Alexandria Area | Livability & Visitor Guide

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WELCOME

Publication sponsored by the Alexandria Area Economic Development Commission

What a privilege and honor to be able to introduce you to the Alexandria Lakes Area!

As Mayor of Alexandria I have the pleasure of watching, learning, participating, and helping facilitate the growth of Alexandria. I can tell you Alexandria is all about partnerships, collaborations and teamwork. That is what sets us apart from other communities. We pride ourselves on gathering people around the table and getting things done!

If you are fortunate enough to live here OR are thinking about making the Alexandria area your home you will find activities year round in the lakes area. You will also find it is the best living experience by far. People love residing here and it shows! After all, we were voted in the top 10 small towns to live in by livability.com.

We have festivals and entertainment almost every weekend from early spring to fall, trails that wind for miles and quaint shops that will keep you interested and entertained. The Andria Arts theatre, Theatre Le Homme Dieu, Legacy of the Lakes Museum, golfing, dining, breweries and the historic Runestone and Runestone Museum are a few fun things to do while in the area.

Carlos Creek Winery offers wine, music and a brewery as well as the annual Grape Stomp every September.

Of course, what makes this a fantastic work environment is that you can be at work and in minutes (any season of the year) be on any one of our many lakes relaxing an enjoying yourself: ice fishing, waterskiing, boating or just touring the chain of lakes.

Don’t want to be on the lakes? This area has a plethora of golf courses; it is home to the Tom Lehman golf course at the Alexandria Golf Course, Geneva Golf Course has a 27 hole golf course – yes 27 holes. Arrowwood Resort has an 18 hole golf course and there are several other golf courses in the area. Still not convinced? How about a hike or walk on one of our trails that will lead you right downtown for some shopping? We also have plenty of parks and recreational activities.

Did I mention our state of the art schools? We have the most wonderful schools from pre-K to our state recognized high school. As well as Alexandria Technical and Community College that offers a wide variety of classes for all ages.

I would be remiss if I did not mention our hospital system, Alomere Health that is an incredible state recognized award winning hospital and clinic system that offers excellent health care, specialized services and allows you to participate in your health care.

The hospitality of the people of the Alexandria area will make the Alexandria Lakes Area feel like home in no time – this is an amazing place to work! A remarkable place to visit! An incredible place to call home!

Mayor Sara Carlson

Join me in the Alexandria Lakes Area – I guarantee you will find a friend here and you will like our lifestyle!

TABLE OF CONTENTS SMALL TOWN LIVING WITH BIG CITY AMENITIES KENTUCKY GIRL MAKES MINNESOTA HER HOME

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DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH 8-9 JOHNNY AND LIZZY THILL

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LEADING IN MANUFACTURING

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EDDIE AND SARAH REIF

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HUB FOR HEALTHCARE

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MARK AND LAURIE HINTERMEYER

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TOPS IN EDUCATION

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To find more relocation information and opportunities visit: LivingAlexArea.org

Photos by Totem Ent., Widseth Smith & Nolting, Alexandria Technical & Community College, Brenton Engineering, Alexandria Industries, and District 206

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SMALL TOWN LIVING WITH BIG CITY AMENITIES The Alexandria area is where you want to be if you’re looking to relocate to a community that has an enviable quality of life, anchored by good schools, open spaces and access to higher education.

The word to describe the area is “community.” You not only can connect with nature, but with people you meet, and friends you can make. Living in the Alexandria area, one can have the best of both worlds of a close-knit community with supportive and friendly connections, opportunities for career growth, outdoor recreation for all seasons to fit your active lifestyle, big-city amenities without the metro-city traffic and congestion, all while still having that relaxed small-town feel. The Alexandria area has been called the “Top Micropolitan in Minnesota” & the “7th Best Small Town in America,” both describing the area perfectly.

There is so much to do and see in the Alexandria area. Home to over 350 lakes, with miles of bicycle and walking trails, public beaches, and beautiful parks, you will be able to find many adventures and outdoor activities to explore and keep family busy each season.

We’re not going to lie. The winters can be brutal. But, the community provides plenty of opportunities to stay active. Families can enjoy ice skating at Noonan’s Park. Or maybe you would enjoy skiing at Andes Tower Hills? Or maybe your style is shopping in the many retail stores with the latest fashions and home décor. You can also enjoy touring Carlos Creek Winery (voted the “Best Winery in Minnesota”), Panther Distillery (Minnesota’s very first “legal” whiskey distillery), or Copper Trail Brewing Company (Alexandria area’s first brewery in 70 years).

The summers are endless days of crystal-clear lakes and miles of bike trails.

This is small town living with big city amenities. If you think the Alexandria area is a place you could call home, we have business opportunities throughout the area. From healthcare to manufacturing, you have the ability to tap into a wide range of opportunities in the Alexandria area.

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LivingAlexArea.org

“Helping People One Job at a Time”

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Kentucky Girl MATT and PAIGE GOOD

makes MIN

Q: Tell us about yourself

A: My name is Paige Good and I am so very proud to live in Alexandria, Minnesota. We moved here in November of 2013 with our then ninth grader and baby. We had decided to make the big move to this area when my husband was given an opportunity in the real estate business. We were living in my hometown of Lexington, KY and after spending lots of time vacationing with family and friends in Alexandria and falling in love with the lakes and the people and the place itself, we knew when he received the call that we wanted to call Alexandria home.

Q: What is your occupation?

A: Matt and I married in 2006 and began our life together as a family. We were both in the real estate business, being company owners and realtors.

Matt’s role now is Chief Operating Officer of Better Homes and Gardens, All Seasons, it keeps him hopping and he loves the challenge. I am now back in the real estate world, loving the business and loving the ability to help people achieve their dream of owning a home. I am also a Caring Minister for Calvary Lutheran Church, loving on people in every stage of life.

Q: How did you move to Alexandria?

A: I had lived in the same zip code in Kentucky my entire 44 years so when this chance came up I figured it was time to get out there and see the world a little. Matt was born and lived a lot of his life in Minnesota, and had family here.

When the decision was made to move I decided to take a bit of time to get my family settled and learn the ways of this charming community. I loved the people who are so proud of their heritage and their modern ways that are intermingled with the past: Their grandma’s ways of crock pot soups, pans of bars made from recipes handed down for generations, the hand stitched towels, the lutefisk (ok, not my favorite), and the lefsa with loads of sugar and butter. I was determined to embrace the heritage here and understand the ways of a different town and way of life. It was such a life changing experience to move across the country with my little family and see the impact that this community has had on our hearts and lives.

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NESOTA her home.

Q: What do you do in your free time?

A: We love to spend time with friends and family and all things outdoors. My boys love to hunt, deer camp, opening fishing and summers on the lake. They are passionate outdoorsmen and what a joy to watch 3 generations of Good’s embrace their heritage and hunt on family land. I talk funny but now my southern drawl has become more of a Norwegian twang. We cheer loudly for my beloved Kentucky Wildcats and I get weepy still when I sing My Old Kentucky Home to my child at bedtime. I call myself a Midwestern Southerner.

Q: What is something that surprised you about your move here?

