When it comes to finding the perfect place to settle down and raise a family, the Minneapolis suburbs offer an array of attractive options. From affordable housing to excellent schools and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities, these suburbs have it all.
In this article, we will explore the top 8 best Minneapolis suburbs for families, highlighting their unique features, including median home prices, outdoor recreation options, educational institutions, connectivity, commute times, and local dining favorites.
Top 8 Best Minneapolis Suburbs for Families
- Eden Prairie
- Minnetonka
- Maple Grove
- Eagan
- Plymouth
- Woodbury
- Lakeville
- Burnsville
Eden Prairie
With a median home price of $430,000, Eden Prairie boasts a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. This suburb is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its extensive park system, including the expansive Purgatory Creek Park and Bryant Lake Regional Park.
Families will appreciate the excellent schools within the highly regarded Eden Prairie School District, such as Eden Prairie High School. Commuting to downtown Minneapolis is a breeze with easy access to major highways, including Interstate 494.
After a day of outdoor adventures, families can savor delectable dishes at local favorites like Tavern 4&5 and Biaggi's Ristorante Italiano.
Minnetonka
Known for its picturesque lake views, Minnetonka offers a median home price of $495,000. This suburb provides abundant outdoor recreation opportunities, with iconic attractions like Lake Minnetonka and the Minnetonka Regional Park.
Families can explore the educational attractions at the Minnetonka Center for the Arts or enjoy a fun-filled day at Big Thrill Factory, an indoor amusement park. The Minnetonka School District is renowned for its exceptional schools, including Minnetonka High School.
With easy access to Interstate 494 and Highway 7, the commute to downtown Minneapolis takes approximately 20 minutes. Local dining options like Manny's Steakhouse and 6Smith Restaurant provide delightful culinary experiences.
Maple Grove
Maple Grove, with a median home price of $375,000, offers a vibrant suburban lifestyle. Families can enjoy the natural beauty of Elm Creek Park Reserve, one of the largest parks in the Minneapolis area, offering activities such as hiking, biking, and swimming.
The suburb features an array of shopping options, including the popular Arbor Lakes Shopping Center, where families can explore numerous stores and dine at restaurants like Pittsburgh Blue and Granite City Food & Brewery. The highly regarded Osseo Area School District serves Maple Grove, with notable schools like Maple Grove Senior High.
Conveniently located near Interstates 94 and 494, the commute time to downtown Minneapolis is approximately 25 minutes.
Eagan
Eagan provides a median home price of $350,000 and offers a balance between urbanconveniences and natural beauty. Families can explore the vast outdoor spaces in Eagan, such as Lebanon Hills Regional Park, known for its scenic trails and lakes.
For educational opportunities, the suburb is home to the University of St. Thomas, providing a variety of academic programs. Eagan also offers easy access to major highways, including Interstate 35E and Minnesota State Highway 77, ensuring a smooth commute to downtown Minneapolis in about 20 minutes.
When it comes to dining, families can indulge in delicious meals at local gems like Jensen's Cafe and Burgers and Ansari's Mediterranean Grill.
Plymouth
Plymouth, with a median home price of $420,000, presents a charming suburban atmosphere for families. The suburb boasts numerous parks and trails, including the picturesque French Regional Park and Medicine Lake Regional Trail, perfect for outdoor activities like boating and hiking. Families can also visit the Plymouth Creek Center, a community hub offering recreational programs and events.
The highly regarded Wayzata School District serves Plymouth, with schools like Wayzata High School providing excellent education. Conveniently located near Interstate 494 and Highway 55, the commute to downtown Minneapolis takes approximately 25 minutes.
Local dining options like Lucky's 13 Pub and Millie's Cafe cater to diverse culinary preferences.
Woodbury
Woodbury offers a median home price of $415,000 and is known for its expansive outdoor spaces and recreational facilities. Families can explore the beautiful trails and lakes in places like Carver Lake Park and Ojibway Park.
The suburb is also home to the Tamarack Village shopping center, where families can enjoy shopping and dining experiences at popular establishments like Punch Pizza and Crave American Kitchen & Sushi Bar. Woodbury is served by the highly rated South Washington County School District, with schools like East Ridge High School.
The suburb's proximity to Interstate 494 and Highway 94 ensures a convenient commute to downtown Minneapolis, typically taking around 30 minutes.
Lakeville
Lakeville, with a median home price of $420,000, offers a mix of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and a thriving community. Families can enjoy the scenic surroundings of Lake Marion and Antlers Park, where they can indulge in activities like swimming, fishing, and picnicking.
Lakeville is home to several excellent schools within the Lakeville Area Public School District, such as Lakeville North High School. Connectivity to downtown Minneapolis is convenient with easy access to Interstate 35 and Highway 50, resulting in a commute time of approximately 30 minutes.
For dining options, families can savor delicious meals at local favorites like Porterhouse Steak and Seafood and Chart House.
Burnsville
Burnsville provides a median home price of $320,000 and offers a diverse range of recreational opportunities for families. Buck Hill, a popular ski and snowboard area, attracts outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.
The suburb also features the expansive Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve, offering hiking and cross-country skiing trails. Families can explore educational opportunities at Normandale Community College, located in Burnsville. Conveniently situated near Interstate 35W and Highway 13, the commute to downtown Minneapolis takes approximately 25 minutes.
When it's time to dine out, families can enjoy the culinary delights offered by local establishments like Chianti Grill and Jensen's Supper Club.
