Shakopee is a community that has figured out how to combine the best of both worlds. Residents experience quiet, peaceful neighborhoods with a great deal of suburban and small town charm. As they enjoy their solitude, all around them a healthy supply of business and pleasure brings in four million people to the area each year to enjoy a variety of attractions. The City has its own downtown central business district, regional medical center, and growing business parks. Highway 169 runs through town and accessibility to the rest of the metro has been improved due to an expanded road system. Residents of Shakopee enjoy both the atmosphere of a small town and the resources of a metropolitan area. 

History

Shakopee’s first structure, a log cabin made of tamarack logs, was built in 1844 by fur traders Oliver and Harriet Faribault. Thomas Holmes constructed a trading house in 1851 and also selected the future site of the town giving him the historical title as “The Father of Shakopee.” He has the title, but the town’s name comes from a Dakota chief who lived in the area and signed the land over to the United States. In 1853 Scott County was organized and Shakopee was named as the county seat. In the early 1900's the town suffered economic slumps, booming years, grasshopper plagues and droughts. Before World War II, Shakopee was a rough and tumble area complete with Prohibition-era Speakeasies, bank robbers, and illegal gambling. However the town cleaned up its image and since the 1950’s became an outstanding area to live. It has changed from a “small-town” close to the big city into the mix of suburban amenities and small-town charm that exists today. 

Playground of the Twin Cities

Shakopee could be considered the playground of the Twin Cities metropolitan area due to large attractions like: Murphy's Landing, the Renaissance Festival, Canterbury Park Race Track, Valley Fair Amusement Park, Mystic Lake Casino, and the Minnesota River Valley Regional Park. The city is also home to numerous seasonal attractions and is the gateway to the southern towns of the Minnesota River valley such as Mankato and LeSeur. 

Parks and Recreation

Shakopee is a city that is committed to recreational opportunities and activities for all ages. Shakopee is home to eleven parks, with more in the development plans. The Minnesota River Valley offers a great setting for all of the parks with many trails, and scenic beauty. Hunters can pursue a variety of species in this area including ducks, deer and upland birds. The city has a community center with a high-tech skate park that is a very popular place for people of all ages. 

Education

Shakopee Public School District #720 aims to provide students with the skills they need to be successful. There are three elementary schools, a middle school and Shakopee Senior High School. There is also an extensive community education program for all residents. Students can also attend the Shakopee Area Catholic Schools which provide educational facilities for children in grades K-8.

 -Home Owner's Resource Guide