2022 Visitor Guide

WELCOME To Alexandria

Welcome to the Alexandria Lakes Area, where there is truly something for everyone… year around! Hundreds of lakes, unique shopping, fine dining, music, theatre, craft beverages, Chain of Links Golf Trail, intriguing history and museums, diverse lodging options, and endless outdoor adventures like biking, hiking, fishing, hunting, paddling, snowmobiling, skiing, parks and much more! Whether it’s purely leisure, a sports tournament or an event…we welcome you to our lakes area!

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Whether it’s a weekend or a week long, loaded with family fun, a couple’s getaway or a group of friends, you’ll find lots to do in the Alexandria Lakes Area!

ALEXANDRIA AVIATION SCENIC AIR RIDES

Everything is better at 3,000 feet! Take a scenic airplane ride around the lakes area. You pick what you want to see, book in advance. alexandriaaviation.com

ANDES TOWER HILLS

A hotspot for winter fun! Andes features 16 downhill ski runs, three chairlifts, a magic carpet lift, terrain park, four tubing runs, and 20 kilometers of cross country ski trails. Equipment rentals and lessons available. Pro shop, restaurant, and condominium on site. The trails and Andes RV Park are available for fun in the summer as well! andestowerhills.com • andestowerhills.com/rv-park-and-campground

CASEY’S AMUSEMENT PARK

Open daily May through September, Casey’s is a must-do for family fun! Go-karts, kiddie karts, mini golf, bumper boats, drift track and arcade. caseysamusementpark.com

ATTRACTIONS Continued

BIG SPLASH INDOOR WATERPARK

Aquatic adventures await you in this huge indoor waterpark! Located in Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center, you’ll find 38,000 square feet of fun featuring three 4-story-tall waterslides, a lazy river, whirlpool spa, water blasters and geysers, basketball shootout, lily pad waterwalk and the 500-gallon splash bucket, “Calypso Cabana!”

Grown-ups and kids alike will enjoy the fun at the Big Splash Waterpark. Food, refreshments, arcade and more also on site. | arrowwoodresort.com

BLIZZARD HOCKEY

The Alexandria Blizzard is a USA Hockeysanctioned Tier III Junior ice hockey team playing in the North American 3 Hockey League (NA3HL). The team plays its home games at Runestone Community Center in Alexandria. | alexandriablizzard.com

COUNTRY BLOSSOM FARM

This 100-acre orchard has something for everyone! You-pick strawberry season runs from mid-June through mid-July. In mid-August, the store opens with fresh-picked orchard apples, raspberries, pumpkins, squash and gourds, a farmto-table bakery with treats and take-n-bake pies, a gift shop and more. A hotspot in the fall with a seven-acre corn maze, bouncy pillow, corn pit, pedal cart track, kids farm market, bazooka ball and more. | countryblossomfarm.com

ERICKSON’S PETTING ZOO

This Century Farm east of Alexandria features a playground, sand pile, mesh maze, party shed, wagon rides, pony rides, a pumpkin patch and friendly animals to pet and feed. ericksonspettingzoo.com

ESCAPE ROOM ALEXANDRIA

This attraction is “Easy to Get To, Hard to Escape!” Explore themed rooms in multiple adventure games, find clues, and solve logic & analytical puzzles to escape. escapealexandria.com

GARDEN CENTER LANES

The premier bowling center of the Upper Midwest featuring 34 bowling lanes, a large arcade, snack counter, and pro shop. Connected to the Broadway Ballroom Event Center and Fat Daddy’s Bar & Grill. | gardencenterlanes.com

LAKES AREA JUMP 4 FUN INFLATABLES

Located in the Viking Plaza Mall, this huge indoor amusement center features lots of bounce houses and inflatable features. | jump4funindoor.com

SHENANIGANS INDOOR PLAYGROUND

Large indoor play area for kids of all ages featuring slides, ladders, nets, mazes and imaginationinspiring play zones. Parents can watch from a designated seating area or engage in the fun! alexschools.org/domain/900

SILVER SAGE GUEST RANCH

This family-owned ranch is located on 427 acres of beautiful countryside. Horseback riding, horse-drawn dinner rides, riding lessons, hayrides, sleigh rides, trolley wagon, petting zoo, camping, event hosting and more. | silversagemn.com

VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK

This beautiful downtown park honors veterans of all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, living or deceased, back to the 19th century. Features granite monoliths inscribed with more than 7,300 veterans’ names, a picnic pavilion, restroom complex and more. | alexveteranspark.org

VIKING SPEEDWAY

A large half-mile, semi-banked, clay oval dirt track featuring WISSOTA Modifieds, Super Stocks, Midwest Modifieds and Street Stocks. Races are held Saturday nights from early May through Labor Day, with additional special events. Located at the Douglas County Fairgrounds. | vikingspeedwaymn.com

A BIG OL’ STATUE

The Big Apple has the Statue of Liberty, but we have Big Ole (“O-Lee”)! He’s a 28-foot-tall, fourton giant Viking statue that is a tribute to our Scandinavian history and the discovery of the Kensington Rune Stone. Sent to the New York City World’s Fair in 1965 to represent our state along with a replica Rune Stone, , Ole’s shield said, “Minnesota: Birthplace of America.”

In 1980, he was moved to his own park on the Downtown Square, across from the Runestone Museum. Every visitor to Alexandria MUST take a picture with the big guy!

A Park To Remember

Veterans Memorial Park

Veterans Memorial Park is a must-see memorial for all area veterans, living and deceased, in a peaceful setting.

Located just south of Alexandria’s historic downtown, the park is an ideal location for events on Memorial Day, Independence Day and Veterans Day.

A focal point of Veterans Memorial Park is the nine-foot granite replica of the Liberty Bell as well as dozens of granite monoliths inscribed with the names of over 7,000 veterans.

“LET NO VETERAN BE FORGOTTEN.”

