20 Things to Do in Alexandria, Minnesota (MN)

Located in the heart of Douglas County, Minnesota, Alexandria is a city that beautifully blends historical landmarks, vibrant culture, and an array of outdoor activities. Known for its picturesque lakes and scenic beauty, Alexandria is often referred to as the "Birthplace of America" due to its rich history and cultural significance.

Visitors flock to this charming city year-round to explore its diverse attractions, from the famous Kensington Runestone to the stunning lakeside views. Whether you're an avid history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, things to do in Two Harbors, Minnesota (MN) offers something for everyone.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the things to do in Alexandria, MN, the best time to visit Alexandria, MN, and much more to help you plan your trip.

The Tourist Checklist

Alexandria is a destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here's a quick look at some of the must-see attractions in the area:

• Kensington Runestone: Discovered in 1898, this ancient artifact has sparked debates about Viking exploration in North America.

• Big Ole Viking Statue: Standing 25 feet tall, this statue celebrates the Norse heritage of Alexandria.

• Vikingland Band Festival: An annual event that features top-notch marching bands from across the Midwest.

These attractions are just the beginning of what Alexandria has to offer, and you’ll want to explore more during your stay.

20 Things to Do in Alexandria, Minnesota (MN)

Alexandria, Minnesota, a charming town nestled in the heart of the state, offers a mix of outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, and unique attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for some fun, Alexandria has something for everyone. Here’s a detailed guide to some of the best things to do in Alexandria, MN.

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1. Runestone Museum

Short Description of Activity
The Runestone Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the fascinating history and culture of Alexandria. It houses the famous Kensington Runestone, a 14th-century artifact that sparked debates about Norse exploration of America long before Columbus.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Rich historical significance with interactive exhibits.

  • Educational experience for all ages.

  • Located conveniently for easy access.

• Cons:

  • Limited parking space.

  • Might not appeal to those uninterested in history.

Key Attractions and Events

• The Kensington Runestone itself, a historical artifact that intrigues many visitors.

• Special exhibits about early settlers and Native American history.

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2. Big Ole Viking Statue

Short Description of Activity
Standing tall at 28 feet, the Big Ole Viking Statue is a fun and iconic symbol of Alexandria’s history. It celebrates the town’s Norwegian heritage and is a perfect spot for a photo op.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Iconic landmark for photography.

  • Family-friendly.

  • Located in a scenic park area.

• Cons:

  • Limited interactive elements.

  • Can be a brief stop for some visitors.

Key Attractions and Events

• The Viking statue itself is a major draw.

• The surrounding park area often hosts local festivals and events.

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3. Carlos Creek Winery

Short Description of Activity
For wine enthusiasts, Carlos Creek Winery offers a delightful experience with wine tasting, tours, and a beautiful vineyard setting. It’s an excellent spot to relax and enjoy local wines.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Gorgeous views of the vineyard.

  • Extensive wine tasting options.

  • Regular events and festivals.

• Cons:

  • Can be crowded during peak seasons.

  • Limited non-wine-related activities.

Key Attractions and Events

• Wine tasting and tours of the winery.

• Annual Grape Stomp Festival.

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4. Legacy of the Lakes Museum

Short Description of Activity
This museum showcases the history of Alexandria’s lakes, highlighting the area’s connection to the water and its development as a resort destination. A fascinating look at the local history with a focus on lake culture.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Offers a detailed look at Alexandria’s history.

  • Interactive exhibits for all ages.

  • Great for history and nature lovers alike.

• Cons:

  • The museum may be a bit niche for some.

  • Limited hours of operation.

Key Attractions and Events

• Exhibits on boating history and early resort life.

• Annual museum events and gatherings.

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5. Central Lakes Trail

Short Description of Activity
The Central Lakes Trail is a scenic 55-mile trail ideal for biking, hiking, and walking. It connects Alexandria with several neighboring communities, offering breathtaking views of lakes, woodlands, and wildlife.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and fitness lovers.

  • Beautiful natural scenery.

  • Well-maintained and accessible year-round.

• Cons:

  • It can get busy during peak tourist season.

  • Limited facilities along some sections of the trail.

Key Attractions and Events

• Beautiful lakeside views along the trail.

