THE TWIN CITIES
Minneapolis
City Offices
350 South Fifth Street
Minneapolis 612-673-3000
www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us
Chamber of Commerce
81 South 9th Street
Minneapolis 612-370-9100
www.minneapolischamber.org
Located near the border of Wisconsin, the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul serve as the dynamic heart of Minnesota’s leading metro region. The Twin Cities metro area boasts an economy that is praised for its strength and depth, a lush landscape dotted with sparkling lakes and covered by deep woodlands, wonderful residential communities, and one of the nation’s most active cultural communities. While Minneapolis and Saint Paul are closely aligned in spirit and location, they are not identical twins. Each city is proud of its distinctive personality and unique attractions, from entertainment centers and nightlife to elegant venues for the performing and visual arts.
Minneapolis is the larger of the Twin Cities, serving as the educational, healthcare, commercial, cultural, entertainment, and economic hub for suburban Hennepin County. With its gleaming skyline and contemporary feeling, Minneapolis is often called the most eastern of the “Western cities.” Graced by the grandeur of historic architecture, Saint Paul is dubbed as the most western of the “Eastern cities.” Many characteristics make Minneapolis stand out as one of the most livable urban communities in the nation. Some of the more apparent of these advantages are the vibrant downtown area, the city’s dedication to the arts, and a park system that showcases the many scenic lakes located within its boundaries.
Services
Newcomers to Minneapolis will discover outstanding services that range from efficient transportation that includes light rail to nationally acclaimed healthcare and educational resources. Complementing the area’s network of award-winning public and private schools, the opportunities to pursue a higher education are abundant. Two-year institutions are strategically located throughout Hennepin County to offer students of all ages an affordable start on a four-year degree or a wide range of certification and degree programs as well as continuing education and career training. Choices include Anoka-Hennepin Technical College, Hennepin Technical College, Minneapolis Community & Technical College, and North Hennepin Community College. Minneapolis is home to a campus for the University of Minnesota and Metropolitan State University. Residents will also find an impressive list of private colleges and universities that include Augsburg College, Capella University, the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, Walden University, North Central University, the University of Phoenix, and St. Mary’s University of Minnesota. The suburban communities that surround Minneapolis add valuable options like the Alfred Adler Graduate School in Hopkins or Cardinal Stritch University in Edina, while Saint Paul is recognized for its cluster of exceptional institutions of higher education.
Healthcare services and facilities in Minneapolis are among the finest in the nation, crowned by the highly respected University of Minnesota Medical School and Fairview Health Services. The two-campus University of Minnesota Medical Center Fairview in Minneapolis, along with its Children’s Hospital, provides some of the world’s most advanced specialties. Partnering with the University of Minnesota’s acclaimed Organ Transplant and Blood and Marrow Transplant research programs, Fairview claims the largest kidney transplant program in the world. Hennepin County Medical Center serves as a public teaching hospital in downtown Minneapolis, also affiliated with the University of Minnesota Medical School. The Fairview system extends into suburban centers to encompass a network of hospitals and scores of primary and urgent-care clinics. Abbott Northwestern Hospital of Allina Hospitals & Clinics is distinguished as the largest not-for-profit hospital in the Twin Cities area, while Shriners Hospital for Children provides another valuable resource in specialized pediatric care.
Lifestyle
Harmonizing lovely residential neighborhoods with bustling commercial districts and a flourishing economy, Minneapolis consistently garners recognition and national accolades for livability and vitality. Boasting professional and collegiate sports teams that never fail to draw frenzied crowds to spectacular venues, Minneapolis is a major-league town. In fact, the city is the origin of the Los Angles Lakers (formerly the Minneapolis Lakers), one of the most famous basketball teams of all time. Those who appreciate the arts will be pleased to know that the city’s theater scene is equally legendary. In fact, Minneapolis is second only to New York for theater seats per capita. Home to the Hennepin Theatre District with its historic theaters in the heart of downtown, the city is internationally known for Tony Award-winning groups like the Guthrie Theater and the Children’s Theatre. Scores of venues that range from dazzling to intimate showcase nearly 100 theatre groups as well as Broadway shows and performances by symphony orchestras, dance groups, musicians, and opera companies.
