Apple Valley is on the rise with a population of over 51,000, and currently the 18th largest city in Minnesota. It has a strong community feel, offering plenty of entertainment, eateries, events and activities for residents.
Originally called Lebanon Township, Apple Valley was predominantly a farming community until residential developments started replacing farmland in the mid-1950s. Developers renamed it ‘Apple Valley’ because it reminded them of a community of the same name in California.
Today it’s a popular place for families and young professionals due to plenty of open space, affordable houses and the proximity to big city amenities.
There are two main highways from Apple Valley – Interstate Highway 35E and Highway 77 – connecting Minneapolis and St. Paul. You can reach Downtown Minneapolis in 25 minutes by car and the Mall of America in 15 minutes.
Home Styles
Highly rated schools (six elementary, three middle and three high schools) are a prime motivator for parents buying in the city. Apple Valley tends to have spacious, single-family homes – either ranch style starters built in the ’50s and or two-story family homes built in the ’90s. The price of most homes falls between $200k – $400k.
For the lower end of the price range, you get 4 bedrooms and 2 to 3 bathrooms, an open floor plan, and a large lower level family room, with features such as fireplaces, a deck and patio, and a large private yard. Homes may have upgrades such as brand new carpet, freshly painted interior or new lighting.
The higher end of the price range will get you the same number of bedrooms and bathrooms but more luxury features. For example, bedrooms with their own walk-in closets, a master bathroom with a jetted tub, large entertainment rooms, and a three-car garage.
Things to Do
Apple Valley is home to the Minnesota Zoo and surrounding parklands for walks, cycling, and outdoor music concerts. There’s a family aquatic center with an outdoor community water park featuring a lazy river, pool, and slides.
The Johnny Cake Ridge Park Softball Complex has a nice little playground for the kids while you’re playing softball, volleyball, or soccer. It hosts softball games, little league tournaments, carnivals, bands, car shows, and the annual July 4 festival called ‘Apple Valley Freedom Days’.
For a fun, family night out head along to Bogart’s Entertainment Center for bowling, live music, and American fare. Nearby Wild Bill’s Sports Saloon has happy hour drinks, bar snacks, and bar games. For a quick, affordable bite try Egg Roll King for delicious Chinese food or Panino Brothers serving hearty homemade sandwiches and draft beer.