RAMSEY COUNTY
County Offices
121 7th Place East
Saint Paul 651-266-8500
www.ramseycounty.us
Chamber of Commerce
401 North Robert Street
Saint Paul 651-223-5000
www.saintpaulchamber.com
Small in size but impressive in stature, Ramsey County is home to Minnesota’s state capital city of Saint Paul and the heart of the East Metro section of the Twin Cities. Named for an important Minnesota statesman, Alexander Ramsey, the county primarily encompasses the metropolis of Saint Paul and the suburbs north of the city. Because of Ramsey County’s modest size, neighboring communities in Dakota and Washington counties have also flourished within the sprawling East Metro area. Often described as a “big small town,” this corner of the Twin Cities preserves some of Minnesota’s most dramatic architecture, including the stunning capitol building and the elegant Victorian home of Alexander Ramsey. Newcomers will discover a livable region that combines a reasonable cost of living with a strong and diverse economy, neighborhoods from contemporary to historic, and some of the most celebrated attractions in the state.
The East Metro area consistently garners accolades as one of the most desirable places in the nation, recently ranked number two by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance on its list of the “50 Smart Places to Live.” Ramsey County’s old-world appeal and historic preservation is widely recognized, but the county has also made tremendous progressive strides in recent years. Government and business leadership have worked cooperatively to implement an aggressive revitalization plan that has spurred the development of stellar attractions from sports and cultural venues to the Science Museum of Minnesota. Nearly 30,000 companies have chosen to locate in the Saint Paul and East Metro area, creating more than a half-million jobs and pouring millions of dollars in economic activity into Ramsey County.
Services
Newcomers to Ramsey County will be pleased to find that every service sector has developed exceptional facilities, from efficient transportation amenities to highly respected private colleges and leading healthcare centers. Those who live in Ramsey County have the advantage of an entire network of Interstates and highways that connect them quickly to both of the Twin Cities. Schools tend to be top flight in Ramsey County, where highly respected public districts are complemented by a selection of private schools—both independent and parochial. The opportunities to pursue a higher education close to home are abundant, underlined by two state-supported institutions: the St. Paul campus of the University of Minnesota and the two-year institution of St. Paul Technical College. In fact, Ramsey County claims more colleges and universities than any other county in the state. In addition to career schools and technical institutes, students can choose from Metropolitan State University, the College of St. Catherine, Concordia University, Hamline University, Macalester College, the University of St. Thomas, or the William Mitchell College of Law.
The city of Saint Paul provides some of the county’s finest 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. The non-for-profit Gillette Children’s Hospital also provides clinics in Minnetonka, Burnsville, and New Brighton. Parents will be pleased to know that Gillette is internationally renowned for a truly distinguishing level of pediatric expertise. Those who choose a suburban lifestyle in Ramsey County may find St. John’s Hospital in Maplewood even more convenient. Throughout Ramsey County, a network of rehabilitation centers, long-term care, skilled nursing, walk-in care and emergency centers, local medical centers, and highly respected professionals in every discipline provide the finest of healthcare options.
Lifestyle
While Saint Paul is unchallenged as Ramsey County’s leading urban center, this small but densely populated county is also home to bustling suburbs, small cities, and exclusive communities that preserve a rustic country atmosphere. Newcomers can choose from hundreds of wonderful neighborhoods and home settings that support every imaginable lifestyle choice. Many of the established suburbs like Roseville and New Brighton have undergone widespread revitalization and redevelopment, showcasing the pride of civic planners and residents alike. Thoughtful preservation of the area’s wetlands, lakes, rolling hills, and deep forests has created idyllic home sites and some of the most popular recreational areas in the greater Twin Cities. Ramsey County complements the park systems developed by individual communities with a kaleidoscope of outstanding resources: Nine regional parks and five regional trails, five county parks, 10 swimming beaches, and five major cross-country ski trails. Opportunities are abundant for camping, hiking, biking, water sports, boating, fishing, hunting, canoeing, snowmobiling, sledding, and other winter sports. Private and public facilities for golf and tennis are scattered throughout the county, blending with community centers that provide a medley of sports facilities and equipment.
Ramsey County is also home to some of the finest cultural attractions in the nation, including the ever-popular radio star and storyteller Garrison Keillor with his Prairie Home Companion show at the Fitzgerald Theatre. More than 40 organizations produce in excess of 1,000 events, exhibits, and performances in the city of Saint Paul alone. Ramsey County preserves some of Minnesota’s most celebrated historic sites and magnificent architectural treasures, from the State Capitol building to the Minnesota History Center or the world-class landmark of Saint Paul Hotel. Wonderful museums dot the county, including premier sites like the Gibbs Museum of Pioneer and Dakotah Life, where visitors step back into the time of early pioneer farm life and learn about Native American culture. In contrast, Ramsey County also draws visitors from across the metro area to contemporary attractions and stellar venues like the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, the Xcel Energy Center, the Science Museum of Minnesota, the elegant Landmark Center, and the Saint Paul RiverCentre with its legendary Roy Wilkins Auditorium.
The unrivaled quality of life in Minnesota’s most densely populated county is no accident, since Ramsey was the state’s first Home Rule Charter county—a plan that encourages citizens to become involved in government and future development. Participation in civic affairs is a hallmark of this vibrant area, ensuring progressive and innovative solutions to every challenge. The unique flavor of communities like North Oaks, where all of the property is privately owned, or Little Canada with its rich historic heritage are a reflection of the great pride that Ramsey County residents take in their chosen environment. Whether you settle in the bustling milieu of grand Saint Paul, one of the flourishing suburbs, or an exclusive bedroom community—Ramsey County ensures a rewarding quality of life that grows more endearing with each passing year.
Arden Hills
Municipal Offices
651-792-7800
www.cityofardenhills.org
Chamber of Commerce
763-571-9781
www.twincitiesnorth.org
Located eight miles north of Saint Paul, the city of Arden Hills draws newcomers to a quiet residential suburb that enjoys a convenient location near the intersection of Interstates 35W and 494. Residents enjoy an easy commute to the downtown districts and major employers of both Twin Cities, contributing to the city’s growing popularity with many affluent young professionals and families. Highway 96 also bisects the city, which covers nearly 10 square miles of naturally beautiful terrain. In the well-developed residential areas south of the highway, lovely homes on wooded lots line the winding lanes. Arden Hills enjoys an idyllic setting among rolling hills and sparkling lakes that have been developed to offer lush green spaces and miles of exercise trails. More than a dozen parks dot the city, providing sports courts and fields, hockey and ice-skating rinks, scenic trails, and playgrounds. The Crepeau Nature Preserve and the Toney Schmidt Regional Trail—part of the Ramsey County park system—are also located in Arden Hills. Lake Johanna and Lake Josephine are both popular boating and swimming destinations for area families during the summer months. Local retail development is sufficient to meet the daily need for goods and services, although the shops and department stores at Rosedale Center are nearby in Roseville. Advanced healthcare is available at St. John’s Hospital in Maplewood and Unity Hospital in Fridley.
Falcon Heights
Municipal Offices
651-792-7600
www.falconheights.org
Chamber of Commerce
651-223-5000
www.saintpaulchamber.com
Best known as the site of the Minnesota State Fair and the St. Paul campus of the University of Minnesota, Falcon Heights attracts an eclectic population and welcomes more than a million visitors each year. Located just ten minutes from the downtown districts of both St. Paul and Minneapolis, Falcon Heights preserves a rural feeling in the heart of the Twin Cities metro area. Many residents of this close-in Saint Paul suburb are teachers or students who enjoy the college-town setting and the varied architecture of the city’s pleasant, tree-lined neighborhoods. One of several distinctive neighborhoods in Falcon Heights is University Grove, a unique enclave of custom-designed homes nestled between Hoyt Avenue and the university golf course. Other neighborhoods blend urban-style homes built in the 1930s and ’40s with ranch-style homes in the mid-’90s and contemporary townhomes. The city is home to the Minnesota State Horticultural Society headquarters, a well-attended farmers market, and the Gibbs Museum of Pioneer and Dakotah Life. This popular complex gives visitors a glimpse of early pioneer farm life and Native American culture. Several lush parks dot the city, providing sports courts and fields, a hockey rink, picnic facilities, trails, and playgrounds. Local shopping is expanded in nearby Roseville at the Rosedale Center.