Throughout Minneapolis, newcomers will discover museums for art, science, and history along with celebrated historical sites. The Museum of Russian Art is the only North American museum dedicated solely to Russian art from the Soviet period. Recently expanded to double its size, the Walker Art Museum has been hailed by Newsweek as “possibly the best contemporary art museum in the country.” The Minneapolis Institute of Arts has recently added more exhibit space, while the Weisman Art Museum with its gleaming Frank Gehry-designed metal-clad structure is now a Minneapolis icon. Aficionados of history will want to stroll through Mill Ruins Park, the centerpiece of the city’s historic West Side Milling District. This jewel of the Minneapolis riverfront draws residents and visitors alike to a unique collage of 19th-century mill foundation walls, canals, tailraces, and other historic resources. Spectacular views of St. Anthony Falls and the nearby Stone Arch Bridge are as distinctly Minneapolis as the contemporary attractions of the skyway system that connects most of downtown, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, the colossal Spoon bridge and Cherry Fountain, and the famous Nicollet Mall.
Recreational opportunities are abundant and close to home in this four-season wonderland that features local, county, state, and federal parkland. Per capita, Minneapolis leads the nation in the number of recreational swimmers and golfers. Lake Calhoun is only one of many lakefront recreation areas that are ideal for fishing, windsurfing, swimming, sailing and canoeing or more grounded activities like walking, jogging, biking, and skating. Camping, hiking, fishing, and horseback riding are popular leisure activities enhanced by the area’s spectacular scenery and natural beauty. During the winter months, residents enjoy snow tubing, downhill and cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, sledding, and ice skating. The housing selection in Minneapolis offers enough diversity to support every imaginable lifestyle, from downtown lofts and condos to neat townhomes, historic districts, and elegant neighborhoods that showcase luxurious homes and meticulous landscaping. Offering an exceptional quality of life, Minneapolis shines as the shopping and entertainment hub of the Upper Midwest and one of the most energetic and exciting of the nation’s major cities.
MINNEAPOLIS NEIGHBORHOODS
More than 80 neighborhoods are encompassed within nearly 60 square miles in the city of Minneapolis, well managed by nearly a dozen planning districts. Every imaginable lifestyle choice is represented, from the stately homes surrounding Lake of the Isles to the townhomes that line the scenic Mississippi River downtown district. Newcomers will find neighborhoods filled with pre-war classic bungalows and those that harmonize modest to upscale homes along quiet, tree-shaded streets.
The Central District
The core of the city is home to bustling districts and distinctive neighborhoods, including Downtown East and West, North Loop, Elliot Park, Loring Park, Loring Heights, and Stevens Square. The single-family homes in this area blend with a significant number of townhomes and condominiums for a delightful mix of spectacular historic renovations and contemporary jewels. Brisk development along the Mississippi Mile and the surrounding area has driven an increase in population in Downtown West near the west end of Nicollet Mall. Featuring a charming park, fountains, and sculpture, the Loring Park neighborhood has also seen considerable renovation. The Central District creates a uniquely sophisticated urban setting with its mix of turn-of-the-century mansions and brownstone walk-ups with new condominiums, trendy restaurants, businesses, educational institutions, retailers, and cultural attractions.
Calhoun-Isles
Southwest of the Central District and downtown, the natural landmarks of Cedar Lake, Lake of the Isles, and the majority of Lake Calhoun are encompassed within the Calhoun-Isles area and feature prominently in the Chain of Lakes. Neighborhoods that enjoy close proximity to lakefront views include Bryn Mawr, Carag, ECCO, West Calhoun, Cedar-Isles-Dean, Lawry Hill, Lowry Hill East, East Isles, and Kenwood. Kenwood is centrally located within this area, offering a selection of elegant historic homes that were originally built by affluent residents and have been well-maintained over the decades. Even the homes that have been more recently constructed tend to offer architectural interest. The Cedar-Isles-Dean neighborhood features the long-standing Calhoun Beach Club overlooking the lake. West of the lakes, the uptown area blends shops, restaurants, nightclubs, coffee shops, and theaters that mix with well-kept older homes and apartments. Kenilworth Trail connects with the Cedar Lake Trail to offer residents a cycling or pedestrian link to downtown. Lake Calhoun is one of only three sailing lakes within the Minneapolis park system.
