Local Guide for Detroit Lakes, MN

Whether you’re moving to a new city, downsizing, or renovating, The Storage Place provides a convenient solution for storing your belongings. Our self-storage units help you declutter and organize, making your transition smoother and stress-free. With The Storage Place, your possessions are securely stored until you’re ready to settle into your new home. Our flexible storage options ensure that your moving experience is efficient and hassle-free. In addition, we want to help you get familiar with your new community, so we’ve put together this Detroit Lakes area guide to make your transition even easier.

History of Detroit Lakes, MN

Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, boasts a rich history that highlights the resilience and determination of its community. The area was originally inhabited by the Dakota and Ojibwe Native American tribes before European settlers arrived in the 1860s, drawn by the region’s fertile land, natural resources, and scenic beauty. The city’s name is thought to come from the French term “Lac Détroit,” meaning “strait of the lake,” in reference to its location near the picturesque Detroit Lake, a key center for both recreation and commerce.

Detroit Lakes saw rapid growth in 1871 with the arrival of the Northern Pacific Railway. The railroad transformed the city into a bustling hub for trade, agriculture, and tourism by facilitating the movement of goods and people. This economic boom attracted settlers, merchants, and vacationers, cementing Detroit Lakes as a vibrant community.

By the early 20th century, industries such as logging, lumber milling, and agriculture further fueled the city’s prosperity. Its strategic location along key transportation routes, including railways and highways, solidified its role as a regional center for commerce and industry.

Despite challenges such as economic downturns and natural disasters, the city has continuously adapted and thrived, driven by the enduring spirit of its residents.

Schools in Detroit Lakes, MN

The Detroit Lakes Public Schools District offers a robust educational system, serving students from kindergarten through twelfth grade, with additional opportunities for post-secondary education. At the elementary level, the district includes Roosevelt Elementary School, Rossman Elementary School, and Lake Park-Audubon Elementary School. These schools focus on academic excellence and provide a nurturing environment for young learners to build essential skills and knowledge.

For middle school students, Detroit Lakes Middle School serves grades 5 through 8, offering a curriculum designed to promote academic growth, character development, and extracurricular participation, preparing students for high school and future success. Detroit Lakes High School provides a comprehensive secondary education with a wide range of courses, extracurricular activities, and advanced placement programs. The high school emphasizes academic achievement, personal growth, and college and career readiness.

Additionally, Detroit Lakes is home to Minnesota State Community and Technical College (M State) – Detroit Lakes Campus. M State offers a variety of associate degree and certificate programs in fields such as business, healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing, giving students pathways to further education and career opportunities.

Detroit Lakes' Diverse and Thriving Economy

Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, boasts a vibrant and diverse economy, supported by a wide range of industries, including retail, healthcare, manufacturing, and hospitality. This dynamic business community not only serves local residents but also attracts visitors from surrounding regions, contributing to the city’s economic growth.

Essentia Health St. Mary’s-Detroit Lakes stands as a key healthcare provider, offering a comprehensive range of services such as primary care, specialty care, and emergency services. Its commitment to quality patient care makes it a cornerstone of the local healthcare system. Similarly, Sanford Health Detroit Lakes Clinic provides a broad spectrum of medical services, focusing on community-centered care and wellness.

In retail, Walmart Supercenter serves as a major hub for shoppers, offering a vast selection of products from groceries to electronics. Its convenient location and affordable prices make it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.

The city’s economy also benefits from the presence of major employers like American Crystal Sugar Company, which supports local agriculture and provides job opportunities through its sugar processing facility. Lakeshirts / Blue 84, a national leader in custom apparel and accessories, contributes to the city’s economic vitality with its creative designs and high-quality products.

Detroit Lakes is also home to Bergen’s Greenhouse, a family-owned business known for its wide selection of plants and gardening supplies, as well as its dedication to customer service. For those seeking outdoor recreation, Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge offers a natural retreat, attracting visitors for wildlife viewing and environmental education, further boosting the local economy through tourism.

Nor-Son, Inc., a respected construction and remodeling company, adds to the city’s economic landscape with its focus on quality craftsmanship in residential and commercial projects, solidifying its reputation in the industry.

Together, these businesses help drive Detroit Lakes’ robust economy, creating a vibrant and prosperous community.

Discover Detroit Lakes: A Blend of History, Culture, and Outdoor Adventure

Detroit Lakes is known for its stunning lakes and waterways, offering an abundance of recreational activities for visitors and residents alike. Detroit Lake, one of the largest in the area, is perfect for a day of boating, fishing, or swimming. For those seeking adventure, water sports like jet skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing are also popular on the lake.

Nature lovers will find Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge a must-see. Spanning over 43,000 acres, the refuge is home to diverse wildlife, including bald eagles, white-tailed deer, and trumpeter swans. Visitors can hike scenic trails, enjoy wildlife viewing, and participate in educational programs and guided tours.

Detroit Lakes also has a thriving cultural scene that highlights its artistic heritage. The Historic Holmes Theatre hosts a wide range of live performances, including concerts, plays, and dance recitals featuring both local and touring talent. Art enthusiasts can enjoy regional works at the Becker County Museum or take part in art classes and workshops at galleries such as the Kaddatz Galleries.

Families will find plenty to do in Detroit Lakes as well. The Washington Square Mall offers a mix of shopping and dining options, while the Detroit Lakes Community & Cultural Center features a water park, ice arena, fitness center, and indoor playground, ensuring year-round fun for all ages.

For history buffs, Detroit Lakes offers several landmarks that showcase its rich past. The Historic Holmes Theatre, built in 1931, reflects the city’s cultural legacy and architectural charm. Detroit Lakes City Park, with its picturesque lake views and historic pavilion, is a favorite spot for picnics, concerts, and community events.

With its blend of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and historical landmarks, Detroit Lakes is a destination that offers something for everyone.

What Our Customers Are Saying

★★★★★ 5/5

My customer service agent was the best. She helped me Navigate through the process. Thanks again

Lisa Degroat
★★★★★ 5/5

I was very pleased on how easy it was to rent a storage unit on the phone with Andrea .she was very pleasant and professional.

Kevin Berns
★★★★★ 5/5

Lynn stayed on the phone with us at least 45 minutes as I filled out the application and was very helpful.

Ellen Salisbury
★★★★★ 5/5

When having trouble adding a unit on my account on line. I called and Bridget helped in a very positive manner.

Lloyd Pawlak
X