If you’re considering a move to Minnetonka, you may have heard glowing things about Sherwood Forest — and for good reason. Tucked away just north of Hwy 7 and stretching between Williston Road and Hopkins Crossroad, Sherwood Forest offers a rare blend of tranquility, family-friendliness, and classic suburbia without sacrificing access to amenities or a sense of community.
In this article, I’ll give you my honest perspective as a neighbor—or as someone who seems like one!—about what it’s really like to call Sherwood Forest home.
The Community Vibe: Friendly, Welcoming, and Established
Sherwood Forest is the kind of neighborhood where people smile and greet each other on daily walks. With its winding streets like Thornhill Lane, Sherwood Road, and Fairfield Road, you quickly get familiar with the folks on your block. Block parties, summer garage sales, Halloween parades on Aspen Road, and winter luminary walks are all traditions that still bring families together.
While the neighborhood skews toward long-term residents, new families move in every year, drawn by schools, parks, and the timeless appeal of established landscaping and mature trees. There’s a low-key, friendly energy here — enough to feel connected, but never intrusive.
Types of Housing: Classic Charm With Room to Grow
Most homes in Sherwood Forest were built in the 1960s and 70s, featuring rambler and split-level styles, with generous front lawns and roomy backyards. Expect to see well-maintained brick or wood siding, picture windows, and cozy fireplaces — properties along Forestview Lane and Sherwood Road have especially beautiful lots.
While some homes have been tastefully updated with modern kitchens and master suites, the neighborhood retains much of its original charm. There’s also a trend of young couples purchasing older homes and renovating them, keeping the area feeling fresh and cared-for.
You’ll find:
- Single-family homes, mostly 3-5 bedrooms, on quarter to half-acre lots
- Occasional new builds or major remodels tucked among classic homes
- No condos or apartment complexes — Sherwood Forest’s appeal is truly suburban
Walkability: Peaceful Streets and Nearby Conveniences
Sherwood Forest streets are winding, tree-lined, and calm, which makes it perfect for morning jogs, bike rides, or after-dinner strolls. Aspen, Sherwood, and Forestview lanes see little through-traffic, so walking with strollers, toddlers, or the family dog feels safe and relaxing.
While not a “walk-to-everything” urban neighborhood, Sherwood Forest offers good walkability to nearby parks and schools. Glen Lake Shopping Center, just a short drive or longer walk south, provides groceries (Lunds & Byerlys), coffee, and local dining.
Key highlights:
- Walking distance to Sherwood Forest Park via leisure paths
- Easy access to nature trails connecting to Minnehaha Creek and nearby city parks
- A quick bike ride to Miller Park, Glen Lake, and Williston Fitness Center
Schools and Family-Friendliness: Top Marks
For families, one of the biggest draws is the access to highly rated Minnetonka public schools. Sherwood Forest sits within the boundary for:
- Glen Lake Elementary (walking or biking distance for most families on Forestview Lane or Sherwood Road)
- Minnetonka Middle School East
- Minnetonka High School
Parents love the safe routes to school, the presence of crossing guards, and a strong sense of community among families. There’s plenty of space for playdates, and you’re likely to see kids shooting hoops in driveways or gathering for games in Sherwood Forest Park.
Parks and Green Spaces: A Backyard Paradise
Nature is woven into daily life in Sherwood Forest. Sherwood Forest Park itself sits right at the heart of the neighborhood off Forestview Lane. With its playground, open field, basketball and tennis courts, and walking loop, it’s an anchor for community life:
- Youth sports practices and friendly pick-up games
- Summer picnics, and sledding in the winter
- Frequent sightings of deer and songbirds—which delight animal lovers of all ages
In addition, you’re never far from more green space. Minnehaha Creek winds along the east, and the Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail is close enough for weekend walks or bike rides.
Safety: Peace-of-Mind Living
If you ask residents what they appreciate most, safety is always high on the list. Sherwood Forest enjoys remarkably low crime rates, thanks in part to its close-knit feel and active neighborhood watch. Neighbors look out for each other, keep tabs on the block when you’re out of town, and share updates via a friendly community email list or social app.
Street lighting, well-maintained sidewalks, and slow traffic add to the peace of mind for families with little ones or those who like to walk at dusk. Emergency services respond quickly, and Minnetonka police have a visible, friendly presence in the community.
Proximity to Major Employers and Downtown
One of the hidden perks of Sherwood Forest is how connected it is, despite its woodsy, tucked-away feel.
- Downtown Minneapolis is just 20 minutes east via Hwy 7 or I-394
- Major employers like UnitedHealth Group, Target, Cargill, and Optum are a short drive away, making for easy commutes
- Ridgedale Center and dining in Minnetonka or Excelsior are both within a 10-15 minute drive
You get to enjoy peaceful suburban living without the long suburban commute.
What Residents Love Most
The reasons people love Sherwood Forest come down to a few simple things:
- A neighborhood that feels friendly, safe, and welcoming
- Beautiful, mature trees and close access to nature
- Top-rated public schools, perfect for raising a family
- Spacious, well-kept homes with real character
- Quiet streets, but just minutes from shopping, parks, and downtown
Many who move here find themselves staying for decades — often describing Sherwood Forest as “the best of Minnetonka in one spot.” Whether you’re looking for a place to put down roots, connect with neighbors, or just spend more time outside, Sherwood Forest is a place where it’s easy to feel at home.
Thinking about moving to Minnetonka? Give Sherwood Forest a drive through — you might just spot your future front porch.