A: What I wasn’t prepared for were the people here: The kindness, the inclusion, the amazing friendships. The people that showed up over and over to bring us food, or to help us with a project or to sit in the stands watching our son play football in high school (and now college). These people that showed up over and over and over. My sister still talks about when our older son graduated from high school and we were preparing for his grad party, the people that pulled in our driveway over and over to bring pans of bars and hugs and support‌‌I am in awe of our little town and the people that continue to show up for each other and lend a hand, or a dollar, or a meal, or a hug. It’s an honor to live in this place, to do business here, to raise my children here, and to call myself a Minnesotan.

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Individual Income Tax Business Income Tax s Tax Planning

Bookkeeping Payroll Services s QuickBooks

220 22nd Avenue E, Ste. 101, Alexandria

Donna Jensen, CPA s DONNA DJENSENCPA COM

320-808-7851 www.sumacco.com LivingAlexArea.org

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DEVELOPMENT & GROWTH Relocating a business or moving a family is a big decision. Finding a community with a proven record of success is important. If you’re in search of a great community to start or move a business, there is no better choice than the Alexandria area.

Our local officials are doing their best in making Alexandria and Douglas County the best place to open a business and offer a pro-business environment with an overall lower tax burden. Alexandria has received several top business awards, including being named the “#10 Best Place to Start a Business” in Minnesota by Nerdwallet, “City of Excellence” by the League of Minnesota Cities and “2018 Retail Community of the Year” by the Minnesota Retailers Association.

Douglas County’s business community has seen incredible growth the past few decades, and across various sectors.

Alexandria area is home to a vibrant destination with several professional and state-of-the-art manufacturing companies.

We also have retail, transportation, education, and healthcare – all of which results in a diverse economy.

The Alexandria Area Economic Development Commission works collaboratively to facilitate job growth in our region, and offers numerous programs for businesses to move or expand operations within the state. Our office provides the support needed to assist in business and community growth with such tools as tax increment financing, tax abatement, and industrial bonds. We also provide financial assistance through our revolving-loan funds for business startup, growth, and expansion.

Tax credits and competitive incentive programs can be a piece of the puzzle, but one of the finest incentives available is offered through Alexandria Technical & Community College (ATCC). As part of the Minnesota State College and Universities System, ATCC can provide expanding companies access to customized training programs that will prepare a company’s workforce from the start.

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LivingAlexArea.org

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Live and work

sPOTLIGHT

Q: What is your occupation(s)?

A: Johnny works at Country Financial and Lizzy owns a floral and bakery business named Flour & Petal.

Johnny and Lizzy thill

Q: How long have you worked there?

A: Johnny recently had a career move in 2018 and Lizzy has had her business for over 5 years.

Q: How did you begin your work with your company?

A: Johnny loves the feeling of helping friends and neighbors achieve their goals so Country Financial was a perfect fit when the opportunity arose. Lizzy has been baking her whole life with her mom and started her own business when one of her friends needed baked goods and flowers for a wedding.

Q: What is your perspective on your industry? Is it growing in our area, has it changed since you began your work?

A: For Johnny, the insurance industry is always changing because insurance needs change as people’s lives change.

For Lizzy, the floral and baking industries are definitely growing, as new venues like Gathered Oaks are bringing more business opportunities to Alexandria.

Q: Tell us about your family life. Do you have children, grandchildren, close family nearby?

A: Lizzy has family in Fergus Falls and Johnny’s family lives in Chicago. We are expecting our first child in early December!

Q: What do you do in your free time?

A: We love spending time together and visiting different restaurants in Alexandria. Our favorites are Great Hunan and La Ferme!

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Q: What brought you to our community?

A: We felt a strong pull to Alexandria after we were married and still living in Chicago. One Sunday in 2016, as we were travelling from Fergus Falls to Chicago, we stopped in at Lake Community Church for a service and from there we were determined to make Alexandria our home.

Q: How long have you lived in the area?

A: We have lived in Alexandria for almost three years now!

Q: What do you like about living in this community?

A: We love this community because of how welcoming it is and how easy it is to get involved in local events and activities.

Q: What advice would you give someone looking to move here?

A: Do not be afraid to get plugged in! Whether it be church, events, or local business gatherings; it’s an excellent opportunity to meet new people.

Q: Give three reasons that you enjoy living here...

A: • The community and friends that we are close with.

• Local events and restaurants.

• The atmosphere. Alexandria is different than any community either of us have had the opportunity to be a part of.

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LEADING IN MANUFACTURING Alexandria is home to four of the world’s leading manufacturers of automated packaging machines, marking the region one of the leaders in technology development and innovation in the manufacturing industry. Equipment that is designed, engineered, and manufactured by Alexandria-area companies is utilized by businesses across the United States and around the world. The area has a diverse set of manufacturing businesses and organizations ranging from packaging, aluminum extrusion, to genomic solutions.

Having the second largest payroll among business sectors in Douglas County. Employing 20% of the population, manufacturing is an integral part of the community, and provides a stable and consistent economy for future growth and expansion. Minnesota manufacturing provides $21 billion in wages to its employees. Supplying highly skilled, high-paying jobs, manufacturing significantly contributes to the area’s high standard of living and economic vitality.

Alexandria area manufacturers are also involved in partnership with the surrounding schools and Alexandria Technical & Community College to provide speakers, mentors, and hands on experience to students and instructors. Companies are realizing that a link between future workforce and manufacturing businesses in the area is important to help give insight to potential job opportunities in the community.

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LivingAlexArea.org

Welcome to Alexandria!

Here, your strength is our success.

We think you’ll like it here. We sure do!

Our Purpose: We are people making a difference by providing innovative manufacturing solutions to create a safer, healthier, happier, and more INDUSTRIES productive world for our families, www.alexandriaindustries.com customers and communities!

3M.com/careers-us

Let our family take care of yours.

Household Organics Drop Sites Curbside Organics Recycling (Osakis & Glenwood) Commercial/Business Organics Recycling

Experience the difference today!

Glenwood

5 E Minnesota Ave (320) 634-5111

Villard

440 Washington Ave (320) 554-3021

Alexandria

2221 S Broadway St (320) 763-0200

www.glenwoodstate.bank Locally-Owned, Family-Owned, Family-Operated

LivingAlexArea.org

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Live and work

sPOTLIGHT

Q: What is your occupation(s)?

A: Eddie is the Director of Community Relations & Development at Alomere Health and Sarah is the Dean of Students at Discovery Middle School.

Q: How long have you worked there?

A: Eddie has been working at Alomere for 6 years and Sarah is in her 13th year with the school district.

Q: How did you begin your work with your company?

A: Eddie made a pretty drastic career change in 2012 from being a Vice President of Real Estate Lending at Bell Bank into health care. He had always been interested in working in the health care field in some capacity but didn’t know exactly where that would be. When the position of Direct of Community Relations & Development became available, he knew it was where he wanted to be.

Sarah had a former teacher that shared the position availability with her. After 2 interviews- the district chose HER! This position allowed her to work with her former teacher for several years before he retired.

Q: Tell us about your family life. Do you have children, grandchildren, close family nearby?

A: Eddie and Sarah have been married for 9 years and have two children (Hazel 5, Alex 3). Hazel attends Preschool at the Early Education Center and Alex attends daycare at the most amazing home in town (thank you, Kris!!). Eddie is originally from the area and his mother, Mary Jane Reif, still resides in Alexandria. One of his three sisters, Katie Sansted (Reif) and her family Rick Sansted, Peter (15), Myles (15), Ellen (11) and Teddy (9) also live in Alexandria. Sarah is a transplant to the area from Lake Park, MN (small town near Detroit Lakes). The job brought her to the area where she met Eddie on a blind date.

