101 Fun Things to do in the Lakes Area 2021

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LAKES AREA 2021

Express Care Everyone knows, health issues don’t limit themselves to weekdays. Which is why we don’t either.

Thanks to our Saturday, Sunday and evening hours, when your daughter spikes a fever or your husband has a fishhook mishap, you’ve got a local option for care—other than needing the emergency room.

During this time of extreme precaution, try using our virtual visit options through MyChart.

If you still need to be seen by a provider in person, please call in advance.

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Whatever your needs, we’re here for you—all week long, and all weekend too!

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funLAKES AREA Things To Do

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inter, summer, spring or fall, no matter the season, there is always something fun to do here in the Alexandria Lakes Area.

We want to make sure that you enjoy your time here, so we put our heads together and compiled 101 of our favorite things to do with you in mind.

As you browse through our magazine, you’ll find exciting outdoor activities – fun on the lakes, festivals, racing, picnicking, biking, skating, boating, snowmobiling and fishing ideas.

Not a fan of the great outdoors? Then check out all the options for indoor fun –

in the

water parks, museums, bowling, shopping, antiquing, theater, concerts, crafting and so much more.

We hope you find just what you’re looking for here in the Lakes Area. We have it all!

A publication of the Echo Press Alexandria, MN

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www.echopress.com Diann Drew Publisher Lori Mork Editor/Graphic Designer

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Bowl a game

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Grab your friends, head for a local bowling alley and bowl a game or two. You can even try your hand at some fun games in the local arcade.

Get a tattoo

You know you’ve been wanting one. Why not get it done? Call up a local professional and schedule your appointment.

How about a round of mini-golf?

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Local amusement parks include mini-golf, a fun pastime for any age. As long as you’re there, how about giving the go-karts and bumper boats a try?

Try geocaching

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Geocaching involves hunting for a hidden object with the use of GPS coordinates. It’s a high-tech treasure hunt in the great outdoors!

There are opportunities to join the fun locally.

Cast off in a fishing tournament

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Many local tournaments and some fishing tours from all over the country offer a chance to compete for fun and prizes against other competitive anglers, on the water or on the ice!

Head out for ice cream

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Have a weakness for ice cream? Not to worry.

Douglas County is rich with places to indulge that craving for ice cream, smoothies, frozen custard and other cool summer-time treats.

Sip some wine

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There are a variety of local establishments that offer wine tasting opportunities. Test out the different flavors and find the perfect fit for you!

Attend a vintage car show

For decades, vintage car shows have been held in Alexandria and Osakis, drawing car lovers from hundreds of miles.

Visit a petting zoo

Meet all kinds of interesting animals – pygmy goats, sheep, miniature horses, llamas, potbelly pigs, as well as some feathered friends – ducks, chickens, geese, peacocks, pheasants, pigeons and doves. You find all this variety at the next best thing to Grandpa’s farm – a petting zoo.

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Fly high on the lakes

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Want an exciting new experience? How about trying a water Jet Pack? You can propel yourself up to 30 feet in the air with this system, then hover over the lake as you fly without wings.

Learn to scuba dive!

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Douglas County lakes are good for more than just fishing. They also offer a great opportunity for those looking to explore what’s below the surface. The Alexandria area has instructors who offer courses for those looking to become scuba certified.

Learn at the terrace garden

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Check out the Terrace Learning Garden by the Douglas County Services Center.

This garden is a labor of love, created and maintained by the Douglas County Master Gardeners.

Enjoy the state park – by daylight or candlelight

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Sculpted by ancient glaciers, the 1,231acre Lake Carlos State Park is a perfect setting for camping, hiking, swimming, canoeing and exploring all nature has to offer. In winter, cross country ski, walk, hike or snowshoe on trails illuminated by candles, then warm up around a toasty fire.

Take in the latest blockbuster

Rent a party bus

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Who doesn’t love a great film on the big screen? A trip to the local movie theater is the perfect activity for a day when the weather isn’t cooperating, or when you just want to sit back and be entertained.

Have a special occasion to celebrate?

Keep everyone safe by hiring a driver to chauffeur you to your destinations.

