Living in Brooklyn Park, MN: A Renter's Neighborhood Guide
Parks, recreation and getting around in one of the north metro’s largest suburbs.
Brooklyn Park is one of the largest suburbs in the Twin Cities, and it has a lot to offer renters who want room to breathe without giving up an easy trip into Minneapolis. If you are thinking about moving here, this guide covers what everyday life looks like, from parks and recreation to getting around.
Where Brooklyn Park sits
Brooklyn Park is in the north metro, in Hennepin County, bordered by the Mississippi River on the east. Neighboring cities include Brooklyn Center, Maple Grove, Osseo and Champlin. Highways 169, 610 and 252, plus nearby I-94 and I-694, make it practical to reach downtown Minneapolis, the northwest suburbs or jobs across the metro.
Parks and the outdoors
If you like being outside, Brooklyn Park is an easy place to love. Mississippi Gateway Regional Park, run by Three Rivers Park District, sits along the river at 10360 West River Road. It combines the former Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park and the city's Environmental Nature Area into one large park, with more than four miles of paved trails, a walkway across the Coon Rapids Dam and the newer Gateway Center with its Treetop Trail boardwalk. Fishing, kayaking and biking are all popular.
Closer to home, Hartkopf Park on Florida Avenue offers walking trails, a playground and picnic space. The city also runs dozens of neighborhood parks, so there is usually green space within a short walk or drive.
Recreation and things to do
- Community Activity Center(5600 85th Ave. N.): the city's hub for classes, fitness and community events.
- Edinburgh USA: a city-owned, 18-hole public golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., known as one of the best public courses in the area.
- Regional trails: the Rush Creek Regional Trail and West Mississippi River Regional Trail connect Brooklyn Park to Elm Creek Park Reserve and North Mississippi Regional Park.
Getting around
Most residents drive, and highway access is one of Brooklyn Park's biggest strengths. Metro Transit bus routes serve the city, and the planned METRO Blue Line Extension light rail is designed to connect Target Field Station in downtown Minneapolis to Brooklyn Park. The project was in final design in 2026, with construction anticipated to begin in 2027.
A diverse, welcoming community
Brooklyn Park is one of the most diverse cities in Minnesota, and you will see it in the restaurants, grocery stores and community events around town. For many renters, that variety is a big part of the appeal.
Renting in Brooklyn Park with Lakeshore
Lakeshore Management's The Groves Apartments is located at 6802 63rd Ave N in Brooklyn Park. The Groves offers one- and two-bedroom apartments with in-unit laundry, a fitness room, a playground and outdoor spaces to enjoy. Garages and off-street parking are available; check with our leasing team for current availability.
Tips for apartment hunting in Brooklyn Park
- Test your commute at rush hour before you sign.
- Ask about parking and garages, especially for winter.
- Check which utilities are included so you can compare total monthly costs.
Is Brooklyn Park right for you?
Brooklyn Park is a great fit if you want:
- Easy highway access to Minneapolis and the rest of the metro
- Big regional parks and river trails nearby
- A more relaxed, suburban pace at home
Ready to take a look? Browse available apartments and schedule a showing, or contact our team with any questions.
