Edina, MN
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sports and Sporting Legends
- Universities and Academic Institutions
- Healthcare Facilities and Services
Edina is an affluent first-ring suburb of Minneapolis, known for its top-rated schools, upscale shopping, and the nation's oldest indoor mall, Southdale Center.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: Edina, Minnesota .
- Administrative Role: Edina is a city in Hennepin County and a first-ring suburb of Minneapolis . It is not a capital, but it is one of the most well-known and populous suburbs in the state.
- Location: It is located in the state of Minnesota, in Hennepin County. The region is part of the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metropolitan area, often called the "Twin Cities," which is the political, cultural, and economic hub of the Upper Midwest .
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Historical Name: Before its incorporation, the area was part of Richfield Township .
- Nickname - "Cake Eaters": Edina is famously, and sometimes infamously, known by the nickname "Cake Eaters" . This nickname stems from the city's long-standing reputation as an affluent community. It was popularized nationally in the film The Mighty Ducks, where it was used in reference to a privileged character from Edina . While once a derogatory term, it is now often used in a lighthearted, teasing manner, especially in local sports rivalries .
Date of Foundation and Age
Edina was formally incorporated as a village in 1888, separating itself from Richfield Township . The area was first settled by farming families in the 1860s . As of 2026, the city is 138 years old. The name "Edina" was proposed by Andrew Craik, a Scottish settler who named it after his hometown of Edinburgh, which is poetically known as "Edina" .
Geographical Position and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 44°53′44″N 93°21′17″W / 44.89556°N 93.35472°W .
- Location: Edina is located about 10 miles (a 20-minute drive) southwest of downtown Minneapolis . It is situated on a relatively flat plain, characteristic of the region.
- Elevation: The city's elevation is approximately 922 feet (281 meters) above sea level .
- Type of Settlement: Edina is a suburban city, now more than 95% developed, consisting primarily of residential neighborhoods .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Edina is primarily a residential suburb and a major regional retail and shopping destination .
- Shopping Destination: It is home to two major, upscale shopping centers. Southdale Center, which opened in 1956, is the first fully enclosed, climate-controlled indoor shopping mall in the United States . Nearby, the Galleria Edina offers high-end brands like Tiffany & Co. and Coach .
- Commercial Hub: The "50th & France" neighborhood, which it shares with Minneapolis, is a chic, walkable area with over 175 shops and restaurants .
- Administrative Center: It serves as the local government hub for its residents.
Population and Demographics
- Population: At the 2020 census, the population of Edina was 53,494, making it the 18th most populous city in Minnesota .
- Classification: Edina is a large suburb. While not a major city itself, it is part of a vast metropolitan area with over 3.6 million people .
- Demographic Features: Edina is historically known as one of the most affluent suburbs in the state . The population is predominantly white, with growing Asian and Hispanic communities, and has a high median age of 44 years .
"Visiting Card" of the City (In Short)
Edina is a sophisticated and historic suburb that offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and "city-like living" . Visitors and residents are drawn to its tree-lined neighborhoods, top-tier schools, and an unparalleled shopping experience that includes the historic Southdale Center—America's first indoor mall—and the chic boutiques of the Galleria and 50th & France district.
Geography
Lakes and Waterways
While Edina doesn't have a massive lake within its boundaries, it is defined by its proximity to water and features several small lakes and creeks.
- Minnehaha Creek: This is the primary waterway flowing through the northern part of the city . It is a scenic creek that eventually flows to the famous Minnehaha Falls in Minneapolis.
- Rosland Park Lake: A small, scenic lake located within Rosland Park, offering a picturesque setting for a short, 1-mile walking loop .
- Nearby Lakes: Edina is surrounded by the famous "Chain of Lakes" region in Minneapolis, including Lake Harriet and Bde Maka Ska, which are just minutes away and offer extensive recreational activities.