Feed the ducks at Noonan Park

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Meander through antique stores

This is a fun family outing that will delight you, your kids, grandkids… and the ducks! The kids will squeal with excitement when dozens of feathered friends waddle and swim over for corn, lettuce, peas, oats, seeds or rice. (Psst...no bread please!)

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While away a rainy day searching through troves of treasures at the area’s many antique stores. Whether you’re on the hunt for something specific, or you just love old things, antique shopping is always an adventure.

Explore the area by foot

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Attend a street dance

The Active Living Douglas County group created walking maps of Alexandria and Osakis and they’re available in the area free of charge. Pick one up and explore the historic sites and points of interest in these towns.

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During the warmer months in the Douglas County area, many communities celebrate with a toe-tapping street dance featuring

Test your fish knowledge

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There are several types of fish in Minnesota, but here are the most common in our area. Can you name these aquatic creatures?

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1. Bluegill sunfish 2. Smallmouth bass 3. Pumpkinseed sunfish 4. Black crappie

5. Muskie 6. Walleye 7. Yellow perch 8. Northern pike 9. Largemouth bass

Visit a local art gallery

Head to an indoor playground

There are numerous opportunities in the area to enjoy art in many forms, including painting, jewelry, pottery, glassware, woodwork and much more.

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Ride with a bike club

Visit Our Lady of the Hills

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Want to take a bicycle ride but would like some company? Head out for a spin with a local bike club as they travel the countryside of the Alexandria Lakes Area.

Treat yourself

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Get a massage, a manicure, pedicure or a facial – or all four! Pamper yourself.

You deserve it.

Make a splash at a water park

If you’ve got water fun on your mind but the weather won’t cooperate, don’t despair! Tons of fun awaits you at the local water park.

Attend a play at a local community theater

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The Alexandria area is well-known for its quality theater productions, from the stage to the radio airwaves. Productions can be found here year-round.

Is it a rainy day? Why not take your kids to an indoor playground to burn off some energy and make new friends while in a safe environment.

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Erected by a local resident in response to answered prayers for healing, the cement and steel shrine of the Virgin Mary is 22 feet tall and weighs 4,500 pounds. Take a scenic drive along the country roads near Millerville to check it out.

Volunteer

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There are numerous opportunities to volunteer and give back to the community.

Help distribute food, rake lawns, care for animals, build homes, help with office work or distribute school supplies. Volunteering is guaranteed to be a rewarding experience.

Ride along the DATA trails

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The Douglas Area Trails Association (DATA) maintains the 370 miles of trails that connect every community within the county. It’s a snowmobiler’s paradise!

Adopt a furry new friend

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There are many animals in need of a loving home. Stop by the local humane society to meet the dogs and cats to see if one is a fit for your family or check out a local pet store.

Give paddle boarding a try

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Rent or buy a board today and work your core while paddling around the area’s picturesque lakes.

Enjoy the gardens

Take a stroll and enjoy nature and the beautiful landscaping at an area museum’s gardens. There’s also free music on stage in the summer.

Hone your skateboarding skills

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Enjoy some jumps, grinds and rails at the Alexandria skate park. The park, located on Fillmore Street, is free to visit and offers a variety of ramps and pipes for boarders of every talent level.

Hit the garage sales

Attend Christmas at the Fort!

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Play with your pooch

There are garage sales galore in the area nearly every weekend. To ensure a productive day, grab the local newspaper and plan a route, get your small bills and change ready, and head out early! wCapture the memories When’s the last time you’ve had a portrait taken of your entire family? Now’s the time! There are several local professional photographers who can accommodate your family at your location and their studio.

Visit Inspiration Peak!

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OK, so it’s technically not in Douglas County, but it’s just across the border in neighboring Otter Tail County. The peak rises 1,750 feet, about 400 feet from the surrounding countryside, making it one of the highest points in Minnesota.

Kick back on the beach

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Spend a relaxing day at the beach.

