A brief history of the North Loop

The North Loop Neighborhood, located in what is frequently referred to as the Warehouse District, played an important role in Minneapolis’ history. Recognized as a bustling commercial hub and industrial center, this part of the city served everyone from manufacturers and millers, farmers to furriers, through the 1800s. In addition, the "north loop" of rail lines — the railroad and city streetcars running through the neighborhood — brought vital transportation to businesses and consumers alike.

With the decline of the industrial boom, businesses favored trucks over trains, and the Neighborhood slipped into disrepair. Many buildings were abandoned and left to decay. The 1970s brought a new era of artists seeking large spaces and low rents. These artistic pioneers found what they were looking for in the North Loop, and are largely responsible for bringing life back into this significant neighborhood.

Today the North Loop Neighborhood is once again a vibrant community, offering unique housing options, award-winning arts, entertainment, fine dining, and specialty shops, many within the original warehouses of the North Loop's historic heyday. We invite you to explore all the activities this “new” old neighborhood has to offer.

Geographically, the WDNLA shall be defined as the area bounded by the Mississippi River on the Northeast, to Hennepin Avenue on the Southeast, to Washington Avenue briefly on the Southeast, to 3rd Avenue North on the Southeast, Glenwood Avenue on the South, to Lyndale Avenue on the West and Plymouth Avenue on the North ending back at the River.