Parks and Trails
Edina is renowned for its extensive park system, which serves as the city's green lung and a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Centennial Lakes Park: This 25-acre park is a central gathering place, featuring a beautiful central lake with paddle boat rentals, a 1.5-mile walking path, formal gardens, and a putting course . In winter, the lake becomes a popular ice-skating rink.
- Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail: A major multi-use trail that runs for 15 miles, connecting Edina to surrounding suburbs and providing a natural corridor for biking, running, and walking .
- Bredesen Park: A large, natural-area park popular with dog owners for its spacious off-leash area, as well as sports facilities like tennis courts .
- Morningside Park: A classic neighborhood park in the historic Morningside area, featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and open green space .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Edina has a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons, including warm, humid summers and bitterly cold, snowy winters . It is one of the sunnier cities in the region during the summer months.
Average Temperatures Throughout the Year
The climate varies dramatically between seasons .
- Hottest Month: July, with average high temperatures of 83°F (28°C) and lows of 65°F (18°C) .
- Coldest Month: January, with average high temperatures of 24°F (-4°C) and lows plunging to 9°F (-13°C) .
- Extreme Temperatures: Winter temperatures can rarely drop below -11°F (-24°C), and summer highs can occasionally exceed 92°F (33°C) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Rainfall: The city receives an average of 27 inches (690 mm) of rainfall per year . The wettest period is late spring and summer, with June being the peak month for rain .
- Snowfall: Edina averages about 51 inches (130 cm) of snow per season, with the snowiest months typically being December, January, and February .
- Humidity: Humidity is highest in the summer months, contributing to the "humid continental" feel.
Best Time to Visit
The most pleasant time to visit Edina for warm-weather outdoor activities is from mid-June to early September .
- Summer (June-August): Warm to hot, with long, sunny days. Perfect for enjoying the parks, trails, and outdoor dining .
- Fall (September-October): Crisp, cool air and spectacular fall colors. Ideal for scenic drives and walks.
- Spring (April-May): Mild and increasingly green, though it can be rainy. A time of renewal in the parks.
- Winter (November-March): Very cold and snowy. The city transforms into a winter wonderland, ideal for ice skating at Centennial Lakes and enjoying the cozy indoor atmosphere of the malls .
Landmarks and Attractions
[Southdale Center]
- Full Name: Southdale Center .
- Year Opened: 1956.
- Architect: Victor Gruen.
- Historical Significance: Southdale Center is arguably Edina's most famous landmark. It is the first fully enclosed, climate-controlled indoor shopping mall in the United States . This revolutionary design changed the face of American retail and suburban development.
- Description: Today, it remains a vibrant shopping hub with over 120 stores, including major retailers like Macy's, J. Crew, and an Apple Store, blending its historic significance with modern retail .
[The George W. Baird House]
- Full Name: George W. Baird House .
- Location: 4400 W. 50th St .
- Year Built and Architect: Built in 1886, designed by prominent Minneapolis architect Charles S. Sedgwick .
- Significance: This historic home is a rare and notable example of the Eastlake style of architecture in Minnesota. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978 . The house belonged to George and Sarah Baird, founding members of the Edina Mills community. Sarah Baird was a pioneering woman who served as the State Grange Master for 18 years and left behind detailed diaries that are now a key resource for the Minnesota Historical Society .
[50th & France District]
While technically straddling the border between Edina and Minneapolis, this district is the heart and soul of Edina's chic, walkable culture .
- Description: This vibrant, pedestrian-friendly area is packed with over 175 upscale boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants . It's a destination for those seeking a sophisticated shopping and dining experience in a charming, village-like setting, a stark contrast to the massive enclosed malls.
[Centennial Lakes Park]
- Description: More than just a park, this is a 25-acre urban oasis that functions as a central community hub .
- Key Features: It features a central lake for paddle boating, formal gardens, a nine-hole putting course, and a network of paved paths. In the winter, the lake is converted into one of the area's most popular ice skating rinks, complete with a warming house . It perfectly captures Edina's blend of natural beauty and planned recreation.
