LEGACY OF THE LAKESMuseum

Much of Minnesota’s history is inspired by the many beautiful lakes throughout our state, and the Legacy of the Lakes Museum and Gardens is dedicated to bringing that history to the public.

Opening May 20, the museum features handcrafted wooden boats, grand hotels and fishing clubs, bringing to life traditions that reach back nearly a century and a half.

These diverse exhibits, as well as the Gardens, are all part of the Legacy of the Lakes Museum, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation of antique and classic watercraft, resort memorabilia and sporting equipment used on the Minnesota lakes.

Originally known as the Minnesota Lakes Maritime Museum, the name was changed to Legacy of the Lakes in 2016 to better communicate and reflect its mission of celebrating shared memories and experiences of Minnesota lake life, preserving it for future generations.

In 2018, the BoatHouse, an indoor event center, was added and is available for rent for weddings, corporate events and family gatherings as well as a place for the museum to host educational programs and includes an indoor event hall, bathrooms and bridal suite/greenroom.

The museum is located in downtown Alexandria at 205 Third Ave. W., near the Alexandria Fire Department. The museum office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Contact the museum at 320759-1114 or through its website www.legacyofthelakes.org for more information.

Upcoming Events

Yoga in the Gardens – May 17 from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m., June 14 from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. and July 5 from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m.

Opening day – May 19 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tai Chi in the Gardens – May 30 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Family Day – June 4 from noon to 4 p.m.

Watercolor in the Gardens – June 7 from 11 a.m. to noon

Music in the Gardens – June 16 from 6 to 9 p.m. and July 7 from 6 to 9 p.m.

Recycled Boat Building – June 20 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.