Independent neighborhood guide, not affiliated with any homeowners association, property manager, city or official board.
Updated October 23, 2026
A Carnegie library, a busy Franklin Avenue and downtown within walking distance. Ventura Village has a strong sense of place.
Ventura Village is part of the Phillips community just south of downtown Minneapolis, bordered by I-35W and I-94. It became its own neighborhood in 2002, taking a name from the Spanish word for good fortune. Homes include early-1900s Victorians, houses from the 1960s and 1970s, duplexes and newer apartments and condos along Franklin Avenue.
Here’s an honest look, whether you’re selling or buying.
Franklin Avenue and the library
Franklin Avenue is the neighborhood’s main street, with restaurants, shops and the Ancient Traders Market, which has a public plaza, cafes and American Indian-owned shops. Bike lanes and transit connections make getting around easy.
The Franklin Library, opened in 1914 as the first of four Carnegie-funded libraries in Minneapolis, is on the National Register of Historic Places and part of the Hennepin County Library system.
Peavey Park, about 7 acres, has fields, courts, a wading pool and walking paths. Phillips Park has a playground and the Phillips Community Center. See Minneapolis parks and trails.
What buyers check before they tour
- Schools: Ventura Village is served by Minneapolis Public 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 Ventura Village 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 Phillips West.
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 Ventura Village
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 Ventura Village.
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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