Top 5 – Edina Edition!
Top 5 reasons to live in Edina:
1 – Strong Community Feel
From the Hornets sports teams to local festivals and community events like farmer’s markets, Edina loves to come together!
2 – Shopping & Dining
Some of the best restaurants in the metro can be found in Edina with flavors from all over the world, from independent stores to shopping centers with world-renown brands, fast food restaurants and upscale dining, Edina truly has it all!
3 – Outdoor Spaces
Options about with playgrounds, walking and biking trails, lakes, sports fields and courts, gardens and parks – it’s easy and enjoyable for Edina residents to spend time outdoors!
4 – Location!
Easy access to highways (62, 494, 100, and 35W), proximity to Downtown Minneapolis and MSP airport, getting around the metro area with Edina as your starting point gets you where you need to go quickly and efficiently!
5 – High-ranking Schools
Edina Public Schools are known for providing excellent educational and after school opportunities for their students.
Top 5 Outdoor Spaces:
1 – Centennial Lakes Park
With stunning views, walking paths, seasonal activities such as paddle boats, mini golf, and skating, and fantastic events including a weekly farmer’s market and art fairs, Centennial Lakes easily takes the top spot in this list!
2 – Braemar Park and Golf Course
Golfers love this beautiful 18-hold course nestled in a recreational area that also includes walking and biking trails and a recreation center. Braemar truly has something for everyone!
3 – Bredesen Park
This beautiful wooded park is strewn with various nature trails that circle lakes and ponds. This is the place to go to truly feel removed from the city and soak in the peace that only nature can offer.
4 – Fred Richards Park
Located just a short walk from Cedars of Edina, this freshly-rejuvenated former golf course features walking trails, ponds, trees, and expansive grounds, right in the heart of Edina!
5 – Normandale Lake
This expansive lake is only a short drive from Cedars and well worth the visit! Enjoy a variety of tranquil nature scenes and wildlife whilst circling the lake.
Top 5 Dining Spots:
1 – Tamarind Indian Grill
With a vast selection of authentic and beautifully prepared dishes, and a location directly across Franch Avenue from Cedars, Tamarind easily takes the top spot with Cedars staff and residents alike!
2 – Ciao Bella
The cozy bar area and stunning, spacious dining room set the tone for the fantastic Italian-inspired menu at this nearby neighborhood gem. As a bonus, the scratch kitchen means most dishes can be tailored for preferences and specialized diets.
3 – Coconut Thai
This 50th and France treasure offers a selection of delicious Thai dishes including a delectable Pad Thai and a wide selection of vegetarian options.
4 – Patrick’s Bakery and Café
A taste of France right here in Edina! Located to the Northeast of Southdale Mall, Patrick’s offers a wide variety of delectable French pastries, gorgeous breakfast and brunch options, lunch fare like quiches and sandwiches, and turns into a full-service sit-down dinner restaurant in the evening.
5 – The Original Pancake House
Breakfast is said to be the most important meal of the day – and the Pancake House certainly delivers! Situated just a short distance away across from Galleria Mall, this tremendously popular spot has a varied menu of both sweet and savory breakfast and lunch items.
Top 5 Shopping Options:
1 – 50th & France
This quaint commercial district is perfect for an afternoon stroll on a beautiful day. Enjoy perusing a wide variety of shops, both independent and national, then stop by one of the many restaurants to take a break. The area also boasts several events throughout the year including the amazing Edina Art Fair.
2 – Southdale Center
The freshly rejuvenated Southdale Center is now home to a mix of unique and luxury shops, entertainment such as Dave and Busters, Putt Shack, and AMC Movie Theatre, as well as several dining options.
3 – Galleria
A staple and hub for luxury shopping in Edina for decades, Galleria features a carefully-curated assortment of shops and restaurants. The mall also hosts unique events such as it’s collaboration with Bachman’s for a Floral Experience that is well worth the visit.
4 – Centennial Lakes Plaza Area
A short 10 minute walk from Cedars of Edina, this shopping hub boasts practical shopping options such as Whole Foods grocery, HomeGoods, the UPS Store, and Office Depot along with a selection of restaurants and services. As a bonus, make a quick detour to the adjacent Centennial Lakes Park for a picnic or simply to take in the views.
5 – 494 & France
Located just across the city border in Bloomington, with close proximity to Cedars of Edina and great selection of businesses earns it the last spot in our top 5. Enjoy a wide variety of shops like World Market, Marshalls, Michael’s, Trader Joe’s, and Books a Million, among others.
Top 5 Seasonal Activities – Summer:
1 – Centennial Lakes Farmer’s Market
From May to October the farmer’s market offers fresh produce, handmade goods, and prepared foods. It is also the perfect place to feel a sense of community and meet neighbors in a fun, laid-back atmosphere.
2 - Concerts at Centennial Lakes
A warm weather favorite, there’s nothing quick like taking in live music at a picturesque outdoor venue by a lake.
3 – Walking and Biking
With the 9-mile-creek regional trail just outside our doors, there are endless options for walking and biking straight from our apartments! There are also fantastic nature hikes just a short drive away like Normandale Lake, or neighboring Richfield Nature Center or Hyland Lake in Bloomington.
4 – Dining Al Fresco at 50th & France
Quaint patios lining France Avenue and its crosstreets provide multiple options for outdoor dining with restaurants for every taste.
5 – Braemar Golf Course
Nestled in rolling hills, lakes, and oak ridges, this pristine golf course offers amazing views and a clubhouse with fantastic food by Red River Kitchen.
Top 5 Season Activities – Winter:
1 – Skating at Centennial Lakes
The most picturesque place to ice skate, especially in the evening under the glow of the string lights by the Pavillion. Skate casually through the tunnels that connect the string of lakes together or take full advantage of the expansive ice surface to get a real workout.
2 – Cross-Country Ski at Braemar Park
Enjoy miles of trails and beautiful scenery as you ski through this expansive and recently upgraded park.
3 – Fireplace Meal at Ciao Bella
Secure a table near the oversized fireplace at the back of the dining room and share a cozy and delicious meal with friends or family.
4 – Indoor fun at Edinburgh Park or Edina Art Center
Let kids loose to climb through the play structures or take in one of the live music nights at Edinborough Park, or sign up for a class at the Edina Art Center.
5 – Winter Village at the Westin Galleria
Escape the cold weather and celebrate the warmth and wonder of the colder months. Enjoy upscale experiences such as brunch in an atmosphere reminiscent of an alpine chalet, or gather fireside in the Clicquot Chalet for a traditional apres-ski meal of fondue and raclette.