Southwest
The southern tip of Lake Calhoun and the centrally located Lake Harriet add panoramic views and natural beauty to the Southwest neighborhoods of Linden Hills, East Harriet, King Field, Fulton, Lynnhurst, Fuller, Armatage, Kenny, and Windom. Lakes Harriett and Lake Calhoun are both sailing lakes within the Minneapolis park system. The housing selection is diverse, ranging from stately properties to small yet charming bungalows. Many homes in the Southwest community were built in the early part of the 20th century, and a significant number of others sprang up from 1920 to 1950 for a wide range of architectural styles. Linden Hills once served as a resort community and retains the picturesque atmosphere of a New England village. Towering shade trees shade tranquil streets, and residents enjoy a close-knit lifestyle where they gather at the coffee shop each morning or stop to chat at the local bakery. The Lynnhurst neighborhood combines views of Lake Harriet on one side and Minnehaha Creek with its lovely wooded banks on the other.
Nokomis
Corresponding to the southeastern quadrant of the city, the Nokomis area takes its name from the scenic natural feature of Lake Nokomis. Lake Hiawatha is another highlight in this area, gracing the Ericsson Neighborhood along the north-central edge of the Nokomis community. Lake Nokomis is one of only three sailing lakes within the Minneapolis park system, while Lake Harriet features a bandshell for delightful concerts. The lake complex covers more than 400 acres to include a community center, sailboat and canoe racks, scenic trails, and ball diamonds. Other neighborhoods that surround Lake Nokomis include Regina, Northup, Field, Page, Hale, Keewaydin, Minnehaha, Diamond Lake, Wenonah, and Morris Park. Well-groomed lawns dotted with seasonal blooms, lush parks, and lovely pathways add visual appeal to the eclectic selection of housing. Craftsmen-built houses built from the 1920s to ’40s in Keewaydin contrast with the magnificent older homes in Diamond Lake or the mixed styles in the Regina area.
Powderhorn
The focal point of the Powderhorn residential community is Powerhorn Park with its picturesque lake centerpiece. Neighborhoods that surround the Powderhorn Park enclave include Central, Corcoran, Bryant, Bancroft, and Standish. One of the unique community efforts in this area is the annual Powderhorn Art Fair, graced by the enchantment of the park. White tents dot the landscape for two days each summer, drawing visitors from across the region and even the nation to the work displayed by participating artists. Proceeds from the fair help to fund park programs that include theatre arts, a computer lab, a teen center, a music recording studio, a pottery studio, and team sports—all amenities that enhance the quality of life. Whittier offers an especially unique housing environment that blends elegant homes from the early 1900s with ’60s apartments. An active neighborhood association is spurring considerable restoration of many “character” properties.
Longfellow
Bordered on the northeast by the rolling Mississippi River, the Longfellow community includes the neighborhoods of Cooper, Hiawatha, Howe, Longfellow, and Seward. This area was named for Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, who wrote about Minnesota and nearby Minnehaha Falls. Longfellow Park is located to the south of Longfellow neighborhood, which is surrounded by 1920s bungalows. Mississippi River Parkway offers a panoramic drive along the river, traversing the Cooper neighborhood. The lion’s share of homes are classic bungalows and pre-war single-story or one-and-a-half story models, often showcasing hardwood floors, built-in buffets, and other details associated with that era. The residences that fringe the riverfront tend to be larger and more luxurious. Many professors, students, and medical professions reside in the Seward neighborhood, which also borders the Mississippi River. The University of Minnesota and Fairview Riverside Medical Center are major employers that have dominated the demographic mix.
University
The University community is named for the influential presence of the University of Minnesota Minneapolis. Neighborhoods in this area include Cedar Riverside/West Bank, Como, Nicollet Island/East Bank, Prospect Park, Marcy-Holmes, and University. The odd moniker of Dinkytown has been given to an extension of the University neighborhood that offers an appealing collection of bookstores, restaurants, and shops in addition to campus housing developments. Standing in the shadow of a landmark water tower from yesterday, Prospect Park features a selection of attractive, well-kept older homes that enjoy a setting of gently sloping hills and meandering streets. Nicollet Island/East Bank is located across the river from downtown, distinguished as the geographical and historical center of Minneapolis and part of the St. Anthony Heritage Zone. This area is home to trendy restaurants, nightspots, and upscale townhomes or condominiums. It also showcases a sculpture that was given to Minneapolis by its sister city, Ibaraki, Japan.
