The Nicollet Island/East Bank neighborhood contains a small residential population of 1,500 and Nicollet Island on the Mississippi River just east of downtown Minneapolis as well as a share of the eastern riverbank located between Central Avenue and the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad line. The neighborhood is the geographical center of Minneapolis. The island is named for Joseph Nicollet, a scientist, geographer, and mathematician that was born in Savoy, France. He led three excursions through Minnesota and was the writer of the influential book Map of the Hydrographical Basin of the Upper Mississippi. Hennepin Avenue East and First Avenue Northeast are two of the main roads that attach the island to the rest of Minneapolis. The island hosts almost 50 acres, and all but two of the houses on the island date from 1864 to 1898.

The Wilde Roast Cafe is a neighborhood restaurant with a newly renovated Victorian feel, but it’s not your usual cafe. They create an atmosphere that anyone patron would thoroughly enjoy. The café is a cozy place that can be visited alone or with friends to enjoy a latte or glass of wine by the 1900’s fireplace on a Chesterfield couch. Breakfast, lunch and dinner menus showcase an array of sandwiches, individual-sized pizzas, appetizers and other great comfort food. Their desserts are “to die for” and can compliment any menu item.

Vic’s is another restaurant within the neighborhood. It features the glistening skyline of Downtown Minneapolis along cobblestone Historic Main Street with floor-to-ceiling windows, a huge open-air deck, historic wooden rafters, and an Italian plaster curved bar that is located along the east bank area of the city. Vic’s also showcases an outstanding American menu alternating from flatbreads to steaks which compliment a wonderful 99 bottle wine menu where all bottles are priced much lower than anywhere around the city. Give the dining location a try. You will not be disappointed.

The Nicollet Island Inn serves as a hotel, restaurant and bar. The Inn is able to provide a Bridal Ready Room, which is an elegant and unique day-use room ideally served to use as a bride’s “home base” as she prepares for her big day. The Inn is also one of the most luxurious places for an overnight stay while traveling or on a getaway. It is also the perfect place to dine and celebrate as the inn is able to host large-scale events with the most deliciously prepared food. The multi-purpose and historical building of the Nicollet Island Inn is a feature item for Nicollet Island.

The Nicollet Island/East Bank neighborhood is home to three parks:

Chute Square: Chute Square is a 1.1-acre patch of green space within the heart of the city. While small, the park offers walking paths and several trees for shade. Additionally, the square is home to the historic Ard Godfrey house, the oldest wood frame house found in the Twin Cities. A peaceful location, visitors of all ages will appreciate the historical significance and rustic charm found within the park.

Historic Main Street Park: The Historic Main Street Park is a location of charm and beauty within the city of Minneapolis. While it is simply a stretch of biking and walking paths as well as picnic areas, visitors to Main Street Park enjoy the historic nature of Main Street and its rustic appeal. With rehabilitated commercial buildings, wooded green spaces, and a fabulous view of the Mississippi River, Historic Main Street Park is a wonderful destination to visit.

Nicollet Island Park: At nearly 27 acres, Nicollet Island Park is the largest park within the Nicollet Island/East Bank neighborhood. The park is an active community location, with many events and concerts taking place in its amphitheater. Visitors can enjoy walking or biking along the numerous paths or having a picnic in the park’s picnic area. The park’s promenade offers scenic views of the first dam on the Mississippi built in 1858. A final feature of the park is its sculpture from Minneapolis’ sister city of Ibaraki, Japan. Based on a 2,000 year-old terracotta mold for an ancient bronze bell, this sculpture adds a unique flair to the park.

If you have any questions regarding the city of Minneapolis, the University community, or if you would like to sell or buy a house in the area, please feel free to give Twin Cities Property Finder, a call at 1-800-909-1953.