CRAFT BEVERAGES

Stop by for a taste, hand-crafted from the finest fruits and grains.

Bold North Cellars

(Carlos Creek Winery and 22 Northmen Brewing Co.)

Hand-crafted wine, beer and wood-fired pizza is what awaits you here at Bold North Cellars. Just north of Alexandria, Carlos Creek Winery offers 20 to 30 award-winning wine varieties to fit all tastes plus a gift shop with a focus on Minnesotaand U.S.-made products.

For a very different experience, steps away is 22 Northmen Brewing, a unique brewery housed in a Viking longhall taproom. Crafted lagers, adventurous ales, and original blends are available daily.

Stoke Artisan Wood-Fired Pizza serves up specialty pizzas with handmade dough daily. In the summer, the Sizzle Food Truck offers crafted flattop fare plus live music Fridays and Saturdays year-round. In the summer, Jack’s Public House outdoor bar features both beer and wine.

Its September Grape Stomp attracts food vendors, juried artists, thousands for wine sampling, purple feet and live music; each fall, Oktoberfest is a oneday, wine-beer party. The 9,000-square-foot event center hosts weddings up to 350. Seasonal events include fun runs to a Christmas Market.

Copper Trail Brewing

“Enjoy The Journey” at Alexandria’s downtown brewery. Located next to Big Ole, its lively taproom offers craft beers and a great meal from the 205 Grill and occasional food trucks. Enjoy all kinds of fun nights: live music, karaoke, cribbage league, book clubs and more. They also have an Oletoberfest in early September and many other events throughout the year.

Panther Distillery

The state’s first, Panther Distillery’s been handcrafting spirits since 2011. Daily tastings and tours offer Minnesota grain sourced from local farmers, distilled in small batches, then aged and bottled.

Ida Graves Distillery

The newest cozy craft beverage venue is situated north of Alex. It offers foraged spirits, specializes in unique vodkas and gins, and pours distinctive cocktails.

WINERIES, BREWERIES & DISTILLERIES

BREWERIES:

22 Northmen Brewing Co. 6693 County Rd 34 NW Alexandria, MN 320-846-5443

22northmen.com

Copper Trail Brewing Co. 205 Broadway St Alexandria, MN 320-219-6688

coppertrailbrewing.com

Thousand Lakes Brewing Co. 110 W Lake St Parkers Prairie, MN 320-460-7744

thousandlakesbrewing.com

WINERIES

68 & Vine Veterans Winery 13850 County Rd 68 NE

Miltona, MN 320-298-1518

68nvinevw.com

Burr Vineyards 10522 County Rd 58 NW Brandon, MN 651-726-4397

burrvineyards.com

Carlos Creek Winery 6693 County Rd 34 NW Alexandria, MN 320-846-5443

carloscreekwinery.com

Dragon Willow Winery 23419 210th St

Long Prairie, MN 320-428-0456

dragonwillowwinery.com

Eagleview Winery 15237 300th St Ashby, MN 218-747-2261

eagleviewwinery.com

L’Etoile du Nord Winery 16451 NW Irene Ct NE Parkers Prairie, MN 320-298-4686

letoiledunordvineyard.com

Rolling Forks Vineyards 21505 Selnes Rd Glenwood, MN 320-634-7655

rollingforksvineyards.com

DISTILLERIES

Ida Graves Distillery 5422 Lake Ida Way NW Alexandria, MN

idagraves.com

Panther Distillery 300 E Pike St Osakis, MN 320-859-2250

pantherdistillery.com

FOOD & DRINK

FROM QUICK BITES TO FINE DINING TO PATIO BARS, OUR NUMEROUS AND LOCALLY OWNED ALEXANDRIA RESTAURANTS CAN SATISFY YOUR APPETITE.

DOCK UP RESTAURANTS:

Deck Bar & Grill at Arrowwood Resort

Open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, enjoy a casual outdoor lunch or dinner with a great view of the lake on the lower level pool deck, alongside the unforgettable tastes of Minnesota grilling and live music.

Lure Lakebar

This year-round, casual restaurant and bar on Lake Le Homme Dieu draws inspiration from Minnesota lakeshores and East Coast beach staples. Bring your taste buds on a journey from Midwest Comfort to Coastal Cuisine.

Zorbaz

Pizza, Mexican and Minnesotan food with a large selection of appetizers. They like to say they’re “on the zouthwezt zide of Lake Le Homme Dieu with zeasonal outdoor zeating, Thurzday Zpecialz, Tacoz and Tapz Tuezday,” and more.

Ranging from local restaurants to national favorites, there’s something for everyone’s taste! Pair the great food with good company, seasonal outdoor patios, lakeside views and cozy indoor ambiance for a memorable dining experience. See our list on page 16.