Q: What advice would you give someone looking to move here?

A: Don’t hesitate! It is a fabulous community that offers everything you could need. From our vibrant downtown to our state of the art schools, we have everything people need to thrive and enjoy living here.

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EDDIE and SARAH REIF Q: What do you like about living in this community?

A: They love the people, the natural resources, the progressive nature of our community including the schools, community groups and public events.

Although Eddie is originally from here, Sarah was new to the area, and it took some time to get used to putting herself out there. She would encourage those that are new to the area to do so quickly! The rewards are endless! She has become (some might say overly) involved in many projects and boards and foundations in the community. Giving back and making a difference are both very important to here. These are values she would like to instill in their children. "You can be the change!"

In Sara’s humble opinion, it is one of the best places possible to raise a family- Especially as they are actively doing so! We have the modern conveniences of a bigger area (Hello...Target!!) and the feel of a smaller town. We have an amazing school district (She says that obviously she’s partial, but in being involved in boards where she meets school personnel from across the state it is confirmed to her regularly) and a healthcare system that is second to none!

Q: Is this a good place to raise a family?

A: As someone who was raised in Alexandria and now raising my own family in the same community, I can attest to this area being a great community to raise a family. The schools are state of the art, the community offers great family friendly events year round, the natural resources allow people easy access to parks, trails and lakes completely free of charge.

1525 Broadway Street • Alexandria

320-763-3076

Alomere means community.

From coaching football, leading Girl Scout troupes, helping with the basketball boosters and the annual band festival, to supporting the Sertoma and Rotary clubs, Habitat for Humanity, and The United Way, we love our amazing community. One of our closest partnerships is with the Alexandria Area High School.

Every semester our staff teaches medical procedures like intubation, suturing, and applying casts. It’s a rare opportunity for high school students to gain early experiences in healthcare.

We’re here to help make our community an amazing place to live and visit. Thanks for trusting us with your health care.

Here for Life

Alomere Health • Alexandria Clinic • Osakis Clinic • Heartland Orthopedic Specialists

LivingAlexArea.org

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HUB FOR HEALTHCARE You won’t have to go far when you need healthcare while living in the Alexandria area. Alexandria has some of the best medical facilities in West Central Minnesota, including a hospital that was recently again named as one of the nation’s Top 100 Hospitals, and is the number one employer in Douglas County, employing nearly 1000 individuals and providing care to over 150,000 people.

Alomere Health (formerly Douglas County Hospital) is a general medical and surgical hospital that was accredited as a Level III trauma center in September 2016. Alomere Health is the first hospital in West Central Minnesota to introduce robotic-assisted surgery. The world-renowned da Vinci Xi Robot is currently being installed in the surgical center, by the end of 2018, patients will be able to experience a new level of surgical possibilities close to home.

Alexandria serves as the healthcare hub for Douglas County. Through multiple senior care and rehab facilities: Alexandria Clinic, Heartland Orthopedics, Sanford Broadway Clinic, and Alomere Health. Healthcare facilities are prepared to serve all ages and at every stage of life.

Douglas County also has several businesses that are designed to enrich the lives of residents through healthcare services such as; home care, assisted living, outpatient therapy, short-term rehab, wellness center, memory care, and hospice.

Another top 10 employer in Douglas County is Knute Nelson in Alexandria.

They are a non-profit senior care center that employs over 600 people and serves multiple communities throughout Douglas County and Minnesota. Other care facilities in the area include: Bethany on the Lake, Alex Assisted Living, The Care Campus in Brandon and Evansville, and Galeon of Osakis.

Alomere Health 111 17th Avenue East Alexandria, MN 56308 (320) 762-1511 www.alomerehealth.com

Alexandria Clinic 610 30th Avenue West Alexandria, MN 56308 (320) 763-5123 • 800-646-4220 www.alexclinic.com

Heartland Orthopedic Specialists 111 17th Avenue East, Suite 101 Alexandria, MN 56308 800-762-1177 www.heartlandorthopedics.com

Sanford Health Broadway Clinic 1527 Broadway Street Alexandria, MN 56308 Local (320) 762-0399 • 888 640-0399 www.sanfordhealth.org If you are in need of Emergency Services, please call 9 -1-1.

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LivingAlexArea.org

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Live and work

sPOTLIGHT

Q: What is your occupation(s)?

A: Both of us are retired. I retired from the Air Force as a Lieutenant Colonel. During our 22 years in the Air Force, Laurie and I moved around the United States about every three years. Our two children had a chance to see most areas of our country. My operational experience involved nuclear weapons with Inter-Continental Ballistic Missiles during the Cold War with the Soviet Union. Alexandria should be on top of the list for veterans and military retirees. Laurie retired from the state Library system and recognizes that Alexandria has a fantastic library and programs for all ages.

Q: Tell us about your family life.

A: Our son and his family live in North Dakota and our daughter and her family live in Wisconsin. Alexandria is a great gathering place for our family, extended family and friends. Our 200 acres have plenty of areas to enjoy the outdoors and explore. The lakes are also such a big asset.

We are blessed with four grandchildren: Lauren, Collin, Miles and Felix and love capturing "dragons" with them.

Q: What do you do in your free time?

A: Laurie joined the area Newcomers organization and met lots of great people. She is involved in several special interest groups including book clubs, lunch bunches, lakes area dining, cards and wine clubs. I enjoy all aspects of the outdoors. Really no reason to spend time indoors except maybe to wash cloths.

Q: How long have you lived in the area?

A: Four years ago we built a new home on the farm that has been in the family since 1949. While we lived in different places in the country we always had the connection to the family farm, using the property like folks use their lake cabins. It is our last move!!!

Q: What do you like about living in this community?

A: Since we have the perspective of living in many parts of the country, we can say that this community is the best place in the country. Alexandria is a place where people are welcoming, kind, compassionate and go out of their way to help you. We like the opportunities to volunteer in church, service clubs, and organizations. The quality of healthcare and the relationship with the healthcare professionals. The feel of a small hometown doctor and dentist where you are not just another patient but you have a friend that wants the best for you.

Q: What advice would you give someone looking to move here?

A: We knew we would return to the area presently at some point in our lives. Alexandria is unique in what it offers for all facets of life.

A: Do it! Alexandria has anything you would want.

Excellent restaurants, healthcare, growing economy and a fantastic area for recreation. No where in the country can you find these opportunities to enjoy every day.

A: Laurie grew up in Alexandria. Her father taught Agriculture at the High School. I grew up in Rock Falls, Wisconsin. I became connected to Alexandria in 1974. We got married in Alexandria in 1978!

A: You will not find a better place for raising a family.

Alexandria has a first rate school system with numerous opportunities for sports and academics and outdoor activities.

Q: What brought you to our community?

Q: Are you from the area originally?

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MARK and LAURIE HINTERMEYER

Q: Is this a good place to raise a family?

