<p>Well we all know how Minneapolis has often been ranked for best place for young professionals, also stated to be one of the most smartest cities. I recently just discovered the small buisnesses along Washington Ave going towards University Ave but I still notice a large lack of a usual vibrant college town. I also already know about Dinkytown, but lacked to find the typical stores you'll see in college towns. </p>
<p>I think Minnesota is a great school, and would be excited to get accepted... but I also like downtowns ( I know Minneapolis is a large city with tons of things to do, just was curious about a typical college town).</p>
<p>My son has found it extremely easy to bus or light rail into downtown Minneapolis, and I see you have already heard about Stadium Village (the first shopping area you mentioned) and Dinkytown, which are shopping and entertainment districts right next to the East Back campus proper. The Seven Corners district near the West Bank campus has a lot of theater and interesting restaurants, including my favorite Ethiopian restaurant (the Red Sea) near campus. The U of Minnesota Twin Cities is NOT in a “typical college town” because the town(s) around it are the core cities of a huge metropolitan area. But that’s a feature rather than a bug in my opinion.</p>
<p>One thing I really like about the U is how it feels like an island within the city. Where as some urban schools are integrated into the city the U of M is its own area. It’s big, it’s fine, and has a bunch of interesting areas. Stadium Village is great now (especially because of the new stadium) and has anything you really need if you live in the Superblock or nearby apartments. I don’t quite know what you mean about “typical stores”, but every area around campus whether (like tokenadult stated) Seven Corners, Dinkytown, or Stadium Village (most notably the last two) you’ll feel a part of campus. It can’t be classified a college town at all because you’re within one of the greatest metro areas in the Midwest and the nation. You’re literally a 10 minute bus ride away from downtown Minneapolis and a little bit farther out of downtown St. Paul.</p>
<p>One issue I had with the U when I was choosing schools was the fact that I would always hear about it being a “commuter school” or not having a college feel. Now that I’m here I feel that is a total lie. Every day of the week you know you’re on campus and feel it. Whether walking to class, game day, or party nights it feels like what one may think of as “college.” I really can’t think of a better school that gives you both the full college experience and an amazing city (with a lot of gorgeous nature) all in one.</p>
<p>Go Gophers!</p>