Saint Paul
Saint Paul City Offices
15 West Kellogg Boulevard
St. Paul 651-266-8989
www.stpaul.gov
St. Paul Chamber of Commerce
401 North Robert Street
St. Paul 651-223-5000
www.saintpaulchamber.com
As the capital city of Minnesota and the seat of Ramsey County government, Saint Paul plays a vital role in the considerable assets of the Twin Cities metro area. Sprawling east from the Mississippi River, Saint Paul shares the limelight with Minneapolis as a regional hub for education, culture, healthcare, and entertainment. Efficient mass transit options combine with major thoroughfares like Interstates 35E and 94 and a network of highways and bridges to connect the city with its growing suburbs and Minneapolis. Recognized as a city that is brimming over with architectural treasures and historic significance, Saint Paul is considered by many to offer a more relaxed pace than Minneapolis.
The reverence for culture is a prominent theme, along with strong neighborhood ties and an emphasis on preservation and revitalization. In recent years, the downtown district of Saint Paul has undergone a renaissance to more dramatically reflect its rich background. Renovated buildings in the Lowertown area, the multi-use Landmark Center, and the Fitzgerald Theater are just a few examples of this meticulous handiwork. New developments continue to move into downtown St. Paul, harmonizing the charm of yesterday with modern advantages and conveniences. Like Minneapolis, most of the city’s downtown office buildings and shopping areas are connected by innovative, climate-controlled skyways.
Services
Newcomers to Ramsey County and Saint Paul will be pleased to find some of the finest healthcare and educational facilities in the Midwest—and even the nation. Complementing the highly regarded public school system, Saint Paul offers a wide selection of private schools, both parochial and independent. Award-winning public schools excel in academic excellence, offering programs for the gifted and talented, extra-curricular activities, opportunities for high school students to earn college credit, and extensive opportunities for adult education. The city is home to campuses for the nationally recognized University of Minnesota, Metropolitan State University, the two-year institution of St. Paul Technical College, and several career schools. Several fine private colleges are located in Saint Paul, including the College of St. Catherine, Concordia University, Hamline University, Macalester College, the University of St. Thomas, and the William Mitchell College of Law. Based on the list of impressive institutions of higher education in Saint Paul, Ramsey County claims more colleges and universities than any other county in the state.
The city of Saint Paul is also home to some of Ramsey County’s most highly respected medical facilities, including Region’s Medical Center, St. Joseph’s Hospital, Bethesda Rehabilitation Hospital, Gillette Children’s Specialty Care, and United Hospital. The latter is distinguished as the largest hospital in the Twin Cities east metro area, providing a full range of health care services to more than 200,000 patients each year. The hospital’s exceptional staff, technological advancements, modern facilities, and commitment to excellence in patient care has attracted some of the most renowned and innovative practitioners in the nation. Parents will be pleased to learn that the non-for-profit Gillette Children’s Hospital is internationally renowned for a truly distinguishing level of pediatric expertise. Supporting the network of major hospitals, the city offers rehabilitation and sports medicine centers, long-term care, skilled nursing, walk-in care and emergency centers, family practice clinics, and highly respected professionals in every discipline. Wellness counts in Saint Paul, evidenced by the attention paid to nutritional counseling, support groups, educational programs, health screenings, and community outreach.
Lifestyle
Not to be overshadowed by the considerable cultural resources in Minneapolis, Saint Paul draws visitors and residents to a wide variety of exciting museums, performance venues, and unique sights. The city is home to Minnesota Public Radio and its Fitzgerald Theatre, showcase for the world-famous storyteller Garrison Keillor and his Prairie Home Companion show. The celebrated Minnesota Children’s Museum with hands-on opportunities for children to learn, the spectacular Minnesota History Center, the Great American History Theatre, and the Science Museum of Minnesota are just a few of the highlights. The glass-fronted Ordway Music Theater, nestled in the heart of the downtown district across from Rice Park, presents a full calendar of live-stage performances and Broadway shows. The Minnesota Museum of American Art is Saint Paul’s only art museum and the only museum in the Twin Cities solely dedicated to American art. Historic sites abound, from the elegant Alexander Ramsey House to the Cathedral of Saint Paul or the stately Capitol Building.