Lauderdale
Municipal Offices
651-792-7650
https://lauderdalemn.org/
Chamber of Commerce
651-223-5000
www.saintpaulchamber.com
Designated itself as “an island in the Metro,” the friendly community of Lauderdale offers a comfortable small-town ambiance and a close-knit spirit to those who are looking for an affordable home near the Twin Cities and the University of Minnesota. The available housing selection in Lauderdale covers a wide range of architectural styles and time periods, from single-family homes to condominiums or townhomes. Located on the northeastern border of Minneapolis north of Saint Paul, Lauderdale combines the recreational amenities in its own community park with easy access to the University of Minnesota’s Les Bolstad Golf Course and the private golf facility of Midland Hills Country Club in Saint Paul. The Saint Paul campus of the University of Minnesota is only a few minutes away from home. Access to major freeways is available through Highway 280, which ensures a quick trip to the Twin Cities or to Roseville’s Rosedale Center for expanded shopping. A wide range of healthcare services can be met at the hospitals and medical clinics in nearby Saint Paul or Minneapolis.
Little Canada
Municipal Offices
651-766-4029
www.ci.little-canada.mn.us
Chamber of Commerce
651-223-5000
www.saintpaulchamber.com
As a first-ring suburb of St. Paul, Little Canada is located just north of St. Paul and only minutes from the downtown district of the Twin Cities via Interstates 35E and 694. Residents enjoy a centralized location along the northeast hub of the metro area freeway system. Complete in less than five square miles, the community was named for its original French-Canadian settlers and proudly preserves its unique heritage in the annual Canadian Days Festival. Even the expansive natural landmark of Lake Gervais bears the name of a French Canadian. Lovely, tree-lined neighborhoods are dotted with the green space and recreational facilities of the city’s lush parks, protecting nearly 100 acres for public enjoyment. Sports courts and fields, playgrounds, hiking and biking trails, and a nature area combine with organized programs and activities that are designed to appeal to all ages and interests. Several strip malls meet the need for daily goods and services, although expanded shopping facilities are also available close to home at Rosedale Center in Roseville. St. John’s Hospital in nearby Maplewood provides quality healthcare services.
Maplewood
Municipal Offices
651-249-2000
http://maplewoodmn.gov
Chamber of Commerce
651-223-5000
www.saintpaulchamber.com
Maplewood is conveniently located just ten minutes from downtown St. Paul, providing a close-knit hometown spirit in a community of strong residential neighborhoods and convenient commercial development. Although Maplewood is one of Saint Paul’s first-ring suburbs, newcomers will be surprised to discover a community without a distinctly urban attitude. Nevertheless, Maplewood’s close proximity to the Twin Cities has contributed to its growth and popularity. Even in the face of rapid development, civic leaders and residents have worked together to conserve panoramic open space in lush parks and pristine wetlands. Battle Creek and Keller regional parks are among the local attractions, crowned by the Maplewood Nature Center and Neighborhood Preserves. The latter provide 2.5 miles of scenic trails through ideal habitats for birding and wildflower walks, along with a 620-foot floating boardwalk and observation deck showcases waterfowl, turtles, and aquatic vegetation. The Maplewood Community center covers 11 acres to offer an aquatics center, a fitness facility and gymnasium, and a live performing arts theatre. Excellent shopping facilities are available locally in major malls or smaller retail centers. The diverse housing selection ranges from post-war ramblers and split-levels to townhomes and elegant new construction.
Mounds View
Municipal Offices
763-717-4000
www.moundsviewmn.org
Chamber of Commerce
763-571-9781
www.twincitiesnorth.org
Situated just 15 miles north of St. Paul in the northwestern corner of Ramsey County, the small community of Mounds View was named for huge mounds of gravel and sand that once marked the area. An easy commute to the downtown districts of the Twin Cities is available from Mounds View with Interstate 35 to the east, Highway 65 to the west, and State Highway 10 cutting diagonally through the city. The city has developed as a primarily residential community with a pleasing mix of older, well-kept homes in a variety of architectural styles that are interspersed with newer construction. Residents enjoy access to regional employment centers, although Mounds View has developed an economic base that includes several leading companies. Convenient shops and services are sufficient to meet daily needs, complemented by expansive regional retail destinations like the Rosedale Center or Northtown Mall. Unity Hospital in Fridley provides a wide range of routine and specialty healthcare services. Just four square miles in size, this welcoming and friendly city offers a Ramsey County branch library and nine wonderful parks filled with recreational and sports facilities.