203 22nd Ave W, Alexandria, MN

(320) 759-3143

www.pemlaw.com ALEXANDRIA • DETROIT LAKES • FERGUS FALLS • WADENA

Paul Johnson, Nick Heydt, Curt Ripley, Julie Haseman, Marc Sugden, Charley Good

SERVING THE ALEXANDRIA LAKES AREA WITH SAFE, RELIABLE, AFFORDABLE ELECTRICITY AND RELATED SERVICES www.runestoneelectric.com 1-800-473-1722

LivingAlexArea.org

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Since 1880, the Alexandria School District has created and sustained a highly regarded school system within a thriving community.

Our students excel in academics and extracurricular activities, we have highly qualified teachers and staff who have a deep passion for what they do, and our community has a heart for our youth.

Our school district has something for everyone, and that’s the reason We are the A Team.

The A-Team represents our exceptional school community that is focused on the following areas:

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Excellence in Academics – an innovative, challenging curriculum, that can’t be matched.

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Excellence in Activities – numerous opportunities to participate in arts, activities and athletics – we have something for everyone.

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Excellence in Attention – a personalized, individual-focused experience. A place where every student is known.

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Excellence in Access – exclusive opportunities to learn side-by-side with community business leaders and mentors who are dedicated to partnering with students and who bring real-world experiences into the classroom.

From our personalized learning initiative and award-winning fine arts and athletics programs to our focus on individualized pathways for college and career readiness, you will see why Alexandria Public Schools is truly a destination district.

Learn more about our schools by visiting www.alexandria.k12.mn.us or calling 320-762-2141.

Proudly serving the communities of Alexandria, Carlos, Forada, Garfield, Miltona, Nelson, and surrounding area townships.

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TOPS IN EDUCATION Douglas County serves thousands of lifelong learners, providing educational options for all generations. Throughout the county there are:

• 110 licensed family child care providers • 13 CHILDcare centers/preschools • 3 public schools: Alexandria, Osakis and Brandon/Evansville, • Douglas County has a handful of private schools, higher with an averagE graduation rate of 89%

education and technical training at Alexandria Technical & Community College (ATCC)

• Community Education classes for all ages; early education, youth and adult opportunities

Alexandria Public Schools is a regional leader in education with nine exceptional schools serving about 4,000 students throughout six communities. Alexandria Area High School provides students a modern school and an innovative learning program with small learning communities known as The Academies of Alexandria. This model is preparing all students for college and/or career, it is unlike any other throughout West Central Minnesota. ATCC is an educational leader serving approximately 3,900 students each year. Ranked fourth in the nation for graduation of all public two year institutions and has a 98% job placement rate for graduates.

Early education classes start with infants and into preschool for all ages. Sports/activities, clubs and ACT prep are just some of the excellent learning opportunities for K-12 youth to get involved. Community Education also provides adults with continual possibilities to be lifelong learners from classes on, cooking, dancing, art, exercise and more. Douglas County is leading the way in education all throughout the county making sure there are opportunities for any stage in life, from childcare, preschool, K-12, into higher education and beyond.

We’d LOVE to be your bank!

Del Mari Runck Chris Merten COO/Market Manager/ Commercial Director Lender

Jean Feigum Paul Martinek Mortgage Lender VP Business Banker

Vic Dale Retail Manager

320.763.8366

803 N Nokomis NE Alexandria | Member FDIC

LivingAlexArea.org

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Visit the lakes area!

Want to try out the Alexandria Lakes Area before making the move?

We’ve got plenty of fun for the entire family.

Flip the book over to learn more about why Alexandria is the ultimate destination to live, work and PLAY!

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VISIT OUR CAMPUS

Register for a tour at www.alextech.edu/tour

ALEX ANDRIA TECHNICAL & COMMUNITY COLLEGE www.alextech.edu • info@alextech.edu • 320-762-0221 An Equal Opportunity Employer/Educator This document is available in alternative formats by calling 888-234-1222 ext. 4673 or 320-762-4673.

