Discovering 50th and France: Edina’s Crossroads of History and Community
For many Edina residents, the intersection of 50th Street and France Avenue is more than just a crossroads—it’s the vibrant heart of the community. With its tree-lined walkways, beloved shops and restaurants, and a history rich in transformation, 50th and France stands as a living chronicle of Edina’s growth. If you stroll these bustling blocks, you’ll find more than trendy boutiques—you’ll sense the enduring spirit that has defined this one-of-a-kind neighborhood for generations.
How 50th and France Got Its Name
The origins of “50th and France” are as straightforward as they sound: this special neighborhood grew up around the junction of West 50th Street and France Avenue South. Historically, this intersection marked the border between Edina and Minneapolis, creating a crossroads between city and suburb, tradition and progress. In the early 20th century, France Avenue was a dusty rural road, lined by open fields and the homes of early settlers. As Edina began to urbanize—thanks to improved streetcar access and growing population after World War II—the intersection naturally became a hub of commerce and connection.
Early Roots and the Rise of a District
In the 1920s and 1930s, the area that is now 50th and France was home to just a handful of local businesses, serving the needs of nearby residents. One of the neighborhood’s earliest gathering places was the Edina Mill, situated near what is now Mill Street Park, just a few blocks east. The Edina Theater, whose iconic mid-century tower sign still lights up the night, was first opened in 1934 and quickly became a local landmark—hosting filmgoers through generations of change.
A Neighborhood Steps Into the Spotlight
After World War II, Edina experienced a significant boom, as families sought homes in the leafy suburbs surrounding Minneapolis. The business district blossomed to meet the needs of these new residents. Grocery stores, pharmacies, bakeries, and independent retailers opened their doors along France Avenue and 50th Street, establishing a reputation for warm service and unique finds that endures to this day.
Perhaps nothing signifies the neighborhood’s mid-century growth quite like the Edina Theatre. Designed with a distinctive Art Deco flair, its neon-lit facade became a beacon for date nights, Saturday matinees, and major cinematic premieres. Nearby, the Edina Grill (now a well-loved local diner) opened as a cornerstone for casual meals and conversation—nurturing a sense of belonging.
Defining Landmarks and Local Institutions
Ask any longtime Edina resident about 50th and France, and you’ll hear about cherished landmarks. The neighborhood’s historic streetscape includes:
- Edina Theatre: Recently restored, this theater still draws movie enthusiasts and keeps the memory of Hollywood’s golden age alive.
- Edina Creamery: A favorite for young and old, serving homemade ice cream just steps from the intersection.
- Edina Art Center: Tucked near nearby parkland, the center has nurtured creativity since the 1970s, offering classes and community exhibitions.
- Mill Street Park: A nod to the area’s milling history and a green oasis within walking distance of the shops.
- The France Avenue Clock Tower: An iconic meeting spot, welcoming visitors to the neighborhood and presiding over annual festivals.
Institutions such as Edina Public Schools and Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church have anchored the area’s family-friendly appeal, supporting vibrant street life with parades, art fairs, and seasonal farmers’ markets.
Evolution Through the Decades
Though rooted in history, 50th and France has never been frozen in time. The shopping district has constantly evolved, adapting to new trends while preserving its essential character. In the 1970s, the neighborhood saw the arrival of high-end boutiques and specialty stores—a shift that helped shape its identity as one of the Twin Cities’ premier shopping destinations. Restaurants, from cozy coffeehouses to award-winning bistros, continued to open their doors, making this area a magnet for food lovers.
The 1990s and 2000s brought thoughtful redevelopment. Sidewalks were widened for strolling, public art installations were added, and new mixed-use developments introduced modern residences above ground-floor shops. What sets 50th and France apart is its commitment to balance: chic, contemporary amenities combined with a respect for heritage.
A Place for Everyone: Community at the Core
Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of 50th and France is its sense of inclusion and vitality. Annual events like the Edina Art Fair—one of the nation’s oldest outdoor art festivals—draw artists and neighbors together each summer, lining the streets with color and creativity. Holiday parades, farmers’ markets, and sidewalk sales ensure the pulse of community life beats strong, year after year.
Locals gather at places like Patrick’s Bakery, Bluebird Boutique, and Paper Source—not just to shop, but to connect. Here, merchants know regulars’ names, and children grow up making memories in the same parks and shops their parents once did. Whether you’re savoring a cone of ice cream, attending a free concert in the park, or simply enjoying the changing seasons along the storefront windows, you feel a part of something larger: the ongoing story of Edina, written anew with every generation.
The Enduring Allure of 50th and France
Today, 50th and France represents the best of both worlds: an intersection of the past and present, tradition and innovation. Its walkable blocks and welcoming storefronts are a testament to careful planning and neighborly pride. As the neighborhood continues to grow, it remains true to its roots—celebrating both its historic legacy and its energy for the future.
Whether you’re a newcomer exploring Edina for the first time or a fourth-generation resident, you’ll discover that 50th and France is more than a shopping district. It’s the very soul of the community—a place where stories are made, cherished, and shared.