Need a lakeside escape or family-friendly getaway in Minnesota? Head to Alexandria! Enjoy sparkling lakes, scenic trails, rich history, and small-town charm. Whether you're craving outdoor adventures, shopping, or relaxing by the water, Alexandria offers the perfect blend of fun and relaxation.
Alexandria, MN Highlights:
- Big Ole: Snap a photo with the famous Viking statue that welcomes you to town.
- Lake Carlos State Park: Hike forested trails, swim at the beach, or camp by the lakeshore in this scenic state park.
- Runestone Museum: Discover Viking lore and explore exhibits about local history, including the mysterious Kensington Runestone.
- Central Lakes Trail: Bike, walk, or snowmobile this beautiful multi-use trail stretching across west-central Minnesota.
- Legacy of the Lakes Museum: Celebrate Minnesota’s lake life heritage with historic boats and interactive displays.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit Alexandria is from late spring through early fall (May to September). Warm weather is ideal for boating, fishing, biking, and exploring the many lakes and parks.
Tips for getting There
- If you are traveling by car: Alexandria is located right off Interstate 94, about 2 hours northwest of Minneapolis-St. Paul.
- By Air: Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is the nearest major airport, with local flights available into Alexandria Municipal Airport for private planes.
- By Bus: Jefferson Lines offers intercity bus service connecting Alexandria to Minneapolis and other Minnesota towns.
Where I like to stay
- Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center – Lakeside resort with indoor waterpark, golf course, marina, and spa amenities.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Alexandria – Modern hotel with free breakfast and easy access to downtown and nearby lakes.
- Cedar Rose Inn – Quaint bed and breakfast offering historic charm just steps from downtown Alexandria.
Best Things to Do
1. View Nordic items at the Runestone Museum
When the Runestone Museum opened in 1958, it had one artifact, a Nordic rune stone, carbon dated to 1382. It had been found in 1898 on a farm 15 km away. The museum now has several other Nordic items, dating back to the Middle Ages, that have been found in Minnesota. The Scandinavian Heritage exhibit, includes a replica of a Viking trading ship. Nine historic buildings, including a fort from the Civil War, depict fort life between 1860 and 1910. The children's discovery room encourages learning by playing, dressing up and reenactment. The museum is open 7 days a week in summer and 6 days in winter.
Address: 206 Broadway, Alexandria, MN 56308, Phone: 320-763-3160
2. Sample Copper Trail Craft Beer
The Copper Trail Craft Beer opened in 2011 after the Surly law was passed in Minnesota which allowed beer to be made and consumed on the same premises. The owners pride themselves on being able to offer patrons fresh beer, 20 feet away from where it was made. The tap list changes frequently and there is an opportunity to tour the brewing facilities. There is seating for 60 people in the bar, lounge and picnic areas with plenty of board and card games to play. Bar snacks and pizzas are available in-house or food can be ordered in from local restaurants. The shop sells beer and branded merchandise. Copper Trail is open 7 days a week.
Address: 205 Broadway St, Alexandria, MN 56308, Phone: 320-219-6688
3. Learn about Minnesota lake life at the Legacy of the Lakes Museum
The Legacy of the Lakes Museum was established in 2004, after 10 years of planning, in order to showcase Minnesota lake life, traditions and legacies. The Boat House has an indoor venue where events are held and private groups hold functions. The sumptuous lifestyle of the wealthy summer visitors is one of the exhibit themes. Fishing, including gear from 1800 to the present, legendary catches and guides, is another. Rare wooden boats, more modern fibreglass models and birch bark canoes are on display. The boat show and musical evenings are annual summer events. The gardens with their structures, plantings and walkways, are a recent addition. The museum is open 7 days a week from late in May to the end of October.
Address: 205 3rd Ave. W, Alexandria, MN 56308, Phone: 320-759-1114
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
4. Jog along the Central Lakes Trail
This 55-mile long, paved track follows the line of the abandoned Burlington North Railroad corridor through 10 communities, from Osakis to Fergus Falls. The Central Lakes Trail is 14 ft wide with a shoulder on each side, totaling 100 feet. It travels through wooded areas, lakesides, wetlands and farm country. It undulates, allowing for scenic views of the countryside, wildlife and wild flowers. Snowmobiles are permitted on the trail during winter, otherwise no vehicular traffic is allowed. Visitors can spend a couple of hours or a couple of days on the trail. There are restaurants, lodgings and a return bus service at the community stops along the way, and picnic stops and benches in between.
