Located just 20 miles south of Twin Cities, Lakeville joins the ranks of Best Places to Live in the United States, thanks to over 100 miles of walking and biking trails, a historic downtown, and stunning bodies of water that offer year-round fishing.
History
The recorded history of the Southern Gateway to Twin Cities begins in 1853, when Captain William B. Dodd designed and supervised the construction of a land route that would connect the military forts of St. Paul to their counterparts in the south. This road, called Dodd Boulevard, bisects the city.
J.J. Brackett, an entrepreneur who transported mail and supplies along the road, saw Lakeville’s potential as a town site because of its strategic location between St. Peter and St. Paul. So he settled 250 acres in 1855, choosing the name Lakeville for its proximity to Lake Marion.
Railroad officials attempted to acquire land in 1869 to build a depot, but were refused, prompting them to purchase land east of the town site, naming it Fairfield.
Business owners fought to get Fairfield’s name changed to Lakeville before finally deciding that they wanted a separate government from the township, thus incorporating as the Village of Lakeville.
Lakeville was a predominantly agricultural village for most of its history, with several grain mills and a creamery. Today, it is one of the most coveted cities in Gopher State, with excellent schools, world class amenities, and well maintained parks.
It has managed to retain its small town feel and quality of life despite its remarkable growth – an achievement that few other communities in Minnesota can claim.
Living in Lakeville, MN
It’s hard not to fall in love with this city. Blessed with 196 clear days per year, the community boasts an exhaustive list of recreational, cultural, and educational activities, from the highly anticipated Panorama of Progress, or Pan-o-Prog as it’s called by locals, to Taste of Lakeville.
But the community’s most valuable resource is its people. Lakeville’s public works staff and police and fire departments are committed to residents’ safety and well-being.
Recognizing their hard work and dedication, Safe Homes named Lakeville the Safest City in Minnesota and ranked it among the Top 25 Percent Safest Cities in the whole nation in 2017.
As a result, there is strong demand for Lakeville housing. It saw the most number of single-family homes being built anywhere in Twin Cities metro area in 2018, with esteemed builders like Lennar, DR Horton, Robert Thomas Homes, and D&B Homes breaking ground in the city.
But that’s not all Lakeville real estate has to offer – buyers will also find an excellent selection of townhomes and condos.
The school system is also a cut above the rest. Award-winning Lakeville Area Schools is considered to be one of the finest school districts in Minnesota, with high proficiency levels in mathematics accountability testing and reading.
Student performance is miles ahead of the state average, and is comparable with those of other high-achieving school districts.
Amenities and attractions
- Antlers Park and Swimming Beach – The 12-acre park fronts Lake Marion and features a gorgeous swimming beach with picnic areas and serene trails.
- Casperson Park, Boat Launch & Bike Trail – Explore over 1,500 feet of pristine shoreline along Lake Marion. Here you’ll find scenic trails, a fishing pier, boat launch, picnic shelters, and a playground.
The five-mile West Lake Marion Mountain Bike Trail is a park highlight and accommodates bicyclists of all skill levels.
- Aronson and Quigley-Sime Parks – Catch a tournament in this park, which features four baseball diamonds, nine softball diamonds, four soccer fields, and playground equipment.
- King Park and Miracle Baseball Field – This complex features eight baseball diamonds, a baseball field, and a playground.
- Lakeville Area Arts Center – The center offers a unique cultural experience to youth and adults with a keen interest in art classes and theatre productions.
- Historic Downtown Lakeville – The downtown area offers a one-of-a-kind dining and shopping experience. Sample craft beer and artisanal coffee, have a slice of pizza and buy homemade cosmetics and equestrian-themed merchandise.
Is Lakeville your next home? Call TWINCITIES.REALESTATE at (612) 807-9650 or send an email to Info(at)TwinCities(dotted)RealEstate. We take an easy-going but professional approach to buying and selling Lakeville real estate. Get your search on with our team!
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