Apple Valley MN

Apple Valley – Tucked in the heart of Minnesota, this charming suburb offers a perfect blend of small-town warmth and big-city convenience. Known for its friendly neighborhoods, beautiful parks, and family-friendly vibe, Apple Valley is a place where community truly comes first. From outdoor adventures to seasonal events and a strong school system, it’s an ideal spot to live, work, and play. Whether you’re strolling through the Minnesota Zoo or enjoying a summer concert in the park, Apple Valley has a special way of making everyone feel right at home.

• Population: ~56,000
• Weather: Four seasons with cold winters (10-30°F), warm summers (70-85°F), vibrant springs, and colorful autumns.
• Places To Visit: Minnesota Zoo, Lebanon Hills Regional Park, Apple Valley Family Aquatic Center, Kelley Park.
• Top Activities: Hiking, biking, attending local festivals, visiting the zoo, and ice skating during winter.
• Famous Food: Cozy diners, local breweries, wood-fired pizzas, Midwest comfort food, and a growing mix of international eats.

Apple Valley, MN is a thriving suburban community located in the Twin Cities metro area. Known for its excellent schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and easy access to major highways, the city supports a diverse economy. Industries like education, healthcare, retail, and manufacturing play major roles in local employment. Below are the top 5 in-demand jobs in Apple Valley, MN, offering strong earning potential and job stability.

Apple Valley, MN might not have beaches or Hollywood glam, but it's packed with fun, chill spots where students can kick back, enjoy great food, and have a blast with friends. Whether you're in high school, just starting college, or already deep into your studies, there's always a place to relax and recharge in this cozy corner of the Twin Cities suburbs.

Bogart’s Entertainment Center – Bowling, arcade games, laser tag, and live music all in one place? Bogart’s is the ultimate hangout when you need a break from school stress. Plus, their food and drinks are student-budget-friendly, especially during special deals and happy hours.

Lebanon Hills Regional Park – Love the outdoors? This scenic park is perfect for hiking, biking, or just relaxing by the water with a book or a few friends. In the winter, you can even go cross-country skiing. It’s a great spot to disconnect and take a mental health break.

Valleywood Golf Course – Even if you’re not a golf pro, the scenic grounds and relaxed cafe vibe at Valleywood make it a nice place to chill. Great for walking around or catching quiet time between classes or after a long study week.

Apple Valley Aquatic Center – When summer hits, the Aquatic Center is the go-to for cool fun. With water slides, a lazy river, and plenty of lounge areas, it’s the perfect spot to beat the heat and enjoy some downtime with friends.

Grand Slam Eagan – Just a quick drive away, Grand Slam offers mini golf, laser tag, batting cages, and more. It’s perfect for a group hangout or even a spontaneous weekend plan. Tons of fun without needing to head into Minneapolis.

Caribou Coffee & Local Cafes – Sometimes all you need is a comfy chair, a cup of joe, and good conversation. Apple Valley has great little nooks for catching up with friends or getting some light studying done in a chill atmosphere.

Apple Valley Commons – This shopping center has everything: food spots, retail therapy, and a laid-back vibe. Grab bubble tea, wander around, or meet up with friends for an easy afternoon out—it’s low-key and never too far from home.

Camaraderie and Community Events – Apple Valley hosts regular festivals, concerts in the park, and seasonal events like the Freedom Days carnival and parade. These are great chances to meet new people, enjoy live music, and just soak up local energy.

Apple Valley proves that you don’t need a big city to find fun. There’s always a cozy cafe, an outdoor trail, or a game night waiting for you. So take a break, grab a friend, and discover your next favorite chill spot!

Apple Valley, MN, offers residents access to a variety of outstanding higher education institutions nearby. While Apple Valley itself does not host major universities within its city limits, its prime location in the Twin Cities metro area means top-rated colleges and universities are just a short drive away. Whether you are seeking excellent public options or prestigious private colleges, you will find opportunities that align with your academic and career ambitions.

Top Public Colleges & Universities near Apple Valley, MN

University of Minnesota – Twin Cities – As one of the nation’s top public research universities, “The U” offers hundreds of programs in fields such as engineering, business, biological sciences, social work, and education. Its Minneapolis/St. Paul campuses are within a 30-minute drive of Apple Valley.

Metropolitan State University – Located in St. Paul, this inclusive public university is especially welcoming to adult and nontraditional learners. It offers convenient evening and online classes for degrees in business, IT, nursing, and more.

