transportation, and encourages community engagement. Phillips is also home to several major corporations, contributing to its dynamic urban environment.
Field, Regina, and Northrop
Located within the vibrant Nokomis Community, the neighborhoods of Field, Regina, and Northrop offer a charming blend of residential appeal, green space, and cultural amenities.
Just west along the scenic Minnehaha Creek lies the Field neighborhood, named after children’s poet Eugene Field. It’s known for its tree-lined streets and proximity to the Museum of Russian Art—making it a desirable area for those seeking single-family homes with character and convenience.
Northrop is anchored by McRae Park, a central gathering space offering recreational opportunities for all ages. The neighborhood is also part of the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway, providing easy access to one of Minneapolis’s most iconic urban park systems.
Regina, nestled between Field and Northrop, offers a tight-knit community feel with easy access to the best of both neighborhoods.
The greater Nokomis area, named for Lake Nokomis itself, includes several other well-loved communities such as Page—home to the Pearl Recreation Center—as well as Diamond Lake, Hale, Keewaydin (known for the cozy Nokomis Beach Coffee Cafe), Wenonah, and Morris Park, a local favorite for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent dining.
Longfellow
Located in south Minneapolis, the Longfellow neighborhood is a vibrant, historic community named after the renowned poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Known for its strong sense of community, the area features abundant green spaces, a popular community garden, and a thriving culinary scene that highlights local flavors and global cuisine.
Included within the larger Longfellow Community is the Cooper neighborhood, a highly desirable area situated along the west bank of the Mississippi River. Named after novelist James Fenimore Cooper, this riverside enclave offers scenic views and direct access to the 80-foot Mississippi River Gorge—a rare and protected natural landscape designated as a national treasure.
Southwest Minneapolis
Great finds await!
Armatage
Armatage is a welcoming, primarily residential neighborhood characterized by well-maintained single-family homes and a strong sense of community. Known for its top-rated schools, vibrant community park, and popular recreation center, Armatage is an ideal choice for those seeking a family-oriented lifestyle.
Residents enjoy the convenience of local shopping along Penn Avenue South, where small businesses add to the neighborhood’s charm. In addition to single-family homes, Armatage also offers a selection of updated condominiums, catering to a variety of housing preferences. Whether you’re drawn to the beautifully preserved older homes or the modern amenities of newer properties, Armatage combines comfort, community, and convenience in one of Minneapolis’ most desirable settings.
East Harriet
Located along the picturesque shores of Lake Harriet, the East Harriet neighborhood offers a unique blend of historic charm, urban convenience, and natural beauty. This well-established community is part of Southwest Minneapolis and is known for its tree-lined streets, early 20th-century architecture, and welcoming atmosphere.
East Harriet is ideal for those who appreciate classic Minneapolis character paired with easy access to outdoor recreation. The neighborhood features a mix of Craftsman, Tudor, and Colonial-style homes, many of which have been beautifully maintained or thoughtfully updated.
Residents enjoy direct access to Lake Harriet and the surrounding parkway system, which includes walking and biking trails, the Lyndale Park Rose Garden, and the historic Lake Harriet Bandshell. These amenities make East Harriet a haven for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families alike.
In addition to its natural attractions, East Harriet boasts a vibrant community spirit and proximity to shopping, dining, and cultural amenities in nearby Uptown, Lyn-Lake, and the 50th & France district. The neighborhood is served by top-rated schools and offers a strong sense of community, with active neighborhood associations and seasonal events that bring residents together.
Whether you’re drawn to the timeless homes, the scenic green spaces, or the close-knit community, East Harriet is a neighborhood that captures the best of Minneapolis living.
Fulton
Nestled in the southwest corner of Minneapolis, the Fulton neighborhood is a sought-after residential community known for its charming character, tree-lined streets, and strong sense of community. Bordering Edina to the west and Lake Harriet to the east, Fulton offers a blend of serene suburban living with convenient access to urban amenities.
Fulton is part of the larger Southwest community of Minneapolis and is recognized for its well-maintained homes, many of which feature classic Craftsman, Tudor, and Colonial Revival architectural styles. The neighborhood boasts excellent walkability, with local shops, restaurants, and cafés clustered along 50th & France, a vibrant commercial district that draws visitors from across the Twin Cities.
Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the proximity to Lake Harriet, where walking and biking trails, scenic views, and recreational opportunities abound. The neighborhood is also home to Pershing Park, a community hub offering sports facilities, playgrounds, and seasonal events for all ages.
Fulton is served by Minneapolis Public Schools, including the highly regarded Lake Harriet Community School, making it an attractive area for families. Its close-knit community atmosphere, low crime rates, and strong neighborhood association contribute to its reputation as one of the most desirable places to live in Minneapolis.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful residential enclave or a vibrant lifestyle near lakes and shops, Fulton offers the best of both worlds.
Kenny
Kenny is known for its strong sense of community and its reputation for safety, offering residents a welcoming environment. The neighborhood features the picturesque wetlands of Grass Lake, providing natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Residents enjoy access to a well-established yoga center, a variety of dining options, and convenient city amenities. Efficient public transportation connects Kenny to downtown Minneapolis in approximately 15 minutes via a highly rated bus service, making it an ideal location for those seeking both tranquility and accessibility.
Kingfield
Discover the charm of the Kingfield neighborhood, where residents enjoy the vibrant Kingfield Farmers Market and dining at Bûcheron Restaurant. Whether you’re searching for a condo or a single-family home, Kingfield offers a vibrant community atmosphere with a genuine neighborhood feel. The nearby Center for Performing Arts attracts a dynamic mix of educators, students, and artists, adding a rich cultural dimension to this lively area.
Linden Hills
Nestled between Lake Harriet and Bde Maka Ska, Linden Hills is one of Minneapolis’ sought-after neighborhoods—known for its charming streets, strong sense of community, and commitment to sustainability. Home to the beloved Linden Hills Co-op, the area offers residents and visitors alike access to fresh, locally sourced, and organic foods.
Linden Hills is a model for low-carbon, eco-conscious living, with a variety of green spaces, pedestrian-friendly paths, and bike-friendly routes that make it easy to embrace a sustainable lifestyle. The neighborhood seamlessly blends small-town charm with modern amenities, making it a standout destination for those who value local flavor, outdoor recreation, and environmentally minded living.
Lynnhurst
Lynnhurst is a picturesque, residential neighborhood known for its charming 1940s bungalows and tree-lined streets. This serene community offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban convenience, with Minnehaha Creek meandering through the area—ideal for cycling, jogging, kayaking, or simply enjoying a peaceful stroll.
Lynnhurst also boasts a vibrant local scene with a variety of independently owned cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops that give the neighborhood its warm, welcoming character. It’s a perfect setting for those seeking both tranquility and easy access to the best of Minneapolis living.
Northeast Minneapolis
The Northeast has some great opportunities.
Let us show you around Logan Park, right in the middle of the Northeast Minneapolis arts district. And the Marshall Terrace neighborhood has some great finds in tree-lined avenues close to the riverside. Don’t overlook the Willard-Hay Neighborhood and the Near North. Urban wildlife can be spotted in this area, thanks to the parklands and trails. The Northside Resident Redevelopment Council is stimulating renovations, and you’ll find a great mix of cultural groups in Willard-Hay. Nearby is the Warehouse District, with its unusual shops and entertainment offerings.
Northeast Park
Northeast Park is a diverse, dynamic neighborhood that combines residential charm with urban convenience. Known for its central location and accessibility, the neighborhood appeals to a wide range of residents.
One of the standout features of Northeast Park is its proximity to both cultural and recreational amenities. The area is home to the popular Northeast Athletic Field Park, a sprawling green space that includes sports fields, playgrounds, and the Jim Lupient Water Park, a seasonal favorite for families. The neighborhood also borders the bustling Quarry Shopping Center, offering a wide selection of national retailers, grocery stores, and dining options — all within walking distance or a short drive.
Architecturally, the neighborhood features a mix of mid-century single-family homes, townhomes, and modern apartment complexes, offering housing options for various lifestyles and price points. Its tree-lined streets, sidewalks, and parkland contribute to a walkable, inviting atmosphere.
Bottineau
The Bottineau neighborhood is a vibrant, artistic enclave that seamlessly blends historic character with modern creativity. Part of the larger Northeast Arts District, Bottineau is known for its industrial heritage, thriving arts scene, and a strong sense of community—making it a sought-after destination for residents, visitors, and artists alike.