Douglas County has three lifeguard-staffed beaches on lakes L’Homme Dieu, Lake Osakis and Latoka. There are also public beaches not staffed by lifeguards, including City Park Beach on Lake Henry, Rotary Beach on Lake L’Homme Dieu, Chippewa County Park Beach on Lake Chippewa, Lake Brophy County Park Beach and Lake Carlos State Park Beach.

Ice skate at Noonan Park

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Located at Nokomis Street and 10th Avenue in Alexandria, the rink is regularly maintained, has a warming house and is well lit for night skating. Spend an afternoon ice skating or playing hockey at Noonan Park.

This is a don’t-miss event! The kick-off to the Christmas season happens every year on the Friday after Thanksgiving at Fort Alexandria in downtown Alexandria. The town is lit up for the season.

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Spend some time with your four-legged friend at the local dog park. Don’t be a couch potato, or let your dog be one either. Studies show that 65 percent of dogs are overweight. So get off the couch and head to Pooch Playland for some quality time and some exercise.

Party with your friends

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Gather with your friends and family and head on down to Alexandria’s Party in the Street to celebrate summer. Check out the wonderful foods, entertainment, music and shopping. Great fun for adults and children alike!

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GOLF COURSES Your Guide to Area

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Find a local landmark

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There are so many wonderful places to visit in Douglas County. Here’s a list of 35 of those spots. See how many on this list you can match to photos that are found throughout the pages in this magazine. Answers can be found on page 22.

1. Alexandria Aviation, Inc. 2. Alexandria City Park 3. Alexandria Farmer’s Market 4. Alexandria Shooting Park 5. Andria Theatre 6. ​Andes Tower Hills 7. Big Ole Viking Statue 8. Big Splash Water Park, Arrowwood 9. Art Bar 39 & G’Day Cafe 10. Burr Vineyards 11. Carlos Creek Winery 12. Casey’s Amusement Park 13. Central Lakes Trail 14. Copper Trail Brewing Co. 15. Country Blossom Farm

16. Douglas County Historical Society 17. Escape Room Alexandria 18. Garden Center Lanes 19. Inspiration Peak 20. Lake Carlos State Park 21. Lakes Area Theatre 22. Legacy of the Lakes Museum 23. ​L’Etoile du Nord Vineyard 24. Noonan’s Park 25. Runestone Museum 26. Runestone Park 27. Spruce Hill Park 28. Terrace Learning Gardens 29. Theatre L’Homme Dieu 30. Viking Speedway, Inc.

Froggie fun

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Frogs are a sign of a healthy ecosystem and these little hoppers are plentiful in Minnesota. Can you name the different types of frogs in this area?

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2 5 3 1. Bullfrog 2. Green frog 3. Mink frog 4. Northern leopard frog 5. Wood frog © 2018 Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. 500 Lafayette Road St. Paul, MN 55155-4046 10 101 Things Things to Do • 2021

Visit a ‘niche’ boutique

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If you’re looking for something special and a little out of the ordinary, visit a specialized boutique in the lakes area.

There are shops that offer items like unique clothing, jewelry, home décor, books, lefse, glassware, knickknacks and more.

Enjoy a scenic motorcycle ride

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Stop at a local motorcycle dealer to tune up or get your accessories, and head out for a ride around the lakes. With about 300 lakes in Douglas County, there are plenty of scenic routes to enjoy.

Try your hand at trivia - Minnesota style

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Check your knowledge of the city of Alexandria and the state of Minnesota by trying this trivia quiz. See if you are as knowledgeable about our state as you might think! Find the answers on page 22.

1. What year did Alexandria get its start? (Extra points for naming the founding fathers) 2. What is Douglas County’s oldest claim to fame?

3 Of these five useful things, which one was not invented in Minnesota? The pop-up toaster, Scotch tape, the beverage vending machine, the paint roller or the handled shopping bag.

4. What Alexandria landmark was constructed for the World’s Fair in 1965?

5. Who (or what) is nicknamed Lou T. Fisk? a. Prince b. Don Shelby’s favorite lure c. A big codfish d. Jesse Ventura’s favorite cigar 6. How many lakes are there in Douglas County?

