14 Reasons You Should Move to Minneapolis
June 21, 2024 | Moving
Minnesota, a beautiful state in the Midwest, is home to Minneapolis, the state’s largest and most well-known city. Whether you’re moving to Minneapolis from in or out-of-state, you’ll quickly discover its unique charm. Minnesota is located in the upper Midwest region of the United States and is the 12th-largest state. Minnesota is also known as ‘the land of 10,000 lakes,’ boasting 11,000 lakes and 90,000 miles of shoreline.
In addition to offering numerous recreational and tourist activities, Minneapolis is a thriving economic hub in the Midwest. At least five Fortune 500 companies have their headquarters in Minnesota, making it an appealing destination for career growth and business opportunities. Before you move to Minneapolis, be sure to read our guide to learn more about why locals love living here!
Get to Know Minneapolis Neighborhoods
With over 400,000 residents, Minneapolis is undeniably a popular place to live. Whether you’ve chosen to settle in Minneapolis for work or to raise a family in one of its many exceptional neighborhoods, there are plenty of reasons why people love living in this Twin City.
Downtown Minneapolis
One of the most unique downtowns in the country, the city’s core is connected by the Minneapolis Skyway System. This remarkable 10-mile network of enclosed pathways, bridges, and tunnels connects around 150 buildings over 80 city blocks. Also located Downtown are the Central Business District, Walker Art Center, Guthrie Theater, Nicollet Mall, and the North Loop, a vibrant, trendy neighborhood.
North Minneapolis
North Minneapolis is recognized for its food, art, music, fashion, and festivals. The area consists of 13 neighborhoods and falls under the Northside Achievement Zone, which collaborates with community partners to improve schools and housing for its residents.
The vibrant West Broadway area encompasses the Northside neighborhoods of Bryn-Mawr/Harrison and Near North.
South of Downtown Minneapolis
South of Downtown Minneapolis is a diverse area featuring vibrant neighborhoods, including Lyn-Lake, Uptown, Hennepin, Seward, and Nokomis Lake. Additionally, South Minneapolis is home to an array of cultural venues and green spaces, such as the picturesque Minnehaha Park and the Chain of Lakes, making it a perfect blend of urban amenities and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Enjoy Arts, Culture, and Shopping
Locals enjoy Downtown Minneapolis’s arts and culture scene (despite the freezing winter temps!) year-round thanks to the extensive Minneapolis Skyway system. Beyond Downtown, there are world-class museums and theaters, unique boutiques, and local markets. There’s so much to explore; living here, you’ll always have things to do.
Walker Art Center
The Walker Art Center is a premier contemporary art museum known for its cutting-edge exhibitions and iconic architecture. Founded in 1927, it features diverse works, educational initiatives, and public events that engage and inspire the community. Adjacent to the museum is the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, home to the famous “Spoonbridge and Cherry” sculpture.
Guthrie Theater
Known for its distinctive blue building and cantilevered “Endless Bridge,” which offers stunning views of the Mississippi River, the Guthrie Theater is a premier venue for theater productions ranging from classic to contemporary works. Founded in 1963 by Sir Tyrone Guthrie, it features three stages. It offers a mix of classic and contemporary plays, educational programs, and community outreach, making it a cultural landmark and a local favorite for theater enthusiasts.
Mill City Museum
Built within the historic Washburn A Mill ruins, the Mill City Museum is a testament to Minneapolis’ flour milling industry and the city’s development. With interactive exhibits, a baking lab, and panoramic views of the Mississippi River, Mill City Museum is a cultural landmark that offers a unique perspective on the city’s history.
Northeast Minneapolis Arts District
The Northeast Minneapolis Arts District spans several neighborhoods in Northeast Minneapolis and has become a prominent area for artists and art enthusiasts. It’s known for its unique mix of industrial spaces converted into artist studios and galleries, creating a distinctive and creative atmosphere. Located just across the Mississippi River from downtown Minneapolis, the Arts District is easily accessible by car, bike, or public transit.
Highway in the Sky
Minneapolis boasts a skyway system with a vast network of bridges and tunnels linking 52 downtown blocks. This system allows people to work, shop, and dine indoors comfortably year-round. During Minnesota’s famous winter months, football fans and sports enthusiasts can reach the Target Center without getting too cold or wet.
The Mall of America
Located in Bloomington, The Mall of America is one of the country’s largest shopping malls, covering approximately 5.6 million square feet. How big is this, exactly? The Mall of America is equivalent to 78 football fields or nearly seven times the size of Yankee Stadium!
Outdoor Enthusiasts Love Living in Minneapolis
Whether you love boating, hiking, biking, or kayaking, Minneapolis offers many natural wonders to explore and has something for everyone. From its extensive network of scenic parks and picturesque trails to its renowned winter sports opportunities, including ice skating and cross-country skiing, living here ensures endless adventures at your doorstep.
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
The Minneapolis Sculpture is an 11-acre paradise and home to the iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture. The garden features over 40 pieces of contemporary art in a beautifully landscaped urban park.
Minnehaha Falls
Located in the serene Minnehaha Park, this 53-foot waterfall is a natural oasis in the city’s heart. The park offers tranquil walking and biking trails, picturesque picnic areas, and historical sites, making it a perfect spot for outdoor activities.
Chain of Lakes Regional Park:
Located about 5 miles southwest of downtown Minneapolis, this 5,500-acre park features several interconnected lakes, providing a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. It also offers campsites, hiking and biking trails, a fishing pier, and playgrounds.
Whether you’re moving to Minneapolis to raise a family or plan on retiring in Minnesota, you’ll soon discover why so many people love calling The Land of 10,000 Lakes home.
Moving to Minneapolis? Find a Metro Self Storage Near Your Neighborhood
We have been providing industry-leading storage solutions since 1973. So, whether starting your Minneapolis house-hunting journey or packing up the moving truck, visit Metro Self Storage near Minneapolis to read our great reviews and choose your storage solution. Some of our state-of-the-art storage facility highlights include:
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Metro’s friendly and professionally trained storage teams are always ready to assist you with your questions. Find your storage deal today!
