Lake Street Station in Minneapolis, MN

Pros

• The station has beautiful facilities.
• The light rail station is very convenient.
• The station is safe.
• The station looks great.
• The second level offers a nice view of downtown or riverside towers.
• The station has two stories.
• The experience is life changing.

Cons

• The station is repeatedly described as dirty and never clean, with trash and broken glass scattered around.
• Drug users and drug deals are reported on the platform and nearby underpasses, making it feel unsafe.
• The smell of urine permeates multiple entrances, contributing to an unwelcoming atmosphere.
• Essential facilities malfunction, such as the south-end elevator being out of order and heating lamps not working.
• The area is considered sketchy, with drunks, loiterers, and suspicious characters frequenting the vicinity.
• A perceived lack of visible transit police and enforcement is a common concern.
• The location is nicknamed "Lake Street Piss Station" due to persistent urine and vulgar behavior.
• Overall, the station is described as dirty, unsafe, and in need of cleaning and refurbishment.

Review

This station is best suited for highly adaptable urban travelers who prize location and transit access above pristine surroundings. Those who regularly need quick, multi-route connections to downtown Minneapolis, river views, and a two-story station with stone detailing will find the core value here. It serves commuters who can tolerate a rough-edged, high-traffic environment and who are comfortable navigating a site that looks good on paper but often feels lived-in in practice. For someone whose daily routine hinges on reliable access to the light rail plus nearby shops, Lake Street Station delivers real convenience.

Those who should strongly consider alternatives include families, seniors, or anyone with heightened safety or cleanliness expectations. The reviews repeatedly flag recurring issues: persistent dirt, trash, and broken windows; elevated concerns about drug activity and loitering in and around the platforms; and odors that linger on the north entrance. An elevator intermittently out of order and heating lamps that fail to perform compound the discomfort, especially for riders with mobility needs or those sensitive to uncomfortable conditions. In short, if a predictable, orderly environment is essential, this hub will likely disappoint.

The strongest positives - convenience, the visual appeal of the structure, and the sense of security that comes from recurring Metro Transit patrols and security presence - do not fully offset the overarching drawbacks. The station's two-story design and architectural details contribute to a pleasant first impression, and the elevated platform offers weather shelter and scenic views of downtown. In practice, however, those assets are often undercut by grime, visible debris, and the perception of ongoing safety concerns. Security checks and staff visits help, but they don't guarantee a consistently welcoming experience for every rider.

Practical decision guidance centers on matching expectations to realities. Prospective users should plan for variable conditions: entrance quality can differ by approach, with the south entrance generally faring better than the north side. Verify elevator status before relying on accessibility, and anticipate occasional maintenance gaps like non-functional heating lamps. Consider timing and route choices to minimize exposure during peak street-level activity, and use established security channels if any concerns arise. The station's proximity to nearby commerce remains a tangible benefit when it's needed in a tight travel window.

From a risk-vs-reward perspective, Lake Street Station rewards those who prioritize speed and proximity over polish. The location's transit versatility - fast access to multiple routes, closer proximity to downtown landmarks, and the potential for easier transfers - appeals to decisive commuters who can tolerate a gritty, urban ambiance. For households or individuals who place a premium on safety, cleanliness, and a consistently welcoming atmosphere, the drawbacks point decisively toward alternatives.

In sum, Lake Street Station is a practical choice for the right kind of rider: someone who values exacting transit convenience, can navigate a rougher public space, and is not deterred by ongoing cleanliness and safety caveats. For those who require a consistently clean, secure, and well-maintained environment - especially families, seniors, or mobility-restricted travelers - exploring other hubs or stations with stronger upkeep and clearer policing is strongly advisable. The decision rests on balancing the undeniable access with the lived realities of daily use.

This part of Minneapolis, Minnesota offers a mix of amenities and services that cater to seniors looking for a vibrant community. With a variety of restaurants ranging from American to Thai cuisine, there are plenty of dining options to explore. Additionally, the area has several parks nearby for leisurely walks or picnics, as well as hospitals and pharmacies for medical needs. For spiritual fulfillment, there are places of worship within a short drive. The transportation options make it convenient for seniors to get around the city with ease. Overall, this neighborhood provides a diverse range of resources and opportunities for senior living in a bustling urban setting.

Restaurants

• Matt's Bar (0.8 miles)
• Maxwell's American Cafe (1.8 miles)
• Sawatdee Thai Restaurant - Minneapolis (2.2 miles)
• Surly Brewing Company (2.2 miles)
• 19 Bar (2.2 miles)
• Hell's Kitchen (2.3 miles)
• Owamni (2.4 miles)

Parks

• Longfellow Park (1.2 miles)
• Franklin Terrace Off-Leash Dog Park (1.2 miles)
• Lake Hiawatha Park (1.7 miles)
• Gateway Dog Park - Off-Leash Play Area (2 miles)
• Mill Ruins Park (2.3 miles)
• Loring Park (2.5 miles)
• Wabun Picnic Area (2.9 miles)

Hospitals

• University of Minnesota Medical Center - East Bank Campus (1.6 miles)
• Csc Gi Lab (1.9 miles)
• Hennepin County Medical Center (1.9 miles)
• VA Medical Center (3.7 miles)

Pharmacies

• Walgreens (1.8 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (2 miles)
• Walgreens (2 miles)
• Target Pharmacy (2.3 miles)
• Walgreens (2.3 miles)
• Walgreens (2.4 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (2.5 miles)

Physicians

• Whittier Clinic (1.8 miles)
• HealthPartners Health Center for Women Clinic St Paul (2.2 miles)
• Dermatology Consultants P.A. (3.6 miles)
• Parkway Family Physicians (4.1 miles)
• Southwest Dermatology Specialist (4.7 miles)

Places of Worship

• Westminster Presbyterian Church (2.3 miles)
• WW Studio (4.2 miles)
• St George Greek Orthodox Church (4.6 miles)

Cafes

• Roundtable Cof (2.4 miles)
• Dunn Brothers Coffee (2.5 miles)
• Spyhouse Coffee (2.7 miles)
• Groundswell (4.2 miles)
• Starbucks (4.4 miles)
• Jinx Tea (4.7 miles)
• Starbucks (4.8 miles)

Transportation

• Minnesota State Fair Transit Hub (3.9 miles)
• Concourse E (4.7 miles)
• Concourse D (4.7 miles)
• Escape Lounge (4.7 miles)
• Concourse F (4.7 miles)
• Terminal 1-Lindbergh (4.8 miles)
• Delta Sky Club (4.9 miles)