Moving to a new neighborhood is a big decision, especially when you’re seeking a place that delivers a genuine sense of community, great schools, and easy access to everything the Twin Cities have to offer. Covington, a delightful pocket in the heart of Minnetonka, MN, checks all these boxes—and more. Here’s what it’s really like to call Covington home, straight from the perspective of a friendly neighbor.
A Welcoming Community Vibe
From the moment you turn into Covington—winding along Covington Road or pulling into neighborhoods off Ridgewood Road—the area feels like a tight-knit enclave. Neighbors wave from their porches, kids ride bikes along wide sidewalks, and you’ll often see neighbors chatting at the end of driveways. The annual Covington block party is a highlight, bringing families together for BBQ, games, and music—a tradition that newcomers quickly come to love.
Residents frequently remark on the friendliness here; it’s the kind of place where you’ll get to know your neighbors quickly, whether at community gatherings, while walking the dog, or helping out at local events with the neighborhood association.
Types of Housing in Covington
Covington’s residential streets—like Foxgate Drive, Devonwood Drive, and Windsor Lake Drive—offer a mix of single-family homes that tell the story of Minnetonka’s growth over the years. Most homes date from the 1970s to the 1990s, with sturdy construction and classic Twin Cities suburban charm: think spacious lots, mature trees, and well-maintained lawns.
- Traditional split-level and rambler homes with generous backyards
- Updated two-story homes, often with finished basements perfect for family rec rooms or home offices
- A handful of modern renovations and tasteful expansions
- Low-traffic cul-de-sacs that are perfect for kids learning to ride bikes or shoot hoops
The pride of ownership is clear—many homes here have seen recent exterior updates, landscaping improvements, and energy-efficient upgrades.
Walkability: Easy and Safe
While Covington is primarily residential, its quiet streets and interconnected sidewalks are a dream for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. Many families set out on evening walks or strolls with strollers down safe, tree-lined blocks.
Covington also offers easy access to regional trail systems, such as the Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail, which is just a short hop away. This trail connects you to scenic spots throughout Minnetonka and beyond, making it easy to enjoy the natural beauty of the area on foot or bike.
Grocery stores, coffee shops, and local favorites like Caribou Coffee or Lunds & Byerlys on Minnetonka Boulevard are all within a five-minute drive, if not walkable depending on where you live in the neighborhood.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families are drawn to Covington in large part because of the revered Minnetonka Public Schools district. Younger children typically attend Scenic Heights Elementary, which is just minutes away and highly rated for its nurturing atmosphere and innovative programming. Older students move on to Middle School East and Minnetonka High School, both renowned for academic excellence, extracurriculars, and athletics.
- School bus stops are plentiful and safely situated on low-traffic streets
- Local parent groups and playground meetups give newcomers a quick way to connect
- The neighborhood is known for Halloween trick-or-treating, spring egg hunts, and impromptu backyard soccer games
If your family values education, extracurricular involvement, and a safe environment, Covington will likely be a good fit.
Parks and Green Spaces
One of Covington’s most cherished features is its proximity to parks and green space. Purgatory Park, a true Minnetonka treasure, is just around the corner. With its vast open fields, wooded trails, and off-leash dog park, it’s the preferred weekend destination for many Covington families and their four-legged friends.
Nearby, Meadow Park provides another option for outdoor fun, offering:
- New playground equipment
- Soccer fields and basketball courts
- Picnic tables for neighborhood gatherings
The mature tree canopy and small ponds sprinkled throughout the neighborhood add to the sense of serenity, making it easy to forget you’re only minutes from major roads and shopping districts.
Safety: Peace of Mind
Covington is widely recognized as a safe, low-crime neighborhood. Residents look out for each other, and the Minnetonka Police Department’s strong community presence means quick response times and regular patrols. Neighbors regularly organize safety seminars and keep an active eye out for one another via a community email list.
It’s the kind of area where parents feel confident letting kids walk or bike to friends’ houses, and folks frequently say they feel safe walking after dark or leaving windows open during cool summer nights.
Proximity to Downtown & Major Employers
Despite its peaceful suburban feel, Covington is just 20 minutes from downtown Minneapolis, depending on traffic. Quick access to Highway 7 and 494 makes commuting simple, whether you’re heading into the city or exploring the greater west metro.
Some nearby major employers and amenities include:
- UnitedHealth Group campus in Minnetonka
- Cargill headquarters in Wayzata
- Ridgedale Center shopping district
- Lake Minnetonka and its marinas/restaurants
A short commute is a must-have for many local professionals, and Covington delivers without sacrificing residential tranquility.
What Residents Love Most
Ask ten Covington residents what they appreciate most, and you’ll get a range of heartfelt answers:
- “Everyone looks out for each other—there’s always someone to lend a hand or bring over a meal.”
- “I love being able to walk to Purgatory Park or Meadow Park, then come home to a peaceful street.”
- “Safe, friendly, and excellent schools…that’s why we’re here.”
Whether you’re considering a move for the schools, the community feel, safe streets, or proximity to everything Minnetonka and the Twin Cities offer, Covington is truly a standout. It’s a neighborhood where roots are planted and lasting connections are made—a place you’ll be glad to call home.