Iconic urban-lake living in the heart of Minneapolis
Lake Bde Maka Ska—formerly known as Lake Calhoun—is the largest of the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes and one of the most sought-after luxury enclaves in the city. With sweeping waterfront views, expansive parkland, and a vibrant, active lifestyle, this prestigious neighborhood blends upscale lakeside living with cosmopolitan convenience.
Elegant single-family estates, sophisticated townhomes, and modern luxury condominiums anchor this waterfront district, offering a blend of historic charm and contemporary design. Its prime location places residents minutes from Lake Harriet, Lake of the Isles, Uptown, Linden Hills, and Downtown Minneapolis—all while enjoying unprecedented access to outdoor recreation and lakeside amenities.
Minneapolis’ largest and most active lake with premier recreational access
Stunning waterfront residences and architecturally distinct homes
Walkable, bike-friendly, and connected to city trails and parks
Vibrant social and dining scene nearby in Uptown & Linden Hills
Elevated lakeside lifestyle with year-round activities
Life at Lake Bde Maka Ska is dynamic, social, and effortlessly connected. Residents embrace a truly outdoor-driven lifestyle—morning runs around the lake, sailing from the public dock, lakeside picnics, and sunset strolls are part of everyday living.
Professionals, families, and long-term residents are drawn to the area’s mix of luxury housing, walkability, and proximity to cultural experiences—along with the energy of nearby neighborhoods like Uptown, East Isles, and Lyn-Lake.
Whether you're enjoying summer evenings at the shoreline, paddleboarding before the workday begins, or biking to the Lake of the Isles lagoon or Minnehaha Parkway trails, Bde Maka Ska offers a lifestyle that feels both refreshing and metropolitan.
Lake Bde Maka Ska residents enjoy access to an incredible mix of casual lakeside hangouts and refined neighborhood dining.
Nearby favorites include:
The Bungalow Club (Lyn-Lake; modern seasonal dining)
Martina (Linden Hills; elegant Argentinian-inspired cuisine)
Cardamom (Walker Art Center; Mediterranean-inspired, art-driven setting)
Café Ceres (multiple nearby outposts; elevated café experience)
Lago Tacos & Pavilion Café (seasonal lakefront eats and cocktails)
Just minutes away are the boutiques and artisanal shops of Uptown, Linden Hills, and the 50th & France district, offering curated retail, wellness, and specialty grocery favorites like Kowalski’s Market.
Recreation defines the Bde Maka Ska lifestyle, with four seasons of activity available right outside the door.
Area highlights include:
Sailing, windsurfing & paddleboarding from lakeside docks
Beachfront lounging & swimming areas
Scenic 3-mile lakeside walking & biking path
Lakefront parks & volleyball courts
Chain of Lakes Regional Park access
Winter ice-fishing, cross-country skiing, and lakeside events
The lake serves as a year-round community hub—whether you're joining friends for outdoor fitness classes or relaxing with a book on the shoreline, there’s always a way to enjoy the natural beauty.
Lake Bde Maka Ska residents benefit from excellent nearby public and private schools, including:
Kenwood Community School
Southwest High School
Lake Harriet Community School (Lower & Upper Campus)
The Blake School (nearby private)
32,534 people live in Lake Bde Maka Ska , where the median age is 30.1 and the average individual income is $52,740. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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Lake Bde Maka Ska has 17,153 households, with an average household size of 1.86. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Lake Bde Maka Ska do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 32,534 people call Lake Bde Maka Ska home. The population density is 12,108.41 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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