7. What Douglas County lake was named for the Queen of Sweden?

8. Name four famous people that have hailed from or have made Alexandria their home. (Note: there are at least 15 options).

9. What Minneapolis golf legend was the first president of the Ladies’ Professional Golf Association (LPGA)? Patty Andrews, Patty Berg, Patty Tracy or Patty Hearst.

10. What Minnesota band played for Bill Clinton’s first inaugural ball?

11. What is the name of the paved biking and walking trail that spans Douglas County from Osakis and on to Fergus Falls in Otter Tail County?

12. What Minnesota governor was a dentist?

13. Where’s the easiest place to cross the Mississippi River without using a bridge?

14. What does Minnesota have more of than California, Florida and Hawaii combined?

15. On what date did Minnesota officially become a state and what was its number?

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Identify those animal tracks

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There many animals native to Minnesota and here are just a few. Not every species is found in the lakes area, but keep an eye out for tracks and try to identify them. You can also learn about animal tracks at the Runestone Museum.

BLACK BEAR

RED FOX

MOOSE WHITE-TAILED DEER

BOBCAT

STRIPED SKUNK

RACCOON

GRAY SQUIRREL

WILD TURKEY GRAY WOLF

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Bike around town

Take in a hockey game

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Pitch a tent

Shoot the minnow!

Grab a bike and explore all that Alexandria and Douglas County have to offer!

The beautiful scenery will take your breath away and, with the bike lanes available, your travels will be even safer!

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The lakes area offers everything you need, whether you’re rolling up in an RV or your tent is rolled up in a backpack.

Numerous local campgrounds offer a variety of settings to fit everyone’s idea of “roughing it.”

Get in shape

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Now is the time to join a gym, hire a trainer or buy that exercise equipment and use it! Don’t put it off any longer.

Get lost in a maze

Looking for a day of family fun? Check out the local pumpkin patches or corn mazes this fall.

If hockey is more your thing, you’ll have no problem finding a game. Besides the youth and amateur teams, there’s also a team of some of the nation’s best collegiate hopefuls that will give a good show.

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Everyone should try it at least once!

Visit a fun establishment in Nelson, MN where they drop a minnow into a shot of your choice (liquor or n/a) and you gulp it. You get a “ I shot the minnow T-shirt” for the effort! Good food, fun and friends.

Take a hike at Spruce Hill Park

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This historic, 97-acre park is located at the site that was once the village of Spruce Hill. The village was vacated in the early 20th century, but remnants of it are still evident today through depressions in the ground and old building foundation pieces.

Firepit Foods

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It’s always great to sit around the firepit or campfire, and it’s even more fun to fix up some fun foods. Why not give these recipes a try next time you gather around the fire for a fun evening with friends and family.

CAMPFIRE POTATOES INGREDIENTS 2 lb. mini Yukon Gold potatoes, quartered 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil 1 tsp. garlic powder 1 tsp. dried oregano Kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper 2 c. shredded mozzarella 1 c. freshly grated Parmesan Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish Crushed red pepper flakes, for garnish

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DIRECTIONS If using the grill, preheat to medium high.

Cut 4 large pieces of foil about 10” long. In large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder and oregano and season with salt and pepper.

Divide potatoes between foil pieces; fold the foil packets crosswise to completely cover the potatoes.

Roll the top and bottom edges to seal them closed.

Place foil packets on the coals or grill and cook until just cooked through, 10-15 minutes.

Unwrap foil packets; sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over potatoes. Reseal foil and cook until cheese is melted, about 3-5 minutes.

Top with parsley and red pepper flakes. Serve warm.

Embrace area history

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Learning about history is always time well spent. Many of the communities within Douglas County have historical societies with interesting displays and archived historical information available to the public.

Cruise the Chain of Lakes by boat

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Take advantage of the area’s Chain of Lakes, boating from Lake Carlos to Lake Darling to Lake L’Homme Dieu without ever leaving your boat! Perfect on a hot, sunny day!

Get airborne

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Experience the Alexandria area lake country from on high during a scenic airplane tour.

Test your running skills

the area.

