EDEN PRAIRIE
COMMUNITY GUIDE 2026
Bringing Community and Nature Together
4 | EDEN PRAIRIE COMMUNITY GUIDE | 2026
Named for its“ Eden-like” appeal to settlers, Eden Prairie combines its natural landscape with a diverse economic base that includes a regional shopping mall and a wide range of businesses. The city is consistently ranked among the best places to live in the Twin Cities, supported by a top-tier school system and comprehensive public safety services.
Located less than 20 miles southwest of Minneapolis, Eden Prairie is accessible via Interstate 494 and Minnesota State Highways 62, 169, and 212. Regional connectivity will expand with the completion of the light rail extension, projected for 2027. Flying Cloud Airport serves as a hub for corporate and recreational aviation, while the nonprofit Wings of the North preserves local aviation history. For commuters, SouthWest Transit provides bus service and an on-demand transit program. This includes an autonomous shuttle pilot designed to provide“ first-and-last-mile” transportation, connecting riders to various destinations via the SouthWest Prime mobile app.
The city’ s infrastructure features more than 125 miles of trails and 1,000 acres of developed parkland. Dedicated recreational facilities include the Eden Prairie Community Center, Senior Center, Art Center, Staring Lake Park Amphitheater, and the Outdoor Center. Uniquely, the city owns and operates three municipal liquor stores. Profits from these establishments are directed to the Capital Improvement Fund, which provides the revenue necessary to maintain and improve the local park and trail system.
Governance follows a mayor-council structure where the mayor and four council members set policy and appoint a city manager to oversee daily operations. A variety of resident-led commissions advise the council on issues such as sustainability, conservation, and human rights. Additionally, the Students on Commissions program offers a pathway for younger residents to participate directly in local government operations.
Eden Prairie City Center 8080 Mitchell Road 952-949-8300 edenprairie. org