Letters from Lodge Guests

We'd love to hear from you...

Please drop us a line and let us know how we did. We love to hear from our guests!

January 26, 2010 - My husband and I have stayed at the Lodge for an extended weekend now for the past 3 years and call it our "winter getaway". It's truly amazing the feeling of just total relaxation, quiet, luxurious rooms, great staff, wonderful complete breakfast, cozy jazz concerts on the weekend in a roomy lounge with fireplace and grand piano. We have stayed in motels throughout several states and there is nothing that compares with this Lodge on Lake Detroit.
Minnesota TripAdvisor Guest

December 20, 2009 - Eighteen of us traveled from different directions to the Lodge on Lake Detroit for a family Christmas gathering. From the time we booked our rooms to the time we checked out our expectations were exceeded and we were met with politeness and accommodation from every employee.

The lodge was immaculate and so beautiful. Our family has already reserved rooms for next Christmas, making plans to meet there in the summer and I can't wait to meet girfriends there for a getaway. I highly recommend this Lodge for an unforgettable time!
Big Lake, MN TripAdvisor Guest

November 2, 2009 - Girlfriend Getaway Weekend - The Lodge was a total relaxation dream come true from the moment I walked through the front door and was greeted by the gal at the front desk! The spa, the scents, the sights of the lake from our room and on the beach were magnifico! The service from the front desk, spa and bar area people were great and non-stressful! I needed to relax and unwind and this was the perfect place over Labor Day weekend. The Fireside Restaurant was within walking distance and was also a tremendous bonus! The dining experience there was a true compliment of wonderful food, service and a view that was so delightful we dined there each night of our two day stay. Spa by Day and Dine by Night!
Tripadvisor Guest, ND

October 6, 2009 - Wonderful place to reunite with friends - Stayed at the Lodge for three nights in September with 8 friends from all over Minnesota, Wisconsin, Canada and Kansas...this our second annual get together at the Lodge and we absolutely love it there. Some of us also utilized some of the Spa services and they were top notch and very professional...Thanks Michelle! The front desk staff and Management staff were also great and very accomodating. Would recommend to anyone looking for a great place to stay.
Tripadvisor Guest, International Falls, MN

August 24, 2009 - Perfect spot for Business Meetings with time to Relax, Rejuvenate and Reconnect with your clients - Want a Perfect spot for your next Business Meeting, a Group Meeting and or small conferences with time to Relax, Rejuvenate and Reconnect with your clients. Great hospitality welcomes you to The LODGE on Lake Detroit with friendly customer service, outstanding lodging environment from the comfort of your room to the sounds of the Minnesota Loons on Lake Detroit.

Spa services are available and all lodge rooms have Lakefront views facing the beautiful sunsets on lake Detroit. Our group plans to return in 2010 for our 4th annual Advisors Summer Conference. A great location to hold a conference. We have had as many as 35 conference attendees and their families join us for 4 days. Our meeting space is always refreshed with linens and water throughout the day, and equipped with the latest audio visual technology. A Great space to have your conference attendees bring there wireless laptops for training and or team building.

Wonderful breakfast awaits each morning and if you go away hungry it's your own fault. The Lodge does have services to prepare breakfast, all snacks and break out functions, appetizers in the evening. I have had meals catered in locally and it has worked great. We either dine in or eat picnic style down by the lakeside on those beautiful days.

A great selection of restaurants and golf courses are just minutes away. Close to the downtown area, great location for fishing, and all seasonal things to do and events for all to enjoy year-around in the Detroit Lakes area. If your looking for that Quiet Up North Experience, but all of the comforts, you have found the right spot. Great Value for the price and great value for your next conference, meeting or workshop.
Tripadvisor Guest, Jennifer P. - SkillsUSA, MN

