The Willard Hay neighborhood, which is within the Near North community, is located in the northwest area of the city of Minneapolis. Willard Hay is a diverse, and mainly residential neighborhood with friendly locals, lots of parkland, and access to commercial areas. With over 8,000 residents, this neighborhood is a beautiful and charming place to live in the large city of Minneapolis.

Within Willard Hay, there are many styles and housing options available. These include Victorians and Queen Anne style homes built between 1880 through 1920. There are also Craftsman, and Bungalow styles as well.

Pair of Dice Pizza has been a neighborhood favorite since 2001. The pizza dough is baked flawlessly and laden with a combination of their very own signature sauce, meats, cheeses, and any other toppings customers may prefer. Not only are they known for pizza, but their rib tips are very popular as well.

The Willard Hay Community Garden is a very popular destination. With plots available for residents to rent and even a children’s garden for kids in the neighborhood, the community garden provides a means for residents to enjoy fresh produce. The garden has been a staple of the community since its creation in 1996.

The Capri Theater is operated by the Plymouth Christian Youth Center. The goal of this theater, located along Broadway Avenue, is to develop the drama skills for youth of the Minneapolis area. The center is a place where youth are taken care of, cherished and tested. At the end of it all, they have to opportunity to perform and showcase their newfound skills.

Within the Willard Hay neighborhood there are four unique parks for residents and visitors to enjoy. They include:

Willard Park: Willard Park is a smaller park located in the center of the Willard Hay neighborhood. Despite its size of 1.16 acres, Willard Park offers several engaging amenities. These include a baseball field, basketball court, playground, picnic area, restroom facility, and splash pad. Ideal for all ages, Willard Park is a conveniently located neighborhood park.

Farwell Park: Farwell Park is another small, neighborhood park. At 1.15 acres, it offers visitors a playground, picnic area, open field, and drinking fountains. While not as immersive as some of the neighborhood’s larger parks, Farwell Park is popular among kids and is a center for active recreation within the neighborhood.

North Commons Park: North Commons Park is the premier park destination in the Willard Hay area. At 25.48 acres, the park is full of great amenities for all ages and interests. Amenities include baseball and softball fields, a basketball court, biking/walking paths, a decorative fountain, football field, hockey and ice skating rinks, a picnic area, playground, restrooms, a soccer field, and tennis courts. Additionally, North Commons Park is home to the North Commons Water Park. With water slides, swimming pools, and play structures, the water park is a huge hit among young families. While not free, it is offered at a very affordable price for residents.

Theodore Wirth Regional Park: Theodore Wirth Regional Park is the largest park in the Minneapolis park system. The home of a multitude of activities and numerous events, Theodore Wirth Regional Park is a central location within the city of Minneapolis. Amenities include archery, biking/walking paths, a decorative fountain, disc golf, a fishing pier, multiple gardens, a golf course, picnic facilities, restrooms, soccer fields, tennis courts, and more. Additionally, the park features a chalet ideal for weddings or parties, pavilion, and a beach area for visitors to enjoy special events or time out in the sun. In the winter time, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland, and it is a popular location for cross-country skiing on the trails, sledding/snow tubing on the park’s sledding hill, or snowboarding at the Wirth Winter Recreation Area. At over 720 acres, this park connects to the Harrison, Willard Hay, and Bryn Mawr neighborhoods. A great destination for all ages and interests, Theodore Wirth Regional Park is one park that you do not want to miss.

If you have any questions regarding the city of Minneapolis, the Near North Community, or if you would like to sell or buy a house in the area, please feel free to visit Twin Cities Property Finder or call 1-800-909-1953