Welcome to Bredesen Park, one of Edina’s most sought-after neighborhoods for families, professionals, and anyone who values community-oriented living with a scenic backdrop. Bredesen Park combines the calm of suburban life with the convenience of proximity to urban amenities, surrounded by abundant natural beauty and friendly faces.
A Welcoming Community Vibe
Ask any longtime resident, and you'll hear a similar story: Bredesen Park has a genuinely welcoming, tight-knit community feel. On streets like Olinger Road or Bredesen Park Drive, neighbors wave as they walk dogs, push strollers, or work on gardening projects. Block parties and informal get-togethers are common, especially during warm Minnesota summers. There’s a strong sense of belonging, with many residents getting involved in community associations or volunteering for local events.
Types of Housing: Spacious and Attractive
The homes in Bredesen Park mostly date to the 1970s and 1980s, featuring practical yet charming architectural styles. You’ll find:
- Spacious single-family homes—predominantly ramblers (ranch-style), split levels, and multi-level traditionals
- Mature trees and landscaped yards that create a sense of privacy
- Recent updates in many homes, including modern kitchens, finished basements, and sunrooms
Most lots are generously sized, with quiet streets like West 68th Street and Timber Trail offering an “old Edina” blend of classic design and modern comfort. Home prices are generally above the Edina average, reflecting the neighborhood’s desirability and amenities.
Walkability and Active Living
Bredesen Park is particularly prized for its walkability and access to nature. The jewel of the neighborhood is the 206-acre Bredesen Park itself—a sprawling preserve filled with:
- Over two miles of paved trails, perfect for walking, running, and biking
- Access points from several neighborhood streets (including Dovre Drive and Vernon Avenue)
- Boardwalks that take you over marshland, giving you a front-row seat to local wildlife
It’s easy to leave the car at home: many kids walk or bike to Creek Valley Elementary or Highlands Park, and there are sidewalks throughout the area. Trailheads and greenways link Bredesen Park to other Edina neighborhoods for longer adventures.
Top-Notch Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families choose Bredesen Park for its outstanding schools and welcoming environment for kids. The neighborhood is zoned primarily for:
- Creek Valley Elementary School
- Valley View Middle School
- Edina High School
All are part of the award-winning Edina Public Schools district, known for academic excellence and a wide variety of enrichment programs. In addition, several top-rated private schools like Our Lady of Grace and the International School are an easy drive away.
You’ll often see groups of children playing basketball in driveways, riding bikes, or heading to the park with parents and siblings. Family-oriented events, youth sports leagues, and safe, low-traffic streets make it easy for kids to thrive here.
Parks, Playgrounds, and Green Spaces Galore
In addition to the namesake park, Bredesen Park is surrounded by beautiful natural spaces and recreational assets:
- Bredesen Park Preserve: Offers picnic shelters, playground equipment, and large open lawns for pickup soccer or frisbee
- Highlands Park: Just a few blocks away on Vernon Avenue, it features tennis courts, a skating rink in winter, and another playground
- The Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail: Runs close by, providing even more options for hiking, biking, and connecting with Edina’s expansive trail network
These spaces foster an active, healthy lifestyle and give residents countless ways to enjoy Minnesota’s changing seasons.
Safety and Peace of Mind
One of Bredesen Park’s biggest draws is its reputation for safety. The neighborhood’s well-lit streets and regular Edina police patrols contribute to a low crime rate. Many residents feel comfortable letting their children play outside unsupervised, and interactions with neighbors further enhance the sense of security.
Residents also appreciate the neighborhood’s active Nextdoor community and neighborhood watch, which help keep everyone informed and connected.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
While Bredesen Park feels tucked away, it couldn’t be more convenient for commuters or those who love city amenities. You can quickly reach:
- Downtown Edina (50th & France shopping and dining area) in under 10 minutes
- Southdale Center and Galleria Edina for retail therapy
- Major highways (Highway 62 and Highway 100) for easy access to downtown Minneapolis (about a 15-minute drive), the airport, or other Twin Cities destinations
The close proximity to UnitedHealthcare, Fairview Southdale Hospital, and numerous corporate headquarters in Edina and the south metro makes the neighborhood especially attractive for professionals.
What Residents Love Most
So, what do people who call Bredesen Park home value above all? Here’s a summary, straight from the neighbors:
- The feeling of living in a genuine community where people look out for each other
- Abundant green space and gorgeous mature trees
- Safe streets where you can be out after dark with peace of mind
- Top schools for kids and lots of peer families nearby
- The ability to enjoy wildlife, walking trails, and a serene, “up north” feel—without sacrificing a quick commute or access to city amenities
In summary, Bredesen Park offers a rare blend: scenic beauty, family-friendly living, and convenience that’s hard to match. Whether you’re raising children, enjoying active retirement, or want room to breathe without leaving the city, Bredesen Park in Edina should be high on your list. Walking the lovely streets, chatting with neighbors, and pausing to appreciate nature—this is the everyday reality in one of Edina’s finest neighborhoods.