Cedar Manor, tucked in the southern part of St. Louis Park, MN, is a beloved neighborhood that many residents are proud to call home. Whether you’re a young family, a first-time homebuyer, or someone searching for a peaceful enclave near both urban and suburban conveniences, Cedar Manor offers a warm community feel that stands out in the Twin Cities area. Here’s what it’s really like to live in this vibrant corner of St. Louis Park.
A Community That Feels Like Home
Stepping into Cedar Manor, especially along residential streets like Quentin Avenue or Raleigh Avenue, you’ll immediately notice the neighborhood’s unpretentious charm and friendliness. Neighbors greet each other on walks, kids play together in front yards, and block parties aren’t uncommon on sunny summer evenings. There’s a sense of togetherness—people here genuinely care about the community and look out for each other.
The Cedar Manor Neighborhood Association sees active participation. Whether attending seasonal gatherings or spring cleanup days, residents have opportunities to meet and connect. Many folks cite the neighborly spirit as a reason they’ve stayed for decades.
Types of Housing: Quaint, Comfortable, and Welcoming
Housing in Cedar Manor blends single-family comfort with classic suburban appeal. Most homes were built in the 1940s through the 1960s, showcasing Cape Cods, ramblers, and bungalows with well-kept lawns and beautiful mature trees that create a leafy canopy over most blocks.
The housing stock makes this area accessible:
- Modest starter homes are perfect for young couples or singles.
- Larger homes—sometimes expanded or remodeled over the years—accommodate growing families.
- Many properties have roomy backyards, ideal for swingsets, gardens, or a neighborhood barbecue.
You’ll find most homes nestled between Cedar Lake Road and the North Cedar Lake Regional Trail, with easy access to nature and a residential tranquility that’s tough to beat.
Walkability and Everyday Conveniences
Cedar Manor scores high in walkability—an aspect residents rave about. Wide sidewalks and slow, tree-lined streets invite evening strolls and morning jogs. The North Cedar Lake Regional Trail runs right along the neighborhood’s edge, giving residents a scenic route for biking or walking all the way into downtown Minneapolis or west toward Hopkins.
Daily conveniences are close at hand:
- The Knollwood Mall, with stores like Target and Cub Foods, is just a short drive or bike ride north.
- Neighborhood-favorite eateries like Yum! Kitchen and Bakery give locals a close spot to meet up with friends or enjoy a treat after school pickup.
- Several bus routes pass nearby, making car-free commuting an option for those heading downtown.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families in Cedar Manor appreciate access to reputable schools. Cedar Manor Elementary, now part of the innovative Park Spanish Immersion program, is a cornerstone of the community. Just east, St. Louis Park Middle School and High School remain easily accessible, forming a tight-knit education pipeline.
Families often say:
- Teachers are approachable and invested in student success.
- The schools’ proximity makes morning drop-off a breeze—many kids even walk or bike with friends.
- After-school and community programs foster a positive environment for all ages.
Many households have children, but you’ll also find empty-nesters who raised their families here and chose never to leave because of the enduring sense of belonging.
Parks and Green Spaces
Few neighborhoods offer as many green havens as Cedar Manor. Most popular is Cedar Manor Park on Rhode Island Avenue South:
- Large playgrounds, basketball courts, and open fields invite impromptu soccer games.
- Shaded picnic tables become hubs for birthday parties and family reunions in the summer.
- The park also serves as a community gathering spot—with events like Movies in the Park or summer concerts.
For those craving even more nature, the North Cedar Lake Regional Trail and nearby trails provide miles of connectivity for runners, cyclists, and nature lovers alike. In fall, the changing leaves paint the entire neighborhood in beautiful golds and reds.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Ask any long-term resident, and they’ll tell you: Cedar Manor is a place where people feel comfortable letting kids play outside and greeting neighbors in the evening. Block clubs help foster communication and prompt action on any concerns. St. Louis Park as a city is known for its community policing, quick emergency response, and regular neighborhood patrols.
While no neighborhood is without the occasional minor theft or property issue, residents are proactive—sharing updates through online groups and looking out for one another. Overall, the sense of security is a major draw for new families and retirees alike.
Location and Proximity to Work or Play
One of Cedar Manor’s best-kept secrets is how close it sits to everything the Twin Cities has to offer. Downtown Minneapolis is less than a 15-minute drive, or a manageable bike ride along the regional trail. Major employers like Methodist Hospital, Park Nicollet, General Mills, and West End businesses are just minutes away.
Bus routes along Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue make public transit an easy option, while quick highway access (Highway 7 and 169) means short commutes across the metro.
What Residents Love Most
Time and again, neighbors in Cedar Manor mention a few cherished qualities:
- Friendliness and inclusivity—Newcomers say it’s easy to feel at home here.
- Long-term stability—Many houses are passed from one generation to the next.
- Ample green space—From quiet front yards to bustling parks, there’s room to relax and play.
- Balance of peace and convenience—You’re close to everything, yet the feel is calm and tucked-away.
- Active neighborhood life—Whether it’s the school carnival, a block party, or just chatting over the fence, Cedar Manor feels like a true community.
Considering a Move?
If you’re looking for a neighborhood that combines small-town warmth with big-city accessibility, Cedar Manor should be on your shortlist. From its inviting homes and community spirit to its convenience and abundant green spaces, Cedar Manor in St. Louis Park is a place where people put down roots—and stay.
For prospective residents curious about what daily life is like, spend some time walking the streets, visiting Cedar Manor Park, or striking up a conversation with locals. Odds are, you’ll quickly discover why so many are proud to call Cedar Manor “home.”