Perhaps you’ve heard it called “The Wedge”? That’s Lowry Hill East. It is a vibrant Minneapolis neighborhood with a quirky name and an even more interesting past.
Lowry Hill East got its start in the 1880s. The neighborhood owes its existence to Thomas Lowry. He was a visionary who developed rapid mass transit. Lowry installed horse-drawn streetcars. These streetcars first traversed the neighborhood in the 1880s. That kickstarted everything here.
But why “The Wedge?” Look at a map. Lyndale Avenue, Hennepin Avenue, and Lake Street form Lowry Hill East’s borders. These streets create a distinctive wedge shape. Hence, the enduring nickname was born.
The interior streets are residential. You will find large early 20th-century homes. Multi-unit apartment buildings dot the landscape too. The border streets buzz with activity. Bars, restaurants, and coffee shops line these corridors. Small businesses thrive here. Most housing is renter-occupied adding to the dynamic feel.
Lowry Hill East is one of Minneapolis’ most densely populated neighborhoods. Nearly 9,300 residents live within its compact area. This creates a unique urban environment. People here value walkability and bike-friendly streets. The Bryant Avenue Bicycling Boulevard enhances this. The Greenway runs along the southern border and the Uptown transit hub makes getting around easy.
The Wedge is a magnet for those seeking convenience. Residents can easily walk or bike to businesses. Schools, lakes, and grocery stores are all within easy reach. The iconic Wedge Co-op started right here. Medical and veterinary services are also close. A vibrant nightlife and art institutions add to the appeal.
Many Victorian homes and brownstones still stand in Lowry Hill East. They serve as single and multi-family homes. Residents cherish the beauty and history of these buildings. The Lowry Hill East historic district showcases the legacy of architect T.P. Healy.
Mueller Park lies at the heart of the neighborhood. It is named for brothers Robert and Herbert Mueller. They were residents and environmental stewards. They served as natural historians. Residents in the 1970s restored the housing stock. College students, artists, and musicians moved in. The Replacements, a famous band, emerged from this scene.
Today, Lowry Hill East continues to evolve. New residential housing enlivens the business corridors and the Greenway. This neighborhood remains at the forefront of progressive urban living. With its blend of history, density, and vibrant culture, Lowry Hill East offers a unique Minneapolis experience.