Named after Pierre Bottineau, a 19th-century explorer and settler of French and Ojibwe descent, the neighborhood honors its cultural heritage through preserved architecture and a dynamic artistic presence. Former industrial buildings have been reimagined as live/work studios and creative spaces, including prominent venues like the Northrup King Building and the California Building, which serve as key hubs for local artists and galleries.
Bottineau’s close proximity to the Mississippi River enhances its appeal with scenic walking and biking trails, as well as access to peaceful riverfront parks such as Gluek Park and BF Nelson Park. These green spaces offer a natural retreat within the urban landscape, just minutes from downtown Minneapolis.
The neighborhood is celebrated for its welcoming and engaged community. Independent cafes, local businesses, and regular neighborhood events foster a close-knit atmosphere that reflects Bottineau’s inclusive and creative spirit. Easy access to public transit and major thoroughfares ensures convenient connectivity to surrounding neighborhoods and the city center. Nearby corridors like Lowry Avenue and Central Avenue offer diverse dining, shopping, and cultural experiences that showcase the area’s eclectic charm.
Housing options in Bottineau range from classic early-20th-century homes and cozy bungalows to contemporary lofts and condominiums.
Columbia Park
Columbia Park offers a seamlessly blends classic architecture, outdoor recreation, and urban convenience. Distinguished by its stately Tudor and Colonial-style homes, the neighborhood offers impressive curb appeal and a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere.
Residents enjoy the benefits of low traffic streets and sustainable public transportation, with easy bus access to downtown Minneapolis. Columbia Park is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts—bordered by the scenic St. Anthony Parkway and the Mississippi River, the area features an extensive network of walking and biking trails.
At the heart of the neighborhood is the expansive Columbia Golf Course, one of the oldest in the city. In the winter, the park transforms into a hub for skiing and sledding. Additional amenities include a popular off-leash dog park, wading pools, playgrounds, and open green spaces ideal for year-round enjoyment.
Columbia Park offers a perfect balance of natural beauty, architectural charm, and accessibility—making it a beloved and enduring part of Northeast Minneapolis.
North Minneapolis
North Minneapolis, often simply called “North,” is a vibrant and historically rich area that combines urban character, cultural diversity, and a strong sense of community. Bordered by the Mississippi River to the east and the neighboring cities of Robbinsdale and Brooklyn Center to the west and north, this region encompasses a variety of residential neighborhoods, thriving green spaces, and a robust network of locally owned businesses.
Key neighborhoods within North Minneapolis include Victory, Camden, Near North, and Hawthorne—each contributing unique histories and identities to the larger community fabric. These neighborhoods exemplify the area’s resilient spirit and deep-rooted commitment to community connection.
North Minneapolis is celebrated for its culturally rich and diverse communities. This cultural mosaic is celebrated through local festivals, vibrant arts programs, and community centers that foster creativity and engagement among residents of all ages.
The housing landscape in North Minneapolis features everything from charming early-20th-century bungalows and Craftsman-style homes to contemporary new builds and multi-family dwellings.
Residents enjoy ample access to parks and green spaces throughout the area. North Mississippi Regional Park offers picturesque walking and biking trails along the riverfront, while Victory Memorial Parkway provides a historic and scenic drive through the Victory and Camden neighborhoods. The community also benefits from well-maintained playgrounds, community gardens, and recreational facilities that support active lifestyles and neighborhood engagement.
North Minneapolis benefits from a convenient location with easy access to downtown Minneapolis via major highways such as I-94 and Highway 100. Public transportation is readily available through several Metro Transit bus routes, and ongoing improvements to bike infrastructure continue to enhance connectivity and mobility for residents throughout the area.
If you’re considering buying or selling a condo or single-family home in Minneapolis, you need a trusted expert by your side. Contact Shannon Lindstrom, Realtor with RE/MAX Results, to guide you through every step of the process with professionalism and personalized service. Reach out today to make your real estate goals a reality!
Shannon Lindstrom, Realtor®, CDRE®, CREDS, GREEN, MILRES, MRP, VCA
RE/MAX Results
Direct: 612-616-9714
[email protected]
[email protected]
www.ShannonLindstromRealtor.com
www.ShannonLindstrom.info