Famous as the home of the city’s most influential and wealthy in Saint Paul’s Gilded Age, Summit Avenue is lined with magnificent mansions including the James J. Hill House. Grand Avenue spans 25 blocks from the Mississippi River to downtown Saint Paul, drawing visitors to hidden treasures like beautiful storefronts, vintage homes, and popular ethnic restaurants. Saint Paul’s Lowertown district has transformed into a kaleidoscope of colorful impressions that blend high-rise apartments and condominium towers with some of the city’s most interesting historic buildings and one of America’s most beautiful urban parks. Residents enjoy the sweep of the Mississippi River landscape with broad riverfront plazas and picturesque boat landings. Newcomers will want to visit the Wabasha Street Caves, one of the most unique event facilities in the Twin Cities metro area. Families will appreciate attractions like the immensely popular St. Paul Saints minor league baseball team or the delightful Como Zoo with indoor and outdoor exhibits that include a well-loved polar bear exhibit. The adjacent Como Park features a lovely lake and one of the few existing Victorian conservatories that displays tropical plant exhibits and seasonal flower shows.
New residents will find an eclectic housing selection that caters to every taste and budget within Saint Paul, which encompasses 17 defined neighborhoods that showcase an intriguing mix of architectural styles. These urban neighborhoods each claim a distinctive flavor and personality, some that perch high on the bluffs overlooking the city and others that line long-established streets shaded by ancient trees. Newer construction and contemporary styles harmonize successfully with stately Victorians, and many of the older apartment buildings have been converted into handsome condominiums. From its old-world charm to cultural jewels and stellar attractions, Saint Paul manages to preserve the finest qualities of the past while it reaches out to embrace an even brighter future.
ST. PAUL NEIGHBORHOODS
From grand Victorians and turn-of-the-century mansions to post-war homes and prestigious penthouses, St. Paul is a city of diverse neighborhoods. Covering 50 square miles, St. Paul offers a wide selection of homes, about half of which were constructed prior to 1940. Considerable renovation, restoration, and upgrades are occurring throughout the city, reflecting strong neighborhoods of proud owners. Newer construction is springing up on available land near downtown and in outlying areas.
Battle Creek, Highwood
This large area bordered by the mighty Mississippi River in the eastern section of the city features a wide variety of neighborhoods and housing styles. The terrain is equally diverse, including the ravines and river bluffs that provide a visually appealing setting for residential development. Because of the elevation variances in this area, some properties offer breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. Panoramic Battle Creek Park serves as the focal point for the Battle Creek neighborhood, providing a four-season recreational wonderland just beyond the front door. Pig’s Eye Lake Park is another oasis for leisure enjoyment that provides trails and picnic areas. Many young professionals and families are drawn to the suburban setting of larger home lots and quiet cul-de-sacs. A significant number of homes were built after 1970 for a more contemporary feeling. These neighborhoods are located in close proximity to the 3M Corporation, Minnesota’s largest employer.
Como Park
Known as St. Paul’s Garden District, Como Park offers a primarily residential and recreational neighborhood surrounding Como Lake and its sweeping parks. This northwestern area of the city is bordered on the north by Hoyt Avenue, Larpenteur Avenue, and the city of Roseville. To the south are the Burlington Northern Railroad tracks and Maryland Avenue, with Snelling Avenue to the west and Dale Street to the east. Several historic amenities are still the recreational highlights of the neighborhood. The Como Zoo appeared in 1897, and the Como Lakeside Pavilion was constructed by 1906. The conservatory was created in 1915. Como Park is the most widely used park in the Twin Cities metro area, and the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory offers the largest indoor glass garden. The Como Lakeside Pavilion still provides live entertainment throughout the summer months. Homes are not built on the lakeshore, but some do command wonderful lake views. Approximately one-third of the homes are less than 40 years old, since this area did not gain widespread popularity until after World War II. Craftsman bungalows and ramblers are common styles, and new construction has appeared in available pockets. The Minnesota State Fair Grounds border Como Park on the west.
Dayton’s Bluff
Situated north of Interstate 94 and offering panoramic views of downtown, this long-established area preserves a large number of homes that were built prior to 1883. In fact, the spectacular vistas originally attracted wealthy residents who built upscale homes and created one of St. Paul’s first affluent suburbs in the early 1800s. Many of the elegant Victorians that line the bluff have been beautifully refurbished. As the decades rolled by, the area became more affordable for the working class and the housing mix diversified. The northwestern section of the community preserves the largest concentration of 19th century buildings, showcasing Italianate and Queen Anne architecture along with Indian Mounds Park and the historic Hamm’s Brewery. Surrounding the brewery are homes built by the prosperous Hamm family. Revitalization of this area is encouraged and driven by the Dayton’s Bluff Community Council and the East Side Neighborhood Development Company.