• Wildlife sightings, including birds and small mammals.

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6. Lake Carlos State Park

Short Description of Activity
Lake Carlos State Park is a perfect getaway for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and swimming. The park is known for its picturesque scenery and tranquil lake environment.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Offers a variety of outdoor activities.

  • Peaceful and beautiful natural surroundings.

  • Great for camping and picnicking.

• Cons:

  • Can be crowded during summer weekends.

  • Limited amenities in some areas of the park.

Key Attractions and Events

• Fishing, boating, and swimming in Lake Carlos.

• Hiking and biking trails with panoramic views.

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7. Casey’s Amusement Park

Short Description of Activity
Casey’s Amusement Park is a family-friendly destination featuring go-karts, mini-golf, batting cages, and arcade games. It’s an ideal spot for families looking for a fun, active day out.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Great for families and kids.

  • A variety of activities to keep everyone entertained.

  • Affordable pricing.

• Cons:

  • Limited attractions for older children or adults.

  • Can get crowded during peak hours.

Key Attractions and Events

• Go-kart racing and mini-golf.

• Special family events and seasonal promotions.

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8. Copper Trail Brewing Co.

Short Description of Activity
Copper Trail Brewing Co. is a local brewery offering a wide selection of craft beers. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or just looking to relax, it’s a great spot to unwind with a local brew.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Offers a range of craft beers with unique flavors.

  • Relaxing atmosphere for groups.

  • Frequent beer releases and special events.

• Cons:

  • Limited food options on-site.

  • Can be busy on weekends.

Key Attractions and Events

• Tasting room with a rotating selection of beers.

• Brewery tours and special beer-tasting events.

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9. Escape Room Alexandria

Short Description of Activity
Escape Room Alexandria provides a fun and challenging experience for groups looking to test their puzzle-solving skills. It’s an excellent activity for friends, families, or corporate teams.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Fun and engaging for all ages.

  • A great group activity.

  • Builds teamwork and problem-solving skills.

• Cons:

  • Requires advanced booking.

  • Not ideal for very young children.

Key Attractions and Events

• Themed escape room challenges that vary in difficulty.

• Special events and group bookings for team-building exercises.

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10. Downtown Alexandria Shopping

Short Description of Activity
Downtown Alexandria is home to a variety of charming boutiques, antique shops, and local retailers. It’s the perfect place for shopping, whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs or just want to browse.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Unique shopping experience with local stores.

  • Great for finding one-of-a-kind items.

  • Walkable downtown area.

• Cons:

  • Limited chain stores.

  • Parking can be difficult on busy days.

Key Attractions and Events

• Local shops offering handmade goods and vintage items.

• Seasonal events and festivals that take place in the downtown area.

11. Cherry Street Books

Short Description of Activity:
Cherry Street Books is a cozy, independent bookstore located in the heart of downtown Alexandria. It offers a fantastic selection of books, including bestsellers, classics, and local authors. The inviting atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great place to spend a few hours browsing and reading.

Pros:

• Great selection of books for all ages and interests.

• Friendly and knowledgeable staff.

• Local authors and regional stories featured.

Cons:

• Limited seating for reading.

• Smaller space, so selection might not be as extensive as large chain bookstores.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Local author book signings.

• Special events and themed reading days.

12. Alexandria Farmers Market

Short Description of Activity:
The Alexandria Farmers Market is a vibrant outdoor market that showcases fresh, locally grown produce, handmade goods, and other artisanal products. It’s the perfect spot to support local farmers and vendors while enjoying a relaxing stroll in the fresh air.

Pros:

• Fresh, local produce and products.

• Support for local farmers and artisans.

• Friendly, community atmosphere.

Cons:

• Limited operating hours, especially during off-seasons.

• Can be crowded during peak times.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Seasonal produce and goods.

• Weekly live music and community events.

13. Viking Speedway

Short Description of Activity:
Viking Speedway is a fast-paced racing venue that brings excitement to Alexandria. This dirt track offers thrilling races with a variety of events throughout the year. Whether you’re a racing fan or just looking for some adrenaline-pumping action, Viking Speedway is a must-visit.

Pros:

• High-speed, thrilling races.

• Family-friendly events.