Do you enjoy getting out for a run? If so, look into competing in one of the many 5K and 10K runs that are held in

Attend an arts festival

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Whether you are looking for a gift or the perfect piece to accent your home, an arts and crafts festival is the perfect

Join in for the Polar Plunge

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Every February, people jump into a frigid lake on purpose! The Polar Bear Plunge is an annual fundraiser for Special Olympics Minnesota.

Enjoy a picnic!

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Take in nature’s beauty by spending time with your family by picnicking.

Pick up family favorites, then head to your favorite park or lake place and enjoy!

Spend a day at a museum

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See historic displays about Indians, Vikings, wildlife and early homesteaders.

Let the kids get a glimpse into what life was like “back in the day.”

HOBO DINNERS 1 lb. lean ground beef 1 large potato, scrubbed clean, thinly sliced (with or without peel) 3 carrots, peeled and cut into thin sticks 1 small onion, sliced Seasoned salt Garlic powder Pepper Butter Aluminum foil

CAMPFIRE PHILLY CHEESESTEAK SANDWICH INGREDIENTS: 1 large loaf of French bread 1/4 cup butter 1/4 tsp. garlic powder 1/2 onion, sliced 1 green pepper, sliced 2 Tbsp. olive oil 12 oz. sliced roast beef 9 slices provolone cheese Aluminum foil

DIRECTIONS: Divide the ground beef into four equal portions.

Form into patties and lay each onto separate sheet ofs aluminum foil. Season with seasoned salt.

Top with onion and potatoes. Season with seasoned salt and garlic powder to taste. Add carrot sticks; top with 1-2 pieces of butter. Bring two of the sides of foil over the top and fold to seal, leaving a pocket of air and not bending the sides of the ground beef patty. Seal ends and place on the grill over low or medium-low heat or coals. If grilling, close the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the meat is cooked through.

DIRECTIONS: Pour olive oil in pan and heat to medium high. Add peppers and onions and cook until onions are translucent and peppers are soft. Set aside.

Cut slits about 1/4” apart in to the french bread, not cutting all the way through.

Mix butter and the 1/4 tsp. of garlic powder. Spread between each slice of bread.

Add large spoonful of peppers in to each slit, then layer with 2-3 slices roast beef and a slice of cheese.

Spray a piece of aluminum foil with cooking spray; add the loaf of bread and wrap with foil. Put in the coals of the fire or on the grate above the fire. Cook for 20-30 minutes or until cheese melts and sandwich is hot.

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Tour a distillery

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Yes, you can find one of those in Douglas County too! Not every community can claim that.

Try quilting!

quilting class.

Love quilts? Join a local quilters’ group, stop by and check out quilts made by locals at the area quilt shows, or take a

Puzzle it out!

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Are you good with puzzles? Why not try your hand at live puzzle solving rooms, using your talents to discover and solve clues, find hints and build strategy.

Hit the race track

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Dirt track racing is always exciting, be it at the go-kart level or the full-size stock cars that reach speeds of over 100 miles per hour. It’s a great family outing sure to excite all ages.

Tube the Long Prairie River

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Load up the air mattresses or inner tubes and a cooler, and jump in the slow-moving river with friends and family for a memorable summer adventure. It’s the perfect way to spend a lazy summer afternoon.

Join a running group

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There are several groups in the local area, with members of all skill levels.

Share your passion with others, or just have someone else give you that extra push to hit the pavement.

Take a getaway, close by!

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Been wanting to get away but can’t find the time? Check into a hotel or resort right here in Douglas County for a mini getaway. Swim, relax and unwind, even if it’s just for a couple days.

Take your picture with Big Ole

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This Viking statue stands tall and proud at the north end of Broadway in Alexandria. The 28-foot, four-ton statue has been looking over the community since 1965.

Walk, bike or blade the Central Lakes Trail

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The Central Lakes Trail is a paved trail that spans Douglas County, connecting the cities of Osakis, Nelson, Alexandria, Garfield, Brandon, Evansville and Melby and on to Fergus Falls. The trailhead in Alexandria is at the north end of Broadway in Big Ole Central Park.

