Parkside offers a tranquil atmosphere with peaceful streets and convenient access to several nearby parks. The neighborhood features a diverse mix of housing options, including spacious lofts, townhouses, and larger residences suitable for a variety of preferences. Its well-developed cycling infrastructure supports easy and safe travel by bicycle throughout the area. Residents find it simple to reach essential services such as schools and pharmacies within short distances. The neighborhood's proximity to highways provides smooth connectivity, and parking is readily available. A handful of bus routes offer public transit access nearby, contributing to convenient travel around the community.
Parkside is a "jack-of-all-trades" when it comes to the feel of this part of the city. Parkside is very quiet overall, as the streets are generally very peaceful. However, it is easy to access public green spaces since there are a few of them close by for residents to discover. Finally, even though this part of the city is not known for its lively ambience, with the nightlife venues in nearby neighborhoods, it is easy to find a place to grab a drink because they are generally located a short distance away.
Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special
These two regional trails intersect in Parkside along Excelsior Boulevard, providing residents a seamless paved and limestone network ideal for walking, running or biking while connecting to a broader metro trail system.
Part of Parkside falls within the Hopkins Public Schools district, granting families convenient access to highly regarded schools like Hopkins High School and Glen Lake Elementary, with Meadowbrook and Gatewood nearby.
Located just a short walk from the neighborhood, Burnes Park offers a popular splash pad, sports courts and playgrounds—making it a lively summer destination for families in Parkside.
This stretch of historic Mainstreet between 8th and 11th Avenues North, just outside Parkside, features unique local shops, eateries and a charming small‑town downtown vibe that Parkside residents enjoy.
On the edge of Parkside, the Hopkins Activity Center provides a gym, meeting rooms and fitness and social programs—especially enriching for active adults and community gatherings.
Things to do, events, and what's happening this month
This welcoming Hopkins open mic offers live music, poetry, storytelling, and community conversation in an intimate coffeehouse setting. It is an easy, close-to-home evening for Parkside residents who want local entertainment without traveling into Minneapolis, and audience members can simply attend and support neighborhood performers.
View event details →This free neighborhood health fair connects residents with wellness vendors, community organizations, fitness information, housing resources, and health screenings. It is particularly useful for older adults in and around Parkside, while family members and caregivers can also learn about services available close to home.
View event details →Throughout the week, the Activity Center offers free or accessible opportunities including fitness activities, social gatherings, walking, pickleball, yoga, travel programming, and educational presentations. Parkside residents can sample new activities and meet neighbors in a convenient Hopkins facility, making this a practical fall wellness option.
View event details →This creative Hopkins evening combines member performances in music, spoken word, and comedy with a featured set by singer-songwriter Rachel Ries. Residents near Parkside can enjoy a relaxed, highly local arts experience, whether they want to perform themselves or spend an evening discovering talent in the community.
View event details →Held during Fire Prevention Week, this family-friendly open house gives Hopkins residents a close-up look at local emergency services and fire-safety education. It is an especially convenient outing for Parkside families, with the station located in Hopkins and activities designed to engage children as well as adults.
View event details →Stories, updates, and things to know in Parkside
Local characteristics and demographics for Parkside