Address: 206 N. Broadway, Alexandria, MN 56308, Phone: 320-763-3161
5. See a production at Theatre l'Homme Dieu (TLHD)
Since 1961, Theatre l'Homme Dieu (TLHD) has been presenting live theatre and fine art at the north end of Lake l'Homme Dieu. The former resort has a lodge with an industrial kitchen that provides accommodation for 38 people. Almost every week, a new production is brought to the venue. The theatre seats 272 people and is set in 22 acres of thick woodland and lake shores. In summer a music series adds to the attraction. Throughout the year the theatre puts on fundraising events and conducts an education outreach.
Address: 1875 County Road 120 NE, Alexandria, MN 56308, Phone: 320-846-3150
6. Visit Douglas County Historical Society
Douglas County Historical Society was founded in 1976. It is housed is in the historic former home of the only foreign-born governor of Minnesota, Knute Nelson, and his family. The house was bequeathed to the Lutheran Church to be used as a care home. In 1985 it was threatened with demolition so it was moved it to its current position on the original homestead land and became the Society's headquarters. The Society focuses on the history and genealogy of the Douglas County. Court records, family genealogy, oral history and business history have been kept. There are slide shows of the history of every village in the county. The museum is open from Monday to Friday.
Address: 1219 Nokomis St, Alexandria, MN 56308, Phone: 320-762-0382
Where to Eat:
7. Have lunch at La Ferne
La Ferne is a farm-to-fork restaurant in downtown Alexandria. Ingredients are sourced fresh, in season, from local farmers. There are separate lunch and dinner menus. Meals are cooked from scratch and accompanied by craft beers and an extensive range of wines. Daily specials include 'Fish and sushi on Friday', and multi-course events are held periodically. The atmosphere is rustic and the restaurant is open from Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and Thursday to Saturday for dinner. It is closed on public holidays. Cooking classes are offered by Chef Matthews. Group bookings are welcome.
Address: 613 Broadway Street, Alexandria Minnesota, Phone: 320-846-0777
8. Order pizza at the Depot Express Restaurant and Saloon
The Depot Express Restaurant and Saloon was formerly known as the Great Northern Railway Depot. It was built in 1907 and purchased in 1984 by Bill Seykora and Ken Neumann who restored and refurbished it. The trail that was formerly the rail track runs right past the front of the building. The venue, with its lake views and laid back atmosphere is popular with hikers, cyclists, students, locals and tourists. The pizzas are renowned and the steaks, burgers and seafood are popular. There are weekly daytime and evening specials and an express menu for those who cannot stay long. The Depot is open 7 days a week and there is a live DJ on weekends.
Address: 104 Broadway St, Alexandria, MN 56308, Phone: 320-763-7712
More Places to Eat
- Bella’s on Broadway – Cozy spot for Italian-American favorites like pastas, sandwiches, and homemade desserts.
- LA FERME – Farm-to-table dining experience offering seasonal dishes with local ingredients in an elegant setting.
- Raapers Eatery & Ale – Relaxed downtown pub serving burgers, wraps, and craft beers in a historic atmosphere.
My favorite local events:
- Vikingland Band Festival (June) – One of the Midwest’s premier marching band parades and competitions.
- Grape Stomp at Carlos Creek Winery (September) – Annual festival featuring grape stomping contests, live music, and local wine tastings.
- Christmas in the Fort (December) – Holiday celebration with festive lights, historic reenactments, and family fun at the Runestone Museum campus.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Alexandria, Minnesota:
- Carlos Creek Winery (10–15 min) – Sample local wines, explore vineyards, and enjoy live music events.
- Lake Miltona (20–25 min) – Enjoy excellent fishing, boating, and lakeside relaxation at this pristine lake.
- Kensington Runestone Park (25–30 min) – Hike scenic trails and explore Norse-themed sculptures and history exhibits.
- Garfield (10–15 min) – Explore charming small-town shops, bike the Central Lakes Trail, or relax in a quiet setting.
- Osakis (20–25 min) – Visit the town’s beautiful lakefront, fish for trophy walleyes, or grab a meal at a classic supper club.
- Forada (10–15 min) – Enjoy sandy beaches and casual lakeside dining near Lake Geneva.
- Nelson (15–20 min) – Stop by for Nelson Creamery's famous ice cream, sandwiches, and cheese selections.
Plan Your Trip