Alexandria Technical & Community College A member of Minnesota State

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55

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2

28

15 John Lake

Lowry

28

Erikson Lake

ke

28

24

A

28

28

Horse Lake Mitmoen Lake

Wade State Wildlife Management Area

Lybeck Lake

Van Luik State Wildlife Mangement Area

Lake Ellen

31

Leven Lake

28 Belgum Lake

8

27

no

Lair Lake

114

26

La

Diamond Lake

26

Rosby Lake

Nora State Wildlife Management Area

Vollemann State Wildlife Management Area

28

26 3

TO SAUK CENTER, MN

l

Wicklund Lake

7

51

EXIT 119

72

89

Jorgenson Lake

Christopherson Lake

Kuntz Lake

Schulz Lake

West Union

94 Slough Lake

Lovers Lake

Maple Lake

Farwell

55

52 32

Long Lake

East Olaf Lake

kR

West Union Managemen

West Union Lake

Herberger Lake State Wildlife Management Area

4

7 5

Gulden Lake

79

17

87

3

S au

Union Lake

89 West Mattson Olaf Lake Lake

99

79

Childs Lake

86

31

73 4

Mud Lake

99

Osakis State Wildlife Management Area

EXIT 114

28 Lake Andrew

51

Swims Lake

31

26

Kensington

99

127

2

23

il

97

31

Smith Lake

27

Faille Lake

3

a Tr

Long Lake Hegg Lake

Lake Rachel

82

Osakis

87

Mud Lake Freeborn Lake

r f ield C reek

Lake Burgen

EXIT 103

15 Hegg Lake State Wildlife Management Area

F ai

27

82

on

96

80

17

Lake Jessie

7

114

Randal Lake

ail

eg

Grubb Lake

kes Tr

ob

Solem Lake

Roland Lake

93

3 ra l La

eW

Little Freeborn Lake

Echo Lake

Lewis Lake

Ce nt

Great Northern State Wildlife Management Area

4

ke

4

8

37

Nelson

23

21

10

k La

103

Little Oscar Lake

55 25

Alexandria

67

91

7 Runestone County Park

74

r

Blackwell Lake

Kron Lakes

72

27

Holmes City

Lake Oscar Eng Lake

9

iv e

Little Red Rock Lake

Thompson Lake

Geneva Golf Club Lake Geneva Christian Center Lake Geneva

78

74

Crooks Lake

Wolf Lake

Holmes City Lake North Oscar Lake

CART

42 Lake Agnes

27

EXIT 100

Slo

y

Brandon Lake

Andes Tower Hills

15

73

Bird Lake

Alexandria Municipal Airport

45

Mud Lake

M ar

Wolley Lake

Crooked Lake

Platt Lake

1

Lake Le Homme Dieu Beach

Alexandria Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

Round Lake

Vicking State Wildlife Management Area Red Rock Lake

60

ri a

to k La

Lake Johnson

9

85

Alexandria Golf Course

Lake Winona

L ak e

r La L obste

Curt Felt Memorial Park

54

Lake Latoka Beach

Emil Lake

EXIT 97

Schnepf State Wildlife Management Area

27

Lake Cowdry

11

27

arli

53

Lake Brophy

Berglins Bay

Lake Mina

Gilbert Lake

Lake Thorstad

Quam Lake

eD

74 D ie u

North Union Lake

Lake Brophy County Park

19

10

Belle River State Wildlife Management Area

me

Lake Venus Red Rock State Wildlife Management Area

Berglins Lake

Lake William

Elizabeth Lake

7

Brown Lake

11

52

46

8 Holleque Lake

Arrowwood Golf Course Lake Alvin

Lake Louise

La Grand State Wildlife Management Area

38

94

22

Anderson Lake

Siebell Lake

71

H

om

52

Minister Lake

51

L ak e L e

Bjork Lake

Urness State Wildlife Management Area

30

See Alexandria Map for Detail

s

20 40

Elk Lake

Theatre Le Homme Dieu

Lake Charley

Garfield

Hollister State Wildlife Management Area

3

9

ic to

Nelson Lake

Thorson Lake

Barsness Lake

3

Carlos

L ak e Carlo s

Aldrich Lake

56 Amos Lake

11 Carlos Creek Winery

12

56 1

69

3

Belle River 30

42

Garfield State Wildlife Management Area

109

56

Brandon State Wildlife Management Area

e R iv e r Prai ri

13

k

Jennie Lake

1

6

iri

Luther Crest Bible Camp

Moon Lake

S

1 L on g

65

L ak e V

EXIT 90

Riv e r

P

13

Whiskey Lake

Pud Lake

7

Long Lake

ng

38

La

R iv er p ew a

C hip

Loves Lake

38

5

Mount Carmel Family Camp

58

Brandon 55

1

Spruce Hill County Park

29

p

Ce

5

Lo

62 Lake Carlos State Park

Pilgrim Point Camp

Long Lake

4

11

Lake Ida

Burrs Lake

Chippewa County Park

82

ak

Big Spruce State Wildlife Management Area

5

Miltona Golf Course

34

L ak e

r ai l

Erwin Lake

75 77 76

5

56

Powers Lake

68

Os a k is

Sto we Ce

a

ke

Fanny Lake

52 94

ilto n

5

12 Chippewa County Park

14

Miltona

La

Little Chippewa Lake

aL

Lower Hunt Lake

66

14

L ak e M

6

Baumbach Lake

EXIT 82 1

Ellis Lake

Indian Lake

Evansville

Mahla Lakes

36

5

Upper Hunt Lake

Olson Lake

82

3

7

5

1

Lake Irene

Spring Lake

Leaf Valley

14

Fairf i e ld C r eek

Pine Ridge Golf Course

Balgard State Wildlife Management Area

Rose City

14 14

5

Lake Cina

Horseshoe Lake

60

16

Stockhaven Lake

65

N

Lake Moses

33

tate Wildlife ement Area

Millerville

66

Spruce Center S pr u ce C reek

24 1

18

36 64

y Cr ee k

39

Stockhousen Lake

Spruce Creek State Wildlife Management Area

Hartfiel State Wildlife Management Area

Lake Vermont

S tor m

35

Lake Aaron

ra

Melby

63

Boesen Lake

24

3

State Wildlife Management Area

Boesen Lake

52

ke Ina

2

35

e

a

6

12

ew

istin

7

22

Lincoln Lake

Mud Lake

33

29 17

E

F

G

H

t

o

l

r

n

n

ALEXANDRIA LAKES AREA LODGING

MAP AFFILIATE TRAVEL INFORMATION CENTER

Map Ad on Location Page

Lodging Facility

Alexandria Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center Bed and Breakfast Inns Lake L’Homme Dieu B & B Spirit Cove Lodge B & B

D-5, 1 6

E-4, Le Homme Dieu, 19 44 C-4, 20 44

Campgrounds Big Foot Resort C-6, Mary, 66 Canary Beach Resort E-7, Villard, 83 Cottage Grove Resort D-6, Andrew, 41 Lucky Acres Campground D-2, Miltona, 36 Midway Beach Resort & Campground G-5,Osakis, 80 Oak Park Kampground C-4, 38 Shady Rest Resort F-8, Amelia, 40 Hotel/Motel AmericInn Lodge & Suites, Sauk Centre Not on Map located 20 miles SE of Alexandria Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center D-4, Darling, 52 Fairfield Inn & Suites, Alexandria E-5, 4 GrandStay Hotel & Suites, Parkers Prairie E-1, 10 GrandStay Hotel & Suites, Glenwood D-8, 45 Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton E-5, 6 Holiday Inn of Alexandria E-5, 7 Super 8 of Alexandria D-5, 8

45 49 50 45 49 44 45

38

35 38 37 37 36 34 38

Map Ad on Location Page

Lodging Facility

Resorts Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center D-4, Darling, 52 Bergs Resort E-4, Le Homme Dieu, 60 Betsy Ross Resort D-3, Ida, 56 Big Foot Resort C-6, Mary, 66 Brophy Lake Resort D-4, Brophy, 46 Canary Beach Resort E-7, Villard, 83 Cottage Grove Resort D-6, Andrew, 41 Eden Acres I D-5, Mary, 67 Eden Acres II C-5, Mary, 70 Geneva Beach Resort E-5, Geneva, 55 Maryview Beach Resort C-5, Mary, 72 Midway Beach Resort & Campground G-5, Osakis, 80 Mill Lake Resort C-5, Mill, 74 Rusty Moose Resort E-2, Miltona, 75 Shady Creek Resort B-2, Aaron & Moses, 39 Shady Lawn Resort D-4, Darling, 53 Shady Rest Resort F-8, Amelia, 40 Smith Lake Resort F-5, Smith, 82 Val Halla Villa Resort D-4, Darling, 54 Viking Bay Resort E-2, Miltona, 76 Westridge Shores Resort C-5, Mary, 71 Windjammer Inn Resort E-4, Carlos, 51 Woodland Resort E-3, Miltona, 77 Vacation Homes Sugarbush Lodge Oriole Lodge

35 53 47 45 51 49 50 55 55 52 54 49 54 56 50 45 56 53 57 54 53 56

E-5, Geneva, 25 57 D-6, Mary, 73 54

L O DG I NG FA C I L I T I E S L I S T E D ABOVE HAVE ADVERTISEMENTS IN THIS PUBLICATION

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Welcome to the Alexandria Lakes Area – the ULTIMATE destination to live, work, and play! We’re happy you are here to enjoy our many lakes full of fish and fun, our unique shopping opportunities and our vibrant downtown, our quality golf courses and sports complexes, our numerous attractions, abundant history, arts and cultural offerings, and our many diverse lodging options. Have your picture taken with our legendary Big Ole, take a peek at the famous Kensington Runestone, pedal your way down our breathtaking Central Lakes Trail, and be sure to come back again soon!

Located only a couple hours northwest of the Twin Cities on I-94, the Alexandria Lakes Area is perfect for family vacations, weekend getaways and hosting events and meetings.

TABLE OF CONTENTS lakes area LODGING map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5 attractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9 the arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13 historical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-16 historic downtown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-21 outdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22-28 golf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-31 sports facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32-33 conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34-35

Welcome

hotels/motels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36-37 OUR LEGACY OF HOSPITALITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38-39 restaurants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-41 Calendar of events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-43 Bed and breakfast Inns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Campgrounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 resorts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46-49 lake maps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-57

to Alexandria – the Ultimate Destination to Live, Work & Play!