DINING Around the Area

2100 CHOP HOUSE • L O C 2100 Arrowwood Ln Alexandria, MN 320-759-5000

arrowwoodresort.com

Alexandria Golf Club • L O 2300 N Nokomis St NE Alexandria, MN 320-763-3605

alexandriagolfclub.com

Angelina’s Restaurant • L O C 1215 Highway 26 N Alexandria, MN 320-762-1324

angelinasmn.com

Boulder Tap House • O 4961 Sanibel Dr Alexandria, MN 320-759-5622

bouldertaphouse.com

Casa Jalisco • L O 523 Broadway St Alexandria, MN 320-219-7544

China Buffet • L 4721 Hwy 29 S Alexandria, MN 320-762-8083

Coffee Pot Cafe • L 1518 Broadway St Alexandria, MN 320-762-0855

D Michael B’s • L O 3015 Hwy 29 S Alexandria, MN 320-762-2697

dmichaelbs.com

DJ’s Taphouse • L O 3007 Hwy 29 S Alexandria, MN 320-335-2206

djstaphouse.com

Downtown Diner • L 411 Broadway St Alexandria, MN 320-763-1703

Eddy’s Interlachen Inn • L O C 4960 County Rd 42 NE Alexandria, MN 320-846-1051

interlacheninn.com

El Loro 4820 Hwy 29 S Alexandria, MN 320-219-7532

El Loro O 401 N Nokomis St NE Alexandria, MN 320-219-7532

Fat Daddy’s Bar & Grill • L O C 115 30th Ave E Alexandria, MN 320-763-6565

gardencenterlanes.com

Firestation Bar & Grill • L O 203 W Sanstead St Garfield, MN 320-834-3250

Geneva Golf Club • L O 4181 Geneva Golf Club Dr Alexandria, MN 320-762-7089

genevagolfclub.com

Great Hunan Chinese • L 2919 Hwy 29 S Alexandria, MN 320-763-6288

greathunan.net

Herby’s Bar & Grill • L O C 211 Main Ave Carlos, MN 320-852-7170

herbysincarlos.com

Jan’s Place • L 612 3rd Ave W Alexandria, MN 320-763-3877

La Ferme • L O 613 Broadway St Alexandria, MN 320-846-0777

lafermemn.com

Lake Miltona Golf Club • L O 38650 County Rd 5 NE Miltona, MN 320-852-7078

lakemiltonagolfclub.com

Leaf Valley Mercantile Grill • L O 15233 County Rd 6 NW Garfield, MN 218-267-2726

leafvalleymerc.com

Longtrees Woodfire Grill • L O 4409 Hwy 29 S Alexandria, MN 320-219-7009

longtreeswoodfiregrill.com

Lure Lakebar • L O 2800 N Nokomis St Alexandria, MN 320-219-7755

luremn.com

Northwoods Cafe • L 903 3rd Ave E Alexandria, MN 320-763-3700

Perkins Restaurant & Bakery • C 4920 Hwy 29 S Alexandria, MN 320-763-6611

perkinsrestaurants.com

Pike & Pint Grill • L O 110 30th Ave W Alexandria, MN 320-763-7468

pikeandpint.com

Pizza Ranch 1522 Broadway St Alexandria, MN 320-762-4010

pizzaranch.com

Rancho Viejo • L O 607 Twin Blvd Alexandria, MN 320-219-6155

State Street Cafe • L 107 State St Garfield, MN 320-834-2755

The Depot Smokehouse & Tavern • L O C 104 Broadway St Alexandria, MN 320-763-7712

depotmn.com

The Garden Bar • L 115 6th Ave E Alexandria, MN 320-759-2277

thegardenbaronsixth.com

Travelers Inn • L O 511 Broadway St

Alexandria, MN 320-763-4000

travelersinncafe.com

Stoke Wood-Fired Pizza at 22 Northmen BREWING CO. • L O 6693 County Rd 34 NW Alexandria, MN 320-846-5443

22northmen.com

Willy T’s Tavern & Grill • L O C 5637 Hwy 29 S Alexandria, MN 320-763-9983

willytsalex.com

Zorbaz • O 2710 N Nokomis St NE Alexandria, MN 320-219-7813

zorbaz.com

THEATRE, ARTS AND MUSIC

Fine arts have been alive for decades in Alex. That’s why Terrance Mann said, “Movies will make you famous; television will make you rich; but theatre will make you good.”

THEATRES

Andria Theatre

Andria Theatre is West Central Minnesota’s foremost live theatre and performing arts center. Each season is packed with quality live performances, spectacular musicals, live comedy improv, and children’s shows. Check their website for shows, dates, and tickets. | AndriaTheatre.org

Theatre L’Homme Dieu

Now celebrating its 62nd year, our state’s oldest operating summer stock venue stages exceptional live indoor and outdoor theatre, fine arts, live music and educational programming, with something for all ages. The professional programming includes musicals, comedies, dramas, and curated concerts of great artists, bringing amazing performances to the area. | TLHD.org

Lakes Area Theatre

With three venues under one roof, Lakes Area Radio Theatre is recorded before a live audience, then broadcast on local stations and streamed online. Fire Pit Productions presents edgier, small-cast productions. | LakesAreaTheatre.com

VISUAL ARTS

Alexandria Art Guild

Alexandria Art Guild is an inclusive, collective group of visual artists of all abilities, media, and styles working together to create arts opportunities and events, including the annual Art deTour, a free studio tour of juried art. Enjoy the Saturday Art Markets down at Big Ole Park each Saturday in the summer. Visit their website for other events and local studios open to the public. | AlexArt.org

Evansville Arts Center

For even more artist exhibitions, take a quick trip west of Alexandria to the Evansville Arts Coalition, which coordinates events that entertain, stimulate, and engage. Its exhibit space hosts music, a place for artists-in-residence to sell their work, and provides arts experiences for people of all ages. | EvansvilleArtCenter.com

MUSIC

Central Lakes Symphony Orchestra

CLSO has been bringing quality musical culture to West Central Minnesota for over a decade with musicians from Alexandria and neighboring communities. This 50-member group is dedicated to performing quality concerts for the public throughout the year. Check their website for concert schedule. CentralLakesSymphony.org

Red Willow Concerts on the Courthouse Lawn

The Red Willow Arts Coalition provides free concerts every Thursday at 7 p.m. from the week prior to Memorial Day through the week prior to Labor Day. Concerts feature professional groups from all over the state to delight the lakes area attendees. RedWillowArtsCoalition.org

Want to Experience More Live Music?

Throughout the year, it can be found at the Performing Arts Center, Legacy of the Lakes Museum, Carlos Creek Winery / 22 Northmen Brewing Co.,, Copper Trail Brewery, and with the Central Lakes Concert Association.

