Uptown Minneapolis Neighborhood Guide

About Uptown

Uptown sits just south of downtown Minneapolis, centering around the intersection of Hennepin Avenue and Lake Street. It combines lakeside access, lively nightlife, diverse dining, arts, and walkable streets — making it a popular choice for young professionals, students, and anyone wanting a balance of city energy + outdoor recreation. You’ll find a mix of historic apartment buildings, newer developments, and easy access to lakes, biking paths, and public transit — a versatile option for a 1–3 month furnished rental stay. 

 

Transport & Mobility

Uptown is very walkable: many cafés, shops, restaurants, and nightlife are clustered around the central hubs.

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• Biking & lakes-area walking: the neighborhood is close to lakes (like Bde Maka Ska and Lake of the Isles), which offer paths, trails, and scenic routes — great for running, biking, or relaxing green-space outings.

• Midtown Greenway access: Uptown sits right next to the Midtown Greenway, a paved bike and pedestrian trail that runs across Minneapolis — making biking fast, safe, and convenient.

• Transit: Uptown is served by major city bus lines and is easily reachable from downtown — good if you don’t have a car.

• Easy access to Minneapolis destinations: Uptown is a quick 10–15 minute trip to Downtown Minneapolis by car, bus, or bike — simple for reaching business centers, major hospitals (Abbott Northwestern, HCMC, Children’s), and entertainment districts.

• Shared scooters & bikes: Scooters and shared bikes are somwhat available throughout Uptown, offering fast and flexible ways to get around the neighborhood, reach lakes, connect to the Greenway, or travel into downtown.

• Parking: Uptown has a mix of street parking, metered spots, and several nearby parking ramps. Street parking can be competitive during peak dining and weekend hours, but ramps and paid lots along Hennepin Ave and Lake St provide reliable alternatives for visitors and long-term stays.

 

Coffee & Breakfast

• Black Walnut Bakery — Small-batch, artisanal pastries and some of the best croissants in Minneapolis. Cozy, minimalist interior — perfect for a quiet morning or treat.

• The New Uptown Cafe — Classic neighborhood breakfast spot offering hearty plates, omelets, pancakes, and friendly service. A dependable go-to for a traditional American breakfast in the heart of Uptown.

• Brim — Bright, modern café focused on healthy bowls, toast, smoothies, and fresh ingredients — located just steps from the lake. Cozy indoor seating and a calm atmosphere make it great for brunch or light lunches.

• Isles Bun & Coffee — A bakery-café known for excellent pastries and sweets — good for grabbing a treat on the way to the lakes or a relaxing brunch. 

 

Lunch & Dinner Restaurants

Uptown’s dining scene is diverse — from bistros to global cuisine to gastropub-style comfort food. Here are several choices:

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• Pizza Lucé Uptown — A long-standing Minneapolis favorite known for creative pizzas, vegan options, hearty pasta, and a late-night menu. Casual, reliable, and always buzzing with neighborhood energy.

• Hoban Korean BBQ - A lively Korean BBQ spot offering tabletop grilling, traditional dishes, and generous portions. Perfect for group dinners, celebrations, or anyone craving authentic Korean flavors just minutes from Uptown’s center.

• Barbette — A French-inspired brasserie known for its cozy vibe, wine list, and elevated comfort fare. Great for date nights or relaxed dinners. 

• Amazing Thailand — For Thai cuisine and flavorful meals if you’re in the mood for something Asian, bold, and comforting. Element 

• Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ — A popular Japanese barbecue restaurant where guests grill their own meats, veggies, and seafood at the table. Known for flavorful marinades, shareable plates, and a fun, interactive dining experience — great for groups, date nights, or casual dinners right in the heart of Uptown.

 

Activities, Entertainment & Fun

Uptown isn’t just food and coffee — you’ll find live music, lakeside recreation, nightlife, arts, and more.​

• Uptown Theater — A historic theater recently reopened as a music and event venue. Great for concerts, local events, and catching live performances near home. 

• Chain of Lakes / Lakes & Outdoor Time — From lakeside walks to biking paths and green-space access, residents can easily escape the urban bustle for nature, exercise, or quiet downtime. 

• Vertical Endeavors (Climbing Gym) – A full-scale indoor climbing facility offering top-rope, lead climbing, bouldering, and classes for all skill levels. Great for workouts, lessons, or fun group activities — just a short trip from Uptown.

• The Tasting Room — A cozy, sophisticated wine bar offering a carefully curated global wine selection (25+ wines by the glass, extensive bottle list) alongside French-inspired small plates, flatbreads, charcuterie, and shared dishes. Inside you’ll find a warm, slightly industrial-meets-intimate vibe, proper stemware, and a wine-savvy staff — ideal for a date night, classy night out, or relaxed gathering.

• Up-Down Minneapolis — A lively 21+ arcade-bar at 3012 Lyndale Ave S offering over 50 classic arcade and pinball games, skee-ball alleys, and retro console setups. With 60+ craft beers on tap and house-made pizza slices, it’s perfect for a nostalgic night out with friends, casual dates, or a playful group outing.

• Nightlife & Bars — Uptown has a wide mix: laid-back pubs, cocktail bars, wine bars, and gastropubs. It’s ideal for casual drinks, social nights, or just exploring a different vibe after dinner. 

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Barbers & Salons

• Floyd’s 99 Barbershop (Lake St & Hennepin) — A popular, modern barbershop offering men’s and women’s cuts, beard trims, styling, and walk-in appointments.

• Uptown Barbers (Hennepin Ave) — Local, no-nonsense barbershop known for clean fades, classic cuts, and consistent service.

• Root Salon (W Lake St) — A full-service salon offering haircuts, color, blowouts, and styling with a relaxed, boutique feel.

• MarcDaniel Salon (Hennepin Ave) — A higher-end Uptown salon specializing in precision cuts, balayage, and premium hair-care services.

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Pharmacies

• Walgreens (Hennepin Ave) — Uptown’s main, centrally located pharmacy for prescriptions, over-the-counter medicine, personal care, and everyday essentials.

• CVS Pharmacy (W Lake St) — Another convenient option offering full pharmacy services, basic household items, and quick pickups.

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Grocery Stores

• Lunds & Byerlys Uptown (Hennepin Ave) — The main full-service grocery store in Uptown, offering high-quality produce, a full deli, bakery, prepared meals, organic options, and reliable everyday shopping.

• Kowalski’s Market (Hennepin Ave – near Uptown border) — A premium grocery option with excellent produce, specialty items, bakery goods, and ready-to-eat meals.

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Why Uptown Makes Sense for a 1–3 Month Furnished Stay

• Great balance: You get both city vibes (restaurants, nightlife, arts) and nature & outdoor (lakes, trails, green spaces).

• Walkable + transit-friendly: Many amenities are within walking distance — very convenient if you don’t plan to use a car.

• Variety of living options: From older apartments to newer developments with easy access to shopping, dining, and recreation.

• Social & flexible: Because of its lively, youthful energy, Uptown is well suited for individuals looking to meet new people, enjoy the city, and have a dynamic stay.