Choose a fine dining destination

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There is no shortage of great restaurants, and all offer something unique that you won’t want to miss. Satisfy your palate at one of the in-town options, or unwind by taking a scenic drive to an out-of-the-way restaurant.

Enjoy live radio

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With live music, its own sound effects and lively actors, Lakes Area Radio Theatre records “old time” radio shows the second Friday of every month. Shows are family friendly and you can be a part of the audience.

Meet friends for a drink

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Any excuse is a good excuse to get together. During the warmer days, meet at an outside deck bar, or cozy up to the bar inside on cooler weather days. There are many locations to choose from and many offer two-for-one specials or half-price appetizers.

View or enter a photography exhibit

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There are lots of amateur photographers in the area who love to share their work and their passion. There are various photography exhibits held.

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Taste of the Lakes Area

FOOD & HOSPITALITY

Daily Specials

MONDAY- 4 TO 8 - $2.00 Burger night TUESDAY- 5 TO 8 - $7.99 A.Y.C.E. Taco buffet WEDNESDAY- ALL DAY - Wraps Wednesday THURSDAY- 11 TO 2 - Cook’s choice, HOMEMADE Dinner THURSDAY- 5 TO 8 - Wings, choice of appetizer, Pitcher of beer or pop, $14.99 FRIDAY NIGHT- Salad bar- $9.95; A.y.c.e- fish fillets, $11.95;

A.y.c.e- fantail shrimp, $12.95 - Garlic shrimp, $12.95 - 8 oz.

Cod filet, $11.95 - BBQ ribs, $12.95 - Hamburger steak, $12.95 (Add mushrooms and onions) - 2- Walleye filet, $16.95; ALL entree’s include: Choice of potato, Soup, Salad bar, and Homemade desserts SATURDAY - Cook’s Choice, 2:00 BARGO and meat raffle (seasonal- October thru May) SUNDAY - Cook’s Choice

EVERY OTHER SUNDAY, COUNTRY MUSIC 2:00 TO 6:00 TUESDAY THRU FRIDAY, HAPPY HOUR, 2/4/1’S, 4:00 TO 6:00 Watch Facebook and Web page for other specials and events.

Everyone welcome!

We look forward to seeing & meeting everyone!

51 Main St West Union, MN 56389 | (320) 352-0123

Viking Plaza Mall • Alexandria • 320-762-2697

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Explore in a kayak

Keep swinging

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Try a local craft beverages tour

Shop at a farmers’ market

With so many lakes, why not explore a few on a kayak? Not only do you get close to nature, it’s a great way to relieve stress as well as get in some exercise.

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Weather not cooperating? Never fear.

There are indoor golf options and simulators for you to keep your swing sharp all year long. It’s a great way to edge out your competition!

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Snag that whopper of a fish

Wine and paint

There are dozens of lakes in the area great for fishing. Why not hire a fishing guide to help you find that elusive walleye or bass?

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Don’t miss the fair!

Lose yourself in a book

The Alexandria area is the home to several wineries and breweries, so why not jump on a local tour of those establishments and get a taste of what the area has to offer.

Play some bingo

There are several opportunities in the local area to try your luck at the ever popular game of bingo.

Church bazaars abound

With more than 60 churches in Douglas County, bazaars are plentiful. Check one out if you’re looking for a comfort-food lunch and the area’s best pie, as well as crafts or bake sales.

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Nothing says summer more than a day at a county fair; corn dogs, lemonade, exhibits, carnival games and rides and animals. Truly something for everyone.

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There are a couple of farmers’ markets held regularly throughout the summer and fall, offering an assortment of fresh fruits, vegetables, organic foods, and more.

Visit a winery

Yes, Minnesota has wineries, including some right here in Douglas County!

Take a tour, try some samples, and learn all about this growing industry.

Worship outdoors

All summer long – from Memorial Day through Labor Day – several local church groups offer outdoor services.

Nature seems to add to the inner peace and spirituality you may find.

Why not add a little art to your wine tasting? Check out the local wine and paint events where you can relax, paint and enjoy an adult libation.

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Visit a local book store or the Douglas County Library to pick up something new to read today.

