The North End is predominantly a residential neighborhood of 26,000, with convenient access to shops and restaurants along Rice Street and other small retail corridors. The North End neighborhood is home to several schools, parks, and recreation centers, resulting in a family-oriented neighborhood. The 18-mile Gateway Trail that attaches Saint Paul to Stillwater begins in North End. Oakland Cemetery, Saint Paul’s initial cemetery showcases rolling hills and woodlands, extensive and historic architecture, and gravesites of well-known early Minnesotan business and political leaders. Most homes were built between 1900 through 1930 and are 1.5-story homes in a variety of styles that were popular at that time. Homes from the 1950’s were also built in the neighborhood.
One of the most popular amenities within the neighborhood is the McDonough Recreation Center. The recreation center provides visitors with access to a kitchen, craft room, and two gymnasiums. Additionally, the park on which it is located also offers several amenities. Visitors enjoy the football field, playground, sledding hill, two soccer fields, and softball field that are located outside of the recreation center.
The North End neighborhood has a wide variety of park options. Some of the most notable include:
Marydale Park: Marydale Park used to be a blight within the neighborhood. Historically a dumping grounds for toxic waste, the neighborhood decided to renovate and refresh the park in 1974. Since then, it has become a staple of the local community. Visitors enjoy the picnic tables, BBQ grills, benches, playground, and the walking trail around the adjacent Loeb Lake. Additionally, the lake has a pier on which fishermen of all ages can fish for crappies and bluegills.
Willow Reserve: Willow Reserve is of similar size and shape as Marydale Park. Located one block away, the reserve remains undeveloped. As a natural haven for wildlife, visitors can expect to see many birds and small animals. While the vegetation is thick, this reserve provides an idea of what the area looked like before it was developed into what it is today.
Rice Arlington Sports Complex: The Rice Arlington Sports Complex is one of the busiest locations within the entire North End neighborhood. A collection of 6 fenced softball fields, a soccer field, lacrosse field, football field, multipurpose room, and four indoor batting cages, the Rice Arlington Sports Complex is home to local teams, leagues, and tournaments. With games occurring on a regular basis, residents and visitors alike are encouraged to come cheer on a local team or join a team to get in on the fun.
Trout Brook Nature Sanctuary: The Trout Brook Nature Sanctuary is a 42 acre site that was established with the hopes of reconnecting a highly urban setting with its natural environment. Not only does the park provide a sanctuary for animal and plant life native to the area, but it also assists with stormwater management and provides a more effective means of ecosystem balance. Nature lovers will appreciate the undeveloped nature of the park, while residents will enjoy the more efficient water management that the park provides. The Trout Brook Regional Trail connects to the sanctuary.
Cayuga Park: Cayuga Park is linked to the Trout Brook Regional Trail. Providing visitors with a basketball court, BBQ grills and picnic areas, horseshoe rings, and a playground, Cayuga Park acts as a traditional neighborhood park. It’s connection to the regional trail, however, extends its amenities by allowing for visitors to bike or hike to other local park areas. This balance ensures that those who prefer a smaller park will be satisfied, but additional opportunities are available should they be desired.
If you have any questions regarding the North End neighborhood, the city of Saint Paul, Minnesota, or if you would like to sell or buy a house in the area, please feel free to visit TwinCitiesPropertyFinder.com or call 1-800-909-1953.
