Maple Grove, a suburban city in Hennepin County, Minnesota, United States, is known for its rapid growth and development. As of the 2020 census, the population was 70,253, making it Minnesota's 11th most populous city. Maple Grove serves as a retail, cultural, and medical center in the northwest region of the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metropolitan area. The city is home to The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes, one of the Twin Cities' largest shopping centers,
and the Hindu Temple of Minnesota, the state's largest Hindu temple.
First Peoples & First Mentions
The Winnebago were the only inhabitants in the Maple Grove area until 1851, when Louis Gervais arrived and settled. The city was known for its large stands of maple trees and was a significant source of maple syrup. The Pierre Bottineau House, built in 1854, was the first wood-frame house in Maple Grove Township.
Explorers, Missions & Colonial Outposts
Maple Grove's growth included a church, town hall, and many homes by 1855. The city was incorporated on April 30, 1954, and has since become one of the fastest-growing cities in the state. The completion and major upgrades to Interstates 94 / 694, 494, and U.S. Highway 169 have contributed to its rapid development.
From Empire to Nation: Transfers of Rule
Maple Grove was hit by an F3 tornado on July 23, 1987, causing damage to homes and businesses. The tornado moved into neighboring Brooklyn Park and caused damage in several subdivisions before dissipating. Despite such challenges, Maple Grove was named the second-best place to live in 2014 by Money magazine.
Rails, Roads & River Landings: Corridors That Sited Maple Grove
The city has an area of 35.03 square miles, with 32.64 square miles of land and 2.39 square miles of water. It directly borders six other cities: Dayton, Champlin, Brooklyn Park, Osseo, Plymouth, and Corcoran. Many major highways pass through the city, including Interstate 94, U.S. Route 169, and Minnesota State Highway 610.