Downtown
The Minnesota State Capitol building overlooks the Downtown community, creating a grand centerpiece for urban living. Highlights in this area include the thriving arts and residential community of historic Lowertown. Downtown landmarks include the 1849 Mears Park, Kellogg Park, Rice Park with the St. Paul Winter Carnival, Harriet Island, and the gleaming Galtier Plaza. Other highlights include fine restaurants, the Science Museum of Minnesota, the Children’s Museum, Fitzgerald Theater, the Ordway, the Landmark Center, and the Minnesota History Center. Downtown, also called Lowertown, is transforming into a strongly residential neighborhood, enhanced by a skyway system for convenient winter walking. New homes include luxurious lofts, condos, and studios in remodeled historic buildings and warehouses. The Mississippi River forms the southern edge, offering scenic views for home sites and recreational trails. Borders include University Avenue to the north, Marion Street to the west, and Interstate 94 to the east.
Greater East Side (Northeast)
This northeastern quadrant of the city is made up of several smaller neighborhoods: Hayden Heights, Hazel Park, and Hillcrest. The East Side is bordered on the north by Larpenteur Avenue, on the west by Hazelwood Street and Johnson Parkway, to the south by Minnehaha Avenue, and on the east by McKnight Road. The majority of homes were built after 1940, with more than half constructed between 1950 and 1964. Small to mid-sized Cape Cods and ramblers predominate, and the younger trees and mid-century housing create a distinctively urban atmosphere. New construction can be found in several areas including Beaver Lake just west of McKnight Road. Many young families blend with retirees for a pleasing demographic mix, and well-equipped community centers are the focal point of close-knit neighborhoods. The Beaver Lake area offers multi-purpose trails and dog-walking paths. Maplewood fringes the East Side, offering convenient shopping and dining.
Hamline-Midway
Offering a centralized location with affordable homes, this active urban neighborhood borders Pierce Butler Route on the north and University Avenue on the south. The western border is Cleveland Avenue and the St. Anthony neighborhood; Lexington Parkway borders to the east. Recent years have seen an increase in popularity for this area with its prime location and real estate values. Blending residential and commercial sectors, the neighborhood employs nearly as many people as it houses. Hamline University features prominently, relocating from Red Wing to St. Paul in 1880 and spurring residential construction. Lovely Victorians sprang up to house faculty between 1887 and 1891, joined by bungalows and two-story homes from 1900-1920. Most homes were built prior to 1940, although the ’60s saw a construction boom. Commercial districts are centered along the Snelling and University Avenue corridors. Ethnic restaurants, shopping, the Minnesota State Fair and horse shows, neighborhood parks, and public and private schools are a few of the eclectic advantages.
Highland Park
This popular sprawling neighborhood is nestled in the southwestern corner of the city, drawing newcomers to a wide variety of home styles. Among them are its signature brick and stucco homes with generous living space and river views. The area preserves original farm houses and custom homes designed by architects from the early 1900s and Tudors in the 1930s. The 1940’s housing boom added a selection of bungalows and Cape Cods, while the ’50s introduced ramblers to the neighborhood. Highland Park is bordered by Randolph Avenue to the north and West 7th Street and Minnesota Highway 5 to the south. Interstate 35-E serves as the eastern border, while the Mississippi River flows to the west. This convenient location is minutes from Interstate 94, the downtown districts of both Twin Cities, and the international airport. The College of St. Catherine, Highland Village Shopping Center, and well-developed recreational amenities are other neighborhood highlights. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy multi-purpose trails along Mississippi River Boulevard, Hidden Falls Park, and Crosby Farm Regional Park.
Macalester-Groveland
Characterized as bustling and energetic, this neighborhood is bordered on the north by historic Summit Avenue. Randolph Avenue and Highland Park lie to the south; the Mississippi River makes up the west border and to the east is Ayd Mill Road. Lively Grand Avenue runs east and west through “Mac-Groveland.” Institutions of higher education are prominent, including Macalester College founded in 1880 and the University of St. Thomas founded in 1885. St. Paul Seminary is also located in Mac-Groveland, so many students and professors are local residents. Many former students have remained as permanent residents, reluctant to leave this desirable suburban setting with its strong college-town influence. Many of the neighborhood homes were built before 1940, including spacious Tudor, Prairie, and Colonial Revival styles. Significant growth occurred in the 1920s and ’30s, adding Arts and Crafts bungalows. Newer construction and beautifully remodeled homes are scattered throughout the neighborhood.