Vistor Center Hours Monday - Friday 8:30 - 5:00 Saturday 10:00 - 4:00

www.VacationAlexandriaMN.com • 1-800-235-9441 • 206 Broadway 6

1

Alexandria Farmers Market

Local producers can often be found selling their wares at the Alexandria Farmers Market at Big Ole Central Park at the north end of Broadway in Alexandria. Stop by and check out the locally raised produce, meat, cheese, plants and more. The market is open select days from May to late October. www.facebook.com/alexandriafarmersmkt/

Andes Tower Hills

3

2

This winter hot spot 15 miles west of Alexandria features 16 downhill runs, three chairlifts, a magic carpet lift, terrain park, four tubing runs, 20 kilometers of cross-country ski trails (some lit), and equipment rentals. There is also a pro shop, restaurant, on-site condominium, lessons and racing events.

A flurry of activity can be found here in the summer as well, with mountain bike, running and horseback riding trails and motorcycle racing. www.andestowerhills.com

Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center

This resort offers good times yearround. During the warmer months enjoy the Championship Golf Course, sandy beach, outdoor pool, full-service marina with lake cruises, water skis, paddleboats, personal watercraft, fishing boats, pontoons, canoes, sand volleyball courts, bike rentals and walking paths. In winter, there’s snowmobiling, sledding, ice skating, cross country skiing, ice fishing and more. Year-round enjoy the Big Splash Indoor Waterpark, indoor pool, whirlpool, fitness center, spa, conference center and fine dining options. www.arrowwoodresort.com

Art Bar 39

4

Visit during studio hours and make and take a masterpiece, or schedule a private party at the studio or at your own location. Paint on canvas, wood coasters, coffee mugs, wine glasses or bottles, growlers, terracotta pots, a wood Minnesota cutout, or make a quote or stencil art on wood. This is a great way for all ages to socialize and enjoy some creative fun. Located at the Viking Plaza Mall in Alexandria. www.artbar39.com

Big Ole

5

Don’t miss this photo opportunity! Big Ole stands tall at the north end of Alexandria’s Broadway at Big Ole Central Park. The 28-foot tall, four-ton Viking statue was created in 1965 by Gordon Displays of Minneapolis and transported to New York for the Minnesota display at the World’s Fair. The display featured the Kensington Runestone in an animated scene titled “Minnesota, Birthplace of America.” Big Ole then traveled to Alexandria, where he still lives today.

6

Farmers Market

Burr Vineyards

This small, boutique family vineyard and winery at 10522 County Rd. 58 near Brandon specializes in hand-crafted wines derived from the cold-hardy grapes grown adjacent to the property.

Overlooking Burr lake, the property provides a relaxing escape. Enjoy walking or wagon tours on winding natural woodland and prairie wildlife trails. An outdoor brick oven bakes up pizzas or home-baked breads, perfect accompaniments to wine tasting. Enjoy the private event room, and lots of country hospitality! www.burrvineyards.com

Big Ole

Carlos Creek Winery

7

Chainsaw Carving

Carlos Creek Winery

8

7

Carlos Creek Winery is home of the “Official Wine of Minnesota Fun!” Tour the facilities, taste the wines, and enjoy musical entertainment. An event center is open to weddings and other events.

The annual Grape Stomp attracts more than 15,000 spectators and features wine sampling, juried artists, food vendors, live music and grape stomping.

Applefest is another popular event held each October. Located north of Alexandria at 6693 County Road 34. www.carloscreekwinery.com

Casey’s Amusement Park

Open daily from May through September, this is the place to go for fun! There are go karts, kiddie karts, mini golf, bumper boats, baseball and softball batting cages, an arcade, snacks and a picnic area. There are group rates, special wristband days, and passengers ride free in the karts and boats. Located at 1303 N. Nokomis NE, Alexandria. www.caseysamusementpark.com

Copper Trail Brewing Company

Country Blossom Farm

This craftsman meets industrial style taproom can be found at 410 30th Avenue East, Alexandria. Enjoy a pint from the frequently changing tap list or grab a Growler or Crowler to go. Local owners designed and built the brewery and take great pride in every beer brewed on-site. The brewing equipment is on display and games are available for play. Enjoy pizzas and snacks at the bar or order food in from a local restaurant. www.coppertrailbrewing.com

9

Escape Room Alexandria

PAINT WITH US

ALEXANDRIA, MN

Make & Take Art for Kids & Adults WWW.ARTBAR39.COM 320.759.2039

8

Country Blossom Farm

10

This 100-acre farm is a delicious experience for all ages! It boasts 8,000 apple trees, strawberries, honeyberries, aronia berries, raspberries, pumpkins, rhubarb, squash, gourds, mushrooms, a seven-acre corn maze, corn pit, straw mountain, jumping pillow, spider web, pedal car track, bazooka ball, wagon rides, woodland walk, gift shop and farm-to-table bakery featuring pies, donuts, turnovers and cookies. 1951 Englund Road SW west of Alexandria.

Open mid-August through midNovember with many special events. www.countryblossomfarm.com

Escape Room Alexandria

Escape Room Alexandria is “Easy to Get To, Hard to Escape!” Experience a live game adventure – find the clues, solve the puzzles and escape before time runs out! Fun for friends, tourists, families, gamers and corporate team-building.

The complex, located at 115 8th Avenue E in Alexandria, features a variety of escape room adventures. Check out their escape rooms and book online! www.EscapeAlexandria.com

Erickson’s Petting Zoo

11

This Century Farm at 11890 Hope Road near Osakis includes pygmy goats, sheep, miniature horses, cattle and donkeys, llamas, pot-belly pigs, rabbits, cats, colored chickens, pheasants, ducks, geese, peacock, pigeons and doves. The large barnyard includes a playground, sand pile and orange mesh maze. There is also a party shed, wagon rides, pony rides, and a pumpkin patch. Check website for hours. www.ericksonspettingzoo.com

12

Garden Center Lanes

13

This is one of the premiere bowling centers in the Upper Midwest. It features 34 lanes of bowling, a large arcade, snack counter, pro shop, and big screen TVs. Enjoy league or open bowling, with doors opening at 9 a.m. daily. The lanes are connected to Fat Daddy’s Bar & Grill, a casual dining restaurant and bar located at 115 30th Avenue E, Alexandria. www.gardencenterlanes.com

Garden Center Lanes

Midway 9 Theatre

14

Who doesn’t love a movie? This theatre is located in the center of Alexandria at 2910 South Broadway near the Viking Plaza. Relax in the theatre’s powered luxury recliners.

Reserved seating is offered in every auditorium, along with group showings, birthday party packages, auditorium rentals, senior specials, and other specials. www.cectheatres.com

Panther Distillery

15

Experience the Minnesota Difference in handcrafted spirits at Minnesota’s first craft distillery! Located in pristine lake country, this distillery features locally-grown, handselected ingredients that make great tasting whiskey and spirits. The distillery is located down the road from the farms where the finest yellow corn, red wheat and red rye are grown to make mash. Enjoy samples, tours, and the gift store.

Located at 300 East Pike Street in Osakis. www.PantherDistillery.com

Viking Speedway

Viking Speedway

In its 50-plus-year history, fans have seen some of the top dirt track racers in a five-state area compete at this large half-mile semi-banked clay oval.