July 13, 2009 - The "BEST of the BEST" for a Family Reunion - If you are even remotely thinking of T-H-E place to host a family reunion, this is it! Our large, friendly and highly energetic family of 60+ members gathered this past weekend for the first time at the Lodge. While we normally vacation over a long weekend each year, it is difficult to find a property that has it all and can accommodate our lively and busy family. Well ... this is just the BEST! From making the initial reservations, to being greeted warmly at the front desk, to the comfortable rooms and cozy accommodations, to the abundant green space lakeside and of course the beach, it just never disappointed us. While it rained much of Saturday, approximately 20 of used the spa services and were treated with great respect while enjoying the comfort of a lovely and serene setting. Breakfast is the best buffet we've been offered at a hotel in this type of setting and the lobby bar was just another special place to gather. Even the pool area is just right for children, young adults and even a number of adults. Would we return??? You couldn't stop us .... next year there will be 70+!!!! Thanks again to Jim and the staff. We are hoping you are well compensated as you define the image of "MINNESOTA NICE" ... and then some!
Caspers & Ihry Families, ND & MN

July 8, 2009 - Family Fun for All - We were looking for a place for our summer vacation that would satisfy everyone in our group. Fishing for my husband, relaxation for me and fun activities for our teenagers. The Lodge fit these requirements for everyone! The fishing was great (big walleyes just our front) the Spa massage was the best I ever had, reading on the beach was quiet and comfortable, and the kids enjoyed tubing, kayaking and biking into town. Other reviews mention trains and we did hear them, so if you are a light sleeper this might be an issue, but by the second night of our 5 night stay it wasn't an issue. We've told our family and friends about this place and we will definitely be back!
Tripadvisor Guest, Vadnais Hts., MN

June 17, 2009 - Pure Boutique Pleasure Stay & Massage - We just got back from a wonderful weekend stay at The Lodge. The room had everything; warm cozy stylish decor and appointments. Our five year old loved the patio door direct to the lake. The staff are happy here and service was always comfortable. The 'Spa Inside' proved that even remote destination resorts can offer top quality treatments. Don't miss the steam shower, it's a spa enthusiasts surprise. The continental breakfast was complete and had something for everyone. Great quality and the ease of self service right on the lakefront made for a great start of the day. The pool and jacuzzi were equally special, clean and cleverly decorated. The trains for us we're a kids novelty and our son loved the activity. We weren't disturbed by them inside the hotel when we slept. The beds and pillows were so comfortable that after a day playing on the lake we dozed off very happy campers. The only detail to be aware of that the hotel doesn't have is a full service all day restaurant. We used delivery for an in room pizza that we ended up enjoying on the patio table on the grass yard next to the lake. Our outdoor picnic was much more fun and a great family highlight to the alternative of eating out at a restaurant. We had a microwave, mini refrigerator and wet bar that made any snack readily accessible and available. The price was right for a great boutique hotel experience. Why buy a lake cabin when you have The Lodge, no cleaning, no upkeep, no fuss. We're already planning our next trip.
Tripadvisor Guest, Los Angeles

May 31, 2009 - Truly Romantic & Completely Restful - We spent a fantastic weekend at The Lodge on Detroit Lakes in the rejuvination suite! It was wonderfully relaxing. The rooms are beautiful and so comfortable. My husband was very impressed with the breakfast in the morning. Everything down to the minor details were taken care of and it was marvelous! This will be an annual retreat for us!
Tripadvisor Guest, Fargo

March 23, 2009 - On behalf of myself, and my three sisters, I wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed our time at the spa this past Saturday, March 21st. We were all impressed with the services we received and all of the staff that we came into contact with at your facility. The staff there exhibited professionalism and excellent service from the moment we entered - but they also weren't afraid to share some laughter and fun with us, too.
S.O., Fargo

February 26, 2009 - Nice Spa and best place to stay in Detroit Lakes! We did three nights and several spa services. All we did was lounge all weekend and loved the large open common area with fireplace in the morning and evening. Evening drinks were available and we couldn't help but think how ideal this place would be without ice and snow! The breakfasts were provided and were excellent--many more options than the usual continental. Everything was tidy and clean with good service. It is only three years old and it still seemed like new! We ate at Fireside, Speak Easy and Zorbaz--each was different but with descent food. My favorite was the ribs at Fireside. Shopping was fun too--we got some great winter sale deals at Norby's. We could hear the trains at times, but never during the night, and stuff like that does not bother us being in the Twin Cities and all.
TSAT, Minneapolis