Normandale Community College – Just a few minutes from Apple Valley in Bloomington, Normandale serves over 14,000 students each year. It’s known for strong transfer pathways to four-year universities, as well as respected programs in nursing, business, and the arts.

Inver Hills Community College – Situated in Inver Grove Heights, this two-year public college has a friendly campus atmosphere and offers transfer degrees and specialized programs in health sciences, education, and criminal justice.

Dakota County Technical College – Located in nearby Rosemount, DCTC focuses on hands-on, career-oriented programs in fields like construction, automotive, design, information technology, and health care.

Top Private Colleges & Universities near Apple Valley, MN

St. Catherine University – Also known as St. Kate’s, this respected private university in St. Paul offers programs in nursing, education, business, and the liberal arts. It’s especially known for empowering women and diverse student communities.

University of St. Thomas – Minnesota’s largest private university, St. Thomas in St. Paul and Minneapolis is renowned for its strong business, engineering, law, and health sciences programs, as well as its commitment to values-based education.

Macalester College – A top-ranked liberal arts college in St. Paul, Macalester is known for its global outlook, rigorous academics, and vibrant campus life. It draws students from across the U.S. and around the world.

Augsburg University – Located in Minneapolis, Augsburg offers a supportive and inclusive educational environment. It excels in business, social work, STEM, and the arts, with strong services for first-generation and nontraditional students.

Hamline University – Minnesota’s oldest university, Hamline in St. Paul is famous for its robust programs in law, creative writing, business, and public administration, as well as its inclusive campus culture.

Living in Apple Valley means you can access some of the best public and private colleges and universities in Minnesota, all within a reasonable commute. These institutions are dedicated to helping students succeed, whether you’re just starting your educational journey or looking to advance your career.

Apple Valley, MN, is known not just for its scenic beauty and community spirit, but also for offering a strong educational foundation for students. Whether you're looking for highly rated public schools with robust academic programs or private schools that provide personalized attention and specialized curricula, Apple Valley has something that fits a wide range of student needs.

Top Public High Schools in Apple Valley, MN

• Eastview High School – One of the most highly regarded public high schools in the Apple Valley area, Eastview is known for its academic excellence, award-winning arts and music departments, and a variety of AP courses. The school also offers top-tier athletic programs and leadership opportunities.
• Apple Valley High School – A cornerstone of the community, this school offers a rigorous STEM curriculum and an impressive global studies program. It’s also home to a nationally recognized speech and debate team, helping students build strong communication and critical thinking skills.
• School of Environmental Studies – Located within the Minnesota Zoo, this unique public high school offers hands-on, experiential learning with an emphasis on the environment and sustainability. It’s perfect for students interested in science, wildlife, and ecological careers.
• Burnsville High School – Although technically located in neighboring Burnsville, it serves many Apple Valley families and offers strong academic support, college prep programs, and multiple career pathway options for students exploring different industries.
• Rosemount High School – Serving parts of Apple Valley, Rosemount is known for its rigorous academic programs, student leadership opportunities, and a high level of college preparedness. Its competitive band and athletic teams are also a major draw.

Top Private High Schools in Apple Valley, MN

• Faith Heritage Christian Academy – A private, faith-based school offering small class sizes and a personalized touch. The school emphasizes not just academics but also character development and spiritual growth.
• Bethany Academy – Located just a short drive from Apple Valley, Bethany Academy offers a Christ-centered curriculum and places a strong emphasis on academic excellence and servant leadership. The community atmosphere encourages students to grow spiritually and intellectually.
• Eagle Ridge Academy – Although it's more of a charter school, it often attracts families looking for a private-school feel. With a classical, liberal arts curriculum, small class sizes, and a strong academic track record, this school offers a well-rounded education.
• Trinity School at River Ridge – Known for its rigorous curriculum and nurturing environment, Trinity School offers a strong liberal arts education. With a low student-to-teacher ratio, students receive personalized guidance and structured academic challenges.
• Minnehaha Academy – Though located in nearby Minneapolis, many Apple Valley families choose Minnehaha for its long-standing commitment to academic excellence, character development, and Christian values. Its strong arts, athletics, and extracurricular programs make it a standout choice.

Choosing the right high school can significantly impact a student's academic journey and future. Whether your focus is on STEM, the arts, faith-based education, or college preparation, Apple Valley, MN, and its surrounding areas offer exceptional options for every learner. Take time to visit these schools, meet the staff, and find the fit that aligns best with your student’s goals and values.