H A N D -C R A FT ED

FLAVOR ORDE R TODAY

3109 HWY 29 SOUTH ALEXANDRIA ‘QDOBA Mexican Eats’ is a registered trademark of the QDOBA Restaurant Corporation ©2021.

Cheer at the snowmobile races

89

If cold weather speed is more your style, there are several different local events that feature snowmobile racing at its finest, be it vintage sleds or today’s high-speed machines.

Attend a concert

90

Spend a day on the course

96

Douglas County is home to professional and top amateur golfers, and it has some of the premier public and semi-public courses found in Minnesota. There are many local courses to choose from that sport signature holes, breathtaking views of the lakes and rolling hills, so you’re sure to find a course that’s right for you.

Enjoy a day on the lake

Music fills the air throughout Douglas County. From concert associations to school and church performances to professional musicians performing at local venues, there’s always music to be heard somewhere.

97

Light up your night on the Fourth of July

Tour a veteran’s memorial

91

Nothing says Fourth of July like fireworks and the local communities all hold incredible fireworks displays. It’s the perfect end to a perfect day.

Hit the slopes

92

There’s nothing more refreshing than a day of swooping down the slopes, or along the cross country trails, of which Douglas County boasts plenty! It’s fun, exercise and fresh air all wrapped up in one.

Visit Kensington’s Rune Stone Park

93

See where the famous Kensington Runestone was discovered! Besides great historical displays, the park features picnic tables, shelters, a visitor’s center, charcoal grills, electricity, restrooms, drinking water, a softball field, horseshoe pit, volleyball court, playground, hiking trails and a heated building with kitchen facilities.

Give hunting a try

94

From ducks, geese, pheasants, grouse and turkey to deer and coyotes … there’s plenty of game to satisfy the avid hunters. Douglas County is hunter’s heaven.

Browse classic boats

95

Be it in a local maritime museum or during a classic boat show, classic boats are a must see. Their owners are usually more than happy to share the history of each boat that has lovingly been restored.

20 101 Things Things to Do • 2021

Pack a lunch and cooler and get set for a day of sun and water with your friends and family. Rent a pontoon, boat or personal watercraft.

98

Take some time to visit the newest park in Alexandria – Veterans Memorial Park – and enjoy this place of inspiration and reflection that honors all of the area’s military veterans.

Try your hand at bow fishing

99

This sport has taken off over the past couple years. It’s inexpensive and easy to equip an old or new bow with all the accessories you need to hunt for rough fish in the local lakes.

Get informed of area happenings

100

From the latest news and top headlines to the church dinners and concerts, you’ll be “in the know” when you check out a copy of the local newspaper online to find out what’s going on in the area.

Sip a local brew

101 into a local brew.

Along with wineries and distilleries, Douglas County also has breweries, so take the time to tap

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ANSWERS TO MINNESOTA TRIVIA 1. Alexandria got its start in 1858 – the same year Minnesota became a state. Brothers Alexander and William Kinkead of Delaware traveled along the Red River Trail, stopping to establish a settlement on the shores of Lake Agnes. Alexander served as the first postmaster. The town site was named “Alexandria” in his honor.

2. Douglas County’s oldest claim to fame is the legendary Kensington Runestone. Scholars and scientists have spent numerous hours studying the large flat rock’s runic inscriptions. Many are convinced the Runestone is a genuine record of a visit by Viking explorers to the area in the 14th century, more than 100 years before Columbus set sail for America. Others claim is it a fake.

The Runestone was discovered in a farmer’s field in the late 1800s near the town of Kensington. The 200-pound stone is on display at the Runestone Museum in Alexandria.

3. The paint roller was not invented in Minnesota; it was invented in 1940 by Norman Breakey of Toronto. The first pop-up toaster was invented by Charles Stite, of Stillwater, in 1919. The first liquid-dispensing vending machine was invented by Henry Fruen, of Minneapolis, in 1884.

Scotch tape was invented by 3M researcher Richard Drew in 1930. The handled shopping bag was invented

by St. Paul grocer Walter Deubener in 1919.