[Morningside Neighborhood]
- Description: This historic neighborhood was an independent village from 1920 until it rejoined Edina in 1966 . Walking through its tree-lined streets offers a glimpse into early 20th-century suburban development, with well-preserved homes and a strong sense of community centered around Morningside Park .
Transport
Main Airports
- Primary Airport: Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) .
- IATA Code: MSP.
- Distance: Located just a 15-minute drive from Edina, making it one of the most accessible suburbs to the airport .
- Details: MSP is consistently ranked as one of the best airports in North America and is a major hub for Delta Air Lines, offering direct flights to destinations across the globe .
Public Transportation
Edina is well-integrated into the Metro Transit system, making it easy to reach from Minneapolis and other suburbs without a car .
- Bus Routes: Key routes include the Metro Transit bus 6, which runs between downtown Minneapolis and Edina, and the Southwest Transit bus 600, which provides weekday commuter service . Routes like the 36 and the METRO E Line also provide connections to the system .
- Local Circulator: The CloverRide Circulator Bus offers on-demand transport within Edina, although its service may be limited (e.g., currently only on Fridays) .
Major Highways
Edina's location makes it a highly accessible hub within the southwest metro, with several major highways either bordering it or running through it .
- East-West Routes: Interstate 494 (I-494) and Minnesota State Highway 62 (the Crosstown) run along or near the city.
- North-South Routes: U.S. Route 169 and Minnesota State Highway 100 are the primary north-south arteries.
- Access to Minneapolis: These highways provide direct and quick access to downtown Minneapolis (via I-394 and I-94) and the surrounding suburbs.
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
While Edina is a suburban city, it has become a notable destination in the Twin Cities for diverse and high-quality dining experiences, often featuring concepts by celebrated chefs.
Bellecour French Fries
A signature dish from the kitchen of renowned Twin Cities chef Gavin Kaysen, the Bellecour French fries are served at his eponymous daytime cafe in Edina . What sets these fries apart is the fragrant addition of fried leeks and rosemary, making them an iconic and must-try item . The cafe, Bellecour, opened its Edina location in late 2025 and offers a menu of French-inspired baked goods and savory dishes, with these fries being a standout .
Master Noodle's Hand-Pulled Noodles
For authentic Chinese cuisine, Edina is home to Master Noodle, a restaurant celebrated for its hand-pulled noodles . Diners can watch as noodles are expertly crafted for dishes like the signature "Master Noodle Soup," a spicy broth served with three large pork ribs, or the "Biang Biang noodles," known for their wide, belt-like shape and chewy texture . The restaurant specializes in regional Chinese styles, including Lanzhou and Chongqing spicy noodle soups, offering a taste of authentic culinary traditions .
The French Pastry at Bellecour
Bellecour is also the place to experience high-quality French pastries in Edina. The pastry case, overseen by pastry chef Alexandra Motz, is stocked with a rotating selection of croissants, Danishes, cookies, muffins, and slices of crepe cake . This cafe brings a touch of French baking tradition to the city, with a focus on quality and neighborhood favorites .
Museums
Minnehaha Grange Hall
The Minnehaha Grange Hall, located at 4918 Eden Ave, serves as Edina's primary museum dedicated to local history . This cultural hub offers exhibits that showcase the rich heritage of the Edina community, featuring artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that highlight significant events and figures from the area's past . The museum plays a vital role in educating the public and fostering appreciation for local heritage through workshops, lectures, and guided tours .
Old Cahill School Museum
Near the Grange Hall is the Old Cahill School Museum, a one-room schoolhouse that offers a glimpse into 19th-century education . This historic building allows visitors to step back in time and experience what school was like for the area's early settlers, providing a tangible connection to Edina's pioneer past.
Sports and Sporting Legends
Edina has a strong sports culture, particularly known for its high school athletics and excellent recreational facilities.
