Nestled in Ramsey County, the New Brighton, MN, is a charming suburb just 10 miles northeast of Minneapolis, offering a perfect blend of small-town warmth and big-city accessibility. With a population of 22,900 (as of 2023), this welcoming community is known for its peaceful neighborhoods, abundant parks, and rich history tied to its agricultural roots. Whether you’re planning a visit to explore its outdoor attractions, considering a move for its family-friendly vibe, or curious about its unique heritage, this comprehensive guide dives into everything the City of New Brighton, MN, has to offer—from its storied past to its lively present.
Discover the City of New Brighton, MN: A Family-Friendly Haven
The History of New Brighton, MN
Early Roots and Settlement
The story of the New Brighton, Minnesota (Wikipedia), begins in the mid-18th century with the Mdewakanton Dakota tribes, who lived near the area’s marshy lakes, harvesting wild rice around Long Lake and Rice Creek. European settlers, primarily from Britain and France, arrived in 1858, establishing a small village with a general store, school, and mission church. The city’s name, inspired by Brighton, Massachusetts, reflects its early settlers’ ties to New England. By 1888, the establishment of the Minneapolis Stockyards and Packing Company, backed by prominent figures like John Sargent Pillsbury and Thomas Lowry, marked a turning point, transforming New Brighton into a hub for agriculture and trade. The city officially incorporated on January 20, 1891.
A Legacy of Stockyards and Festivals
New Brighton’s agricultural heritage is celebrated annually at Stockyard Days, a beloved festival held every August at Long Lake Regional Park. This event, now in its 38th year, features parades, live music, and family-friendly activities, paying homage to the city’s stockyard roots. The 1920s also brought a quirky chapter when rumors of bootleggers hiding gold bars along Long Lake sparked a mini “gold rush”—a fun anecdote still shared today.
Modern Transformation
The City of New Brighton, has evolved from its rural beginnings into a modern suburb while preserving its historical charm. The former Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant (TCAAP) site, once a major employer, is being redeveloped into mixed-use spaces, including housing and commercial areas, showcasing the city’s commitment to sustainable growth. This blend of history and progress makes New Brighton a unique destination.
Top Things to Do in New Brighton, MN
The New Brighton, is packed with activities for all ages, from outdoor adventures to community events. Here’s a look at the top things to do in New Brighton.
Outdoor Recreation in New Brighton
With six lakes, 18 parks, and over 100 acres of green space, New Brighton is a haven for nature lovers and families.
Long Lake Regional Park
A crown jewel of the City of New Brighton, Long Lake Regional Park is a 104-acre oasis featuring a sandy beach, fishing pier, and scenic trails. Perfect for swimming, kayaking, or picnicking, the park also offers winter activities like ice fishing and cross-country skiing. Its glacial-formed landscape, shaped by the Wisconsin glaciation 12,000 years ago, adds a unique geological charm.
Other Notable Parks
- Creekview Park: Offers baseball fields, a playground, and walking paths.
- Veterans Park: Hosts summer concerts, like those featuring Los Rebeldes and Analog Drifters, drawing crowds for free outdoor music.
- Hansen Park: Features sports fields and picnic areas, ideal for family outings.
Cultural and Community Attractions
New Brighton’s vibrant community spirit shines through its events and cultural offerings.
Stockyard Days Festival
Held annually in August, Stockyard Days is a highlight of the New Brighton, MN. This multi-day festival at Long Lake Regional Park includes a parade, carnival rides, live music, and a car show, celebrating the city’s heritage and community pride.
New Brighton History Center
Located in the historic New Brighton Exchange Building, the New Brighton History Center offers exhibits and artifacts that dive into the city’s past, from its Dakota roots to its stockyard era. It’s a must-visit for history buffs exploring things to do in New Brighton, MN.
Family-Friendly Fun
For a dose of nostalgia, head to Brightwood Hills Golf Course, a 9-hole course perfect for beginners and families. The city’s new splash pad at Freedom Park, opened in July 2024, is a hit with kids, offering a fun way to cool off. New Brighton’s walkable neighborhoods and dog-friendly parks also make it a great spot for families and pet owners.
Shopping and Dining
While New Brighton leans residential, its dining scene includes local favorites like Barley & Vine for craft brews and comfort food or Catrina’s Mexican Restaurant for authentic flavors. For shopping, the nearby Rosedale Center in Roseville offers a mix of national and local retailers, just a short drive away.
Living in the City of New Brighton, MN
Considering a move to the City of New Brighton? Here’s what life looks like in this welcoming suburb.
A Welcoming Community
New Brighton’s residents, with a median age of 37.1, describe the city as “peaceful,” “family-friendly,” and “safe”. Annual block parties and transparent city communication, like brochures detailing local events, foster a strong sense of community. The city’s diversity—67.6% White, 13.4% Black, 5.12% Asian, and 3.82% two or more races—adds richness to its social fabric.
Housing in New Brighton
The housing market in the New Brighton, MN, is appealing, with a median home value of $345,900 and a homeownership rate of 64.1% in 2023. Options range from cozy bungalows to modern single-family homes in neighborhoods like Silver Oak Estates and Wexford Heights. The city’s affordability, compared to 58% of Minnesota cities, makes it a smart choice for buyers.
Education Excellence
New Brighton is served by the Mounds View Public Schools District (ISD 621), which includes top-rated schools like Irondale High School, Highview Middle School, Bel Air Elementary, and Sunnyside Elementary. Private options, such as St. John the Baptist School, and nearby colleges like Bethel University and United Theological Seminary, add educational depth.
Practical Information for Visitors and Residents
Getting to New Brighton, MN
The New Brighton, is ideally located at the intersection of Interstate 35W and Highway 694, just a 15-minute drive from downtown Minneapolis or St. Paul. Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport is 20 miles away, about a 25-minute trip. While public transit is limited, Metro Transit buses connect to nearby hubs.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
New Brighton’s climate is classic Minnesota—summers average 75°F, ideal for park visits, while winters (15°F) offer snow-filled fun. Fall’s vibrant foliage and spring’s mild weather are great for exploring trails. August is peak season for Stockyard Days, while winter months are budget-friendly for hotel stays.
City Services and Safety
The New Brighton City Hall (803 Old Highway 8 NW) handles permits and community programs, with meetings televised on cable channel 16. The Department of Public Safety offers a Scam Email Help-Line (IsThisAScam@newbrightonmn.gov) to protect residents from fraud. Despite some reported burglaries, the city is considered safe, with a low crime rate and proactive policing.
Why Choose the City of New Brighton, MN?
What makes the City of New Brighton, special? It’s the perfect mix of history, nature, and community spirit. From the beaches of Long Lake Regional Park to the lively Stockyard Days festival, there’s no shortage of things to do in New Brighton, MN. Families love the schools and safe neighborhoods, professionals appreciate the short commute to the Twin Cities, and businesses thrive in a supportive environment backed by programs like Tax Increment Financing (TIF).
Ready to visit or make New Brighton home? Check out www.newbrightonmn.gov for event schedules, city services, and more. The City of New Brighton, MN, is a vibrant suburb ready to welcome you with open arms—whether for a weekend adventure or a lifetime of memories!