• Great way to experience local sports culture.

Cons:

• Noise level may be too high for some visitors.

• Can be expensive depending on the event.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Weekly races and special racing events.

• Special season events and championship races.

14. Noonan Park

Short Description of Activity:
Noonan Park is a beautiful green space that offers various outdoor activities. It’s perfect for a family outing with its walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The park also has a scenic view of the surrounding area, making it a great spot for a peaceful retreat.

Pros:

• Beautiful natural surroundings.

• Picnic and playground areas for families.

• Accessible walking trails.

Cons:

• Limited facilities during off-seasons.

• May not offer enough for visitors looking for more structured activities.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Community picnics and outdoor gatherings.

• Wildlife and nature walks.

15. Andes Tower Hills

Short Description of Activity:
Andes Tower Hills is the perfect destination for those who enjoy outdoor recreation. With opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in the winter, and hiking and mountain biking in the summer, Andes Tower Hills offers year-round activities for all adventure seekers.

Pros:

• Variety of outdoor activities for all seasons.

• Beautiful, scenic views of the area.

• Well-maintained trails and facilities.

Cons:

• Limited services in the off-season.

• Can be crowded during peak times.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Skiing and snowboarding in winter.

• Mountain biking and hiking in summer.

16. Art in the Park

Short Description of Activity:
Art in the Park is an annual outdoor art festival held in Alexandria. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy local and regional art in a beautiful outdoor setting. The festival showcases a range of art, from paintings and sculptures to jewelry and photography.

Pros:

• Fantastic local art displays.

• Great for art lovers of all ages.

• Outdoor, family-friendly event.

Cons:

• Can be crowded, especially on weekends.

• Not all art may be affordable for some visitors.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Live art demonstrations.

• Artist meet-and-greet events.

• Music and food vendors.

17. Big Splash Indoor Waterpark

Short Description of Activity:
Big Splash Indoor Waterpark is a fun-filled, family-friendly waterpark located in Alexandria. With a variety of water slides, a lazy river, and splash zones, it’s the perfect place for a day of indoor aquatic fun, especially during the colder months.

Pros:

• Year-round indoor fun for the whole family.

• A variety of water activities and slides.

• Safe and supervised environment.

Cons:

• Can get crowded on weekends and during holidays.

• Higher admission fees for peak times.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Water slide races.

• Special themed pool parties and events.

18. Lake Brophy County Park

Short Description of Activity:
Lake Brophy County Park is a peaceful lakeside park that’s perfect for fishing, boating, or just relaxing by the water. It’s an ideal spot for picnicking or enjoying the outdoors in a tranquil environment.

Pros:

• Peaceful lakeside location.

• Great for fishing and boating.

• Well-maintained picnic areas.

Cons:

• Limited amenities for large groups.

• Can be too quiet for those seeking more active recreation.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Fishing tournaments and lakeside events.

• Boating and kayaking.

19. Alexandria Golf Club

Short Description of Activity:
For golf enthusiasts, Alexandria Golf Club is the place to be. This beautiful 18-hole course offers a challenging yet scenic setting for golfers of all skill levels. The club also features a pro shop and restaurant, making it a great spot to relax after a round.

Pros:

• Beautiful, scenic course.

• Well-maintained facilities.

• Excellent dining options after a round of golf.

Cons:

• Can be expensive for non-members.

• Requires booking in advance during peak season.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Seasonal golf tournaments.

• Special golfing events and social gatherings.

20. Douglas County Historical Society

Short Description of Activity:
The Douglas County Historical Society offers a fascinating look into the rich history of Alexandria and the surrounding region. The museum features exhibits on local history, Native American culture, and the area's development over the years.

Pros:

• Insightful and informative exhibits.

• Family-friendly learning experiences.

• Well-curated collection of local history.

Cons:

• Limited hours of operation.

• Smaller exhibits compared to larger regional museums.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Historical tours and events.

• Special exhibits on local history and culture.

Unique Facts About Alexandria, MN

Kensington Runestone

One of Alexandria's most famous landmarks is the Kensington Runestone, a large stone slab that was discovered in 1898. The runic inscriptions on the stone have led to much speculation about the Viking presence in North America long before Columbus' time. The artifact remains one of the most debated pieces of history in Minnesota, drawing scholars and tourists from all over the world.