The track features WISSOTA Modifieds, Super Stocks, Midwest Modifieds, Late Models, Street Stocks and unsanctioned Pure Stocks. Races are held Saturday nights early May through Labor Day, with additional special events. Located at the Douglas County Fairgrounds. www.vikingspeedway.net

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9

Andria Theatre

1

The mission of this live theatre and performing arts center is to build community by igniting interest and participation in and through the performing arts. Each season includes five quality stage productions for families and adults. It also holds a growing reputation for its live comedy improvisational theatre and its Student Theatre Project. Check the website for schedules and ticket information, Located in downtown Alexandria at 618 Broadway. www.andriatheatre.org

Art in the Park

3

2

This popular arts festival has earned a statewide reputation during its 40+ year span. Crowds of 20,000 to 30,000 visit the scenic park to shop at the 150 booths of fine art and handmade treasures while also enjoying live music and an array of food vendors. The event is a fundraiser for the Andria Theatre and is held at Alexandria City Park the last weekend of July. www.andriatheatre.org/art-in-thepark/

Central Lakes Concert Association

Central Lakes Symphony Orchestra

This community-based orchestra is dedicated to bringing quality musical culture to West Central Minnesota by offering more opportunities for people to hear orchestral music and opportunities for musicians to perform serious music with a symphony orchestra. It has more than 50 members from Alexandria and surrounding communities. The orchestra is open to performers ages 16+ through audition. Some concerts also feature chorale performers.

Concerts are held at various locations. www.centrallakessymphony.org

Evansville Arts Center

The Evansville Arts Coalition, which is dedicated to coordinating art events and activities that entertain, stimulate and engage, operates this center in a historic building in Evansville. It is an exhibit space, music venue, and place for artists-in-residence to sell their work. The goal is to provide arts experiences for people of all ages. Art exhibits, photo exhibits, concerts and open mic nights are featured. Located at 111 Main Street NW, Evansville. www.evansvilleartcenter.com

5

This association has existed for 35+ years with the goal of offering quality concerts that are affordable to the general public. An annual membership allows its 1,500+ members to attend all concerts in Alexandria, as well as concerts hosted by the Sauk Centre, Ortonville/Milbank, Brainerd, Fergus Falls and Wadena concert associations. Concerts are held in the modern and comfortable Performing Arts Center at Alexandria Area High School. www.centrallakesconcerts.com Art in the Park

10

4

Andria Theatre

Festival of the Lakes

6

This classical chamber music series has been bringing professional, renowned musicians to Alexandria every summer since 1993. It has included many featured musicians from the ranks of the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra and Minnesota Orchestra, as well as from other professional orchestras in Minnesota and throughout the United States, Canada and Europe. www.alexfest.org

Lakes Area Theatre

7

Lakes Area Theatre features a troupe of writers, directors, voice actors, musicians, sound effect technicians and recording engineers who mimic the radio shows popular in the 1950s.

Shows are performed before live audiences, recorded and played on radio stations throughout central Minnesota and streamed on the Internet. Fire Pit Productions offers small cast stage plays that hearken back to the days of sitting around the bonfire telling stories. The Shoreline Artists Gallery is a changing visual arts exhibit that features the work of Alexandria area artists. Located at 2214 Geneva Road NE. www.lakesareatheatre.com

Theatre L’Homme Dieu

11

Music in the Gardens

Music in the Gardens

9

Performing Arts Center

Vikingland Band Festival

12

10

8

This summer concert series takes place at the Legacy Gardens at the Legacy of the Lakes Museum in Alexandria.

Concerts are held on select Friday evenings and are open to ages 21 and older. Bring a lawn chair and visit with friends while enjoying quality performances in a relaxed outdoor setting. www.legacyofthelakes.org

The Performing Arts Center at Alexandria Area High School

This center was designed and built with state-of-the-art equipment, acoustics, handicapped-accessible seating, and audience comfort in mind. It seats more than 1,000. A variety of school and community choral, instrumental and theatrical performances are held on the stage each year. www.alexandria.k12.mn.us click Community Education, pull down to Performing Arts Center

Red Willow Arts Coalition

This group promotes the arts and provides entertainment events for the lakes area. The popular Concerts on the Courthouse Lawn feature performances by professional musicians. The free concerts are held Thursdays at 7 p.m. from the week prior to Memorial Day through the week prior to Labor Day. Attendees bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy music in a relaxed outdoor setting in the heart of Alexandria at 305 8th Avenue West. www.redwillowartscoalition.org

11

Theatre L’Homme Dieu

For nearly 60 years, this historic seasonal theatre has been presenting exceptional live theatre, fine arts and educational programming that celebrates culture and nurtures community. It is the oldest operating summer stock theatre in Minnesota! The professional programming offers something for all ages, including musicals, comedies and dramas. In addition, the theatre offers a curated concert series, bringing great artists and arts organizations to the lakes area. www.tlhd.org

Vikingland Band Festival

12

For more than 30 years, the Vikingland Band Festival parade marching championship has been the highlight of the summer marching band parade season. Summer bands are at their peak in late June, and they pull out all the stops as they perform on Alexandria’s main street. More than 20 marching bands from across the state take part in the event each year, cheered on by 20,000 enthusiastic spectators. Held annually the last Sunday in June. www.marching.com/events/vbf/

Visit alexmncalendar.com to find local events!

The Arts Culture thrives in the Alexandria Lakes Area!

There are countless arts and entertainment options available in the Alexandria Lakes Area year-round!

The entities featured on these pages provide an array of arts programming to the area. Local clubs thrive with like-minded enthusiasts, including artists, vintage and collector car lovers, quilters, crafters, readers, writers, film enthusiasts and theatrical performers.

The arts are a cornerstone of tourism and economic impact to this area. The Alexandria Lakes Area is part of the Lakes Region Arts Council, where nonprofit arts organizations generate $13.5 million in annual economic activity each year!

12-Year Parts & Labor Warranty 2510 S Broadway St | Alexandria, MN 320-762-8645 www.ellingsons.com 13

MUSEUMS AND HISTORICAL SITES

2

1

Brandon History Center This is located in the historic Brandon Auditorium at 105 Holmes Avenue, which was built in 1936 by the Works Progress Administration and is now on the National Register of Historic Places. The center features artifacts, pictures and memorabilia from Brandon, Millerville and the surrounding area. www.brandonmn.com/BrandonHisto ryandInformationCenter Douglas County Historical Society The home of Minnesota’s first foreign-born governor, Knute Nelson, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, is home to the Douglas County Historical Society. The historical society serves to “discover, preserve and disseminate the history of the county and its people.” It includes a research library; church, school and cemetery records; family history and homestead records; census records, business files, county tax records and more. Tours and research assistance are available.

Located at 1219 Nokomis Street. www.dchsmn.org

Douglas County Historical Society

14

Evansville Historical Foundation Founded by a local resident to preserve the history of Evansville and the surrounding community, this site features a Pioneer Village Museum with a log cabin, dugout, root cellar, pioneer church, prayer chapel, military house, town hall and exhibits of area history. The archives provide information on Evansville history and genealogy. The Foundation also maintains Mound Grove Cemetery, and its Veteran’s Memorial. Located at 304 Gran Street in Evansville. www.evansvillemn.net

3

Legacy of the Lakes Museum & Gardens This treasure, located at 205 3rd Avenue West in Alexandria, celebrates lake traditions through exhibits such as the Fishing Gallery, Grand Hotels & Resorts, Alexandria Boat Works and Fiberglassics. The museum also features a variety of temporary exhibits. The public Legacy Gardens behind the museum showcase colorful flowers, water features and ornamental grasses, shrubs and trees.

