|
Willmar, A Regional Commercial
Center in the Heart of Minnesota
|
|
|
Willmar is a
growing city, yet a friendly town. A city of approximately 20,000
residents, Willmar stands out as one of the fastest growing non-metropolitan
communities in Minnesota.
Recently ranked
"19th Most Livable Small City in the Nation" by Life in
America's Small Cities, its economic base is diverse and yet stable.
|
|
scenic view of Willmar
|
|
| As
the largest community in west central Minnesota, Willmar serves as
the commercial center for the region. Its economic base encompasses
a 14 county area composed of over 220,000 persons. It has a unique
tradition of individual growth and development that brings the best
of many worlds to those who choose to live here. People can choose
to live on a mini-farm, by a lake, in the woods, in one of the nearby
small towns, or in the city. |
|
| |
Green Lake Bible Camp Chapel
|
|
|
|
A quiet day in downtown Willmar
|
| Education |
|
|
|
Education
is an important part of the culture and social life supporting graduation
rates in excess of 90 percent. The recent addition of a new $18 million
dollar high school speaks to the importance of education in this community.
And higher education is available locally through Ridgewater College,
as well as several major university campuses less than an hour's drive
from Willmar. |
|
Prairie Woods Environmental Learning
Center
|
|
|
|
|
National Water Ski Champions,
the Little Crow Water Ski Team
|
| Recreation |
|
| Located
at the gateway to the Little Crow Lake Region, more than 1/10 of Kandiyohi
County's total area is covered by water. Winter and summer outdoor
sports abound on the many lakes. Robbin's Island park with its public
swimming beach heads Willmar's list of eight city parks which provide
easy access to outdoor activities. |
|
|
|
Tennis,
golf, cycling and snowmobiling on the many miles of trails, running
and cross country skiing, are just some of the individual sports easily
accessible. Softball, volleyball, basketball and golf leagues flourish
for persons of all ages. For children and teens, Willmar has an award-winning
planned recreation program. |
| Cultural Activities |
|
| Entertainment
opportunities for both personal enjoyment and participation abound
in Willmar. Talented community theater groups at all levels are fueled
by the staff and graduates of local colleges. Art centers, historical
centers, concerts, chorus and orchestra all play an important part
in the tradition of the Willmar cultural life. Professional sports
and culture are only a couple of hours away in the Twin Cities. |
|
| |
|
|
Links of Interest
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|