New Brighton
Municipal Offices
651-638-2100
www.newbrightonmn.gov
Chamber of Commerce
763-571-9781
www.twincitiesnorth.org
New Brighton enjoys a centralized location that is equidistant from the downtown districts of both Twin Cities and a 30-minute drive to the international airport. Located at the intersection of Interstates 35W and 694, the city ensures easy access to employment centers and urban amenities. From its award-winning schools to abundant parks and lakes, beautiful homes, local shopping, and lovely neighborhoods, New Brighton stands as a model of community spirit. The city recently reshaped its image with a $20 million downtown revitalization project that blended a modern business park with townhomes and a $5 million family service center. The attitude of civic planners is embodied in the slogan, “The city that works for you.” More than a dozen lush parks dot the cityscape with green space and first-rate facilities that include sports fields and courts, frisbee golf, skateboard and climbing equipment, playgrounds, and multi-purpose system of trails. The Eagles Nest Indoor Playground was recently voted “The Best Place to Play Inside” by readers of Minnesota Parent magazine. New Brighton’s downtown district encompasses the city’s vintage homes—many that showcase turn-of-the-century detailing. A significant number of the properties were built in the 1960s and ’70s for a wide range of home styles and sizes.
North Oaks
Municipal Offices
651-792-7750
www.cityofnorthoaks.com
Chamber of Commerce
651-429-8593
www.whitebearchamber.com
Privacy is of prime importance to the residents of North Oaks, recognized as one of the most exclusive communities in the Twin Cities metro area. This delightfully rural community has uniquely designated that all property will be private, not public—even the streets. Throughout the city’s winding roads, magnificent estates of architectural excellence are tucked away on large lots secluded by deep woods. The image of the community is so meticulously planned that is offers the look and feeling of a secluded nature preserve. North Oaks has managed to remain true to the spirit of its founder, the son of a prominent railroad builder who wanted to protect the area’s beautiful lakes, hills, and valleys. The community preserves the remaining building on James J. Hill’s North Oaks Farm as a historical site. Recreational amenities include seven city lakes, more than 40 miles of scenic trails, two recreation centers, and a golf club. North Oaks maintains an active interest in tennis, drawing throngs of participants to diverse programs from tournaments to lessons and special programs. To ensure the tranquility of the community and reduce traffic, no fishing, hunting, or motorboats are allowed. Roseville offers the closest major mall, and the hospital in Maplewood provides a full range of healthcare services.
North St. Paul
Municipal Offices
651-747-2400
www.northstpaul.org
Chamber of Commerce
651-223-5000
www.saintpaulchamber.com
Single-family homes comprise the majority of the housing in this pleasant suburban community located ten miles northeast of Saint Paul. A good balance of residential neighborhoods, retail development, and industrial space is encompassed in an area less than four square miles, contributing to the community’s close-knit atmosphere. Residents enjoy impressive recreational amenities, including 122 acres of lush parks and athletic fields, a community center with a fitness area, an environmental learning center, and two lakes—including one surrounded by the 33-acre Casey Lake Park. Area parks offer sports fields and courts, picnic areas, scenic trails, playgrounds, and skating rinks. The downtown district offers a medley of convenient shops and services, although the expanded shopping facilities in Maplewood are a short drive from home. Quality healthcare is available at the hospitals in Saint Paul or locally at the North St. Paul Medical Office. State Highway 36, one of the area’s major throughways, cuts across the middle of the city to offers good access to neighboring cities and the downtown areas.
