About Woodbury
Woodbury is one of Minnesota’s fastest-growing communities and currently ranks as the state’s eighth-largest city. Home to nearly 80,000 residents, its population is projected to climb to around 88,000 by 2040, with steady growth expected well into the future. Conveniently located near major employment centers and the scenic St. Croix River Valley, Woodbury is an economic hub and a beautiful natural environment with abundant year-round recreation.
The city is celebrated for its well-planned, attractive neighborhoods, linked by over 180 miles of multi-use trails. Woodbury also boasts roughly 3,600 acres of parkland and eight small lakes—many featuring public parks and walking paths that enhance the community’s active, outdoor lifestyle.
1. Where is Woodbury and how do I get there?
Photo by Destination: Woodbury
Getting here is easy! Woodbury is a growing suburb eight miles east of downtown Saint Paul, 18 miles east of downtown Minneapolis and 15 miles from MSP Airport. Woodbury is part of the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area and is located five miles west of the Minnesota-Wisconsin border on I-94. Getting around is easy too. Public bus transportation is available by Metro Transit Gold Line, connecting Woodbury to the entire Twin Cities metropolitan area.
2. What are the top things to do/see?
Photo by Destination: Woodbury
The top things to do and see are:
FAMILY ATTRACTIONS
- Central Park
- Lookout Ridge
- Madison's Place Playground.
- Topgolf (and there's even more attractions coming soon!)
SPORTS AND RECREATION
- Eagle Valley Golf Course and Prestwick Golf Club
- Golf simulators at BIRDI Golf and X-Golf
- M Health Fairview Sports Center
- Parks like Carver Lake Park and Ojibway Park.
SHOPPING CENTERS
GROUP ACTIVITIES
3. When is the best time to visit?
Photo by Destination: Woodbury
In Minnesota, we embrace all four seasons. Here's a few recommendations:
- Summer (June–August): Warm (highs in low 80s °F) and perfect for parks, trails and lakes.
- Fall (September-October): Cool (highs in the mid 60s °F) and ideal for exploring 180 miles of hiking and biking trails and enjoying nature.
- Winter (December–March): Cold weather and possible snow (highs in the upper 20s °F) just in time for holiday-related events, a hot chocolate and comfort food. Winter outdoor activities like cross-country skiing, sledding and snowshoeing are popular at local parks.
- Events: Consider attending local annual community events like Fourth of July Hometown Celebration at M Health Fairview Sports Center and Woodbury Days at Ojibway Park in August featuring live music, carnival rides and more.
4. Where should I stay / what lodging options exist?
Photo by Destination: Woodbury
Woodbury is home to nine hotels featuring well-known hotel brands, competitive rates and valued amenities like free parking. All hotels are located along major highways and close to more than 140 dining options. Whether you're here for a wedding at Central Park, sports tournament at M Health Fairview Sports Center or attending an event in the Twin Cities region, Woodbury is a great place to stay.
5. How do I get around once I'm there?
Photo Credit: Metro Transit
Driving is the most common and convenient; however, Metro micro is an on-demand rideshare service provided by Metro Transit within 13 square miles or 1/3 of Woodbury. Simply download the Metro Transit app or call the phone number for service.
6. What about dining options in Woodbury?
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Woodbury is home to a mix of local favorites and beloved names for dining, offering everything from American classics to international cuisine and family-friendly fare. Check out our list of more than 140 restaurants. In fact, we wrote an article about 11 restaurants that recently opened.
7. What should I know about weather / packing?
From November - March, consider warm clothes (coats, hats, gloves) and pay attention to possible snow and seasonably cold temperatures which can also cause icy road conditions.
8. Is Woodbury a good choice for medical procedures?
Photo by Destination: Woodbury
In recent years, Woodbury has become known as a medical destination with more than 300 healthcare related businesses. While this isn't a typical "visit" necessarily, there is a lot of value knowing that high quality of healthcare exists in Woodbury and is readily available for all types of procedures.
9. Is Woodbury good for families / accessibility / special-needs friendly?
Photo by Destination: Woodbury
Woodbury has received awards from national publications for being family-friendly with an abundance of parks, multi-use trails and thoughtfully designed public spaces. The City of Woodbury has emphasized accessible-friendly with a priority on inclusive playgrounds and adaptive recreation programs.
10. Any tips or local “insider” suggestions?
Photo by Destination: Woodbury
Since Woodbury is near both downtown St. Paul and Minneapolis, you can use it as a home base for exploring the Twin Cities metro region while staying in a convenient and quieter suburban setting. Woodbury is located just minutes from Afton State Park and the St. Croix River Valley making it a great option for day trips.
If you're planning your visit during the summer season, holiday or other popular times, consider booking your hotel stay early and make restaurant reservations especially for group dining and group lodging.