SPECIAL ARTS EVENTS

• Art deTour | AlexArt.org

• Art in the Park | AndriaTheatre.org/art-in-the-park

• Festival of the Lakes | AlexFest.org

• Music In the Gardens | LegacyOfTheLakes.org

• The Performing Arts Center | AlexSchools.org

• Vikingland Band Festival | Marching.com/events/VBF

MYSTICAL HIST RY

If you love history, Alexandria has plenty to explore and enjoy.

MINNESOTA’S MYSTERY: THE KENSINGTON RUNE STONE

Tour

The world-famous Kensington Rune Stone is a highly intriguing and controversial artifact. Discovered in 1898 in the roots of an aspen tree on the Olof Öhman farm near Kensington, it was 31 inches tall, 16 inches wide and six inches deep, and weighed 202 pounds. Nordic runes were etched into the stone with the date 1362.

Today, it’s led researchers from around the world on an exhaustive quest to explain how a Norse stone with runic writing and a 14th century date could show up in North America, and to ponder its authenticity since it’s difficult to carbon date a rune stone. The only confirmed Norse site within North America was established in Newfoundland, dating to about 1000.

THE RUNESTONE MUSEUM

When it opened in 1958, the Rune Stone was the museum’s only artifact. It now includes numerous historical pieces and photos relating to Middle Ages Nordic explorers, Homesteading period displays, a wildlife exhibit, Native American exhibit, children’s discovery area, and temporary exhibits.

Don’t miss a 40-piece collection featuring the rare Climax Fire Steel. Discovered in the 1870s in Climax, Minnesota, it’s one of the only Middle Ages pieces of its kind displayed in North America.

Another rare piece in the Native American exhibit is a tinkle cone, or jingle dress, dating back to the 1920s. Most likely created by the Ojibwe, this is one of just four on display of similar age and condition across the entire continent. Jingle dresses are still used in competition and play a significant role in healing practices.

Fort Alexandria holds an outdoor collection of nine restored period buildings built between 1860 and 1910, including a very rare original Stagecoach Shop building. The outdoor campus also has a large Agricultural Museum housing a 4-H Exhibit and a host of other artifacts, including a 40-foot replica Viking trading ship. | runestonemuseum.org

LEGACY OF THE LAKES MUSEUM & GARDENS

Next to the Runestone Museum, this treasured building and its fantastic fauna offer a gallery that rotates three to four new exhibits every year.

One exhibit celebrates lake traditions, including vintage and classic Alexandria Winter Boats, Fiberglassics, and unique vessels.

Another salutes classic grand hotels. When the railroad first came to Alex in the 1870s, summer passengers arriving via train from the Twin Cities needed a place to stay, so a resort town was born.

A Fishing Gallery offers how technology has evolved since the late 1800s to amazing catches to legendary guides.

Behind the museum, the Legacy Gardens are free to the public, showcasing colorful flowers, water features, ornamental grasses, shrubs, and trees. It’s available for special occasions.

A variety of events are held annually such as a Boat Show, concerts, and more. Open late May through October. legacyofthelakes.org

MORE HISTORY TO EXPLORE!

Brandon History Center | brandonmn.com

Douglas County Historical Society & Spruce Hill Church | dchsmn.org

Evansville Historical Foundation evansvillehistory.org

DOWNTOWN SHOPPING

Brick buildings dating back to the 1800s on both sides of Broadway Street. Niche gift shops. Cozy eateries. They’re all right here in our historic shopping area, where you can spend a few hours or an entire day strolling through time. If you’re looking for great shopping, Alexandria’s bustling Historic Downtown offers timeless antiques, beautiful boutiques, and enchantingly unique stores.

ANTIQUES

Now & Then Antiques – Peruse three levels of great antiques, unique gifts, and awesome decorations.

Past & Present – From big items to small, very old to not-so-old, very valuable to very affordable, there’s literally something for everyone.

Yesterdays – An upscale antique shop with great, quality second-hand furniture, glassware, pottery, and more within a 9,000-square-foot building.

BOUTIQUES ENCOMPASS A WIDE VARIETY OF CHOICES

6th & Broadway Clothing & Décor – The ultimate women’s shopping experience in downtown Alex, with style as beautiful as you are.

Bon Jos – Since 1965, this shop has offered quality missy, petite, and career fashions at competitive prices. Stop by the tanning salon.

Creative Touch – Sift through a variety of gifts, clothing, and home décor that help you make your house a home.

Flourish – A women’s clothing store featuring all the latest trends and styles.

Hello Beautiful – This unique boutique offers gourmet foods, a coffee shop, gifts, antique treasures, home décor, and nostalgia memorabilia.

Kindred People – A shop for women who seek unique clothing, accessories, shoes and gifts. Fashion for everyday wear or any occasion.

Ollie Birch Boutique – Offering all-encompassing fashion, timeless accessories, and lifestyle merchandise with their home décor favorites.

The Dashery – A men’s & women’s clothing store that offers everything from socks and underwear to custom suits and tuxedos, casual to formal, smaller sizes to big and tall.

The Edge Co. – Visit this shop for men’s and women’s clothing, plus a coffee bar, beer and wine.

Trend & Couture by Ann Manning – Discover trending and couture fashions and accessories for the fashionista in you.

UNIQUE, LOCALLY OWNED SHOPS AND GIFTS

Cherry Street Books – An independent bookstore with a wide selection of books and gifts.

Dawn’s Quilt Shop – Novelty quilting fabrics, beautiful patterns, great quilt kits, classes, and outstanding customer service.

Magpie – Trendy fashions, accessories, books, funny cards, home décor, kitchen items, and gifts.

Potomac Bead Company– Provides an extensive selection of gemstones, seed beads, glass, crystals, quality yarns, jewelry and crafts tools.

Scandinavian Gift Shop – Specializes in a variety of items from all four countries, used by those of every heritage for all to enjoy.

The Sugar Shack – A candy store featuring over 100 different types of bulk candy, 32 flavors of saltwater taffy, and freshly made fudge.