Roseville
Municipal Offices
651-792-7000
https://www.cityofroseville.com/
Chamber of Commerce
651-223-5000
www.saintpaulchamber.com
Shopping centers, malls, and plazas rule supreme in Roseville—home to the sprawling Rosedale Center and its surrounding retail district. Not one but several of these shopping centers are major hubs with regional appeal. However, Roseville attracts new residents to much more than a commercial hub. This close-in suburb is generously graced by lakes, golf courses, and lush parkland that is anchored by the sweeping 225-acre Central Park. Many of the homes in Roseville’s established neighborhoods are ramblers, Cape Cods, and multi-levels from the post-war housing boom of the 1950s. Widespread renovation continues to transform the face of many of these neighborhoods, creating a vibrant new look. One of the more ambitious projects is situated in the Twin Lakes area, where 275 acres support a redeveloped mixed-use business park with a wide variety of office, retail, and residential opportunities. The city’s four lakes also provide the possibility for luxurious lakefront property. One of the treasures of the city is the Harriet Alexander Nature Center, a lush oasis of natural beauty and tranquility with boardwalks and trails that meander through 52 pristine acres of marshland, prairie, and forest habitats. The active parks and recreation department provides abundant sports equipment and facilities in local parks but also offers programs for residents of all ages. Healthcare services can be easily access in nearby Saint Paul’s hospitals and clinics.
St. Anthony
Municipal Offices
612-782-3301
www.savmn.com
Chamber of Commerce
651-223-5000
www.saintpaulchamber.com
The spirit of St. Anthony is quickly evident in the affectionate moniker used by local residents who call it “The Village.” This unique community is only minutes away from the downtown districts of both Twin Cities as well as their respective campuses for the University of Minnesota. Nevertheless, St. Anthony has managed to retain its original small-town identity and intimate feeling. Many of the local homeowners have generational roots and strong sentimental ties to this city where they were born and raised. Rich with history and local lore, this proud first-ring suburb straddles both Ramsey and Hennepin counties—with only about one-third of the city located in Ramsey County. Several factors contribute to St. Anthony’s distinctive atmosphere, including picturesque Silver Lake, the popular public golf course, lush parks, multi-purpose trails, and a highly regarded independent public school district. Residents can shop locally at several major retail centers. The wide range of housing options begins with modest starter homes and spans the scale of size and price ranges to offer beautiful traditional neighborhoods or luxurious, contemporary properties on that command spectacular Silver Lake views.
Shoreview
Municipal Offices
651-490-4600
www.shoreviewmn.gov
Chamber of Commerce
763-571-9781
www.twincitiesnorth.org
Rolling hills, lakes, and quiet tree-lined streets characterize the family-oriented city of Shoreview, a relatively affluent suburb approximately ten miles north of the Twin Cities. An active community for water recreation and home of the annual Aqua Fest, this primarily residential suburb is graced by the natural beauty of nearly a dozen picturesque lakes, wetlands, and open space. More than 1,400 acres of parkland combines with abundant recreational facilities including a community center with unique amenities like an indoor water park, a running track, and a weightlifting facility. Housing options tend to be diverse and attractive in Shorewood, which consistently garners accolades for being an easily accessible and desirable place to live within the metro area. During the decade of the ’60s, the advent of a modern freeway system transformed the area’s farmland and turned rustic country cabins into larger, permanent homes. Efficient highway systems provide fast access to the downtown areas of both Minneapolis and St. Paul. Rosedale Center in Roseville offers a wealth of suburban shopping options, while healthcare needs can be met in nearby clinics and hospitals.
Spring Lake Park
Municipal Offices
763-784-6491
www.slpmn.org
Chamber of Commerce
763-571-9781
www.twincitiesnorth.org
Situated east of the Mississippi River between the communities of Blaine and Fridley, Spring Lake Park has already experienced the most intense period of its growth cycle and is evolving into a clearly defined community. Many people are drawn to this beautiful community for its open feeling and home lots that are wider and deeper than those found in most urban neighborhoods. Spring Lake Park leaders have also taken steps to preserve the urban forest in the midst of considerably growth and development. Shopping is available at Northtown Mall in Blaine or Brookdale Mall in Brooklyn Park. Fridley offers the nearest hospital, Unity Medical Center. While the ties of friends and family within the Spring Lake Park community tend to be strong, newcomers are readily welcomed. Most of the available housing consists of ramblers and split-level homes that were built from the 1950s through the 1970s. Spring Lake Park is an established residential community of small-town charm and friendly residents. The city straddles the counties of Anoka and Ramsey and is home to a variety of commercial and industrial development. Newcomers will find a dozen lush community parks filled with a wide range of recreational facilities and well-managed programs designed for all ages and interests. Spring Lake Park offers easy access to neighboring communities and the metro area via three major highways.