Merriam Park
Sandwiched between downtown St. Paul and downtown Minneapolis in west-central St. Paul, the Merriam Park neighborhood is bordered on the north by University Avenue and Interstate 94. Historic Summit Avenue lies to the south, with Lexington Parkway on the east and the Mississippi River to the west. The planning district for Merriam Park also encompasses the Lexington-Hamline and Town and Country neighborhoods. One of the city’s oldest areas, Merriam Park was planned by landowner Colonel John Merriam in the 1880s who built a luxury home and sold lots to others with strict specifications regarding home value. His vision created a community of grid-style, tree-shaded streets and lovely homes. Beautiful historic homes blend Queen Anne architecture with Tudors, Gothic, Italianate, and Colonial. Dutch Revivals, American Four Square, and Prairie Style homes were added to the mix. Close proximity to the river provides view properties and urban wilderness areas for outdoor enjoyment. The Town and Country Club is the oldest country club in Minnesota, just one of many amenities and landmarks in the neighborhood.
North End
North of downtown, this neighborhood is bordered on the north by Larpenteur Avenue and the city of Roseville. The Burlington Northern Railroad track and Maryland Avenue form the southern boundary; the western border is Dale Street and Interstate 35-E lies to the east. Primarily residential, the North End is also home to some light industry. Jackson and Rice streets were original employment centers that still thrive as commercial corridors. Many of the vintage homes were constructed in a sturdy Midwestern style, although a scattering of Victorians and bungalows add architectural variety. Many of the tree-lined streets have a suburban feeling with larger lots and homes that were built between 1930 and 1960. Several large apartment buildings and multi-family homes blend with single-family residences. Upscale properties line Wheelock Parkway, primarily mixing split-levels with Colonials and Tudors. This scenic parkway that connects Como and Phalen lakes and heads the Gateway Bike Trail is popular for walking, jogging, and biking.
Payne-Phalen
This sweeping, wedge-shaped neighborhood north of Dayton’s Bluff enjoys a location just minutes from downtown. The housing that is the closest to the downtown district dates back to the 1880s, while those near Lake Phalen were built from the 1920s to the 1940s. This large neighborhood also features a mid-century housing selection from the ’50s and ’60s as well as some newer construction for a wide range of styles, periods, and price ranges. Simple architecture and smaller homes prevail, with scatterings of Victorians, Colonials, and bungalows near Lake Phalen. Magnet schools and excellent recreational facilities attract many families. Lake Phalen offers a three-mile trail and nearby park with a golf course, swimming beaches, and cross-country ski trails. Affordability and redevelopment of this historic neighborhood with Interstate 35-E to the west has driven new interest in this area. Payne-Phalen is bordered on the north by Larpenteur Avenue and on the south by Grove Street, with Johnson Parkway to the east.
St. Anthony Park
Characterized as a picturesque, urban neighborhood, St. Anthony Park offers a close-knit, small-town flavor at the northwestern edge of the city. The city of Roseville and Larpenteur Avenue lie to the north, Minneapolis forms the western border, and Interstate 94 lies to the south. The eastern border is Cleveland Avenue and the University of Minnesota St. Paul. The original vision for this neighborhood was one of large estates that flowed with the land contours, giving the area oddly shaped green spaces and meandering streets. Several historic Queen Anne homes blend with the predominant Midwestern-squares, Craftsman-style, and bungalows. This area is especially well known for homes with exquisite woodwork. The Burlington Northern Railroad corridor and a warehouse district split the area into North and South St. Anthony. South St. Anthony is more commercial, while the section closest to University Avenue is revitalizing and renewing. North St. Anthony is near the University of Minnesota, serving as a comfortable home for many students and professors. Midway Stadium with its lively baseball action, a Carnegie Library, park concerts, colorful celebrations, and recreational amenities add to the quality of life.