Trumm Drug – A full-service, family owned and operated pharmacy since 1951, plus a gift department and Simply Noelle Boutique.

MORE TO EXPLORE

Other shopping options include Ron’s Warehouse, Viking Plaza Mall, and big-box favorites Fleet Farm, Menards, Target, and Walmart

BEST-KEPT SECRETS

With all it offers, it’s no wonder Alexandria was named “Retail Community of the Year” in 2018, plus “Best Minnesota Town” in 2019 by Minnesota Monthly magazine! Editors said, “It’s a beautiful year-round destination with a rich history and a bright future.”

Find more shops and information in our Things to Do section of explorealex.com

BED

CAMPGROUNDS

EDEN ACRES II • Lake Mary 6153 State Hwy 114 SW, Alexandria • 320-766-6000 • edenacresresorts.com

GENEVA BEACH RESORT • Lake Geneva 105 Linden Ave • 320-763-3200 • genevabeachresort.com

LAKE DARLING RESORT • Lake Darling 2301 CR 22 NW, Alexandria • 218-851-9301 • lakedarlingresort.com

LAKE VICTORIA RESORT • Lake Victoria 117 Lilac Ln, Alexandria • 320-763-4440 • lakevictorialodge.com

MILL LAKE RESORT • Mill Lake 3551 W Mill Lake Rd SW, Farwell • 320-766-7954 • milllakeresort.com

RUSTY MOOSE RESORT • Lake Miltona 13430 E Lake Miltona Dr NE, Miltona • 507-340-1135 • rustymooseresort.com

OUTDOORSExplore

Douglas County has long been a destination for vacationers and outdoor enthusiasts. Here’s why…

Maybe the area’s natural beauty first attracted people here. Perhaps it was the abundance of beautiful lakes for recreation and relaxation. Or possibly, it was the success of hunting and fishing excursions. For all these reasons, bikers, hikers, bird and wildlife watchers, and photographers have all flocked here to enjoy our great outdoors:

Biking – Pedal the paved Central Lakes Trail, go off-road on mountain bike trails at Kensington Rune Stone Park and Lake Brophy Park, and ride the Fat Tire trails in the winter. For great group rides, connect with the Big Ole Bike Club!

Hiking – Sculpted by glaciers, Lake Carlos State Park, Kensington Rune Stone Park, Lake Brophy Park, Spruce Hill Park and Inspiration Peak are all popular with hikers.

Paddling – With more than 300 lakes, the Alex Area is a paddler’s paradise!

Canoe, kayak or SUP endless routes and adventures, including numerous lakes connected by small streams and the 96mile Long Prairie River State Water Trail. Hunting & Fishing – This area has long been an oasis for the outdoor sportsman. Hunters and anglers of all ages and experience have been lured to our hunting and fishing opportunities.

For additional bike routes and map, visit: explorealex.com/dt_places/alexandria-area-bike-map

PUBLIC BEACHES

• Alexandria City Park

• Chippewa Park

• Lake Brophy Park

• Lake Carlos State Park

• Lake Latoka Beach

• Le Homme Dieu Beach

• Pilgrim Point County Park

• Rotary Beach

CENTRAL LAKES TRAIL

BIKE RENTALS

• Jake’s Bikes

• Alex Bike Shop

• Arrowwood Resort

• Central Lakes Trikes –plus trail shuttle service!!

MOUNTAIN BIKING

• Kensington Rune Stone Park

• Lake Brophy Park

PARKS

ALEXANDRIA CITY PARK – Located on the the northeast side of Lake Agnes and Lake Henry, this beautiful, shaded setting has a public swimming beach, bathhouse, playground, pickleball courts, shelters, bandstand, fishing pier, and lakeside paths connected to the Central Lakes Trail.

BIG OLE CENTRAL PARK – Situated on the northern edge of downtown on Lake Agnes, it’s home to the city’s 28-foot Viking statue, Big Ole, as well as the trailhead for Central Lakes Trail. It has restrooms, a fishing pier, musical playground, and is host to the Farmers Market in summerand fall.

CHIPPEWA PARK – Located three miles north of Brandon, this pretty 34-acre park is situated between two lakes, offering camping, swimming beaches, a playground, and more. co.douglas.mn.us/parks

INSPIRATION PEAK – Just outside Douglas County is a collection of glacial features known as the Leaf Hills. Inspiration Peak, rising 1,750 feet – about 400 feet above the countryside – is one of Minnesota’s highest points, just west of Urbank. The walk to the top is a quarter-mile, with benches along the trail for resting. Enjoy breathtaking views of fall colors, farmlands, and lakes. A popular stop on the route from Alex to the peak is a 22-foot statue of the Virgin Mary, near Millerville on Our Lady of the Hills Road.

ottertailcountymn.us/building/inspiration-peak

KENSINGTON RUNE STONE PARK – This historic park is located on the original farm site of Olof Öhman, who unearthed the legendary Kensington Rune Stone in 1898. See the actual discovery site and original farm buildings. It’s 380 acres contain woods, gently rolling land with a visitor center, picnicking shelters and a playground area, along with hiking, mountain biking and equestrian trails. In winter, enjoy packed trails for fat tire biking, groomed cross-country ski trails, and a sledding hill with warming house. douglascountymn.gov/parks

LAKE BROPHY PARK – A nice park overlooking Lake Brophy and North Union Lake, its 142 acres host a huge playground, fishing pier, swimming beach, restrooms, trails for hiking and mountain biking, beautiful views and direct access to the Central Lakes Trail. In winter, enjoy a groomed sledding hill, fat tire biking, cross-country ski trails, and access to the DATA snowmobile trail system. On the other side of the lake is Lake Brophy Wayside Park, with 1,000 feet of shoreline and a stunning view of the lake right off County Road 82. co.douglas.mn.us/parks

Complete parks listings can be found in Things to Do at explorealex.com

THE TRAIL OF AN ANCIENT GLACIER

Glacial Ridge Trail Scenic Byway – Over 30,000 years ago, massive glaciers covered what is now called the Wadena Lobe. As they melted, many lakes, hills, and ridges were left. This scenic 220-mile route meanders through lakes, woods, state parks, multiple communities, and farmlands. Popular for both motorcycles and cars, enjoy a trip back in time on the trail of an ancient glacier! GlacialRidgeByway.com

LAKE CARLOS STATE PARK – Sculpted by ancient glaciers, Lake Carlos State Park is a Minnesota gem! It contains a tamarack bog, marshes, woodland ponds, trails and lakes. Enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, camping, hiking, and horseback riding. Canoe and kayak rentals are available.