Vadnais Heights
Municipal Offices
651-204-6000
www.cityvadnaisheights.com
Chamber of Commerce
651-223-5000
www.saintpaulchamber.com
A community that blends natural beauty with a flourishing local economy, Vadnais Heights has the advantage of a large preserve that covers a full quarter of its acreage. Protecting the city’s natural surroundings of forests and an unspoiled chain of lakes, the preserve is owned and managed as a reservoir by the city of Saint Paul. Located in northeast Ramsey County, the city is proud of the recreational jewel of Vadnais-Sucker Lake Regional Park with its 1,200 acres of pristine woodlands and sparkling lakes. Another 100 acres of active parkland is filled with convenient sports facilities. Residents of Vadnais Heights tend to be active in planning citywide celebrations like Heritage Days and Taste of Vadnais, boasting the highest rates of participation of any community in the Twin Cities metro area. The housing selection in Vadnais Heights varies according to location, with the southern section of the city featuring an attractive selection of ramblers and split-level homes. The northern side tends to be dominated by upscale properties and newer construction. Nearby Roseville and Maplewood add regional malls to the medley of local shops and services, and most routine healthcare needs can be met at the local clinic. Residents enjoy a convenient lifestyle with easy access to Interstates 35E and 694 as well as Highways 61, 96, and 49.
White Bear Lake
Municipal Offices
651-429-8526
www.whitebearlake.org
Chamber of Commerce
651-429-8593
www.whitebearchamber.com
Those who are looking for a serene and picturesque Twin Cities suburb will want to explore the attractions and atmosphere in White Bear Lake. Filled with charm and character, this community provided the model for opulence in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby as a turn-of-the-century resort town filled with the summer homes and mansions of the wealthy elite. Although removed from urban bustle, the commute to the Twin Cities is only about 20 minutes. The crown jewel of the naturally beautiful terrain is the lake itself—a sparkling 2,500-acre body of water that creates a breathtaking backdrop for home sites and recreation. Common leisure activities for residents of this 10-square-mile city include fishing, boating, sailing, yachting, swimming, and winter ice fishing. Complementing major attractions like the Oneka Ridge Golf Course and the Tamarack Nature Center, the city’s charming downtown district creates an idyllic atmosphere. Residents and visitors alike often enjoy leisurely strolls down cobblestone streets, serenaded by the strain of live music from a cozy restaurant or pub. More than two dozen parks dot the city with additional recreational and sports facilities. White Bear Lake provides a family-oriented setting with exceptional access to quality educational facilities. The city is home to a Ramsey County branch library and respected public schools that include Century College—functioning as both a community and technical college within the state’s college and university system. White Bear Lake also extends into Washington County.
White Bear Township
Municipal Offices
651-747-2750
www.ci.white-bear-township.mn.us
Chamber of Commerce
651-429-8593
www.whitebearchamber.com
The only remaining township in all of Ramsey County, rapidly growing White Bear Township is also the most densely populated of Minnesota’s 1,800 townships. Little wonder that so many newcomers are being drawn to this scenic northern Saint Paul suburb. Still a developing community, this land-rich township combines lovely homes with growing commerce and industry. Residents enjoy easy access to major malls through out the East Metro area, but they can also meet the daily need for goods and services in the Meadowlands shops on Centerville Road. More than two dozen parks dot the township with green space and sports facilities that include a public swimming beach, ball fields, ice skating rinks, picnic shelters, playground equipment, sliding hills, and tennis courts. The parks and recreation department also provides a wide range of organized programs and activities designed to interest residents of all ages. The township is well known as the home of the Tamarack Nature Center, a spectacular 320-acre nature preserve in Bald Eagle-Otter Lakes Regional Park. Trails, boardwalks, and observation decks frame views of pristine habitats and abundant wildlife. Miles of walking and cross-country ski trails, summer camps, educational programs, and colorful special programs around the four seasons make the center a regional treasure.
