The Monticello center is approximately the area of Monticello Army National Guard and the area of Monticello Big Lake Hospital.
Monticello, like most of Minnesota, has hot summers and cold winters, with a distinct spring and fall in between. In winter, from December to February, temperatures are below freezing and snow is common. Things start to thaw in the spring, and snowstorms become occasional rainstorms until the heat of the summer strikes in June, July, and August. The average summer high is a pleasant 83 degrees Fahrenheit, providing warm but comfortable days for outdoor activities. Fall is the opposite of spring, and rainstorms become snowstorms as temperatures start to cool in September.
Monticello is best known and well equipped for outdoor activities and pursuits. If this is the reason for your visit, then you'll get the most out of the city visiting between May and September. It is also when the Farmer's Market is up and running, and the city's annual festival, Riverfest, takes place in July.
Americas Best Value Inn Big Lake is just 3 miles from the center of Monticello, and it offers discounts of at least 10 percent to AAA members. The hotel offers basic rooms as well as a luxurious king bed suite complete with a hot tub. It is conveniently located by the Monticello Country Club, the Pebble Creek Country Club, and the Cedar Creek Golf Course, so it is ideal for fans of outdoor pursuits.
The Best Value Inn Big Lake has all the usual room facilities, plus a 24-hour front desk. Tea and coffee are always available in the cozy common area, and there is a full, complimentary breakfast for every guest. The hotel also provides fitness facilities and free parking.
For group bookings, try the Crossings by GrandStay for discounts of over 10 percent. The hotel is located just 6 miles north of Monticello, and it is conveniently placed for both the Pebble Creek and Monticello Country Clubs. There are plenty of room choices, from standard queen rooms to a king suite with a whirlpool tub, all which have the facilities you would expect.
The communal areas are the real attraction at this hotel. There's an indoor pool, a spa, and a 24-hour fitness center, as well as a picnic area with barbecue grills. Breakfast is complimentary, as are the newspapers, parking, and Wi-Fi.
The AmericInn Lodge and Suites - Rogers is a great value midrange option. The rooms are simple and have all the expected amenities. However, the hotel has some added extras not found in lower budget options, such as a 24-hour front desk service and complimentary luxury toiletries. For an extra treat at a great price, you can upgrade to a suite with a whirlpool tub, or you can always use the communal hot tub and heated indoor pool.
The hotel is 12 miles south of Monticello city. Therefore, it's within a short drive and well situated for shopping, with both Albertville Premium Outlets and the beautiful outdoor mall, The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes, close by.
Every July in Monticello, the city comes together for this four-day event, celebrating its businesses and the community. The event is organized by the Monticello Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and it kicks off on a Wednesday afternoon with a block party at West Bridge Park. The event makes the most of one of the city's beautiful green spaces, and there's something for the whole family with food, beer, live music, games, and a minnow race.
On the Thursday, there is a community celebration featuring a classic car show and a canine demonstration from the Wright County Sheriff Department. Friday night brings the community talent show where all are welcome, with categories for individuals, groups, students, and senior citizens.
Saturday has a busy schedule with a 5-kilometer run and a kid's fun run in the morning (with free shuttle bus to the venue), followed by an all-day Arts and Crafts show at Ellison Park. This is one of the main events, showcasing local handcrafted items, as well as food and drink, in the Taste of Monticello area. The party gets going in the evening with live music and street dance, accompanied by a barbecue.
Sunday brings one of the main events: the Grand Parade. This event is always popular, with locals and tourists alike crowding the streets. The parade includes many floats and live music, including a drum line group. Participants pass along the city center route, handing out candy to onlookers and accepting donations for the local Foodshelf in return.
Monticello is a small city that is working hard to make a name for itself, and it is certainly a place to watch. It puts strong effort into its green spaces and is a perfect destination for hiking and cycling. It's in a great location for exploring the surrounding area, with many larger, better-known parks and reserves within a one-hour drive. There is a real sense of community in Monticello that you won't find in a larger city, and it makes for a welcoming, friendly atmosphere and for a relaxing and enjoyable trip.
Below are reviews of the city of Monticello, MN from an actual visitor's perspective.
Stella's Health was outstanding!
We only got a hotel because our air conditioning went out. Monticello is a nice city.
Everything you need within a very short distance from the hotel.