The State of Minnesota is noteworthy not only for its natural beauty and its popularity as a vacation destination, but also for the quality of life one can enjoy living right in the "land of 10,000 Lakes". Minnesota prides itself as being a fine workplace, with a specialized Business Development Program in its Department of Trade and Economic Development. Its supportive atmosphere for technology, industry and a variety of other businesses - as well as its longstanding agricultural sector - shows that Minnesota strives to embody its motto "Minnesota: a Great Place to Live, Visit, and Do Business." This is further asserted in its leading metropolis, the Twin Cities area of Minneapolis and St. Paul, known for its unique combination of avant-garde shopping areas, ethnic restaurants, busy professional sections and an enviable set of theatrical, musical, and dance institutions.

Echoing the 'nature feel' of Minnesota, the city of Minneapolis lies on the meandering Mississippi River which is just starting its journey to the Gulf of Mexico. Displaying its nature badge with pride, Minneapolis boasts a nature-drenched National Byway, The Grand Rounds Road, rooted along the River and in the city itself. Biking, hiking or leisurely walking here are all ways to enjoy the country within the city. Comfortable suburbs are just 8 - 10 miles to the west of the city of Minneapolis. The Western Metro area, called the 'Western Suburbs' offers a fine blend of urban, pastoral, and natural settings - something to suit the needs and moods of everyone in the family-- all just minutes from each other. Several of the "10,000" lakes are right in the Minneapolis Western Suburbs with the most outstanding being the expansive and view-filled Lake Minnetonka, home of the communities of Wayzata, Minnetonka, Excelsior, Orono, Mound, and Shorewood - to name a few.

The goodly number of communities in the Western Suburbs known for having great schools, pleasant living, and a wide range of home styles reads like a catalog -- Bloomington, Chanhassen, Chaska, Eden Prairie, Edina, Golden Valley, Hopkins, Plymouth, Richfield, St. Louis Park, and more further west.


Meandering through a small sampling of the Western Suburbs we discover:

Edina

Primarily residential, this city enjoys a generous 37 parks. Add to this lakes, neighborhood and regional shopping districts, high quality medical facilities, family-owned businesses, major corporations, churches, and community centers, -- some picket fences - and several golf courses -- and you've more than defined livable!

St. Louis Park

Adjacent to the city of Minneapolis, St. Louis Park is centrally located between the urban delights and amenities of the Twin Cities Metropolitan area and the chain of lakes and suburban living. It has been honored for its innovative and economically feasible approach to business retention and was awarded one of only four Livable Communities grants by the Metropolitan Council in 1996, signifying a virtually self-sustainable community.

Wayzata

Predominantly single family dwellings populate this enchanting community which is located on Lake Minnetonka. While cozy in size, Wayzata is also hosts a growing trade scene with specialty shops, boutiques, professional services and fun dining spots. Naturally, Wayzata's recreational scene includes plenty of water-oriented activities such as sailing, boating and water-skiing in the warmer seasons, and then ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling in the glorious Minnesota winters. As throughout the Western Suburbs, natural beauty is treasured here, as can be seen in Wayzata's lovely lakefront gardens. Adding to the potential for family fun are a 102-slip marina, public beach, 6 tennis courts, ice rink, ball field, 3 picnic areas, gardens. There's even a historic train depot for all the Thomas the Tank Engine fans in your family! Throughout the year are special events such as Chilly Open Golf in February, the Summer Concert Series by the Lake from June through August and. James J. Hill Days in September. Whether living in or around Wayzata, you're sure to be attracted to all of its fun.

Minnetonka

This is a well-planned community blending single & multiple family residential dwellings with commercial, office, and industrial development. Minnetonka is home to many nationally recognized firms and numerous retail shopping centers. It is Minnesota's twelfth largest city. As it matures both redevelopment and renovation keep this community vital.

Whether your family prefers to live close-in to the city but still in the suburbs, in a typical suburban setting, or in countryish lakeside suburbs, The Western Suburbs of Minneapolis is an awesome area in which to arrange for 'livable living'.