East Bethel has a country atmosphere with lots of recreation
Ringed by Anoka County’s extensive spread of ponds, lakes and wildlife preserves, East Bethel attracts homeowners looking for a rustic atmosphere with natural beauty. “It’s a large area with lots of recreation, lots of trails and access to the largest lake in Anoka County,” says Michelle Anderson, a Realtor with Re/Max Results. With a total size of 48 square miles, this rural community of under 12,000 has opportunities for considerable lot size and privacy. That same size gives residents plenty of options for shopping, entertainment and dining out.
Midcentury and neo-traditional homes are typical
Most of East Bethel is spread wide, with long, uninterrupted stretches of road. Homes on multiple-acre lots are more common than traditional subdivisions. Mature maple and evergreen trees fill yards, and houses frequently have farmhouse and country-style accents. Midcentury homes are typical throughout the area, with prices ranging from the low to high $300,000s. Twenty-first-century neo-traditional homes are available between the low $400,000s and the mid-$600,000s. Prices for all homes are generally based on size, condition and amenities like waterfront views.
Nature lovers can visit Sandhill Crane Natural Area or Coon Lake
Locals visit East Bethel’s Booster Park for everything from its skate park to its playgrounds. Tennis and basketball courts are available, and during baseball season, local teams and Little Leagues light up the park’s four diamonds. Blue Ribbon Pines is home to a 27-hole disc golf course. “It’s one of the best in the country,” says Friday. Hikers and nature lovers visit the Sandhill Crane Natural Area for a walk through over 500 acres of oak savanna and prairie. Coon Lake is the largest body of water in Anoka County and a popular spot for boating, fishing and birdwatching.
Relaxed dining at Smokey's Pub N' Grill and Route 65
Smokey’s Pub N’ Grill has served Memphis-style barbecue and fixings since 2012. “Honestly, that’s the best barbecue in Minnesota,” says Joel Friday, a Realtor with Keller Williams Classic Realty. It’s also a frequent venue for local and regional musicians, with a new act every week. Route 65 Pub and Grub serves classic tavern food like wings, queso and cheese curds. Most residents visit the shopping areas around Blaine, roughly 15 miles south. Big-box and grocery stores like Walmart and Aldi are available there. “Route 65 gets a lot of business,” says Brian Mundle, a Realtor with Edina Realty.
St. Francis High is known for its performing arts department
Students can begin school at East Bethel Elementary School before going to St. Francis Middle School, both of which have a C-plus from Niche. Older students will attend St. Francis High School, which has a B-minus. The high school's performing arts programs have won many accolades, including several awards from the 2024 Hennepin Theatre Trust Spotlight Showcase.
Booster Day brings a parade and fireworks to the city every year
Booster Day is a summer celebration and an annual East Bethel tradition. Visitors come from all over the county to enjoy live music, beer tents, a parade and an evening of fireworks. Included in the festivities is the annual Medallion Hunt, which challenges the entire community with clues to find a single medallion somewhere in the city.
Minneapolis and St. Paul are less than an hour away
State Highway 65 cuts through East Bethel’s western side, providing a route to Minneapolis, about 35 miles south. St. Paul is roughly 40 miles southeast. The city doesn’t have local public transit, so residents require a car for most trips.
