If you’re thinking about making a move to Maplewood, MN, the Hazelwood neighborhood deserves a close look. Tucked into the southeast corner of the city, Hazelwood offers a friendly blend of suburban quiet and rich community spirit. As a local writer and longtime area resident, here’s an inside perspective on what life is really like in Hazelwood—from the style of homes to the parks and schools that make it especially inviting to families.
Community Vibe
Hazelwood is the kind of neighborhood where neighbors still wave and say hello. The vibe here is warm and approachable, whether you’re walking your dog on the tree-lined stretch of Hazelwood Street, chatting with parents at Helen Park, or catching up with neighbors along Dorland Road. People tend to stay for years, so there’s a strong sense of community and continuity.
- Block parties and National Night Out gatherings are a tradition
- Newcomers are welcomed—don’t be surprised if someone drops off a plate of cookies
- Residents are invested in keeping the area safe and beautiful
Types of Housing
Hazelwood’s housing stock shows its vintage charm and steady growth:
- Most homes are classic ramblers, split-levels, and Cape Cods built from the 1960s to the 1980s
- A handful of newer constructions and well-maintained townhomes can be found, especially off Beam Avenue and along Hillwood Drive
- Yards tend to be spacious, with mature trees and gardens—ideal for grilling or watching the kids play
Rental options are more limited but do exist, mostly in smaller apartment complexes or duplexes tucked deeper into the neighborhood.
Walkability
Hazelwood strikes a happy middle ground for walkability. The neighborhood’s wide, quiet streets—like Hazelwood Street, Sterling St N, and Skillman Ave—make walking, biking, or pushing a stroller easy and safe. Sidewalks are common, and most blocks are well-lit at night.
- Walking to parks, schools, and the Hazelwood branch of the Maplewood Library is easy for many
- Shopping is accessible along White Bear Avenue (just minutes west), including Cub Foods, Target, and local coffee spots
- For more urban conveniences, driving to Maplewood Mall or Sun Ray Shopping Center is a quick 10-minute trip
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families thrive in Hazelwood thanks to its excellent schools and resources:
- Carver Elementary is a neighborhood anchor with a welcoming reputation and community events
- Maplewood Middle School and North High School are nearby, attracting students from across the area
- Several well-kept daycares and preschools are within a mile radius
After school, you’ll see families at Helen Park or walking the trails at Four Seasons Park. Parent groups and youth activity leagues are strong, creating lots of opportunities to get involved and make connections.
Parks and Green Spaces
One of Hazelwood’s best-kept secrets is the sheer number of parks and green spaces woven into the neighborhood. Even locals sometimes marvel at how much nature is right outside the door!
- Helen Park: A neighborhood gathering spot with playgrounds, basketball hoops, picnic shelters, and sledding hills in winter
- Four Seasons Park: Just a short drive north, this park offers long walking trails shaded by oaks, sports fields, and a peaceful pond
- Battle Creek Regional Park: The southeastern edge of Hazelwood borders this massive park, giving access to hiking, biking trails, and one of the best off-leash dog areas in the metro
Even streets like Hastings Circle and Sterling Street feel especially lush, with mature elms and maples arching over the sidewalks. It’s the kind of neighborhood where you’ll spot deer or wild turkeys from your back patio.
Safety
Hazelwood has a solid reputation for safety. Neighbors know each other, and there’s a strong partnership with the Maplewood Police Department, particularly through the neighborhood watch program.
- Crime rates are low, and keeps watchful eyes on homes when residents travel
- Streetlights and well-maintained sidewalks make evening strolls safe
- The community Facebook group is active and keeps everyone in the loop about local news
Of course, like anywhere, it’s wise to lock your doors and keep an eye out, but residents generally report feeling very secure.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Commuters enjoy Hazelwood’s convenient location:
- Downtown St. Paul is just a 15-minute drive west via I-94 or Hwy 36
- Employers like 3M (to the east on I-94), HealthPartners, and Maplewood City Hall are all within easy reach
- Public transportation options, including Metro Transit bus routes, run along White Bear Avenue and Beam Avenue
If you work in downtown Minneapolis, the commute is easily 25–30 minutes outside rush hour.
What Residents Love Most
When you ask Hazelwood residents what they cherish about their neighborhood, a few things stand out:
- The peace and quiet—you can hear birds sing in the morning but still get downtown quickly
- The parks and green space—nowhere in Maplewood do you have as much access to both small neighborhood parks and big regional ones
- An authentic, friendly neighborliness—people look out for each other here
- The balance—enough shopping and amenities nearby, but home always feels like a retreat
Locals especially love the sense of being “in the city, but not *of* the city.” You’re never far from what you need, but the leafy streets and well-cared-for homes make Hazelwood feel like a small town in the heart of the metro.
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Hazelwood is a great fit for anyone looking for community, convenience, lasting value, and a classic suburban atmosphere. If you’re considering a move, take a drive through the winding streets, stop by Helen Park, and keep an eye out for those “Welcome to the Neighborhood” smiles—you’ll see what makes this corner of Maplewood special.