Southern Hills offers a relaxed, peaceful atmosphere with calm streets throughout. Convenient vehicular access and plentiful parking make errands and outings simple. Well-developed cycling infrastructure supports safe, practical bicycle travel across the neighborhood. Housing features predominantly single detached homes built largely in the 2000s. Many residences offer three and four plus bedroom floorplans with modern layouts. Green spaces, quiet blocks, and a leisurely pace create a restorative setting. Nearby shops and services sit within short driving distance, offering everyday conveniences, and nearby parks plus recreational options provide pleasant weekend activities and varied leisure opportunities throughout the year and pleasant daily rhythms.
The character of Southern Hills is exemplified by its slower-paced ambience. Most areas in Southern Hills are very quiet, as there isn't a lot of street noise or city clamor.
Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special
Southern Woods Park is a favorite neighborhood spot featuring wide open green spaces, a modern playground, basketball courts, and walking trails, making it a gathering hub for families and outdoor enthusiasts living in Southern Hills.
Located just east of Southern Hills on Overland Drive SW, Overland Elementary is part of the well-regarded Rochester Public School District and is popular among local families for its dedicated teachers, supportive PTA, and welcoming school culture.
Just north of Southern Hills along South Broadway, South Pointe is home to a cluster of casual eateries including Nupa Mediterranean, Five Guys, and Rooster’s Too, making it a go-to area for nearby dining and quick bites.
Within minutes from Southern Hills, Hy-Vee Crossroads on 37th Street SW offers a one-stop grocery shopping experience, complete with a bakery, deli, pharmacy, and helpful staff, known for convenience and excellent selection for neighborhood residents.
Southern Hills residents enjoy direct access to the Bear Creek Trail, a paved multi-use path that winds through scenic natural areas and connects to other major recreational trails within Rochester, perfect for biking, running, and dog walking.
Things to do, events, and what's happening this month
This family-oriented fall festival is a convenient southeast Rochester outing for Southern Hills residents, with kid activities, a petting zoo, treat bingo, a silent auction, raffles, and an optional meal. It offers an easy way to enjoy autumn while supporting local 4-H programs.
View event details →Southern Hills residents can make this one of the final Tuesday evening market visits of the season. Cascade Lake Park provides a relaxed setting to browse local produce, prepared foods, crafts, and community offerings while combining errands with a pleasant outdoor walk.
View event details →Located downtown and suitable for families, readers, and bargain hunters, this annual sale offers fiction, nonfiction, and books for all ages. It is an affordable rainy-day activity for Southern Hills residents and a chance to support Rochester Public Library programs.
View event details →Families from Southern Hills can pair a short library storytime with a fall morning outdoors at Chester Woods. Designed for young children and families, the program offers an appealing seasonal change of scenery, with room to continue the outing through a park walk or playground visit.
View event details →Residents who enjoy volunteering outdoors can help plant 100 trees with Rochester Parks and Recreation, RNeighbors, and community partners. The event welcomes volunteers of all ages and provides a meaningful neighborhood activity near Rochester, with a lasting benefit for shade, habitat, stormwater management, and local quality of life.
View event details →This formal Rochester-area fundraising evening may appeal to Southern Hills adults looking for a community-focused night out. The gala supports Minnesota Adult & Teen Challenge’s addiction-recovery mission and combines dinner, fellowship, and charitable giving at a centrally located event venue.
View event details →Stories, updates, and things to know in Southern Hills
Local characteristics and demographics for Southern Hills
