Nestled in the heart of Wright County, the Howard Lake, Minnesota, is a small yet vibrant community that embodies the warmth and charm of rural Minnesota. With a population of 2,071 (2020 census), this lakeside city, located 45 miles west of the Twin Cities, offers a peaceful retreat with a rich history, thriving local businesses, and abundant recreational opportunities. Known for hosting the annual Wright County Fair and its picturesque setting along Howard Lake, the City of Howard Lake, MN, is a destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and entrepreneurs alike. Whether you’re planning a visit, considering a move, or simply curious about this Minnesota gem, this comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about Howard Lake—from its storied past to its welcoming present.
Discovering the City of Howard Lake, MN: A Hidden Minnesota Treasure
The History of Howard Lake, MN
Early Settlement and Origins
The City of Howard Lake, traces its roots to the Dakota people, who originally inhabited the region. The area was named after Howard Lake, a 736-acre body of water, which itself was named for John Howard, an 18th-century English prison reformer. European settlement began in 1855 when Morgan V. Cochran claimed land, later selling it to Charles Goodsell in 1863. The city was platted in 1869, coinciding with the arrival of a railroad that spurred development as a key station. A post office, initially named “Howard” in 1870, was renamed “Howard Lake” in 1892 and remains operational today.
By the late 19th century, Howard Lake was a bustling hub with merchant stores, hotels, grain elevators, and a mill. The city installed its own waterworks and electric system by 1896, showcasing early innovation. A significant landmark, the Howard Lake City Hall, built in 1904 after a fire destroyed the original, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its Victorian and Richardsonian Romanesque architecture. This historic building once housed a post office, library, auditorium, and even a barber shop, reflecting its multifaceted role in community life.
Modern Evolution
Today, the City of Howard Lake, continues to evolve. The 1904 City Hall now hosts the South Shore Event Center and a municipal liquor store, with profits supporting the city budget. Recent developments, like the groundbreaking of the first net-zero Howard Lake Library in 2023, highlight the city’s commitment to sustainability and community progress.
Top Things to Do in Howard Lake, MN
The Howard Lake, Minnesota, may be small, but it’s packed with activities that celebrate its lakes, community spirit, and rural charm. Here’s what you can’t miss.
Outdoor Recreation in Howard Lake
With three lakes—Howard Lake, Mallard Pass Lake, and Lake Ann—Howard Lake is a haven for water-based activities.
Howard Lake and Lions Park
The 711-acre Howard Lake is a centerpiece of the City of Howard Lake, offering tournament-level fishing for bullhead, carp, and sunfish. Three public accesses, including the popular Lions Park on the southeast shore, provide boat launches and a swimming beach for summer fun. Anglers can expect a variety of fish, with bullhead noted for their exceptional size in the region. The lake’s maximum depth is 39 feet, and visitors should be mindful of aquatic invasive species like Eurasian watermilfoil. In winter, ice fishing and snowmobiling take over, while summer sunsets over the lake are a must-see from downtown restaurants.
Trails and Parks
The city’s parks, like Central Park, home to the new Howard Lake Library, offer green spaces for picnics and relaxation. Nearby trails connect to the Wright County Fairgrounds, where the annual fair draws crowds with rides, livestock shows, and local crafts. The fair, held in late July, is a highlight of Howard Lake’s community calendar.
Community Events and Culture
Howard Lake’s community spirit shines through its events and local landmarks.
Wright County Fair
The City of Howard Lake, proudly hosts the Wright County Fair, a multi-day celebration featuring 4-H exhibits, live music, and family-friendly activities. It’s a perfect way to experience the city’s agricultural roots and vibrant community.
South Shore Event Center
Housed in the historic 1904 City Hall, the South Shore Event Center is a renovated venue for weddings, performances, and community gatherings. Its stage and auditorium, once used for early 20th-century entertainment, now host modern events with a nod to the past.
Dining and Local Businesses
Downtown Howard Lake offers cozy dining options with lake views. Grab a meal at a lakeside restaurant or visit Valentine’s Coffee Shop for a quick pick-me-up. The city is home to Dura Supreme Cabinetry, a major employer, and a growing business park that’s attracted nearly a dozen enterprises in recent years. The Howard Lake Area Chamber of Commerce supports local businesses with grants and networking events, making the city a hub for entrepreneurs.
Living in the City of Howard Lake, MN
Considering a move to the City of Howard Lake? Here’s what life looks like in this lakeside community.
A Welcoming Community
With a population density of 1,621 people per square mile, Howard Lake offers a dense suburban feel where most residents own their homes. The community is family-oriented, with 35.9% of households having children under 18. Residents describe Howard Lake as safe, clean, and friendly, with neighbors ready to lend a hand. The city council, led by Mayor Pete Zimmerman, meets monthly at City Hall (625 8th Avenue) and prioritizes business-friendly policies and community engagement.
Housing in Howard Lake
The housing market in the City of Howard Lake, MN, is affordable, with median home prices around $250,000. New developments, like Terning Trails, offer single-family homes starting at $180,000 through partnerships with Paxmar Homes. In 2023, median property taxes were $3,401 for homes with mortgages and $2,219 for those without, reflecting reasonable costs for the region.
Education and Schools
Howard Lake is served by the Howard Lake-Waverly-Winsted (HLWW) School District, known for its award-winning programs. HLWW High School and St. James Lutheran School provide quality education, with community education programs for adults. The new Howard Lake Library, set to open in late 2024, will offer a net-zero facility with study rooms, a community space, and a reading garden, enhancing the city’s educational resources.
Practical Information for Visitors and Residents
Getting to Howard Lake, MN
The City of Howard Lake, MN, is easily accessible via U.S. Highway 12, a main route running through the city, paralleled by a freight rail line. It’s a 45-minute drive from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, about 45 miles away. Nearby towns include Waverly and Cokato, making Howard Lake a convenient stop for regional explorers.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Howard Lake experiences a classic Minnesota climate—summers average 75°F, ideal for lake activities, while winters dip to 15°F, perfect for ice fishing. Fall’s crisp air and spring’s mild bloom enhance the city’s natural beauty. Summer is peak season due to the Wright County Fair and lake recreation, but winter offers a quiet charm for snow enthusiasts.
City Services and Amenities
City Hall (625 8th Avenue) is open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m., offering services like permits and utilities (320-543-3670). The city provides its own police, fire, and ambulance services, ensuring public safety. Healthcare is available nearby in Buffalo or Monticello, and shopping options include Walmarts and Targets within 30 miles, though the city lost its local grocery store.
Why Choose the City of Howard Lake, MN?
So, what makes the City of Howard Lake, MN, special? It’s the perfect blend of small-town warmth, natural beauty, and progressive spirit. Families love the safe streets and quality schools, outdoor enthusiasts flock to the lakes and parks, and businesses thrive in a supportive environment with incentives like the Downtown Revitalization Program and PACE energy upgrades. Whether you’re casting a line in Howard Lake, attending the Wright County Fair, or starting a new venture, Howard Lake welcomes you with open arms.
Plan your visit or move today! Check out www.howard-lake.mn.us for event details, city services, and more. The City of Howard Lake, MN, is a lakeside community where dreams become reality—come see for yourself!
