50th & France Business Association
About
50th & France is a charming, walkable shopping district in Edina that's perfect for a leisurely family outing. With its tree-lined streets, kid-friendly boutiques, delicious ice cream shops, and family restaurants all within easy strolling distance, it offers a pleasant alternative to mall shopping. The neighborhood hosts year-round community events and festivals that create a festive, small-town atmosphere kids will enjoy.
Highlights
- ✓Multiple ice cream and dessert shops perfect for treating the kids
- ✓Year-round community festivals and seasonal events designed for families
- ✓Boutique toy and book stores with unique finds
- ✓Walkable, pedestrian-friendly streets with a safe, neighborhood feel
- ✓Family-friendly restaurants with outdoor seating during warmer months
Pro Tips
- 1.Park in the free public lots on France Avenue or side streets,the area is very walkable once you arrive
- 2.Visit on Tuesday or Thursday mornings when the Business Association office has extended hours if you need visitor information or event schedules
- 3.Bring a stroller for younger kids as the sidewalks are wide and well-maintained, perfect for easy navigation
- 4.Check their event calendar before visiting,seasonal festivals, farmers markets, and holiday celebrations add extra fun for families
- 5.Make ice cream your last stop so little ones have something to look forward to after browsing shops
Best Time to Visit
Saturday mornings or weekday afternoons offer the best experience,weekends have a lively community vibe with families out and about, while weekdays are less crowded. Spring through fall provides the most pleasant weather for strolling outdoors and enjoying seasonal events.
What to Know
Free parking is available throughout the district in public lots and on-street spaces. The area features multiple family restaurants and casual dining options, plus several ice cream and sweet treat shops that kids love.
Seasonal Notes
The district shines during spring and summer with outdoor events, sidewalk sales, and pleasant weather for walking. Fall brings harvest festivals and Halloween activities. Winter holidays feature special decorations and festive events, though outdoor strolling is less comfortable in cold Minnesota weather.
Nearby Eats
Stop by Wise Acre Eatery for fresh, scratch-made food with plenty of kid-friendly options, or try Broders' Cucina Italiana for family-style Italian dining. Both restaurants welcome families and offer dishes that appeal to young palates.
More Activities Near Edina
Edina Art Center
The Edina Art Center is a welcoming community art hub where families can create together through hands-on workshops, pottery classes, and seasonal programs. With its highly-rated family workshops and dedicated children's summer camps, it's the perfect spot for budding artists to explore painting, ceramics, sculpture, and mixed media in a supportive, creative environment.
Bredesen Park
Bredesen Park is a peaceful neighborhood gem in Edina that offers the perfect blend of nature exploration and classic playground fun. Families love the scenic walking trails that circle a tranquil pond where kids can spot turtles, ducks, and other wildlife, while the well-maintained playground and picnic shelters make it ideal for everything from quick afternoon outings to full-day family gatherings.
Centennial Lakes Park
Centennial Lakes Park is Edina's crown jewel for family fun, offering a stunning 24-acre oasis where kids can paddle boat across scenic lakes, putt through mini golf courses, and splash in fountains during summer. With paved walking paths perfect for strollers, winter ice skating, and beautifully landscaped grounds, this versatile park delivers year-round entertainment that keeps families coming back season after season.
Minnehaha Creek Greenway
The Minnehaha Creek Greenway offers families a beautiful, paved multi-use trail that winds alongside the tranquil Minnehaha Creek through Edina. It's an ideal spot for easy family bike rides, nature walks, or letting kids practice their rollerblading skills in a safe, scenic environment away from traffic. The gentle terrain and peaceful creek views make this trail accessible for even young riders with training wheels.