Ericsson - Minneapolis, MN

The area around Ericsson and neighboring Standish was once the rural outskirts of Minneapolis until a number of Swedish and Norwegian immigrants began settling there in the early 20th century. Nearly 100 years later, the neighborhood still stands as a mostly residential neighborhood with a number of historic homes that have been lovingly restored.

Although you don't find many museums, craft stores or music studios in Ericsson, these cultural establishments abound in the surrounding neighborhoods. You can also experience the community's cultural heartbeat during an annual craft fair held at the Nokomis Community Center.

As you transition from the metro area to the suburbs of Ericsson, Minneapolis' focus on international cuisine and trendy cafes begins to shift to down-home eateries reminiscent of small-town life. Stop into the neighborhood's local establishments along Cedar and 42nd to find affordable breakfasts and burgers served in hearty portions along with friendly wait staff that never send you out hungry.

Check out Colossal Cafe when you're in the mood for a stack of hot pancakes. The size of the cafe doesn't live up to its name with only four tables and a few bar stools, but the flavor is as colossal as it gets. Be sure to order the pancakes piled high with brie, walnuts, apples and brown sugar-honey syrup to fill your tank before heading to work. Just remember to bring cash or checks since the cafe doesn't take credit cards, and visit during off hours to avoid the breakfast-time rush.

For a taste of Chicago in the heart of Minneapolis, stop by Chris & Rob's Chicago's Taste Authority. Chow down on the restaurant's famous Chicago dog or a Polish sausage while watching the Twins game, and be sure to try the cheese-smothered tater tots for a guilty pleasure that tickles your taste buds. This little gem is always crowded with off-duty police officers, but you never find it packed.

When it comes to nightlife, the best dance clubs, music venues and bars in the state are just a short train ride away in downtown Minneapolis, but locals can find plenty of spots to while away a few hours and order a favorite brew in Ericsson. Head to the Town Hall Tap to sample and enjoy locally brewed Town Hall beer while enjoying fresh baked pretzels, sizzling fries and delightful conversation. The IPA stands as a favorite brew on tap. Stop in at Adrian's Tavern for an evening spent playing pool or testing your skills on old-school arcade games.

Ample public transportation and access via Hiawatha Avenue keep Ericsson well-connected to downtown Minneapolis, and you can reach the city center in less than 15 minutes by car. Visiting your favorite restaurant after work is easy with free street parking readily available throughout the neighborhood, and you can always call Uber or a local cab service like Metro Taxi & Limo Inc. for a quick ride into town.

Several buses service the neighborhood, but many residents take the Metro Blue Line light rail along Hiawatha from 46th Street Station for direct access to the city center. The ride only takes about 28 minutes. If you prefer to walk or bike, the quiet streets make for an easy trek despite not having any bike lanes.

With water bodies, public parks and a golf course making up nearly one-half of the neighborhood, Ericsson residents are never far from outdoor recreation any time of year. Explore the bike trails along Minnehaha Creek and Lake Hiawatha, and exercise your leashed pooch along the trails and the park's grassy areas.

Kick back for cost-free run at Lake Hiawatha Park to sunbath at the beach during the summer or hike around the frozen lake in the winter. Kids also have plenty of options with a huge playground and a splash pool. Don't miss the annual Lake Hiawatha Neighborhood Festival in August to partake in the family fitness challenge, canoe rides and kids' festival.

Below-average housing prices keep the cost of living in Ericsson relatively low for the Minneapolis metro area. Very few apartment buildings grace the neighborhood's streets, but you can still rent a one-bedroom apartment for $1,000 to $1,200.

Taking the light rail into Minneapolis costs you $1.75 during normal hours, but get ready to pay an extra 50 cents during rush hour. You can fill up your tank for around 9 percent below the national gas price average, and a pint at the local bars costs around $4 to $5.

Ericsson's residential character means only a few shops line the retail areas along Cedar Avenue and 42nd Street. However, the neighborhood comes alive with hidden gems such as boutiques and antique shops that cater to the joy of small-town living. If you're looking for malls, bargain shops and high-end fashion, take a short ride on the Metro rail into downtown.

For a taste of Ericsson's creative flair, stop into Doodle Bird Design + Gifts to browse unique crafts, jewelry and clothing. Pick up a pair of earrings made from broken china, or get a cute Minnesota card to send some north-woods love to your out-of-state relatives.

Grab your basic groceries at convenience stores that include Flag Foods or Bergan's Supervalu full-service grocery store. If you're looking for a summer farmers market, hop on over to the Midtown Farmers Market at the corner of Lake Street E and 22nd Avenue S. The market open yearly from May through October, and hours are 3 to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and 8 a.m. to 1p.m. on Saturdays.