Living in Apple Valley, MN: The Zoo, Lakes, Parks and Commute
I filmed this one at Alimagnet Park, on the line between Burnsville and Apple Valley, where it feels like you’re in a forest. That’s how close to nature you can get in Apple Valley. Here’s what the city has to offer.
Figures are from when I made the video above (October 2022). See our Apple Valley community guide for current numbers.
Quick facts
Apple Valley sits south of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, roughly centered between them, about 20 to 30 minutes from downtown, with an average commute of about 26 minutes. Neighbors include Rosemount, Eagan, Burnsville and Lakeville. It had about 55,000 residents in about 21,000 households, with a high ownership rate of almost 80%, and an average home value right around $400,000.
Things to do
- The Minnesota Zoo: lions, tigers and bears (oh my), plus reptiles and much more, and an amphitheater hosting everything from country to classical to rock.
- Apple Valley Aquatic Center: a splash pad for little ones and a pool for everyone else.
Parks and lakes
Apple Valley has 51 parks, with hiking, biking and cross-country ski trails, skating rinks, playgrounds, disc golf, dog-friendly spaces and lots of softball fields (adult leagues included). There are six lakes: Alimagnet, Cobblestone, Farquar, Keller, Lac Lavon and Long Lake. Most have homes around them and trails and parks along the shore, so you can fish off a pier, kayak or take the dog for a run.
Food
Everything from steakhouses to burger joints. The Farmer & The Fishmonger is a great steak and seafood spot I’ve been to a few times, and newer places like a Hawaiian poke bowl spot add variety after a day at the zoo or the park.
Getting around
Most people drive, since things are spread out in Minnesota. The Minnesota Valley Transit Authority has a hub in Apple Valley with free parking, and buses can take you to Eagan, Prior Lake, Minneapolis, Saint Paul and beyond.
Thinking about Apple Valley? Reach out to our team. Also see Burnsville and Lakeville.
