Your Guide to Buying a Home in Bloomington, MN

Buying a Home in Bloomington, Minnesota

(Bloomington is a great mix of urban life and natural beauty)

Bloomington is located in Hennepin County

Bloomington enjoys its location in the heart of the Twin Cities metropolitan area, and also enjoys the distinction of being home to the "Mall of America", the largest entertainment and retail complex in the US. Bloomington also takes advantage of the economic strength of nearby Minneapolis as this city's diverse economy is always in the process of expanding. In addition, a few initiatives are underway that seek to involve area businesses in contributing to the quality of life in the area. Quality of Life Awards are given out annually by the local chambers of commerce to recognize the role businesses play in enhancing quality of life in the region's workplaces, marketplaces and communities.

Bloomington stands to gain much from its place in the shadows of the Twin Cities. A secure economy insures plentiful employment opportunities in this area, but more importantly are those aspects that give this area a reputation for being among the most desirable places to live in the nation. Bloomington enjoys the greatly undisturbed natural setting of trees and lakes. In fact, the Minnesota National Wildlife Refuge, which is one of only four urban wildlife refuges in the country, borders the Minnesota River in Bloomington. Outdoor activities are plentiful in the acres upon acres of both lakes and parks. In fact, about one-third of Bloomington is designated as parkland and recreation space, covering about 8,000 acres.

When looking at Bloomington today it is hard to imagine this town developed from a very humble past. The earliest settlers came in the 1840's and settled along the Minnesota River. A few of the early buildings from these days still exist today, including the Ferry Bridge and Old Shakopee Road. Bloomington has emerged from a semi-rural village to become Minnesota's third-largest city.

Many of Bloomington's attractions are shared with nearby Minneapolis and St. Paul. However, Bloomington does maintain its own culture and arts scene, as evidenced by the Bloomington Art Center and the Ellingson Car Museum. Other Bloomington attractions include the aforementioned Mall of America, Knuckleheads Comedy Club, and various boat charters and cruises.

A visit to Bloomington must include a sampling of local cuisine. This area is well known for its sizzling steaks, and especially walleye pike, Minnesota’s state fish. You will not leave Bloomington with an empty stomach as international cuisine is intermingled with American burgers and fries. Depending on your mood, everything from casual fast food restaurants to elegant candle-lit eateries is available throughout the city.