If you’re considering a move to Edina, MN, the Countryside neighborhood consistently stands out as one of the city’s most welcoming and well-rounded communities. Tucked between Highway 100 and Gleason Road, just south of Vernon Avenue, Countryside seamlessly blends suburban tranquility with everyday convenience. Here’s an inside look at life in this sought-after enclave from someone who calls nearby Edina home.
Warm Community Vibes
Living in Countryside feels a lot like stepping back to a time when neighbors looked out for each other. The streets—lined with mature trees—see their fair share of walkers, joggers, and families out with strollers or bikes after dinner. With its blend of established families and new arrivals, the neighborhood strikes a balance between tradition and fresh energy. Longtime residents are happy to share recommendations for everything from backyard tree trimming to the best sledding hill in winter.
Block parties and neighborhood events along streets like Olinger Boulevard or West 58th Street are a staple here. Around Halloween, expect a parade of trick-or-treaters; in summer, spontaneous lawn games or driveway chats often stretch into the evening. People genuinely care about one another—a quality that sets Countryside apart.
Types of Housing: Classic and Beautifully Updated
Most homes in Countryside are single-family dwellings on spacious, well-tended lots. Built primarily in the 1950s and 60s, you’ll find plenty of ramblers, split-levels, and two-stories with solid bones and mid-century character. Many have been thoughtfully remodeled, so inside, you might find open floor plans, updated kitchens, and modern amenities, while the exterior still fits the classic suburban aesthetic.
New builds and major renovations are increasingly common, especially along prominent streets like Arbour Avenue and Parkwood Road. These newer properties blend luxury finishes with the mature landscaping and sense of space that older neighborhoods provide. Whether you’re looking for a move-in-ready home or a place to make your own, there’s something for nearly every preference and stage of life.
Walkability: Everyday Essentials Close By
While Countryside is predominately residential, its location is a big plus for walkability. Within a mile, you’ll find:
- Concord Elementary School—just north of the neighborhood and easily walkable for many families.
- Countryside Park—centrally located, it’s a hub for recreation and community connections.
- Galleria and Southdale Center—about a five-minute drive or an easy bike ride east, offering everything from grocery shopping at Lunds & Byerlys to local coffee shops and dining.
Sidewalks line most main and side streets, making morning jogs or evening strolls pleasant and safe. Kids walking or biking to school or park activities are a familiar sight, emphasizing just how neighbor-friendly this area is.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
One of Countryside’s biggest draws for families is its top-rated public schools. The neighborhood belongs to the highly regarded Edina Public Schools district. Concord Elementary, South View Middle School, and Edina High School all routinely earn accolades for academics, extracurriculars, and equity.
Countryside Elementary (on Olinger Boulevard) not only provides a neighborhood gathering spot but also hosts events, playground playdates, and after-school activities that bring families together. The walkability to schools and parks, plus the sense of safety and camaraderie, make everyday life easier for parents—kids can walk to friends’ houses or attend neighborhood soccer games with little worry.
Parks, Recreation, and Green Spaces
You won’t have to look far for outdoor fun in Countryside. The namesake Countryside Park sits at the heart of the neighborhood, boasting:
- A large playground with updated equipment
- Basketball and tennis courts
- Open green fields for soccer, baseball, or casual games
- Walking paths and shady picnic tables
It’s a favorite spot for families, summer camp programs, and community picnics. During winter, the fields become an impromptu sledding hill and ice rink—always bustling with local kids. Just south, Arneson Acres Park offers beautiful gardens and walking paths for a more tranquil escape, while Braemar Golf Course is a quick drive for those who love to hit the links.
Safe Streets and Peace of Mind
Ask any resident what they value, and you’ll hear about Countryside’s strong sense of safety. Quiet residential roads like Maple Road and Stuart Avenue have slow local traffic, and neighbors are vigilant about watching out for each other. The community has an active Neighborhood Watch, and Edina’s overall crime rates are notably low.
Parents often let kids walk, bike, or play outside with confidence. Evening walks or late-evening dog outings feel comfortable, and porch lights, friendly waves, and well-tended yards add to the secure, welcoming vibe.
Easy Access to Everything: Commute and Location
Another highlight of Countryside living is its central and commuter-friendly location. You’re within 15-20 minutes of downtown Minneapolis (via Highway 100 or 62), making it an excellent choice for professionals who work in the city but prefer quieter evenings at home.
Major corporate hubs in Edina, Bloomington, and the West End are also easily accessible by car. Local businesses cluster along Vernon Avenue, and you’re close to everything from medical clinics to coffee shops and the luxury shopping at Southdale and the Galleria.
What Residents Love Most
It’s the intangibles that keep people in Countryside year after year:
- A tight-knit, considerate neighborhood culture
- Spacious lots and mature trees that make every season beautiful
- The blend of classic homes and thoughtful renovations
- Walkability to parks, schools, and amenities
- Dependably safe streets where kids can be kids
- Quick access to both big-city action and suburban serenity
Countryside offers a rare blend of rootedness and vibrancy—neighbors who know and support one another, peaceful scenery, and all the perks of Edina life. Whether you’re just starting out, raising a family, or looking for a place to grow old, this neighborhood invites you in and makes you want to stay.