If you’re pondering a move to Shoreview, Minnesota, the Island Lake neighborhood should definitely be on your radar. Tucked between Hodgson Road to the east and Victoria Street to the west, Island Lake is a friendly, established enclave that's beloved for its scenic beauty, access to outdoor recreation, and strong sense of community. Here’s an in-depth look at what it’s like to call Island Lake home.
Community Vibe: Friendly and Involved
One of the standout impressions newcomers have is just how neighborly Island Lake feels. Residents greet each other during evening strolls around Island Lake itself, and families often gather at the playgrounds or for picnics near the water. Neighbors tend to look out for one another, and it’s not uncommon to see block parties or casual get-togethers. There’s a strong sense of pride in the neighborhood, which translates into well-tended lawns, flower gardens, and friendly faces waving hello.
The community skews family-oriented, but it’s also popular with empty-nesters and young professionals who value a peaceful, picturesque setting. There’s an active Island Lake Association that organizes annual events like a summer picnic and a winter ice skating party on the lake when it freezes over.
Types of Housing: Variety and Character
Housing in Island Lake comes in a pleasant mix, offering something for nearly every lifestyle. You’ll find:
- Spacious single-family homes (many built in the 1970s and 80s) lining streets like Island Lake Avenue and Turtle Lake Road
- Split-levels and ramblers with mature trees and generous backyards
- Townhomes and a sprinkling of condos closer to Hodgson Road for those seeking lower maintenance living
Most properties offer ample green space, and some lucky residents enjoy direct lakefront access. The neighborhood's streets are quiet, with little through-traffic, adding to the feeling of safety and serenity.
Walkability: Easy, Peaceful, and Scenic
One of the biggest perks of life in Island Lake is its walkability. Quiet residential streets like Mackubin Street and Island Lake Avenue are perfect for morning jogs or leisurely dog walks, with safe sidewalks and plenty of shade.
A multi-use paved trail loops around Island Lake, connecting residents with the lakefront, nearby parks, and local schools. Cyclists and skateboarders are frequent sights, and even young kids can safely ride bikes between neighbors’ houses.
For daily errands, you’ll likely need a car—a Cub Foods, Walgreens, and some local restaurants are a quick 5-minute drive west along County Road E, though more shops are clustered closer to Shoreview Village Mall.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families are drawn to Island Lake for its highly-rated schools and youth-friendly amenities. The neighborhood feeds into the Mounds View School District, including:
- Island Lake Elementary (right within the neighborhood, just off Victoria Street)
- Highview Middle School
- Mounds View High School
Island Lake Elementary, in particular, enjoys an excellent reputation, and it’s common to see students walking or biking to school with parents or friends.
Family-friendliness is a defining feature here: There are multiple playgrounds, two baseball diamonds, wide-open green spaces, and of course, the beloved Island Lake, where kids can swim, fish, or skate in winter.
Parks and Green Spaces: Outdoor Paradise
If you love the outdoors, Island Lake is hard to beat. The heart of the neighborhood is Island Lake County Park, a sprawling oasis with:
- A sandy swimming beach and designated fishing pier
- Children’s playgrounds and covered picnic pavilions (perfect for birthdays and BBQs)
- Basketball and tennis courts
- Extensive walking and biking trails that wind around the water’s edge
In the warmer months, residents launch kayaks and paddleboards, spot turtles or loons, and enjoy sunset strolls. When winter comes, the lake transforms into a hub for ice fishing and skating. The park is well-maintained by Ramsey County, making it a year-round recreational centerpiece.
Smaller neighborhood parks, like Shamrock Park farther south, provide even more options for play and relaxation.
Safety: Peaceful and Secure
Ask any Island Lake resident, and safety concerns are rarely at the top of their minds. The neighborhood experiences very low crime; people feel comfortable letting children run between yards or leaving garages open while gardening out front.
Shoreview’s police presence is visible but low-key, and many homes participate in a neighborhood watch program. Evening walks after sunset are routine, and neighbors build trusting relationships—one of the most cherished aspects of life here.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Although Island Lake feels tucked away and tranquil, it’s conveniently located for commuters. Downtown Saint Paul is only about 15–20 minutes away via I-694, making it appealing for professionals working in the city. The Twin Cities’ north metro business corridor—including Target, Medtronic, Land O’Lakes, and Boston Scientific offices in nearby Arden Hills and Roseville—is also less than 10 minutes from home.
For university staff or students, the University of Minnesota campuses in both Saint Paul and Minneapolis are within a reasonable drive.
What Residents Love Most
When you ask Island Lake families what they cherish about living here, a few answers come up again and again:
- The sense of community—neighbors become friends, and newcomers quickly feel included.
- The natural scenery—nothing beats having a sparkling lake, mature oaks, and wildlife right outside your door.
- Year-round recreation—from lakeside picnics in June to skating in January, there’s always something to do.
- Safe, peaceful streets—kids can be kids, and adults can enjoy tranquility after a long workday.
- Convenient location—the perks of suburban comfort without sacrificing access to everything the metro has to offer.
If you’re seeking a close-knit, beautiful, and family-friendly neighborhood in Shoreview, Island Lake is a place where you can genuinely put down roots—and enjoy every season to the fullest.