Summit Hill
Nestled in the southwestern portion of the city, historic Summit Hill features Summit Avenue as its northern border. Ayd Mill Road lies to the west and Interstate 35-E forms the southern and eastern borders. Within the Summit Hill neighborhood, popular for its pedestrian-friendly atmosphere and lovely homes, are the upscale enclaves of Crocus Hill and Grand Hill. The original wealth and enduring prestige of Summit Hill is reflected in well-preserved landmarks that are recognized as some of St. Paul’s finest historic sites. Summit Avenue showcases the Governor’s Mansion, a 1912 Tudor-style manor that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. James J. Hill, the founder of the Great Northern Railroad, once made Summit Hill his home. Renaissance architectural styling graces the circa 1906 Cathedral of St. Paul on Summit Avenue, where six chapels honor six different saints whose ethnic origins correspond to the immigrant groups that founded the city. Opulent homes along Summit Avenue combine classic architecture like Italianate, Georgian Revival, Queen Anne, Colonial Revivals, Tudor, Shingle, and Row Houses with Prairie style homes built from 1910-1920. Most of these historic homes were restored during the rush of renovation in the 1970s.
Summit University
Situated in the southwestern portion of the city, this neighborhood is bordered on the north by University Avenue and on the south by Summit Avenue. Lexington Parkway serves as the western border, with Irvine Avenue and Marion Avenue to the east. Selby-Dale and Cathedral Hill are subsets of this community that was originally settled as farmland in the 1850s. Although urban development has replaced many original buildings, some vintage homes are still preserved east of Dale Street and in the Cathedral Hill area. The interesting architectural mix offered by Summit University homes includes Federal, Italianate, Queen Anne, Shingle, and Colonial Revival styles. The 1916 Temple of Aaron with Beaux style architecture and the 1924 Romanesque Revival St. Luke’s Catholic Church are significant historical landmarks. Widespread revitalization in the 1990s saw many homes and businesses being renovated and revitalized, including row houses and brick apartment buildings that are now trendy condominiums. Selby Avenue serves as a dining and shopping district, well known for its outdoor dining areas and pedestrian-friendly atmosphere.
Thomas Dale
Better known as Frogtown, this neighborhood is northwest of downtown. Borders include University Avenue and the Burlington Northern Railroad, Lexington Parkway to the west, and Interstate 35-E to the east. With half of the properties built prior to 1940, Frogtown is one of the city’s most historical neighborhoods. Cottages blend with two-story Midwestern-squares and ramblers throughout the neighborhood, where early settlers tended to build modest wood and brick homes. Many of the early residents in the Thomas Dale neighborhood were employees of the Jackson Street Railroad shops, which continued to provide local employment as late as the 1970s. One of the landmarks in this area is the Church of St. Agnes, circa 1909, with its striking 200-foot-high onion-shaped dome. Thomas Dale is seeing some new-home construction, primarily driven by rehabilitation and home replacement organizations that are adding attractive single-family homes and multi-family developments.
West 7th (Fort Road)
Serving as the historic heart and soul of St. Paul, West 7th Street is officially named Fort Road for its historical significance as a fur-trader path. West of downtown, the neighborhood is bordered on the north and west by Interstate 35-E. The Mississippi River borders along the south, and West Kellogg Boulevard lies to the east. The West 7th corridor also encompasses the smaller neighborhoods of Irvine Park and Uppertown. Because of the close proximity to Fort Snelling, the area was originally settled by discharged soldiers and former fur traders. The neighborhood continued to be popular with immigrants throughout the 1800s and showcases a wide variety of architecture. Urban development replaced many historic landmarks, although former Governor Alexander Ramsey’s home still stands as an example of Victorian-era architecture. Stone houses built prior to the Civil War, restored red brick row houses, and Queen Anne Victorians are among the housing mix. Active organizations are working to accelerate restoration and preservation, tackling several buildings each year. Newer construction can be found in townhomes and condominiums along West 7th and the Mississippi River.
West Side
Receiving its name from a location along the west bank of the Mississippi River, the West Side is actually situated in the southeastern section of the city. The West Side is bordered on the north, west, and east by the scenic Mississippi and on the south by Annapolis Street. The neighborhood is just south of downtown across the river via the Smith Avenue High Bridge and commands unbelievable views of the St. Paul skyline. The major commercial corridors are Caesar Chavez Street and Robert Street. More than half of the West Side homes were built before 1940, with the majority being Midwestern-squares and bungalows. Some grand Colonials and Tudors can be found near Cherokee Park and along Smith Avenue. Although this area has a proud and colorful history, some luxurious contemporary developments offer the finest in urban living. Wildly popular ethnic restaurants and outstanding recreational amenities add to the quality of life. Cherokee Park near the river offers a serene oasis and glimpses of river barges and wildlife.