Although Apple Valley, Minnesota, isn’t home to professional sports teams itself, its location in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metropolitan area gives residents access to some of the most exciting pro sports experiences in the Midwest. Just a short drive from downtown Minneapolis or St. Paul, Apple Valley fans cheer passionately for their favorite teams across all major leagues.

Football – Minnesota Vikings (NFL)

• Minnesota Vikings – Based at the stunning U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, the Vikings have built a loyal fan base since their founding in 1961. While they haven't yet claimed a Super Bowl win, the team has made four Super Bowl appearances and secured multiple division titles. Legendary players like Fran Tarkenton, Randy Moss, Cris Carter, and more recently Kirk Cousins and Justin Jefferson, have lit up the field in purple and gold.

Baseball – Minnesota Twins (MLB)

• Minnesota Twins – With two World Series championships (1987 and 1991), the Twins are beloved by baseball fans across Minnesota. They play at Target Field in Minneapolis, one of the most beautiful ballparks in the league. The team has had some unforgettable stars, including Kirby Puckett, Harmon Killebrew, Joe Mauer, and rising talents like Byron Buxton.

Basketball – Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA)

• Minnesota Timberwolves – Founded in 1989, the Timberwolves bring NBA action to downtown Minneapolis at the Target Center. While their playoff success has been limited, fan enthusiasm is strong. The team’s glory days featured Kevin Garnett, and today the squad includes dynamic talents like Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns.

Hockey – Minnesota Wild (NHL)

• Minnesota Wild – Hockey fans in Apple Valley don’t have to look far for top-tier action. The Wild, based at Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, launched in 2000 and quickly won the hearts of Minnesotans. Although they haven’t clinched a Stanley Cup yet, they’ve made consistent playoff appearances. Star players like Kirill Kaprizov keep excitement levels high each season.

Soccer – Minnesota United FC (MLS)

• Minnesota United FC – Nicknamed the “Loons,” Minnesota United joined Major League Soccer in 2017 and plays at Allianz Field in St. Paul. The team has quickly gained a passionate following because of its fast-paced style of play and winning culture. Players like Emmanuel Reynoso and Robin Lod are helping put Minnesota on the map in the soccer world.

While Apple Valley may not directly host these teams, its sports-loving community proudly backs each franchise with heart. Living just minutes away from world-class stadiums and arenas gives Apple Valley residents the best of both worlds: small-town charm and big-league thrills.

Apple Valley, MN, is a charming city full of hidden gems, exciting attractions, and family-friendly fun. Located just south of the Twin Cities, this welcoming community offers more than meets the eye. Whether you're a longtime local or a first-time visitor, here are 10 fun facts about Apple Valley that might surprise you:

1. Home of the Minnesota Zoo – Apple Valley is best known for the Minnesota Zoo, one of the state's top attractions. Featuring animals from around the globe, it was also one of the first zoos in the country to organize exhibits by environment rather than species.
2. A Young City with a Big Heart – Apple Valley was incorporated in 1969, making it a relatively young city. But in just a few decades, it’s grown into one of Minnesota’s most vibrant and family-friendly communities.
3. A Festival You Can’t Miss – Every summer, Apple Valley throws one of the area's most popular events: Freedom Days. With parades, fireworks, 5Ks, and live music, it’s the perfect way to celebrate Independence Day.
4. Natural Beauty All Around – The city is dotted with over 50 beautiful parks and miles of scenic trails, making it a perfect spot for hiking, biking, or just enjoying some fresh Minnesota air.
5. Ranked Among the Best – Apple Valley frequently appears on “Best Places to Live” lists, thanks to its excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and strong sense of community.
6. What's in a Name? – Before becoming Apple Valley, the area was called “Leba” after the Lakeville and Burnsville areas. The name Apple Valley was inspired by Apple Valley, California, giving the city a fresh new identity after incorporation.
7. Close to Adventures – Though it feels like a peaceful suburban escape, Apple Valley is just a 20-minute drive to both Minneapolis and St. Paul. You get the best of both worlds—city energy and small-town charm.
8. Snow Much Fun – Winters in Apple Valley bring a ton of fun! Locals embrace the snow with sledding, outdoor skating, and snowshoeing at Lebanon Hills Regional Park, just minutes away.
9. School Pride Shines Bright – Apple Valley High School has earned a national reputation for excellence, especially its E3 STEM program and award-winning debate and theater programs.
10. Wildlife Meets City Life – You don’t have to leave city limits to spot buffalo, wolves, or camels—just head to the zoo’s Northern Trail or Tropics Trail. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience right in your backyard!