Stevens Square-Loring Heights Real Estate

These side-by-side neighborhoods share a close-in location just south of Downtown, as well as a common planning-area designation. But they are quite different in their visual personalities. Loring Heights occupies an eminence, as its name implies, with marvelous skyline views from houses along Groveland Avenue. This (sub)neighborhood, bounded by Lyndale, Nicollet, I-94, and Franklin, is still characterized by large houses, many now subdivided. The tactile Van Dusen mansion at La Salle and Groveland is the visual icon.

By contrast, Stevens Square is made up largely of prewar walk-up apartments. Despite the open space provided by the square, this is the most densely populated neighborhood in Minneapolis. Many of the buildings were renovated beginning in the 1970s with the financial support of General Mills, so physically, Stevens Square's housing stock is generally in good condition. But this economical housing provides shelter for those for whom affordability is an overwhelming issue. Hence, the area's median-family income is much lower than the citywide average. The Craftsman-style Hewitt House at 126 E Franklin is Stevens Square's architectural landmark.

Both neighborhoods are within practical walking distance of Downtown, and also enjoy frequent bus service. Loring Heights is close to Walker Art Center, while Stevens Square is just two blocks from the Art Institute, the College of Art and Design, and Children's Theater.

Stevens Square is the ideal neighborhood for first-time homebuyers looking for a close-knit community near downtown Minneapolis. The charm of this neighborhood is most evident in the beautiful turn-of-the-century brownstone buildings, tastefully converted into modern lofts and condominimums for today's young family. Stevens Square is located within walking distance of a number of amenities and local attractions. Downtown Minneapolis, the Humphrey Dome, Target Center and the gorgeous Lake of the Isles are all just a stones' throw from the typical Stevens Square loft.

As well as being close to a host of amenities, Stevens Square is home to one of the city's best kept secrets - "Eat Street". Nicollet Avenue, nicknamed "Eat Street" due to the variety of cafes and restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and specialty food stores, runs right through the center of Stevens Square. Most condos in Stevens Square are also close to the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, the Children's Theatre, and of course, the community's own Stevens Square Park.

Maybe it's the confluence of heritage buildings in the area, or maybe it's just plain old "Minnesota Nice", but newcomers to Stevens Square soon discover that their new home has a strong sense of good old-fashioned community. Neighborhood events include Winterlights, The Full Moon Harvest Festival, and Movies and Music in the Park, a weekly summertime series of local music and outdoor movies. Check out the Stevens Square home search for the Lofts and Condos you've been waiting for.

Here are a few popular condominiums in Stevens Square - Loring Heights, Minneapolis: