Ramsey County

Community Life in White Bear Lake Minnesota

David Olson, RealtorBy David Olson, Realtor · October 25, 2026 · 4 min read
Community Life in White Bear Lake Minnesota

Twin Cities Property Finder · David Olson, Broker · MN #BK3603584 · Whitefish Property Finder · MN #40646463 · Licensed in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Florida

White Bear Lake, Minnesota is situated in Ramsey County and Washington County, 11 miles north of St.

If you’re thinking about a home near the water, here’s what to know about the lake and the area around it.

Here’s an honest look, whether you’re selling or buying.

Thinking about a home near the water?I’ll show you what homes nearby are really selling for and which streets fit your budget.

Life on White Bear Lake

Paul and 18 miles northeast Minneapolis. Founded in the 19th century, White Bear Lake presently has a population of 25,000 residents. The city, situated on White Bear Lake, maintains small town character within a metropolitan area while offering a vast array of amenities.

The City of White Bear Lake seeks to support and uphold a strong community for its residents. Locals of White Bear Lake enjoy a variety of year round events. Some of the most popular events are the Manitou Days, Marketfest, Winter Fest, and Bear’ly Open. Manitou Days are a 49-year annual festival spanning over 3 weeks. During Manitou Days, there is something for everyone, with over 70 events including the Grand Parade, pet parade, live music, a beach dance, a fishing contest, and a boat show. During this festival, residents enjoy live entertainment, kids’s activities, various food options, a classic car show, a farmers market, fine art, and more. A favorite event during the cold months is the Winter Fest. This festival is located in beautiful downtown White Bear Lake and offers activities including horse drawn trolley rides and photos with santa. The Bear’ly Open is a 10 year annual event that draws hundreds of residents. Located on frozen White Bear Lake, the Bear’ly Open specially offers golf on ice. The course has 18-holes with pine trees and offers food and entertainment, which is all to raise money for a local food shelter.

Residents of White Bear Lake enjoy various amenities within the city. Several golf courses are located within the city, including Gem Lake Hills, Manitou Ridge, and Oneka Ridge. White Bear Lake seeks to support a healthy community and is home to several fitness clubs. The impressive Sports Center in White Bear Lake is open to the public and offers amenities including skating, hockey, broomball, ice shows, wallyball, racquetball, dodgeball, special events, field trips, summer camps, aerobic classes, and a meeting room. The City of White Bear Lake offers an extensive park system with 24 parks.

Parks, access and things to do

White Bear Lake is home to its own library, which was built in 1974 and remodeled and expanded in 2015. This library has over 65,000 materials, some of which are local history books and is a great resource for locals. Residents also utilize the library meeting room that seats 80 people as well as their 26 computers. White Bear Lake locals take pride in their small town character while maintaining various amenities and opportunities for all ages.

For more information about White Bear Lake’s history, parks, and schools, please refer to our supporting articles for this popular city.

A simple plan for your White Bear Lake move

I’ve been helping people sell and buy homes across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Florida for about two decades, and I build and remodel luxury homes too. I’ll help you see both what a property is and what it could be.

1Get clear on the numbersFor sellers, a realistic value for your specific home. For buyers, what your budget actually buys in the neighborhoods you like.
2Walk it with a builder’s eyeWe spot what an inspector is likely to flag before it becomes a negotiation.
3Prepare or positionSellers get a prep list and a staging plan. Buyers get a short list of homes that truly fit.
4Move with confidenceOffers, inspections and closing, with one steady guide keeping it calm and on schedule.

Getting the house ready, or making it yours

If you’re selling and want repairs handled before buyers see them, Super Crew Contractors can give you an estimate. If you’re ready for something custom, Ivy Lane Homes does luxury home building and remodeling. And a quick coverage check with Intrinsic Insurance before closing can save you a surprise. Ready to talk? Start a buyer plan or ask what your home is worth.

Super Crew Contractors, Ivy Lane Homes and Intrinsic Insurance are owned by David Olson; you are free to use any contractor, builder or insurer.

Your next step in White Bear Lake

White Bear Lake homes are priced neighborhood by neighborhood. Whether you’re selling or buying, I’ll help you make a plan that fits.

Please note: I don’t handle rentals or property management. I work with sellers and buyers, and that’s where I can help you most in White Bear Lake.

Twin Cities market notes

Stay close to the market, without the noise.

Every so often I send a short, practical note: what Twin Cities homes did, prep tips that are worth the money, and neighborhoods worth a look.

    It looks like you’re already on the list. Thank you! If something didn’t come through, call or text me at 952-314-9446.
    David Olson, Broker, Twin Cities Property Finder

    Thank you! You’re on the list.

    I’m glad you’re here. A quick confirmation is on its way to your inbox. Whenever you want to talk about your own home or a move, I’m a call or text away.

    — David
    Bearly OpenGem Lake HillsLibraryManitou DaysMarketfestRamsey CountyThe Bearly OpenWashington CountyWhite Bear LakeWinter Fest

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