Every winter, the park features miles of groomed cross-country ski trails, winter hiking trails, snowshoeing paths, and a sledding hill near the beach. Snowshoes and ice fishing rentals are available.

dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/lake_carlos

NOONAN PARK – Surrounding a pond in the middle of town off Nokomis Street, this popular park has luscious flower gardens, walking paths, and wildlife. In winter, the frozen pond is a casual skating area and hockey rink with a warming house.

PILGRIM POINT COUNTY PARK – New in 2023 is a beautiful county park with swimming beaches near the center of Lake Ida. Indoor bathrooms are on site. Expect additions like a picnic shelter and playground in the near future.

douglascountymn.gov/parks

SPRUCE HILL PARK – This gorgeous 87-acre park is located north of Alexandria near Miltona where a pioneer village once stood. You can still see remnants of building foundations and an earthen dam built to power a sawmill. It has hiking trails, shelters, restrooms, and a softball field. Stroll along the spring-fed Spruce Creek, stocked annually with trout. In winter, enjoy four miles of groomed cross-country ski trails and access to the DATA snowmobile trails. co.douglas.mn.us/parks

GREAT OUTDOORS

Spectacular Fall Foliage

The autumn season is one of the best times of the year here, as the colorful hues from diverse tree species make for spectacular displays, from public parks to peaks to lakes.

PLACES FOR FALL COLORS:

• Lake Carlos State Park

• Kensington Rune Stone Park

• Central Lakes Trail

• Glacial Ridge Scenic Byway

Around our Chain of Lakes

ExploreAlex.com/seasonal-guide/autumn

MUST-DO AUTUMN ACTIVITIES!

Go Leaf Peeping

• Picnic in a Park

• Bike & Hike

• Fall Festivals & Events

• Cruise the Chain of Lakes

TASTY PICKINGS

Country Blossom Farm is a 100-acre orchard plump with fall family fun… a store with freshpicked orchard apples, raspberries, pumpkins, squash and gourds from mid-August through October… a farm-to-table bakery with treats and take-n-bake pies… a well-stocked gift shop… a place for fun-loving family outdoor activities… plus a seven-acree corn maze, bouncy pillow, corn pit, pedal cart track, kids farm market, bazooka ball and more. | countryblossomfarm.com

WINTER WONDERLAND

The Douglas Area Trails Association (DATA) maintains 368 miles of groomed snowmobile trails in West Central Minnesota’s Hardwood Hills and River Prairie landscapes. Within it, 36 miles are the blacktopped, multi-use Central Lakes Trail. Dotted with numerous lakes, Douglas County’s DATA Trails offer a combination of open flatlands to heavily wooded and often hilly riding. Snowmobilers often comment about the spectacular views afforded by scenic locations, encountering abundant wildlife. Visit their website for additional info and trail conditions: | DouglasAreaTrails.com

MUST-DO WINTER FUN!

• Andes Tower Hills

• Ice Fishing

• Cross Country Skiing

• Snowshoeing

• Ice skating at Noonan Park

• Sledding at Brophy Park & Kensington Rune Stone Park

• Snowmobiling

• Fat Tire Biking

ALEXANDRIA AREA EVENTS

SPRING

Memorial Day weekend brings lots of fun with downtown sidewalk sales, parade, Awake the Grapes Run, and Ole Oppe Fest in Big Ole Park, an annual festival with live music, games, a classic car show, wing sauce competition, and more.

From big festivals to small, there’s a whole lot of events going on throughout the year. Here’s a few of our favs!

SUMMER

June: Art deTour is a free studio tour of juried art by the Alexandria Art Guild. The Vikingland Band Festival is a marching band championship, parade-style. The trapshooting championship brings in thousands of competitors from across Minnesota.

The Wine, Ale & Art Crawl combines embracing art, walking venue to venue downtown, and enjoying craft beverages.

July: The Alexandria Triathlon provides a fun challenge. Star Storm is our very impressive July 4th fireworks show at Arrowwood Resort. The Legacy of the Lakes Classic Boat Show showcases vintage and classic boats on the docks at Arrowwood Resort. The Big Ole Paddlefest is a fun adventure paddle festival on our Chain of Lakes and Long Prairie River. Art in the Park attracts thousands to 150 booths of fine arts, handmade treasures, live music, and food vendors.

August: The Douglas County Fair celebrates fun-filled days of food, rides, special events, local talent, and great family memories. The Resorters Golf Tournament, established in 1921, is one of our state’s largest, most renowned events.

FALL

Don’t miss the fall festivals: In September, Grape Stomp Festival at Carlos Creek Winery and Oletoberfest at Copper Trail Brewery. In October, Oktoberfest at 22 Northmen Brewing.

Grab the girls and escape to Alex over Deer Opener Weekend for special sales, events, and the Arts & Crafters Tour, or find loads of family fun at Country Blossom Farm.

WINTER

Christmas in the Fort kicks off the holiday season with carolers, Santa, the parade of trees, the annual lighting ceremony and a “Lights On Broadway” lighted holiday parade through the Historic Downtown area.

