Whittier - Minneapolis, MN

Whittier began as the residential refuge for some of the area's elite, as wealthy residents built mansions during the mid-1800s in what is known as the Washburn-Fair Oaks Mansion District. Multi-family residences began popping up during the early 1900s as middle-income residents began arriving, and Whittier reached its peak by the 1950s. In the following years, wealthy residents began moving away as the economic situation and crime in the neighborhood took a turn for the worse. It was not until 1977 that a coalition known as the Whittier Alliance began returning the city to its former glory.

A meeting place of immigrants and artists in the neighborhood's world-class art schools, Whittier remains one of Minneapolis' most diverse cultural hubs. Stop by Hennepin History Museum to take in the area's fascinating story, or check out a performance at the Children's Theatre or Old Arizona.

Take a stroll down Nicollet Avenue, known to locals as "Eat Street," to explore one of Minneapolis' most eclectic mash-ups of international eateries and chic cafes. If you want an organic blueberry muffin with bacon bits or a steaming bowl of Vietnamese pho, you will find enough mid-priced local eateries along this stretch to keep you busy for many dinners to come.

A generous sprinkling of Vietnamese restaurants reside on Eat Street, but locals know that My Huong Kitchen serves up some of the best shrimp spring rolls in the city. Get a banana crepe for an extra special treat, and consider ordering take-out since the dining room only holds a few tables.

For your Sunday brunch or fresh-baked desserts, do not pass up The Copper Hen. The moment you walk in, the rustic-barn look instantly invites you to sit down and sip on some Dogwood coffee while savoring a red velvet cupcake baked in a Mason jar.

When Eat Street falls asleep, Whittier's trendy bars and taverns come alive for a unique nightlife scene. Check out Eat Street Social for old-fashioned mixed drinks that can only be described as artisan cocktails. Catch some live music almost every night at the Icehouse; locals frequent the establishment for its quirky specialty drinks. Try the Bloody Homer, a fun take on the Bloody Mary that brings bacon and mini donuts to the mix.

With easy access to Interstates 94 and 35W, Whittier makes for an easy commute whether you are driving, biking or taking the bus. If you travel by car, enjoy a five-minute drive into downtown and free street parking. Just be aware that parking becomes scarce along popular streets like Nicollet. The city buses make frequent stops throughout the neighborhood, and you can catch the Northstar Commuter Rail or Light-rail Transit from downtown Minneapolis.

If you need a quick ride home from the Icehouse, hail a cab on the street corner or call up a ride-share service like Uber. If you just need to grab some bread and milk at the local grocer, hop on your bike or take a short walk. The neighborhood's compact format makes it perfectly walkable for running errands, and bike enthusiasts can take advantage of dedicated lanes on 1st and Blaisdell.

Whittier lies minutes from recreational lakes like Cedar Lake and Lake of the Isles, but you can also stop for a picnic at one of the neighborhood's own public parks. There are two playgrounds and basketball courts at Whittier Park. A wading pool provides a cool respite during the summer, while the recreation center offers fee-based fitness programs during the winter.

If you just want to enjoy a thoughtful stroll or take your pooch for a walk on his leash, head to Washburn Fair Oaks to roam through the green area while gazing at the historic mansions surrounding the park.

Whittier stands out as a haven for apartment hunters with around 90 percent of residents opting to rent. Find dozens of historic apartment buildings on major avenues offering one-bedroom options for $700 to $900 month, which is lower than average for the city.

Pack up your shopping bags and take a walk down Nicollet or Lyndale for one of Minneapolis' most enviable selections of thrift stores, chic gift shops and vintage boutiques. Browse a few high-end fashion boutiques like Cliche, where you can pick up a locally designed dress for your next night out. Most of the neighborhood's offerings cater to the bargain-hunting crowd.

For a taste of Whittier's impeccable fashion sense, step into b. to find a repurposed designer sweater or a trendy handbag. The aroma of incense and an array of Minnesota apparel greet you as you walk in the door, and cases of vintage jewelry wait at the check-out counter.

Walk a little further on Eat Street to find Greater Goods, a charming gift and stationary shop where you can pick up some holiday cards or ready-to-hang stationary art. Plus, feel good about 5 percent of your purchase going to the charity of the month.

For a quick grocery run, stop by Supervalu for your standard fare or Wedge Community Co-op for bulk food and local produce. During the summer, take advantage of the fresh veggies at the Minneapolis Farmers Market just north of Whittier on Lyndale.