If you’re considering a move to Hopkins, MN, the Parkside neighborhood deserves a spot at the top of your list. Tucked into the east side of Hopkins—bounded by the scenic Minnehaha Creek to the south and the bustling Excelsior Boulevard to the north—Parkside is a close-knit enclave that offers the perfect blend of suburban calm and urban convenience. Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or an empty nester, Parkside has something special to offer.
A Welcoming, Neighborhood Feel
One of the biggest draws to Parkside is its genuine sense of community. People here know their neighbors. On streets like Tyler Avenue, 2nd Street SE, and Madison Avenue, you’ll find residents waving hello on evening walks or chatting at the mailbox. There’s a down-to-earth, approachable vibe—many families have lived here for years, while others are new arrivals instantly welcomed into the fold.
Block parties, driveway barbecues, and an active neighborhood association help foster that small-town spirit. The Parkside Neighborhood Association occasionally organizes gatherings—like park picnics or clean-up days—encouraging everyone to get involved.
Variety of Housing Options
Parkside’s housing is mostly made up of mid-century single-family homes—think ramblers and bungalows built in the 1950s and 1960s. These homes are well-kept, often updated with modern amenities but still brimming with character. You’ll also find a handful of townhomes along 2nd Street SE, as well as some cozy apartments and duplexes on the fringes of the neighborhood near Excelsior Blvd.
A typical Parkside lot boasts mature trees, tidy lawns, and just enough outdoor space for gardening, playsets, or relaxing by a fire pit. Homes tend to be more affordable than those in nearby West Minneapolis, making this area accessible to first-time buyers as well as those looking to downsize.
Walkability and Everyday Conveniences
If walkability is important to you, Parkside checks several boxes. Excelsior Boulevard forms the northern edge of the neighborhood, and you can find essentials like grocery stores (Cub Foods), coffee shops, and local eateries within walking or biking distance. The trails along Minnehaha Creek offer scenic strolling or jogging right from your doorstep—perfect for people who thrive on daily exercise or morning dog walks.
The neighborhood’s wide, calm streets and established sidewalks make it easy and safe for kids to bike to school or neighbors to stroll together in the evening. Downtown Hopkins, with its charming Mainstreet district, is less than a mile west and offers everything from bookstores and bakeries to unique local boutiques.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Parkside falls within the well-regarded Hopkins Public Schools district. Alice Smith Elementary School is particularly convenient—located just a few blocks west of the neighborhood, it’s a top choice for families with young children. The neighborhood itself is quiet, with minimal through-traffic, lending itself to safe play. Teens and middle schoolers typically attend Hopkins North Junior High and Hopkins High School, both a short drive or bus ride away.
Preschool options and child care centers, such as New Horizon Academy, are nearby as well, making life easier for busy parents. The strong school system and accessible programs are a big reason Parkside remains popular for young families.
Abundant Parks and Green Spaces
Living in Parkside means the outdoors is always at your doorstep. The neighborhood backs directly onto Cottageville Park, an 11-acre green space transformed in recent years into a neighborhood gem. With its playground, splash pad, basketball courts, and picnic shelters, Cottageville Park is a magnet for families after work and on weekends. Kids frequently gather for pick-up basketball games or to cool off at the splash pad in summer.
Minnehaha Creek winds along the southern edge of Parkside, providing lovely walking paths, fishing spots, and open space for four-legged friends to romp. Just east on Blake Road, you’ll find Valley Park—another favorite with its sledding hills, open fields, and community gardens.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Safety is a top concern for any prospective resident, and Parkside offers a strong track record. Hopkins is generally considered one of the safer suburbs, and Parkside’s quiet residential streets contribute to that peace of mind. Residents routinely mention how comfortable they feel going for walks late at night or letting older children play outside unsupervised.
Block watches and neighborhood communication are supported by active Facebook groups and Nextdoor forums. Hopkins Police Department’s community policing initiatives also keep neighbors informed and engaged.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Parkside strikes a sweet spot between tranquility and access. Downtown Minneapolis is just a 15-minute drive down Excelsior Boulevard or via nearby Highway 169—commuters appreciate the straightforward access to the city. The Southwest LRT line, with a future Blake Road Station nearby, promises even more convenient transit options in the years ahead.
Hopkins’ own Mainstreet offers local employment, and major employers like Cargill, Methodist Hospital, and several tech companies in the West End are all within a short drive. For those working in Edina, Minnetonka, or St. Louis Park, Parkside’s location means you can skip the worst of the Twin Cities rush hour.
What Residents Love Most
Ask anyone why they love living in Parkside, and you’ll hear the same themes repeated: the welcoming neighbors, the convenience of nearby shopping and dining, and the abundance of parks. Families value the good schools. Dog owners rave about the trails and creekside paths. Even longtime residents are quick to point out how much the area has improved—thanks to thoughtful park upgrades and community spirit.
Above all, Parkside manages to keep a small-town feel while keeping big-city amenities just minutes away. It’s the kind of place where neighbors really do look out for one another, where front porches and picnic tables are regularly in use, and where you’ll feel right at home before long.
Considering a Move?
If you’re seeking a friendly, connected neighborhood with room to grow and play, Parkside in Hopkins is a wonderful place to settle down. Spend an afternoon walking through Cottageville Park or exploring the tree-lined streets, and you’ll quickly see why so many choose to call this corner of Hopkins home.