For more information and complete events list, visit explorealex.com/events

LAKES

More than 300 lakes would keep any angler busy for a while. Our area is home to many different fish species and is a hotspot for bass, panfish, northerns, muskie, and walleye. Fishing reports and other resources can be found at ExploreAlex.com/seasonal-guide/fishing

LAKE GENEVA

Water Area: 631 acres

Shore Length: 5.4 miles

Maximum Depth: 64 feet

Game Fish: Walleye, Northern Pike, Bluegill, Largemouth Bass, Crappie, and Rock Bass.

Unique Features: Part of the Chain of Lakes.. Natives say it is one of the prettiest lakes in the area.

Public Boat Access: One on northwest shore off State Highway 29, one on southeast shore off CR 82.

LAKE DARLING

Water Area: 954 acres

Shore Length: 6.5 miles

Maximum Depth: 63 feet

Game Fish: Northern Pike, Bluegill, Crappie, Walleye, Rock and Largemouth Bass.

Unique Features: Medium-sized lake, minutes from downtown, but still offers seclusion and serenity. Excellent fishing and recreational lake. Part of the Alexandria Chain of Lakes.

LAKE BROPHY

Water Area: 289 acres

Shore Length: 2.7 miles

Maximum Depth: 45 feet

Game Fish: Northern Pike, Bluegill, Walleye, Large and Smallmouth Bass, and Crappie.

Unique Features: Excellent lake for fishing Walleye, Bass, Sunfish and Crappie. Lake Brophy has an excellent lakeshore for swimming and boating. Connects to Lake Mina via a channel.

Public Boat Access: Northwest corner off County Highway 82. Cyclists and hikers enjoy the Central Lakes Trail near Lake Brophy.

LAKE DARLING

LAKE BROPHY

LAKE GENEVA

BOAT RAMP ACCESS

Maps courtesy of Sportman’s Connection (see ad on pg 49) scmaps.com/alexandria-areawest-central-minnesota-fishingmap-guide

LAKE LE HOMME DIEU

Water Area: 1,744 acres

Shore Length: 9.0 miles

Maximum Depth: 87 feet

Game Fish: Walleye, Northern Pike, Bluegill, Crappie, Largemouth and Rock Bass.

Unique Features: On windy days, three sheltered bays make any water recreation possible. Part of the Chain of Lakes.

Public Boat Access: One on west side off CR 42, one on northeast side off CR 120.

LAKE COWDRY

LAKE COWDRY

Water Area: 243 acres

Shore Length: 3 miles

Maximum Depth: 52 feet

Game Fish: Northern Pike, Bluegill, Walleye, Large and Smallmouth Bass, and Crappie.

Unique Features: Connects to multiple lakes via channels. Has very deep weedlines and a sunken island.

Public Boat Access: One access off East Lake Cowdry Road on the northeast side of the lake.

LAKE MILTONA

BOAT RAMP ACCESS

LAKE MILTONA

Water Area: 5,838 acres

Shore Length: 15 miles

Maximum Depth: 108 feet

Game Fish: Walleye, Rock Bass, Bluegill, Northern Pike, Muskie, Largemouth Bass and Crappie.

Unique Features: The largest lake and most diverse fishery in Douglas County. Perfect for the sportsman in search of a trophy, or the family in search of a basket of panfish. Sandy beaches and crystal-clear water. Excellent ice fishing and snowmobiling.

Public Boat Access: One on northeast shore off State Highway 29 and North Lake Miltona Drive, one on north shore off County Highway 14, one on west shore off county highways 6 and 14.

LAKE LATOKA BOAT RAMP ACCESS

LAKE LATOKA

Water Area: 753 acres

Shore Length: 8.6 miles

Maximum Depth: 110 feet

Game Fish: Northern Pike, Bluegill, Walleye, Large and Smallmouth Bass, and Crappie.

Unique Features: Exceptional water clarity and good structure. Great lake for Bass and Walleye with large numbers of Northern Pike as well.

Public Boat Access: One access on the north bay off Latoka Beach Road, one on the south bay off Vonderheide Drive SW.

LAKE VICTORIA

LAKE VICTORIA

Water Area: 417 acres

Shore Length: 6 miles

Maximum Depth: 60 feet

Game Fish: Northern Pike, Bluegill, Walleye, Large and Smallmouth Bass, and Crappie.

Unique Features: Unique, wishbone-shaped lake which connects to the Chain of Lakes via Lake Geneva. Good numbers of Walleye, Pike and Bluegill. Public fishing pier on south end.

Public Boat Access: One access off Hazel Hill Road SE on the south end of the lake.

LAKE LOUISE

Water Area: 214 acres

Shore Length: 2 miles

Maximum Depth: 33 feet

Game Fish: Bluegill, Perch, Walleye, Large and Smallmouth Bass, and Northern Pike.

Unique Features: Connects to North Union Lake via small channel for paddlecraft. Lots of Bluegill, Perch and Pike.

Public Boat Access: One access off Lake Louise Drive NW on the northwest side of the lake.

FOR ADDITIONAL WATER RECREATION, CHECK OUT THESE OTHER BEAUTIFUL DOUGLAS COUNTY LAKES: explorealex.com/place_entries/lake-fun/lakes Scan to visit on your mobile device

LAKE LOUISE

ALEXANDRIA AREA LAKES WITH REGIONAL ATTRACTIONS

Lake Carlos – 2,605-acre lake features beautiful Lake Carlos State Park on its northern shore and three state-owned public accesses.

• Lake Ida – This 4,427-acre lake features the newest Douglas County Park, “Pilgrim Point.” It sits on a peninsula, complete with one of the largest and most pristine beaches in Greater Minnesota.

• Devil’s Lake/Little Chippewa Lake –

Connected by a stream, these two western Douglas County lakes combined are only 503 acres, but directly between them is a gem in Chippewa County Park.

