Rochester

Southern Hills, Rochester Neighborhood

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.

Highlights of Southern Hills

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🌳 Southern Woods Park

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.

🏫 Overland Elementary School

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.

🍽️ South Pointe Shopping & Dining

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.

🛒 Hy-Vee Crossroads

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.

🚴 Bear Creek Trail Access

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.

Southern Hills

This August in Southern Hills

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

Wednesday, August 12, 2026

ROC the Bricks – Into the Now at Bands on the Bricks

Rochester Public Market (280 N. Union St.) • 6:00 PM–9:00 PM

A free midweek bonus concert from the summer “Bands on the Bricks” series, featuring classic rock covers—a convenient nearby outing for Southern Hills residents seeking local live music and community atmosphere.

Friday, August 14, 2026

Bands on the Bricks – Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad

Rochester Public Market (280 N. Union St.) • 6:00 PM–10:00 PM

This lively, free Friday-night concert brings national-level live music to the Public Market, ideal for neighbors in Southern Hills looking for a fun evening just a short drive away.

Sundays, August 2 & 9, 2026

Riverside Music Series – Sister Sledge & Better Than Ezra

Mayo Park (behind Mayo Civic Center) • Food trucks at 6:00 PM; opening act 7:00 PM; headliner 8:00 PM (wrap by ~9:30 PM)

Two free Sunday evening concerts featuring big-name acts in scenic Mayo Park—great for families or music lovers from Southern Hills to enjoy summer nights under the stars.

Tuesdays in August 2026

The Village Global Farmer’s Market

Cascade Lake Park • 4:00 PM–7:00 PM

A weekly market offering local produce, artisans, and culturally diverse goods; a short drive from Southern Hills, perfect for weekday evening shopping and community connection.

Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Book Vase DIY

Rochester Public Library District • 5:00 PM–6:00 PM

A creative, free upcycling workshop at your local library—neighbors from Southern Hills can bring an old book and transform it into a flower vase, a fun and eco‑friendly evening activity.

Tuesday, August 4, 2026

Teen LGBTQIA+ Board Game Night

Rochester Public Library • 5:30 PM–7:30 PM

A welcoming, inclusive gaming event for teens—great for families in Southern Hills with LGBTQIA+ youth who want friendly, social, and low-pressure evening community time.

From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in Southern Hills

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for Southern Hills

Neighborhood Characteristics

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Demographics

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