Fridley, Minnesota
Discover the heart of Minnesota's northern suburbs - a thriving community with rich history, diverse culture, and exceptional quality of life.
History of Fridley
From frontier settlement to modern community
The City of Fridley, Minnesota has a rich heritage dating back to 1847, when pioneer John Banfill established the historic Banfill Tavern at the confluence of Rice Creek and the Mississippi River along the Red River Oxcart Trail.
Originally known as "Manomin" (meaning wild rice in the Ojibwe language), this settlement represented one of the earliest European establishments in what would become Anoka County. The community's transformation began when Abram M. Fridley, early legislator and namesake of the city, arrived in 1851 and later represented the area in the Minnesota Legislature in 1855.
The historic Banfill-Locke House (1847) served ox-cart travelers and loggers and still stands along the river today as a testament to Fridley's frontier heritage.
Demographics
Statistical overview of our diverse community
Racial Composition
White: 60.7%
Black/African American: 20.0%
Hispanic/Latino: 14.0%
Asian: 3.7%
Age Distribution
Under 18: 24%
Working Age (18-64): 62%
Seniors (65+): 14%
Government & Politics
City services and municipal contacts
City Hall & Civic Campus
- Address: 7071 University Ave NE, Fridley, MN 55432
- Main Phone: (763) 571-3450
- Website: fridleymn.gov
Public Safety & Services
- Police/Fire: Consolidated Public Safety Dept
- Anoka County: (763) 324-2100
- Emergency: 911
Companies & Economy
Major employers and economic drivers
Parks & Outdoors
Exceptional recreational facilities and natural spaces
Arts & Culture
Cultural venues and community spaces
Banfill-Locke Center for the Arts
Address: 6666 East River Rd, Fridley, MN 55432
Phone: (763) 574-1850
Coordinates: 45.0978° N, 93.2358° W
Historic 1847 Greek Revival house in scenic Manomin Park, combining art gallery, studios, and cultural programming.
Fridley District Auditorium
Address: 6000 W Moore Lake Dr, Fridley, MN 55432
Community theater productions and school performances venue
Fridley Historical Society & Museum
Address: 611 Mississippi St NE, Fridley, MN 55432
Coordinates: 45.0886° N, 93.2530° W
Local museum featuring exhibits including the 1965 tornado display and historical archives.
Transportation & Transit
Excellent connectivity throughout the Twin Cities
Fridley Station - Northstar Commuter Rail
East Lot: 6050 Main St NE
West Lot: 6151 East River Rd, Fridley, MN 55432
Service: Northstar Line
Travel Time: ~20 minutes to Target Field, Minneapolis
Support: (612) 373-3333
Local Transit & Shuttles
Fridley Northstar Shuttle: Connects station to major employers including Medtronic and Cummins
Major Highways: I-694, MN-65 (Central Ave), MN-47 (University Ave)
Excellent connectivity throughout Twin Cities metro area
Colleges & Universities
Access to quality higher education
Local Resources & Services
Essential community services and facilities
Famous Landmarks
Historic sites and community treasures
Banfill-Locke House
Address: 6666 East River Rd, Fridley, MN 55432
Coordinates: 45.0978° N, 93.2358° W
Historic 1847 Greek Revival house, former inn on the Red River ox-cart trail. Listed historic site now serving as cultural center.
Fridley Civic Campus
Address: 7071 University Ave NE, Fridley, MN 55432
Modern city hub for municipal services, events, and community gatherings.
BNSF Northtown Yard
Major railroad classification yard west of Fridley neighborhoods - significant transportation landmark for the region.