Island Lake presents an inviting environment with a variety of single detached homes and townhouses, mostly built around 1970, featuring spacious layouts including three and four-bedroom options. The neighborhood benefits from a well-planned street infrastructure that caters primarily to car travel, with plentiful parking available throughout. Multiple bus lines provide access to public transit, enhancing connectivity despite lower service frequency. Diverse green spaces are abundant, highlighted by Island Lake County Park and several smaller parks, all conveniently situated. Local amenities include supermarkets, restaurants, and coffee shops nearby, alongside access to primary and secondary schools. The community offers excellent bicycling routes to support alternative transportation choices.
There are a lot of green spaces to enjoy in Island Lake. It is very easy to reach public green spaces from the majority of locations in the neighborhood since there are a few of them nearby for residents to explore. This part of Shoreview is a wonderful area for those who aren't bothered by a bit of noise, as traffic can occasionally be loud during busier hours of the day.
Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special
This beloved park is the heart of the neighborhood, offering scenic walking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, a large fishing pier, and plenty of open space along the shores of Island Lake, making it a favorite spot for both relaxation and recreation year-round.
Situated right in the neighborhood on Victoria Street, this highly rated elementary is part of the Mounds View School District and is known for strong academics, community involvement, and its easy walkability for local students.
Just east of Island Lake, a cluster of eateries along Lexington Avenue features diverse options such as Green Mill, China Taste, and Shore 96, offering locals everything from pizza and pasta to Asian cuisine and lakeside bar-and-grill fare.
Conveniently located at the intersection of Lexington Ave and County Road I, this retail plaza offers a grocery store, pharmacies, coffee shop, and essential services—providing one-stop shopping just minutes from Island Lake homes.
This dedicated multi-use trail skirts the west edge of Island Lake, connecting the neighborhood to the broader regional trail system and offering residents scenic paths for biking, running, or enjoying tranquil views of the water and woods.
Things to do, events, and what's happening this month
Children can climb into and explore the snowplows, dump trucks, and other vehicles used by Shoreview. It is a convenient, free, hands-on activity for Island Lake-area families, with plenty of opportunities for young kids to see how local public works equipment operates.
View event details →This neighborhood-style sale gives local children a chance to sell toys, books, games, and other items while shoppers look for affordable finds. Residents near Island Lake can support young entrepreneurs, browse family-friendly bargains, and pair the visit with Touch-a-Truck at the adjacent Shoreview Community Center.
View event details →The final October market dates provide an easy nearby stop for locally grown produce, prepared foods, and other regional products. For Island Lake residents, the Tuesday schedule makes it practical to shop after work, enjoy a seasonal outing, and support local vendors close to home.
View event details →This open museum tour offers a relaxed way to learn about Shoreview’s local history and earlier community life. It is especially relevant for Island Lake-area residents who want a low-key weekend activity close to home, with historical exhibits that connect today’s neighborhoods to the area’s past.
View event details →Families can enjoy a spooky trail walk, trick-or-treating, hayrides, music, a bonfire, and build-your-own s’mores at this Shoreview seasonal favorite. McCullough Park is a convenient destination for Island Lake residents seeking a festive, family-friendly Halloween activity; registration is required and space is limited.
View event details →Stories, updates, and things to know in Island Lake
Local characteristics and demographics for Island Lake
