The Detroit Lakes center point is around the area of Detroit Lakes Amtrak and the area of Detroit Lakes Community Center.
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.
Popular accommodation providers often have preferential rates for selected guests. Present your identification at the following Detroit Lakes area hotels to secure the savings.
Best Western Plus of Detroit Lakes has special rates for AAA and CAA auto club members, seniors and AARP members, and guests booking at least 45 days in advance. This hotel is great fun for families, with a waterslide in its indoor pool area and DVDs and board games for hire from the front desk. Guests who love working out will appreciate the recently renovated fitness room, which never closes for the convenience of guests. The Best Western Plus has a variety of inviting rooms, including accessible and pet-friendly accommodation. Hot breakfasts each morning are included in the room rate.
Super 8 by Wyndham Perham reduces its low rates for AAA auto club members, government employees, former and current serving military service people, seniors and AARP members, and members of large groups. This hotel isn't flashy but it is serviceable. Plush armchairs are the perfect place for watching cable on the wall-mounted TV or enjoying the free Wi-Fi. All rooms have fridges, microwaves, and coffee-making facilities. There's an on-site laundry and plenty of place for parking everything from a compact car to a boat, truck, or RV. The free eight-item SuperStart breakfast is a satisfying way to start the day.
Thousands of satisfied customers can't be wrong. Guests claim the following Detroit Lakes hotels are some of the best value options in the local area.
AmericInn Lodge & Suites by Wyndham Detroit Lakes is a charming hotel with welcoming rooms, including many with electric fireplaces and hot tubs. While there are high-definition TVs in each room and free Wi-Fi throughout, it's liberating to unplug and enjoy simpler pleasures like laps in the indoor pool, a workout in the fitness center, or a game of pool with your traveling companions. The complimentary Wi-Fi is just the first of many free perks. Parking is also free, along with delicious home-style breakfasts served each morning.
GrandStay Hotel & Suites Perham is a short drive from Detroit Lakes, but an excellent option for value seekers. Its suites are well appointed, with flat-panel high-definition cable TVs, plush beds, microwaves, and fridges. Some even have whirlpool tubs and sofa sleepers. Kids love the outdoor playground and indoor pool, while the Moonlight Lounge/Bar is always a big hit with adult guests. The free Grand Start Buffet, with bagels, pastries, and fresh baked waffles, is the perfect way to start your day. Free premium coffee in the lobby and Wi-Fi throughout the property help you see value.
Detroit Lakes is a beautiful spot with top recreational facilities that encourage visitors to enjoy the great outdoors. There are more than 400 lakes in the local area, but Detroit Lake is the most popular. This picturesque spot features a one-mile beach, a popular place for swimming, playing in the sand, and celebrating key events like Independence Day. Take a boat out fishing or drop a line off the beach's pier. Walleye, bass, crappies, trout, and trophy-size muskie all live in Detroit Lake.
Detroit Lakes also has some beautiful parks for picnics and play, including Dunton Locks County Park, Sucker Creek Preserve, and the recently opened dog park on 10th Avenue SE. Fourteen local golf courses make Detroit Lakes a popular spot for putters. The city also has a paintball arena, a horseback riding ranch, and two river tubing companies.
Detroit Lakes doesn't slow down in cold weather, with locals and visitors enjoying the facilities at the Detroit Mountain Recreation Area. Snowboarding and skiing (both downhill and cross-country), ice-fishing, and snowmobiling are all popular wintertime activities.
Spend time in Detroit Lakes and you'll soon see why generations of families return to this Minnesota hot spot time and time again. If you've never been, it's time to put this popular tourist destination on your next travel itinerary.
Below are reviews of the city of Detroit Lakes, MN from an actual visitor's perspective.
Upscale resort town with lots of activities. Good shopping and easy access to all.
Restaurants, lake and downtown area.
Enjoyed the venue where we attended a wedding.
Lakeshirt sale by beach and Boys and Girls Club thrift store.
Enjoyed downtown street fair and shops!
Enjoyed downtown street fair and shops!
The bowling alley was very accommodating to us.
Atmosphere for peaceful activity.
The lakes!
Hotel was clean!
Loved being by the lake and being by lots of eating places!