4. Big Ole, a 28-foot tall, 4-ton statue of a Viking was originally designed to be displayed near a Kensington Runestone exhibit at the World’s Fair in New York in 1965.

The theme of the exhibit was “Minnesota, Birthplace of America”. After the fair ended, Big Ole was transported to Alexandria and has stood at the north end of Broadway since December 1965. He holds his spear in his left hand and his shield in his right.

5. c. A giant 25-foot fiberglass codfish in Madison, Minn., reflects the claim by the community in Lac qui Parle County that it is the “Lutefisk Capital of the United States.” Surprisingly, challenges to that claim have been few.

6. There are 49 lakes.

7. Lake Christina.

8. Lars K. Aaker, Minnesota state legislator; Dave Dalby, Oakland Raiders Center; John Hammergren, CEO of McKesson Corporation; Duane Hanson, sculptor; Edward Hanson, 28th Governor of American Samoa; John Hawkes, actor; Todd Hendricks, pro football player; Peter Krause, actor; Tom Lehman, PGA golfer; Brock Lesnar, professional wrestler and former mixed martial artist; Knute Nelson, United States Senator; Gary Serum, Minnesota Twins pitcher; Henrik Shipstead, politician, United States Senator; Cliff Sterrett, cartoonist; Bruce P. Smith, ex NFL halfback for the Green Bay Packers 1945–1948, and the Los Angeles Rams in 1948.

He won the Heisman Trophy in 1941.

9. Patty Berg, who became the first LPGA president in 1948 and entered her professional prime, winning 57 tournaments on the tour.

10. Soul Asylum, 1993.

11. The Central Lakes Trail. The 55-mile-long trail, located on the old Burlington Northern rail line grade, connects the cities of Osakis, Nelson, Alexandria, Garfield, Brandon, Evansville and Melby in Douglas County. The trail then moves on through Ashby in Grant County and into Otter Tail County where it passes through Dalton before ending in Fergus Falls.

12. Rudy Perpich, who practiced dentistry in Hibbing. He was also the state’s only Roman Catholic governor and the only one to serve nonconsecutive terms, 1976-79 and 1983-1991.

13. Where the Mississippi begins its 2,300-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico from its source at Lake Itasca in Itasca State Park. Thousands of visitors wade across the river, usually less than a foot deep, during visits to the park.

14 Shoreline – about 90,000 miles of it, according to geographers.

15. Minnesota became the nation’s 32nd state on May 11, 1858.

ANSWERS TO LOCAL LANDMARKS 1. Alexandria Aviation, Inc. - pg. 14 2. Alexandria City Park- pg. 10 3. Alexandria Farmer’s Market - pg. 7 4. Alexandria Shooting Park - pg. 6 5. Andria Theatre - pg. 7 6. ​Andes Tower Hills - pg. 15 7. Big Ole Viking Statue - pg. 11 8. Big Splash Water Park - pg. 20 9. Art Bar 39 - pg. 20 10. Burr Vineyards - pg. 6 22 101 Things Things to Do • 2021

11. Carlos Creek Winery - pg. 18 12. Casey’s Amusement Park - pg. 4 13. Central Lakes Trail - pg. 18 14. Copper Trail Brewing Co. - pg. 16 15. Country Blossom Farm - pg. 5 16. Douglas County Historical Society - pg. 5 17. Escape Room Alexandria - pg. 16 18. Garden Center Lanes - pg. 11 19. Inspiration Peak - pg. 11 20. Lake Carlos State Park - pg. 20

21. Lakes Area Theatre - pg. 11 22. Legacy of the Lakes Museum - pg. 5 23. ​L’Etoile du Nord Vineyard - pg. 7 24. Noonan’s Park - pg. 15 25. Runestone Museum - pg. 14 26. Runestone Park - pg. 10 27. Spruce Hill Park - pg. 4 28. Terrace Learning Gardens - pg. 16 29. Theatre L’Homme Dieu - pg. 10 30. Viking Speedway, Inc. - pg. 6

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On-The-Go Service Hours Monday-Friday 8:00am-2:00pm

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