November 29, 2008 - The lodge and spa are top on our list of favorite getaways. We stayed at the Lodge twice and made use of the Spa Within both times. The lodge is a beautiful facility with a unique appearance created with the pine logs construction including the bathroom vanities. The services at the Spa are top notch as well.
Tripadvisor Member, North Dakota

October 22, 2008 - Thank you so much for getting our sales rep into The Lodge on Monday night. He absolutely loved the experience and I'm sure he'll be back next time he is through to the jewelry store. We'll have to hook him up with a massage! Thanks for your hospitality and he also loved your breakfast!!
Anita Price - Price's Fine Jewelry

September 28, 2008 - I was recently married in the Detroit Lakes area, and we decided to use the Lodge on Lake Detroit as one of our hotel blocks in the area. It was one of the better decisions that we made in our wedding process. The Lodge is a beautiful and tranquil get-away in Northern Minnesota. From the moment that you walk into the main lobby, you are greeted by friendly, knowledgeable staff who truly are committed to making your stay as pleasant as it can be. The suites are gorgeous with a spacious aromatherapy jet tub.

We had such great service from the guest services coordinator, that we also decided to have our groom's dinner at The Lodge. We were able to have a beautiful dinner on shores of Detroit Lakes, and the food was fantastic! It was catered by The Convent on Reeves, and they served a chicken and ribs barbecue dinner that complimented the outside meal. We were also granted permission to take our pictures by the water. The trees provided the perfect amount of shading for our photographer. Many of our guests told us that they plan to return to The Lodge for a weekend trip in the future because they were so happy with their stay. I know that my husband and I will be spending more time there!
Tripadvisor Member, Minneapolis

September 11, 2008 - This is a gem - Their slogan is: "Service isn't a big thing, it's a million little things!" There are so many "little" frills that it makes a gigantic difference! The rooms are clean and fresh but have special little extras that you stumble upon and think "That's a nice touch!" And the free breakfast in the morning is a thousand miles away from a "continential breakfast." The staff is professional. It feels like a vacation, even if you are on a business trip. This is perhaps the "best" place I have stayed in - anywhere.
Tripadvisor Member, Fargo, ND

September 10, 2008 - Amazing Hotel!!! I accidently found this hotel while on a business trip and have now told many friends and family. This hotel is located right on Lake Detroit and has beach access from your hotel room (1st floor access). This hotel includes free kayak rental and has a boat and fishing dock right on property.
Tripadvisor Member, Minneapolis, MN

August 26, 2008 - It seems like every time I book a trip for a vacation we are driving thousands of kilometers or flying through numerous airports and when the vacation is over, we are ready for a rest So I finally decided to do what my wife has been asking for for years and find a nice relaxing, nearby spot so we can just relax and recharge,. But, I'm also very fussy, so...where? I didn't want to travel very far but everything nearby was so familiar to us and I wanted to go somewhere new and exciting. When I goggled the resorts in nearby Minnesota, the area around Detroit Lakes stuck out as the most likely spot and when I did further, extensive research on the internet it became evident this was the best spot and The Lodge on Detroit Lake looked perfect. I booked a 3 day stay in one of the Retreat Suites and then I did something I've never done before. For the first time ever I did not to tell my wife where we were going and told her that it was a surprise. This was a bit of a gamble but she has great faith in my tastes and went along with it. This worked out very well because she really seemed to enjoy the suspense and intrigue of not knowing where we were going. The Lodge lived up to my expectations and her hopes extremely well and we even extended our stay an extra night.

The resort was ideal for what I had in mind; a smaller resort overlooking a beautiful lake with an uncrowded sandy beach, an upper scale room, hot complimentary breakfast and extremely friendly and accommodating staff. As a matter of fact on our last day I asked if we could extend our stay and move to a Renewal suite for the extra night. Not only did they accommodate us but they moved all of our luggage for us while we were out shopping the following morning and .... this was done before noon so we could enjoy a full day in the new suite.

