View through a campus garden of students walking in the Dinkytown business area.

Dinkytown

Despite its name, Dinkytown is the most widespread neighborhood on the East Bank, with two residence halls, three apartment complexes, and one transitional townhouse community. Located on the north end of campus, this neighborhood is often considered the gateway to the University of Minnesota.

All of the student housing in this area, along with many of the fraternity and sorority houses, surround the University Avenue and 4th Street corridor. Students enjoy cozy cafes, used bookstores, live music venues, and more. There’s a restaurant for every craving, from pancakes to bánh mì, vegan ginger muffins, falafel, and pizza by the slice.

With its close proximity to Huntingon Bank Stadium, Williams Arena, and 3M Arena at Mariucci, this is also the place for college sports fans, whether you’re into football, basketball, hockey, or all of the above. The neighborhood is also close to Northrop Auditorium, where you can catch unforgettable world-class dance performances, lectures, and film screenings.

If you’re looking for that classic “college town” vibe, Dinkytown is where you’ll find it. 

Campus Highlights

Three students hanging in two hammocks at the knoll.

Juxtaposed with a bustling business district are beautiful outdoor spaces, from the knoll to the mile-long Dinkytown Greenway. The greenway provides a fun and functional way to explore, beginning near Huntingon Bank Stadium and passing through the East Bank, crossing an old train bridge that offers spectacular views of the Mississippi River and the Stone Arch Bridge. The trail ends on the West Bank, where it’s easy to continue the journey to West River Parkway and the historic Mill District of downtown Minneapolis. 

Housing Options

Sanford Hall's old entrance
Sanford
A community with its own dining hall and space for 530 first-year residents.
The view of Wilkins Hall from the other side of the foot bridge to campus
Wilkins
A community with four floors of apartments for 142 returning residents.
View of 17th building from the corner of University Avenue and Church Street.
17th Avenue
A community with has six floors of spaces for 600 first-year residents.
Keeler view from the street
Keeler
A community with five floors of apartments for 164 returning residents.
Radius Exterior
Radius
An apartment community with six floors for 772 returning residents.
Sidewalk leading to the court's units
Pillsbury Court
A community for faculty/staff and their families to live in during their transition to the Twin Cities.
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