GOLF Explore

ChainOfLinks.com

The natural beauty of our lakes area offers a perfect setting for a friendly competition or relaxation on the golf course with family, friends or business associates. Several courses within a 30-mile radius of Alexandria make up our Chain of Links Golf Trail, where you can enjoy beautiful golf outings ranging from recreational to championship-level courses.

Alexandria Golf Club

2300 N Nokomis St NE,, Alexandria 320-763-3605 • alexandriagolfclub.com

Atikwa Golf Club at Arrowwood Resort

2100 Arrowwood Ln, Alexandria 320-762-8337 • arrowwoodresort.com

Double Eagle Golf & Grille 31886 Co Rd 3, Eagle Bend 218-738-5155 • golfdoubleeagle.com

Geneva Golf Club

4181 Geneva Golf Club Dr, Alexandria 320-762-7089 • genevagolfclub.com

Hardwood Hills Golf Club

8446 Co Rd 27 SW, Alexandria 320-886-1400 • hardwoodhillsgolf.com

Lake Miltona Golf Club 3868 Co Rd 5 NE, Miltona 320-852-7078 • lakemiltonagolfclub.com

Minnewaska Golf Club 23518 Dero Dr, Glenwood 320-634-3680 • minnewaskagolf.com

Nordic Trails Golf Course

4343 39th Ave NE, Alexandria 320-762-5420 • nordictrailsgolf.com

Osakis Country Club

501 E 8th Ave, Osakis

320-859-2140 • osakiscountryclub.net

Framed by an abundance of trees, the bent-grass fairways are immaculately maintained and the greens are always in superb shape. Gently rolling topography, Lake Darling shoreline, rough that is well groomed and beautiful flower beds round out the golf course. One can’t help but love playing here.

Newly renovated golf course designed with wetland preservation in mind and focuses on scenic lake views and unique challenges. Experience the natural and undisturbed beauty of Alexandria’s most scenic golf course.

Designed by Minnesota native and PGA Tour player Joel Goldstrand, Double Eagle features two distinct nine-hole courses known as the Gold Course and the Green Course.

Joel Goldstrand design. Area’s finest championship 27hole golf course. Full bar and grill. Open to the public.

Nestled in the rolling hills between lakes Mary and Lobster and adjacent to Mill Lake. Hardwood Hills provides a picturesque and challenging golf experience for the avid golfer or the beginner.

Whatever your level of play, the course will appeal to your liking and skill. There is an abundance of trees, ponds, openness and plenty of wildlife to make your round memorable.

Located just 15 minutes from Alexandria in Glenwood, Minnewaska Golf Club overlooks one of the largest lakes in the state of Minnesota.

Beautifully maintained golf course just minutes from downtown Alexandria. It satisfies golfers of all ages and skill levels. With water hazards and multiple trees, the fairways are well maintained and the greens are as good as any in the area.

Beautiful scenery and 100% natural. It is often claimed to be one of the most scenic courses in the area with no shortage of lakes, ponds, trees, and wildlife. It is challenging but welcoming for any level of golfer.

18 Holes Par 72 Yardage 6,540

18 Holes Par 72 Yardage 6,167

9 Holes Par 37 Yardage 3,536

27 Holes Par 35, 36, & 37 Yardage 3,335, 3,586, 3,605

9 Holes Par 35 Yardage 2,431

18 Holes Par 72 Yardage 6,292

18 Holes Par 72 Yardage 6,483

9 Holes Par 32 Yardage 2,054 •

9 Holes Par 36 Yardage 2,952

SPORTS VENUES & FACILITIES

Host your next sporting event or tournament in the Alexandria Lakes Area!

The Resorters Golf Tournament, Annual Lions Cross-Country Invitational, State Trapshooting Championship and the Big Ole Hockey Tournament are a few examples of the many sporting events held here. The Alexandria Lakes Area boasts more than 350 lakes; 100-plus miles of trails for mountain biking, hiking, cross country skiing, and motorcycle racing; and a variety of quality spsports complexes. The area also offers a variety of lodging, dining and entertainment options for your group’s downtime. To find out how to bring your team event to Alexandria, contact Explore Alexandria Tourism at 320-763-0102 or info@explorealex.com

ALEXANDRIA AREA HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS COMPLEX

The high school complex offers all the amenities to host tennis, baseball, softball, soccer and football events. The complex has a lighted stadium with FieldTurf and the ability to seat 3,000 people as well as an additional smaller lighted stadium with the capacity to seat 200 fans. | alexschools.org

ALEXANDRIA AREA YMCA

The Alexandria Area YMCA offers a gymnasium with a full-length and two half-length basketball courts, an aquatic center with a slide, an indoor track and a complete wellness center. | alexandriaymca.com

ALEXANDRIA SHOOTING PARK

This range started with a single trap field and has grown to include 20 trap fields, a skeet field, four lighted fields, a voice release system, 146 campsites and banquet facilities. | alexandriashootingpark.com

NORTHSTAR SPORTS COMPLEX

The 70,000-square-foot NorthStar Sports Complex opened in 2018 and serves as home to FCA Hockey. It features a 200- by 85-foot sheet of ice, a fieldhouse, PEAK Performance Training Lab, locker rooms, a training and medical room, equipment rooms, shooting bays and more. nscacademy.org/sports-complex

RUNESTONE COMMUNITY CENTER

The Runestone Community Center hosts events year-round on a dry floor or utilizing the ice floor cover, including concerts, expos, community events, hockey tournaments, ice skating events, curling and more. runestonecommunitycenter.com

MEETINGS & EVENT VENUES

Alexandria is conveniently located in the heart of Minnesota right off I-94, just two hours from the Twin Cities and 90 minutes from Fargo-Moorhead. Our numerous lodging and event facilities have the amenities needed to host gatherings from 10 people to several hundred. There are a variety of lodging options in all price ranges and plenty of entertainment options for your group’s time off. For assistance in planning your event, contact Explore Alexandria Tourism at 320-763-0102 or info@explorealex.com