Wolfe Park - Saint Louis Park, MN

Development in St. Louis Park began close to the area now known as Wolfe Park when lumber baron Thomas Barlow Walker and some industrialists from Minneapolis began plotting the land's use in 1890, several years after the village's incorporation. The public park area of Wolfe Park was once an industrial gravel pit until development of a common green area began in 1947. The neighborhood itself saw most of its major residential and commercial development during the later part of the 20th century.

Although you don't find many art galleries or other cultural offerings within the neighborhood's borders, options abound in downtown Minneapolis. History buffs can also stop by the Museum of Broadcasting to browse antique radios and broadcasting equipment.

The residential and commercial developments of Wolfe Park have attracted some established restaurant brands alongside a spread of trendy eateries that redefine the upscale dining experience. You find a few cheap eats nestled along the Excelsior Boulevard retail strip, but most of your options range from mid-priced artisanal fare to modern fine dining. If you're celebrating an anniversary or just looking for a special night out, head to Mill Valley Kitchen to choose from a creative selection of healthy dishes with a natural flair. Be sure to try the wild sea bass or smoky bison burger, and don't miss the coconut sweet potatoes. This unique side is mashed into a sweet puree that melts in your mouth. Check out the menu's calorie count if you're sticking to a diet, and take a peek into the open kitchen to see the master chefs at work.

For a casual meal with the family, stop by Wakame Sushi & Asian Bistro. Head to the outdoor patio, and enjoy one of the numerous happy hour specials. Locals consider the sushi at Wakame to be the best in town.

Wolfe Park doesn't bring much to the table when it comes to nightlife, but a few upscale bars and breweries make for a great night out with friends. Loved by locals for its craft beer and happy hour mini sliders, McCoy's Public House creates an upscale bar experience that still makes you feel at home. Sit near the bar rather than in the dining room for faster service, but bring a sweater during the winter since the draft brings a slight chill to the room. If you're feeling indulgent, match your beer with the chocolate peanut butter ice cream sandwich, the house specialty.

Wolfe Park may be tucked away in the suburbs, but you still enjoy easy access to the Twin Cities if you have a car. Hop on the Minnesota 100 to reach Interstate 394, and take advantage of ample free parking along the streets when you get home from work. If you prefer public transportation, catch one of the suburban buses from Excelsior. For a quick ride to the airport, call up an Uber driver or one of the local cabs like the Green & White Taxi.

For a greener alternative, ride down the bike lane on Beltline Boulevard during the summer. The compact arrangement of Wolfe Park means groceries and other amenities are never more than a few minutes away for pedestrians and bikers. For a leisure ride during the summer, be sure to check out the paved trail systems through the neighborhood's parks.

When you want to sit down for a picnic or just play a game of Frisbee, head to one of Wolfe Park's expansive public parks for a taste of wild Minnesota without leaving the suburbs. Take a jog through the forested walking trails of Bass Lake Park, or play a game on the pickleball courts. You also find a children's playground near the center of the park.

Take your kids to the aptly named Wolfe Park to try your luck in the fishing pond, or check out the Veterans' Memorial Amphitheater for concerts during the summer. Don't miss the Parktacular Celebration in June, a community event where you can watch live performances, play games in the kids carnival and witness the big parade.

With its upscale dining and luxurious housing developments, Wolfe Park maintains a higher-than-average cost of living when compared to the rest of the Minneapolis metro area.

Although a few freestanding homes line the streets, many of Wolfe Park's newer developments feature luxury apartment buildings near the retail district. If you're looking to rent, expect to pay around $1,000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.

Thanks to its heavy emphasis on retail development, Wolfe Park has become a shopper's haven with an eclectic selection of shopping centers, high-end jewelry stores and fashion boutiques along Excelsior Avenue. You find a few bargain shops and thrift stores like Goodwill, but most of the upscale shops cater to fashionistas who are willing to spend a few extra bucks for head-turning outfits. For stylish fashions for all ages, the Fun Sisters Boutique features affordable clothes and accessories for everyone on your list. The shop offers one of a kind clothing and jewelry, and there are a variety of items available for the home.

If you're looking for a special birthday gift, explore Max's to find a display of traditional and modern jewelry from some of the world's top designers. Pick up some amethyst cocktail earrings by Stephanie Albertson, or go for the Alexandrite beaded necklace by Alex Sepkus.

You can also buy gourmet chocolates by Mayana, Sucre and other chocolatiers. Ask about the membership if you want to get a discount on you big purchase. For a day out with friends, be sure to explore the Miracle Mile Shopping Center. Indulge in some sweets at the Droolin' Moose, or get a new pair of jogging shoes at New Balance.

For your weekly groceries, options include major retailers like Trader Joe's and Whole Foods. If you're looking for a farmers market for some fresh produce, take a short drive to nearby Linden Hills during the summer.