Nationally ranked as one of the Best Places to Live in recent years, Apple Valley, Minnesota residents enjoy plenty of things to do with the added bonus of affordable homes and comfortable neighborhoods. The best part about living in Apple Valley cannot simply be summed up with one thing, because there are numerous sites, amenities, and attractions beckoning locals and visitors alike.

Any number of the family-friendly destinations that highlight this diverse community can easily be used to factor into its draw.  Home to the Minnesota Zoo with its interactive design elements and personal viewing of native and exotic wildlife, the community also boasts dozens of parks prime for outdoor recreation like fishing, hiking, jogging, and even biking. In addition, the community is a mere five-minute drive from the largest shopping mall in the U.S., Mall of America, packed with more than 500 stores and plenty of things to do and experience.

There’s also the public Crystal Lake Golf Course and Valleywood Golf Course, plus nearby Buck Hill, with its day and night skiing, snow tubing and more, just a short drive from the community. As well, the area also boasts family-friendly festivals like the annual Apple Valley Freedom Days, highlighted by everything from a parade and car show to a fun run for residents of all ages.

Not to be outdone, Apple Valley is just a 20-minute drive from either Downtown Minneapolis or Downtown St. Paul, offering a variety of additional sites and attractions for residents to enjoy, including Science Museum of Minnesota and the Metrodome.

Options in Apple Valley, MN real estate range from affordable ranch-style homes and sprawling two-story designs to townhomes and condos that match nearly every budget. From new construction to vintage homes that allow for your own personal touch, there’s plenty to entice prospective new homeowners to experience the charm of living in Apple Valley.