One of the additional benefits of the staying at the Lodge on Detroit Lake is it's close proximity to a great "casual/fine dining" establishment called The Fireside. We ate there 3 of the 4 days we were at the Lodge. We tried to visit other restaurants but kept coming back to the Fireside, which is about a 5 minute walk.

We also fell in love with the whole community and found the people to be as friendly as the people in New Foundland, who we consider the friendliest anywhere.

Like Arnold says "We'll be back"
Tripadvisor Member, Winnipeg, Manitoba

April 12, 2008 - Our hockey team stayed there in February of 2008 and were very impressed! The hotel rooms were absolutely stunning. The flatscreen tv was nice and the beds were extremely comfortable, with a wide variety of pillows. The Sharp radio clock was pretty neat, with various settings for background noise and relaxing sounds. The best feature of the room was the bathroom - one of the nicest I've stayed at... ever. It did not have a bath, but had a beautiful walk in glass shower... everything was tiled beautifully. The rest of the hotel was first class, although the pool was a little small for two hockey teams. The breakfast was good, although they tended to run out of hot water for coffee/tea rather quickly most mornings.
Tripadvisor Member, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada

February 18, 2008 - We stayed a weekend at the Lodge in a family suite and were very impressed. The hotel staff was very attentive. We utilized the spa and had wonderful service there. The lounge is very nice and there was some great live jazz playing the night we were there. The hotel itself is very nice and new. Our suite was very clean and beautifully appointed with flat screen tv's, comfortable beds, soothing upscale decor, and a full kitchen with everything that you might need. The vending machines were even stocked with natural and organic teas, sodas and snacks. The view overlooking the frozen lake was beautiful as was everything about the Lodge. We will definitely be staying again and would highly recommend it to anyone looking to unwind and relax.
Tripadvisor Member, Minnesota

January 19, 2008 - Fell in Love with The Lodge on Detroit Lakes. The Lodge on Detroit Lakes was one of the fabulous surprises you find once in a blue moon when you travel for business all year long. I was all too happy to sink into the comfort of my spacious yet very cozy room as I enjoyed the view of a spectacular frozen lake from the balcony. The staff was so accommodating that I felt like I was in a five star Hotel while the rates were no higher than the local 2-3 star properties. Thank God I had time to partake in the spa facilities. My massage was heavenly and the steam shower took all the days stress right down the drain. Breakfast was wonderful and when I was busy I was able to order a nutritious dish to enjoy in my room while I worked. From top to bottom The Lodge was truly a delight. I can't wait to get back.
Pamela, Arizona

September 21, 2007 - Very well designed and appointed facility. It was a joy to stay here! The shower was especially great!! Handicapped access, grab bars, etc.
Robert - Leland, MI

September 19, 2007 - Exceptional! The food, room set-up, bartender, everything was perfect. Thank you! Please send my thanks and gratitude to everyone.
Cathy - Afton, MN

September 19, 2007 - The lodge is rustic without being cheesy. It has a luxurious, upscale feel. We loved our room - the set-up, bathroom and comfort. The breakfast was fabulous and enjoyed using the fitness center. We'll be back.
Sheryl, Fosston, MN

September 17, 2007 - We had a GLORIOUS time. The Lodge ROCKS, our room was Perfect & the sunset was heavenly as promised.
Deidra

September 9, 2007 - Room and bath was wonderfully clean & fresh! Staff was great - well-trained, friendly yet professional. We were in Detroit Lakes for a family wedding and my husband and I are planning to return in the future for a get-away. Thank you!
Kristi - Hallock, MN

September 9, 2007 - We had a great experience! Had the feel of staying at a luxury hotel without all the expenses! Staff was great…would love to stay here next time we make it to DL.
Vanessa - Irvine CA

September 3, 2007 - This is our second Labor Day weekend with you. We still are amazed at the quality put into every aspect of the place. Even the T.P. & Kleenex are nice and soft. And I just bought one of your bed pillows. The décor & furnishings are first rate. We'll definitely be back.
Sharon - Savage, MN

June 2007 - Just a note to tell you how FABULOUS your Lodge is. I'm so impressed with all the attention to detail. The wood is so wonderful. My favorite wood has always been knotty pine, and you have overwhelmed my senses at every turn. Such a lovely warm presentation. This should be a marquee hotel for all to learn from. Thank you so much for your creative energy and love that went into the manifestation of this superb establishment. All the best in the coming years.
Jeff W.