Braemar Arena
Braemar Arena is a premier ice skating facility in Edina that has served generations of skaters, from beginners to Olympians . It features three indoor rinks and a seasonal outdoor rink, hosting youth hockey, figure skating, and public skating sessions. The arena is a cornerstone of the community's winter sports activities .
Braemar Golf Dome
Golf enthusiasts can practice year-round at the Braemar Golf Dome, a heated facility featuring 46 hitting bays equipped with Toptracer Range technology . This allows golfers to play virtual courses, join leagues, or simply practice their swing in a comfortable, indoor environment, complete with a putting green and chipping area .
Edina High School Hornets
The Edina High School Hornets are a powerhouse in Minnesota high school sports. The boys' swimming and diving team, in particular, has a storied tradition of success. In February 2026, the team won its third consecutive Class 2A state championship, demonstrating the program's sustained excellence and depth . The team is known for its strength in diving events, which provided crucial points for their latest title win .
Centennial Lakes Park
For recreational sports and outdoor fun, Centennial Lakes Park is a community hub . In the summer, visitors can rent paddleboats, play on the putting course, or simply stroll. During the winter, the park's ponds transform into 10 acres of ice for skating, offering a picturesque setting for outdoor recreation .
Edinborough Park
Edinborough Park is an indoor park consistently voted the best indoor play park in the Twin Cities . Its main attraction, "Adventure Peak," is a huge climbing, sliding, and exploration space for children. The facility also includes an open play area, an amphitheater, and a pool with a walking track for adults, making it a unique sports and recreation destination regardless of weather .
Universities and Academic Institutions
Edina itself does not host a university campus, but it is situated within the vibrant Minneapolis-Saint Paul metropolitan area, which is home to numerous prestigious colleges and universities . Edina serves as a residential hub for many students, faculty, and staff associated with these nearby institutions.
Major Universities in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul Metro
Several major universities are located just minutes from Edina. These include:
- University of St. Thomas: A large private university with a revenue of over $537 million and employing more than 5,200 people, it's one of the largest in the metro .
- Bethel University: Another significant private university in the area, with revenues around $124.9 million and over 2,300 employees .
- St. Catherine University: A renowned university for women, with a strong reputation in health sciences and liberal arts, generating over $129 million in revenue .
- Macalester College: A top-ranked liberal arts college in nearby Saint Paul, known for its internationalist character and academic rigor .
- Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD): A leading art school offering specialized programs in various visual arts disciplines .
- Northwestern Health Sciences University (NWHSU): A specialized institution focused on chiropractic, acupuncture, and other health sciences, located in Bloomington, adjacent to Edina .
Healthcare Facilities and Services
Healthcare services in Edina are provided through a combination of local public health initiatives and its proximity to world-class medical centers in the surrounding Twin Cities metro area.
Edina Health Department
The Edina Health Department serves as the primary public health clinic for residents . Located at 6250 Tracy Ave, it offers essential services such as immunizations and flu shots, health assessments, health education and promotion, and maternal and child health services . The department operates through a contract with Bloomington Public Health to provide communicable disease prevention programs and public health nursing services, ensuring community wellness and emergency preparedness .
Proximity to Major Medical Centers
While Edina has its own health department, it benefits immensely from being part of the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metropolitan area, which is home to several globally recognized healthcare institutions. Residents have relatively quick access to advanced medical care at facilities such as:
- Mayo Clinic: While the main campus is in Rochester, MN, the Mayo Clinic has a significant presence in the Twin Cities and is the world's most renowned medical center, famous for its integrated approach to patient care, particularly in oncology, cardiology, and neurology.
- University of Minnesota Medical Center: A leading academic medical center located in Minneapolis, known for its research and specialized treatments, including advanced surgery and transplant programs.
- Abbott Northwestern Hospital: Part of Allina Health, located in Minneapolis, it is a major hospital known for its heart institute and comprehensive medical and surgical services.
- Children's Minnesota: With campuses in Minneapolis and Saint Paul, it is one of the largest children's health systems in the United States, providing specialized pediatric care.