11 Reasons It Rocks to Live in Bloomington MN
Bloomington Minnesota Rocks! Here are 11 Reasons Why
The Minneapolis metro area boasts many suburbs that are outstanding places to live and Bloomington is one of them. Located ten miles south of downtown Minneapolis, Bloomington sits on the north bank of the Minnesota River above its confluence with the Mississippi. Land Mass is 34.68 square miles with water covering a 3.78 square area. The population according to the 2014 census is 86,314.
Bloomington become established as a Minneapolis suburb during the housing boom following WW II. The Eastern end of city is comprised of modest housing on tree lined streets in tidy neighborhoods. West Bloomington development took off in the 70’s and is comprised of more upscale and expensive homes. The median home price as of August 2015 as published on Zillow is $218,218 up 1.7% from the previous year with a prediction values in Bloomington will rise 1.5% over the next year.
1. Bloomington Offers Great Metro Connection
Two major expressways, 35W and 494 provide Bloomington residents with excellent Metro connectivity. With downtown Minneapolis 15 miles to the north, it’s an easy commute and all the cultural, recreational, and shopping attractions the city has to offer is a mere 20 minute drive! The Airport is 10 minutes away. Downtown St. Paul is 20 miles to the north east.
2. Bloomington has Light Rail
Commuter rail is a great way to access downtown Minneapolis and stops along the way without worrying about traffic or parking. For daily commuters or just those seeking recreation, Bloomington has 4 light rail stops: American Blvd, Bloomington Central, 28th Ave, and Mall of American. You can also use the light rail to get to both terminals at the Minneapolis-St. Paul airport. Bus connections and free parking available as well, though not at all locations. Check out the Metro Transit website for detailed information regarding fares, bus connections, parking and train schedules.
3. Bloomington Home of The Mall of America
The Mall of America is the largest enclosed mall in the country. It isn’t just about shopping, the mall offers some great dining and entertainment options. There are also hotels and offices in the complex. The first phase of a $325 million expansion just opened in August 2015 and the next phase is slated to open in November of this year as well. Attractions at the mall include The Minnesota Children’s Museum, Nickelodean Universe, and Sealife Minnesota Aquarium. For the complete list of events and attractions at MOA please visit their website.
4. Bloominton Has Open Space
Nearly one third of the city is permanently reserved for park purposes which include two large natural areas. The Minnesota Valley's wetlands is controlled by the City and the United States Fish and Wildlife Services. Located in the Southeast end of the city is the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, and 11,000 acre National Park spread out over 34 miles along the shore of the Minnesota River. In addition to providing a habitat for a large number of migratory birds, waterfowl and fish, the area provides visitors with recreation options such as hiking, biking, snowshoeing and cross country skiing in a beautiful natural environment. It is also a place with provides opportunities for fishing, hunting, wildlife observation, environmental education and photography.
Located in the west side of the city lies the 2,565 acre Hyland Lake Park Reserve which is managed by both the Three Rivers Park District and the City of Bloomington. The city operates the Bush Lake and Normandale Lake facilities, while Three Rivers operates the Hyland and Anderson Lakes facilities. Recreational options include swimming, boating, biking canoeing, disc golf, fishing, cross country skiing, downhill skiing and snowboarding. Educational programs are ongoing at the Richardson Nature Center.
5. Bloomington Parks
Bloomington also has an extensive city park system, with over 1,000 square feet of parkland per capita so you can be sure no matter where you live in Bloomington, there is a park nearby and generally within walking distance. The wide range of recreational options includes picnicking, playgrounds, swimming, boating, tennis, soccer, football, and softball fields, basketball courts, off-leash dog parks, hockey, and ice-skating rinks, canoeing and hiking and biking trails. For a complete list of city parks and amenities provided visit the city of Bloomington site.
6. Arts in the Park
During the summer months, music, movies and fireworks cna be enjoyed, free of charge at Lake Normandale. Hear the sounds of summer at the concert series at the Bandshell. Watch blockbuster movies beneath the stars on the 30 foot outdoor movie screen while you enjoy the beautiful natural lakeside scenery. Pack a picnic basket or let the food vendors handle the menu. For the 4th of July festivities and other celebrations, watch the fireworks bursting over the lake.
7. Bloomington Center for the Arts
Located at the north end of the Bloomington Civic Plaza, Artistry (formerly Bloomington Center for the Arts) is a focal point for the performing and visual arts of area residents of Bloomington and the surrounding communities. It is also home to nine resident art organizations and is utilized by the city for arts activities, civic functions, and private rentals. The building includes two theaters, two art galleries, a dance studio, rehearsal spaces, classrooms, and offices. This is a fabulous destination for anyone interested in taking an art course, viewing a gallery exhibit, listening to live music, or watching a play. For complete information on happenings, events, and performance schedules visit Artistry online.
8. The Japanese Garden
Truly one of Bloomington’s hidden gems, the Japanese Garden on the Normandale College Campus is an island of peace and tranquility. The garden occupies two acres of serenity and beauty which make it an ideal spot for reflection and renewal of the spirit. Over 300 Minnesota hardy plants, shrubs and trees are planted here and exemplify the restrained use of flowering plants that is traditional to gardens in Japan. This is one of my favorite spots to kneel down in the grass, enjoy a book and simply “be”. There have been many summer afternoons where I have had this beautiful haven, completely to myself. The garden is open daily, year-round from sunrise to sunset except when reserved for private functions.
9. Bloomington Has Skiing
When you live in Bloomington, you have a ski resort in your “backyard”. Nestled in the scenic 1000 acre Hyland Lake Park Reserve, the newly renamed Hyland Hills Ski Area is truly a unique venue in the Twin Cities Metro area. This fully equipped ski facility employs innovative snowmaking techniques and world-class grooming of the terrain to ensure ski enthusiasts of a challenging and world-class experience. Equipment rentals and lessons are available as well as competitive programs for experienced downhill skiers, jumpers and snowboarders. Oh, I almost forgot to mention, a sparkling new 37,000 square foot chalet opened in September. The new facility features an expanded food court and a new retail shop for ski gear. More parking, shuttle service, and an expanded skier drop-off will make your experience seamless. The ski area is open from mid-November through March.
10. Bloomington Schools Highly Rated
Bloomington has great schools Nine schools in the district are Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence and another six have received Minnesota Schools of Excellence designation. From preschool programs to internationally known Gifted and Talented programs, Bloomington schools are meeting the needs of all their students, affording them the opportunity to achieve excellence. Bloomington Public Schools receive a 4-star rating, 198th in the state on USA.com.
11 Need a Job?
Bloomington has more jobs per capita than either Minneapolis or Saint Paul. The city is home to a large contingent of employers, providing more than 100,000 jobs locally. A location close to major transportation routes and its proximity to the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport makes Bloomington a major hospitality center with over 8000 hotel rooms. The major employer in Bloomington is the Mall of American with 13,000 employees. Additionally, Ceridian, Donaldson Company, the Evangelical Free Church of America, HealthPartners, Holiday Station Stores, Thermo King, and Toro have their headquarters in Bloomington. Other large employers include Wells Fargo Bank and Seagate Technology.
Superior location in the Metro, light rail connections, great shopping, outstanding parks and recreation, art, great schools and plenty of jobs make Bloomington a great place to live and raise a family. If you want a suburban experience yet have easy access to the uptown and downtown Metro, it may just be the perfect option for you! Start your search for a home in Bloomington now!
Whether it’s all systems go or you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call, email or text Joe.
Joe Houghton 763-300-2702 myrealtorjoe@gmail.com
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