May 2007 - My girlfriends from Minneapolis and Crookston and I stayed at The Lodge for a girls' getaway 4/28/07. Your facility was excellent and we enjoyed our stay immensely. The décor was unique and tasteful, the staff was very accommodating and friendly and the breakfast was great. We'll definitely be back.
Gail W., Fergus Falls

March 29, 2007 - Our sincere gratitude for a fabulous stay and service at The Lodge and Spa Within... Thank you for making our guests feel as comfortable as pampered as we could hope for on their tour this past weekend. Your property and accommodations exceeded all their expectations. Your standard of services is so appreciated. We look forward to bringing multiple tour groups through for a wonderful stay at The Lodge and enjoyment of the impeccable services of "The Spa Within".
Michelle P., Tour Operator

March 24, 2007 - Thanks for the wonderful relaxing music that greeted us in our room. The bedding was so luxurious and the breakfast superb (especially the egg dish and waffles) and good coffee. We wish you the best in this beautiful endeavor. PS-- We also enjoyed the original Holland Motel with our kids years ago.
Susie and Tom

March 20, 2007 - We would like to thank you all again, for making our wedding day better than we hoped for. Your facility is absolutely beautiful and the staff was friendly, and went out of their way for us. We will never forget your help and hard work. Thank you again!
Jim & Mandy

December 11, 2006 (Wedding) - Thank you for making this special day so wonderful for us. The Lodge looked beautiful and everyone had an enjoyable stree-free time. Thank you again.
Jolene & Chris G.

December 2006 (Funeral) - A special thanks to the entire staff for your excellent services and care. During our stay, we were mourning our mother's death and you were very accommodating. Thank you for your professionalism and positive manner. You have helped to make this difficult journey a bit smoother.
Kathy K.

October 2006 - I just wanted to take a few moments and say thank you for recommending The Lodge on Lake Detroit. This past weekend I decided to treat my husband to a surprise getaway. He's been working really hard on our house and taking care of me as we are expecting our first child. I really wanted to do something special for him so I booked a room at The Lodge and signed him up for an hour massage in the Spa. Even though it's only 45 minutes from Fargo, it was nice to get away. The hotel is absolutely beautiful and he was pleasantly surprised and really loved the massage! We even went out for dinner at the Fireside and saw a beautiful sunset over the lake. I would definitely love to go back and enjoy another weekend there.
Jane- Fago, ND

September 2006 - A Thank You From a Happy Guest: We just wanted to take a moment and thank you for a wonderful stay at your Lodge. The atmosphere was great, the surroundings were beautiful, and the service was excellent. The person who worked the front desk during our stay way very kind and helpful. She went out of her way to assist us when I discovered I was allergic to the down building. We definitely plan to stay with you on our next visit to Detroit Lakes, and have referred you Lodge to several of our family members. Thanks again.
Nancy- Woodbury, MN

September 2006 - Everything here is just fabulous. Décor, comfort, friendly staff, good breakfast, surroundings, music, beds, sound system at bedside, large screen TVs, workout room is quite complete.
David & Joan

2006 - Thank you for your help in making our stay in Detroit Lakes such a comfortable one. Isn't it such a lovely hotel? We've enjoyed this- our first stay, and you can bet it'll be our next one when we're in Detroit Lakes in the future. Thank you.
Mr. and Mrs. Brown

2006 - May the world always be as beautiful for you as you make it for others! Thank you so much for the kind hospitality you showed me during my long stay. My sister is having a very tough time with the return of her cancer. Thank you for your prayers and concern. When I come back, I will land at your place, your Lodge. I loved it!
Mary

2006 - You all make long term business travel a really pleasant experience. Being away from your friends and family around the holidays is extremely difficult, but you have thought of everything to make your guests comfortable and welcome. You are the friendliest and most efficient hotel staff I've ever encountered. Thank you so very much! PS- I would love the granola recipe- it's wonderful!
Catherini