Big Ole Viking Statue

A 25-foot-tall Viking statue, known as Big Ole, stands proudly at the entrance to Alexandria. Erected in 1965 for the World's Fair, this towering statue symbolizes the city's Norse heritage. It has become a beloved symbol of the town and a popular photo spot for visitors.

Vikingland Band Festival

The Vikingland Band Festival is another major event in Alexandria, established in 1985. This annual event has become the premier marching band competition in the Midwest. The festival brings together top marching bands from across the region and attracts hundreds of visitors each year.

Best Time to Visit Alexandria, MN

The best time to visit Alexandria largely depends on the activities you’re most interested in. Here's a quick overview of what to expect throughout the year:

Spring

Spring is the perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. The weather is mild, and the lakes start to thaw, providing ample opportunities for water activities.

Summer

Summer is the most popular season to visit Alexandria, with its warm temperatures and abundance of outdoor festivals. Lake Miltona is ideal for boating, and the local festivals create a lively atmosphere throughout the city.

Fall

Fall in Alexandria is picturesque, with vibrant foliage along the Central Lakes Trail. It’s also a great time to indulge in wine tasting and explore the region’s vineyards.

Winter

For those who enjoy winter sports, Alexandria transforms into a snowy paradise. Ice fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing are just some of the activities you can enjoy during this season.

Unique Gems of Alexandria, MN

Alexandria is home to several hidden gems that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Here are a few must-see attractions:

Legacy of the Lakes Museum

The Legacy of the Lakes Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Alexandria’s boating history. The museum features a vast collection of historic boats and maritime artifacts, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the area’s rich watersport heritage.

Inspiration Peak

For those who enjoy hiking, Inspiration Peak offers one of the best panoramic views in Otter Tail County. It’s the second-highest point in the county, and the view from the top is nothing short of breathtaking, offering a sweeping view of the surrounding lakes and countryside.

Suggested Day Itinerary

If you’re planning a trip to Alexandria, here’s a suggested itinerary for a perfect day in this charming city:

Morning: Visit the Runestone Museum

Start your day with a visit to the Runestone Museum. This museum is dedicated to the famous Kensington Runestone and provides an in-depth look at the history of the artifact. It’s the perfect way to kick off your day and learn about Alexandria’s historical significance.

Afternoon: Lunch and Legacy of the Lakes Museum

After exploring the museum, take a break for a leisurely lunch at one of Alexandria’s cozy local cafés. Following lunch, visit the Legacy of the Lakes Museum to explore the region’s maritime heritage.

Evening: Sunset Boat Ride on Lake Miltona

End your day with a relaxing sunset boat ride on Lake Miltona. The serene beauty of the lake, combined with the stunning colors of the setting sun, offers the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration.

How to Reach Alexandria, MN

By Car

Alexandria is easily accessible by car, located about two hours west of Minneapolis along Interstate 94. The drive offers scenic views of the Minnesota countryside, making the journey a pleasant part of your trip.

By Air

If you prefer to fly, the Alexandria Municipal Airport offers regional flights, and car rentals are available for your convenience. The airport is just a short drive from the city center, making it a convenient option for travelers.

Conclusion

With its rich history, stunning lakes, and wide range of recreational activities, Alexandria, MN is an excellent destination for anyone looking to explore the charm of the Midwest. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, the city offers a unique blend of cultural attractions and outdoor adventures that will leave you with lasting memories, much like the things to do in Brainerd, Minnesota (MN) that provide a similar mix of natural beauty and outdoor fun.

FAQs

What is the significance of the Kensington Runestone?

The Kensington Runestone is believed by some to be evidence of Viking exploration in North America. Its runic inscriptions continue to spark debate among historians and scholars. If you're planning a trip, consider exploring these things to do in Rochester, Minnesota (MN), which are perfect for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Are there accommodations available near the lakes?

Yes, Alexandria offers a variety of accommodations, including lakeside resorts, cozy bed and breakfasts, and charming hotels.

What outdoor activities are popular in Alexandria?

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like boating, fishing, hiking, and exploring the numerous parks and trails in the Alexandria area.