Burnsville: A Bustling City With Rural Roots And A Rich Culture

Burnsville is a place like no other. And whether you grew up here, recently moved to the area or you’re just an occasional visitor, you know that Burnsville has its own special traditions and history that make it so unique.

A few things to know:

• Founded in the mid-1850s, Burnsville started out as a small, rural farming community comprised of primarily Irish settlers. There were just 2,700 people who called Burnsville home in 1960, but in the following decades, the population has boomed to roughly 64,000, making it one of the largest cities in Minnesota.
• Burnsville is home to the Nicollet Commons Park, one of the first "town square" style parks to be developed into the metro area suburbs. From May through September each year, an impressive water feature at the park is open to the public that's perfect for taking a relaxing stroll or snapping a few photos.
• Burnsville is full of natural beauty, and nowhere is that more evident than at the Minnesota Riverfront Park. This gorgeous park features walking and biking trails that wind through the lush forests and prairies along the Minnesota River. Visitors can also take in the stunning views of the city skyline and enjoy a picnic at one of the many scenic spots throughout the park.
• If you love the arts, you’ll love visiting the Ames Center. Formerly known as Burnsville Performing Arts Center, this multi-theater community arts complex opened in January 2009 and features a 2,000-square-foot gallery, a rehearsal room and event spaces for special occasions.
• Burnsville is home to one of the most popular ski resorts in the Midwest, Buck Hill. This ski area has been in operation since the 1950s and is a favorite destination for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and skill levels. In addition to the slopes, Buck Hill also offers a tubing hill, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, making it the perfect winter destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Burnsville is home to one of the largest enclosed malls in the state of Minnesota. The Burnsville Center regional mall features over 100 stores, including popular retailers like Macy's, H&M and JCPenney, as well as a food court and movie theater.
• One of the city's most unique attractions is the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. This 14,000-acre preserve is home to a wide variety of plants and animals, and visitors can hike, birdwatch and even kayak through the stunning natural landscape.
• Skating enthusiasts will love The Burnsville Lions Skate Park, a 5,500-square-foot, Tier I outdoor facility for inline skaters, skateboarders and bikers. The park’s ramps, rails and bowls are open to skaters of all ages and skill levels.
• Burnsville has a vibrant culinary scene, with plenty of restaurants and cafes to suit every taste. Some local favorites include contemporary rustic hotspot Porter Creek Hardwood Grill, the family-friendly Chianti Grill for authentic Italian cuisine and Morgan’s Farm To Table, which serves up American fare using the freshest local ingredients.
• Burnsville is home to Heart of the City, a charming, 54-acre downtown district filled with shops, restaurants and entertainment options. The area hosts several annual events, including a farmers market, a holiday tree lighting ceremony and a summer concert series.
• The city's Burnsville Athletic Club provides opportunities for kids and adults to participate in a wide variety of sports, from basketball and volleyball to football and lacrosse. The club also hosts summer camps and clinics for young athletes.
• Burnsville has a strong commitment to sustainability, with several initiatives in place to reduce waste and promote conservation. The city has a community garden program, a composting site and several bike trails and lanes to encourage alternative modes of transportation.

What's your favorite thing about Burnsville? Let us know below in the comments!

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