As one of Minnesota's most popular travel destinations, Detroit Lake offers a great variety of hotels, restaurants, and other tourist facilities. However, its wide variety of recreational facilities, including more than 400 lakes within just 25 miles, may be its biggest draw card for active visitors. Bring your sense of adventure to this Minnesota hot spot on your next getaway.
When would be the best time to visit Detroit Lakes, MN?
With more than 400 lakes in a 25-mile radius encouraging water sports and warm temps hovering in the high 70s to low 80s, it's unsurprising that summer is Detroit Lakes' peak season. The city's population swells during the summer months from around 8,500 to approximately 13,000 as tourists and seasonal residents flood the town. While the city is undeniably appealing during this time of year, high demand inflates accommodation prices. It's also not the best time for Detroit Lakes travel if you don't like crowds.
The warm weather lingers during early fall, when Detroit Lakes is arguably at its most spectacular. Typical daytime temperatures in the low 70s in September and mid-50s in October suit hikes and scenic drives to admire the changing leaves on the Fall Color Tour. For culture buffs, the new season of productions at the Historic Holmes Theatre also begins in late September.
Detroit Lakes winters are bitterly cold, with typical temperatures in the high teens to mid-20s. However, they're an appealing time of year for winter sports fans who love downhill skiing and snowboarding at the recently renovated Detroit Mountain Recreation Area. Visit after the New Year for the most affordable hotel rates.
Spring is a boon time for bargain hunters, with some of the city's lowest accommodation rates. By mid-April, temperatures are warming up enough for hiking and other recreational activities. By May, you can expect average daily temps in the high 60s.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Detroit Lakes, MN:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average price trends by star rating class in Detroit Lakes, MN. Analyze these line graphs to determine the least expensive seasons to book a room in Detroit Lakes for your upcoming travels.
What are the Detroit Lakes, MN luxury hotel options?
4 Star Average Prices: $152.00
High-end accommodation is what Detroit Lakes does best. The following waterfront hotels are some of the most luxurious in the local area.
Holiday Inn Detroit Lakes Lakefront in Detroit Lakes' waterfront location puts the best of Detroit Lakes at your doorstep. All its rooms are beautiful, but the suites have jacuzzis, so they're worth a splurge. This hotel is popular with families, who appreciate the kid-friendly facilities like the game room, playground, and indoor pools. Kids also eat free with a paying adult in the on-site eateries: Iceberg Restaurant and Beach Bar and Grill. If you've got your own vessel, use the hotel's private dock. If not, don't worry. The hotel also rents boats and bikes for two-wheeled fun.
While the Holiday Inn has selected water-view rooms, every one of the BW Premier The Lodge on Lake Detroit – Detroit Lakes's 54 rooms faces the lake. The hotel also has a full-service spa, heated indoor pool, fitness center, a private beach, and boat slips. If you don't have a boat, simply take out one of the hotel's kayaks or paddle boats to enjoy fun on the water. They're complimentary for guests, along with local calls kept under 30 minutes and tasty breakfasts. Featuring frittatas, waffles, fresh fruit, and organic coffee, they're a cut above most complimentary morning meals.
What are the affordable hotel options around Detroit Lakes?
3 Star Average Prices: $156.66
Detroit Lakes is best known as an upscale tourist city, but there are also some affordable local hotels. Rooms book quickly, so make sure you secure yours well in advance.
Budget Host Inn – Detroit Lakes is a modest pet-friendly hotel conveniently located on Highway 10, just one mile from Big Detroit Lake's beach and minutes from local restaurants and stores. The 24 rooms are simple but serviceable, with polished wood floors, wall-mounted cable TVs, microwave ovens, and fridges. Hairdryers, irons, and ironing boards are all available on request. Some rooms even have kitchenettes for self-catering. If you don't want to eat in, enjoy an al fresco meal in the hotel's picnic area.
Americas Best Value Inn Detroit Lakes is a little more expensive, but it's made for travelers who want more than a room for the night. Great amenities like the small business center, picnic area with a fire pit and grill, and breakfast room help justify the slightly higher price. Breakfasts are free each morning, along with local calls and premium cable channels including HBO. The rooms have all the appliances you love, like fridges, microwave ovens, air-conditioning units, and coffee makers for your early morning fix.
