Nestled in Ramsey County, just 5 miles northeast of St. Paul, the Little Canada, is a quaint yet vibrant suburb of the Twin Cities with a unique French-Canadian heritage. With a population of 10,819 as of the 2020 census, this small city offers a blend of small-town charm, modern amenities, and a rich history that sets it apart. Known for its community spirit, scenic parks, and proximity to Minneapolis and St. Paul, Little Canada is an ideal destination for visitors and a welcoming home for residents. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the City of Little Canada, MN—from its fascinating origins to its present-day attractions and lifestyle.
Discovering the City of Little Canada, MN: A Hidden Gem with French-Canadian Roots
The History of Little Canada, MN
French-Canadian Beginnings
The Little Canada, Minnesota (Wikipedia), traces its roots to 1844, when French-Canadian settler Benjamin Gervais moved north from St. Paul to claim land along the shores of what is now Lake Gervais. Fleeing the flood-prone Red River Valley near modern-day Winnipeg, Gervais built Minnesota’s first independent grist mill, marking the birthplace of the community. The lake and park bearing his name remain central to the city’s identity.
Originally called New Canada Township when established in 1858, the area faced suburban sprawl pressures in the 1950s from neighboring communities like Maplewood. In 1953, local leaders formed the village of Little Canada to preserve its distinct identity, and by 1974, it officially became a city. The name “Little Canada” reflects its French-Canadian influence, evident in street names, community pride, and even the city’s sister city relationship with Thunder Bay, Ontario.
Modern Evolution
Despite its growth, the City of Little Canada, retains a small-town feel within the bustling Twin Cities metro. The construction of Interstate 35E in the 1960s bisected the city, creating a residential east side and a commercial west side, a change some locals view with mixed feelings. Today, Little Canada continues to honor its heritage while embracing sustainable development and community-focused initiatives.
Top Things to Do in Little Canada, MN
The Little Canada, may be compact at 6.4 square kilometers, but it’s packed with activities for residents, visitors, and families. Here’s a look at the best things to do in Little Canada.
Outdoor Recreation in Little Canada
With three major parks and access to Lake Gervais, Little Canada is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Gervais Lake Park
Gervais Lake Park, the historic heart of the City of Little Canada, offers fishing, boating, and scenic trails around Lake Gervais. This park, recognized as the city’s birthplace, features picnic areas and serene views, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing day by the water. The lake is stocked with fish like bass and panfish, attracting anglers of all levels.
Pioneer Park
Pioneer Park is a family favorite, boasting a playground, splash pad (open seasonally), and picnic shelters. The park’s water feature, announced as open for the season in recent city updates, is a hit with kids during summer. Walking trails and open spaces make it ideal for community gatherings or a leisurely stroll.
Spooner Park
For a quieter escape, Spooner Park offers wooded trails, a disc golf course, and sports fields. Its natural setting is perfect for hiking, birdwatching, or a friendly game of frisbee golf, appealing to both locals and visitors.
Community Events and Culture
Little Canada’s community spirit shines through its events and cultural offerings.
Canadian Days Festival
The annual Canadian Days Festival, held in early August at Spooner Park, celebrates the city’s French-Canadian roots with live music, a parade, fireworks, and family-friendly activities. This multi-day event draws crowds from across Ramsey County, showcasing Little Canada’s pride and hospitality.
Le Petit Canadien Newsletter
The Little Canada, keeps residents informed through its bi-monthly newsletter, Le Petit Canadien, mailed to every home and business. Available in English and Spanish, it covers city news, events, and updates, fostering a connected community. Residents can sign up for email notifications to stay in the loop.
Dining and Local Businesses
While Little Canada leans residential, it’s home to local dining spots like The Little Venetian, a cozy Italian restaurant, and Famous Dave’s BBQ for classic comfort food. For more variety, nearby Roseville and Maplewood offer additional restaurants and shopping, including the Rosedale Center, just a short drive away.
Living in the City of Little Canada, MN
Considering a move to the City of Little Canada? Here’s what life looks like in this welcoming suburb.
A Tight-Knit Community
Little Canada’s small size fosters a strong sense of community. With a mayor-council government led by Mayor Tom Fischer and council members like Amanda Gutierrez and Dave Miller, the city prioritizes open communication, customer service, and resident involvement. Recent achievements, like the 2023 Outstanding Achievement in Popular Annual Financial Reporting award from the GFOA, reflect its commitment to transparency and excellence.
Housing in Little Canada
The housing market in the Little Canada, offers options for various budgets, with median home prices around $350,000. From single-family homes to condos and apartments, neighborhoods like Gervais Lake Estates provide quiet, tree-lined streets. However, 2023 data notes a 10.1% poverty rate, with disparities across demographics, indicating a need for ongoing economic support.
Education and Schools
Little Canada is served by the Roseville Area Schools District (ISD 623), which includes Little Canada Elementary, a highly regarded K-6 school. Nearby secondary options like Roseville Area Middle School and Roseville Area High School offer strong academics and extracurriculars. Private schools, such as St. John the Evangelist School (PK-8), provide additional choices. For higher education, Bethel University and University of Northwestern – St. Paul are just 5 miles away.
Practical Information for Visitors and Residents
Getting to Little Canada, MN
The Little Canada, is easily accessible via Interstate 35E and Highway 36, a 10-minute drive from downtown St. Paul and 15 minutes from Minneapolis. Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport is about 20 miles away, roughly a 25-minute trip. Metro Transit buses connect Little Canada to nearby cities, though a car is recommended for exploring the area.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Little Canada experiences a classic Minnesota climate—summers average 75°F, ideal for park visits and festivals, while winters dip to 15°F, perfect for ice fishing on Lake Gervais. Fall’s colorful foliage and spring’s mild weather make them great for outdoor exploration. August is peak season thanks to Canadian Days, but summer and fall are equally inviting.
City Services and Amenities
The Little Canada City Center (515 Little Canada Road E) is the hub for services, from permits to public works. Healthcare is accessible at nearby facilities like Allina Health Roseville Clinic or Good Samaritan Society – Maplewood, both within 2 miles. Grocery shopping is convenient at Cub Foods in Roseville, and the city’s newsletter keeps residents informed.
Why Choose the City of Little Canada, MN?
What makes the City of Little Canada, special? It’s a place where history meets heart. The French-Canadian heritage, celebrated through parks and festivals, gives it a unique identity. Its parks and lakes offer natural beauty, the community fosters connection, and its location near the Twin Cities provides urban access without the hustle. Whether you’re visiting for Canadian Days, exploring Lake Gervais, or settling into a cozy neighborhood, Little Canada feels like home.
Plan your visit or move today! Check out www.littlecanadamn.org for event calendars, newsletters, and city services. The City of Little Canada, MN, is ready to welcome you with its small-town charm and big community spirit!
