Crystal, Minnesota

Crystal is a small suburb city of Minneapolis. It's about 10 miles northwest of downtown Minneapolis, and the drive into the city can take anywhere from about 20 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Major transportation routes into and out of the city include 100 and Interstate 394. It's nearest neighbors are the communities of New Hope and Robbinsdale.

Crystal's population is only about 20,000 people. It's a slightly diverse community, with about 88% of its residents identifying themselves as white, 4% Black, 3% Asian, 2% Hispanic, .59% Native American, .02% Pacific Islander, 1% other, and 2% mixed. Most of Crystal has done well economically, and it has received an award for "Minnesota Star City" for economic developments. Most of Crystal is middle class, with an average income per household of about $49,000; per family about $55,000. Traditionally, Minnesotans have a reputation for being conservative and disliking any change, including newcomers. Have patience and approach them slowly. They'll come around.

Neighborhoods and Apartments in Crystal

The downtown area of Crystal is at 42nd Avenue and Douglas Drive. If you're looking for a spot where you can walk your dog and legally take him/her off his/her leash, try one of the hockey rinks. No, really. When they aren't being used for hockey, you can take your pooch and let him run around. So, if, like many of us, this is important to you, try: Iron Horse Park at Jersey and 52nd Avenue; Valley Place Park on Louisiana Avenue; Bassett Creek Park on 32nd Avenue; and Welcome Park on Welcome Road.

Things to Do in Crystal

The city provides regular concert in the park at Becker Park, near highway 31, W Broadway, and Bass Lake Road. Crystal Cove Aquatic Center provides water oriented fun for the family, including a lap pool, waterslides, and kiddie pool. There are about 200 acres of park in Crystal, including Bassett Creek, Kentucky, Crystal Highlands, and MAC Park.