Planning a visit to Edina for the first time? Here are answers to the questions visitors ask most often — from where Edina is and how to get here, to what to do with kids, whether you can bring the dog, and which season makes for the best trip.
Where exactly is Edina?
Edina is a suburb of Minneapolis located in Hennepin County, Minnesota. It sits approximately 10 miles southwest of downtown Minneapolis and about 10 miles west of Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP). Its central location in the Twin Cities metro makes it easy to reach from virtually any direction via Interstate 494, Highway 100, and Highway 62 (the Crosstown).
Within the metro, Edina is bordered by Minneapolis to the north, St. Louis Park to the northwest, Eden Prairie and Minnetonka to the west, Bloomington to the south, and Richfield to the east. For visitors staying elsewhere in the metro, Edina is typically a 15–30 minute drive depending on your starting point.
When is the best time to visit Edina?
Edina is a genuine four-season destination, and the best time to visit depends on what you're looking for. Summer (June–August) brings the farmers market at Centennial Lakes Park, patio dining at 50th & France, outdoor concerts, and the full energy of the park system. Fall (September–October) is visually spectacular as the city's tree canopy turns, and the shopping and dining districts are at their most vibrant.
Winter (November–March) offers a quieter visit — the Galleria and Southdale Center are warm indoor retreats, and The Westin Edina Galleria is a comfortable base for holiday shopping season. Spring (April–May) brings fresh blooms to Centennial Lakes Park and the return of outdoor seating at 50th & France. There's genuinely no bad time to visit.
How do I get around Edina without a car?
Within each of Edina's main districts — 50th & France and the Galleria area in particular — everything is walkable once you arrive. Between districts, a car, ride-share, or bike makes the most sense. Metro Transit bus routes serve France Avenue and other corridors, connecting Edina to downtown Minneapolis.
The Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail runs through the western part of the city and connects Edina to neighboring communities by bike. Bike-share options may provide access from Minneapolis into Edina — check current availability for the most up-to-date routes and access points.
Where should I stay in Edina?
The Westin Edina Galleria is Edina's flagship hotel, located directly adjacent to the Galleria shopping center. It's the most convenient lodging option for visitors who want to be close to Edina's dining, shopping, and entertainment without needing a car for most of the day. The hotel connects directly to the Galleria, making it ideal for all-weather visits.
Additional hotel options are available along the I-494 corridor and in neighboring Bloomington, which puts visitors within a short drive of all of Edina's main districts.
Is Edina family-friendly?
Yes — Edina is a very family-friendly destination. Centennial Lakes Park is a standout option for families, with open green space, a central lake perfect for paddleboats in summer, walking paths, and the Saturday farmers market. The park is safe, clean, and well-maintained year-round.
Puttshack at Southdale Center offers tech-infused mini golf that appeals to kids and adults alike. Southdale Center has a range of family-oriented shopping and dining options. The 50th & France district's sidewalk-friendly streetscape is pleasant for a stroll with strollers or young kids in tow.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are welcome in parts of Edina's outdoor public spaces, including sidewalks and certain park areas. Centennial Lakes Park's paved walking paths are popular with dog walkers, and the district streets at 50th & France see plenty of leashed dogs along the sidewalks. Some restaurant patios allow dogs in seasonal outdoor seating — it's worth calling ahead to confirm for your specific destination.
Edina's off-leash dog parks provide dedicated space for dogs to run free.
