Independent neighborhood guide, not affiliated with any homeowners association, property manager, city or official board.
Updated October 23, 2026
Bde Maka Ska, long known as Lake Calhoun, is the largest lake in Minneapolis and the busiest stretch of the Chain of Lakes. People are on the water or the paths here in every season.
If you’re thinking about selling or buying near the lake, you probably want to know what living here is really like, and what homes around it cost. That’s what I’ll walk through.
Here’s an honest look, whether you’re selling or buying.
Life around Bde Maka Ska
The lake covers about 400 acres and runs more than 80 feet deep at its deepest point. A paved loop of a little over three miles circles the shore, with separate lanes for walking and biking.
The Dakota name, Bde Maka Ska, means White Earth Lake. The lake carried the Calhoun name for well over a century before the state restored the Dakota name in 2018. You’ll still hear both.
Three swimming beaches sit on the shore: 32nd Street Beach on the east side, North Beach, and Thomas Beach on the south end with its sand volleyball and swim dock. The park also has a fishing pier, boat launch, sailing and paddle rentals, and open fields. See more Minneapolis parks and trails.
Uptown sits just east of the lake with shops, restaurants and nightlife. West of the lake, the West Calhoun and ECCO areas mix early-1900s homes with condos that look out over the water.
Homes with a lake view usually sell at a premium, and condos make up much of the market close to the shore. If you’re selling, how your home compares to recent sales a few blocks in each direction matters more than any citywide number.
What buyers check before they tour
- Schools: Bde Maka Ska is served by Minneapolis Public Schools, and with some addresses assigned to southwest Minneapolis schools; see southwest Minneapolis schools. Assignments and boundaries can change, so confirm the assigned schools for any address with the district.
- Older homes: Much of the housing here is a century old or more. Look closely at the foundation, electrical, plumbing, roof and any past updates, and plan a thorough inspection.
- Duplexes and fourplexes: If you’re looking at a multi-unit building to live in, ask about city rental licensing, inspections and existing leases before you write an offer.
A simple plan for your Bde Maka Ska move
I’ve been helping people sell and buy homes across the Twin Cities for about two decades, and I started in the trades. I look at an older home the way a builder would, and I’ll tell you plainly what I see.
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. Learn more about Minneapolis, its history and community life, or see nearby Lake of the Isles.
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 Bde Maka Ska
Whether you’re buying your first place in the city or selling a home you’ve loved for years, 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 Bde Maka Ska.
Stay close to the market, without the noise.
Every so often I send a short, practical note: what Minneapolis homes did, prep tips that are worth the money, and neighborhoods worth a look.
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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.