A variety of special events can be found here. The museum is open late May through October. www.legacyofthelakes.org

5

Osakis Area Heritage Center This organization strives to preserve and share the history of the Osakis area. Located in the Osakis Information Center, 11 East Main Street in Osakis, the center includes a research collection of family files, cemetery maps, town maps, county histories, photo files, scrapbooks, school yearbooks, newspaper archives and more.

Our Lady of the Hills This 22-foot, 4,500-pound steel and cement shrine of the Virgin Mary was erected by a rural Millerville resident in response to answered prayers for healing. It overlooks the hill country on Our Lady of the Hills Road northwest of Millerville near the border of Douglas and Otter Tail counties.

6

4

Legacy of the Lakes Museum & Gardens

Brandon History Center

Memorial Day Parade on Broadway

15

7

Runestone Museum & Fort Alexandria The world famous, controversial Kensington Rune Stone was the museum’s only artifact when it opened in 1958. Today, it includes numerous artifacts that relate to Middle-Age Nordic explorers, as well as period displays, a wildlife exhibit, historic photographs, Native American exhibit, children’s discovery area and temporary exhibits. Fort Alexandria is a collection of restored period buildings and an annex full of artifacts. Located at 206 Broadway, the museum is open year-round. www.runestonemuseum.org

Runestone Museum

Spruce Hill Church This 1902 church, located north of Alexandria at Spruce Hill Park, is under the care of the Douglas County Historical Society. It features a handcarved pictorial lectern, with each panel illustrating a bible story. Traditional Easter and Christmas services and a mid-summer hymn fest are held each year, and the church is available for funerals, weddings and other events. www.dchsmn.org/places/historicalsites/spruce-hill-lutheran-church/

8

Fort Alexandria

Spruce Hill Church

www.echopress.com 24, 2018 Wednesday, January

LIFE

Echo Press A6

For all your local & regional news.

Day to shop Free shopping day precedes Night to Shine

By Karen Tolkkinen news@theosakisreview.com Osakis Willie Wrede of after pulled silky gown of her silky gown out up and dryer, hung them fluffed their skirts. steam Her dryer has a about function, and after dress 15 minutes, each came out wrinkle-free tried on and ready to be Shine for the Night To from day shopping on SatTolkkinen / Echo Press 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Photos by Karen stored at New of the many dresses urday, Jan. 27, in Willie Wrede examines one to Shine Life Christian Church in preparation for Night and in her Osakis garage Jan. 27. Teenagers Alexandria. and shopping day on Saturday, sports On that day, girls will be able to nd needs adults with special needs a prom for women with special for Night to Shine, Life the dress coats and prom dresses will get to find special needs at New for the teenagers and adults with of their dreams on Christian Church in Alexandria. prom Shine Night To to Boys and Every guest at Night Friday, Feb. 9. needs and 175,000 volunteers. event men with special Shine enters the Bapof son sports Tebow, the They are will be able to find on a red carpet. shirts. tist missionaries, became and makecoats and dress and treated to hair be shoes famous as a college shines, There also will who up stations, shoe corsagNFL football player and jewelry, “Everything limousine rides, , a for the demonstrated his faith they could need es and boutonnieres field. the said. on karaoke prom,” Wrede said, catered dinner, Kelly Last year, Wrede Two years ago, dancing. Each guest , now her husband was helping and king or queen Jo VanderBroek crowned sports is on orange one man try 25, found a long of the prom. day coats for Night to Shine. hours dress at the shopping this The shopping with a “How much is and went to prom flexible, Wrede said. one?” the man asked. her are friend.

“I think we’ll probably of “Well, it’s free,” said.

“She had a blast stay longer,” she Judyann husband said. a time,” said anoth- “Last year we got a call who And, trying on asked from somebody who said Fridgen of Nelson, Van- er coat, the man is this they can’t make it, could expects to bring year’s again, “How much we said derbroek to this we stay later and “She one?” it’s sure. I wouldn’t want to shopping event.

“Well, today’s pampered.” was very husband miss anyone if they want her is one free,” New Life church to come.” church- replied. loves need to of seven sites, all she who said Those Wrede To Shine es, to host Night smiles as arrange a later time Started seeing the in Minnesota. on clothes should call Wrede at the Tim shoppers try that they 605-759-4902. four years ago by the and are told volunTebow Foundation, the one they To register or around can keep visit fellow volevent has spread teer for the event, even want. She and at Kendall of the country and the church’s website events unteer Amy the globe, with will prepare ewlife.com, like Eagle Bend dresses www.your-n in far-flung places Night to and about 200-250 and click on Uganda, the Ukraine to 25 of all styles Shine at the top of the All told, sizes 0 and the Philippines. church and colors. Dresses says, page. New Life were donatthe organization County Road 540 sports coats bridal is at 1910 the night involves ed by individuals, 82 SE. churches, 16 countries, shops and thrift stores. guests 90,000 honored

16

What is the

W

elcome to the rollercoaster of our Minnesota winter! had This year we have temperature extremes degrees that can vary 50 to this in 24 hours. Add snow the slim to none looking cover and we are that at a long winter may severely impact hardy some of our most herbaceous perennials, trees and shrubs. be Winter injury may caused by a complex combination of circumstances rather

AN ECHO PRESS

of heat on’t get caught out and out of money.



for residents also offers advice fuels, who depend on delivered oil: as propane and heating

such heat tank reach And don’t try to ► Don’t let your on space refill when your your home by relying empty. Call for a full. If to keep the heaters or ovens tank is 25-30 percent supplier had too many the cold at bay. We’ve your tank is empty, to winter and terrible fires this must do a full inspection which shortcuts leaks, trying to take unsafe check pressure and charge. in danger. puts your family can result in an extra for your There is help available their ► Consider asking to pay for a budget families struggling propane supplier your out heating bills. plan to spread earn less than signed by Gov. Households that payments. A law state’s median a shortage 50 percent of the Mark Dayton after a for $48,077 most propane annual income — in 2014 requires customers may be eligible family of four — distributors to offer Department of plan. for the Minnesota a budget payment Assistance also notify Commerce’s Energy Distributors must of price low-income Program. It helps budget-plan customers affect renters pay for may homeowners and or fee changes that grants paid amount heating bills through their monthly payment vendors percent. directly to heating-fuel by more than 20 The and utility companies. ► Know your rights. helps The program also 2014 law also established or replace protections, including homeowners repair consumer Last Distributors faulty heating systems. transparent pricing. than customers required to inform year, it served more and provided are price households per-gallon 126,000 of current fees of $520. an average grant and additional charges,also a of money re is Since the amount and discounts.The a on fees, such as is limited and distributedbasis, prohibition on extra distribution, first-come, first-served to adding any service, other fees residents are encourage helps transportation or who program apply early. The to the bills of customers the bills or with pay past-due energy enter into a contract payment arranges a monthly distributor. so you company. The plan with a utility ► Conserve energy is May 31, and money. application deadline can save both fuel local the 2018. To apply, contact Energy Programmable thermostats, and as an appliances agency recognized energy-efficient provider in g measures Assistance Program other energy-savin For a list, call use. The your community. help reduce energy website go online to 800-657-3710 or Commerce Department Guide at bit.ly/ website Energy Home the program’s features a on energy.

MNHeatingAssistance. with tips to save The commerce department

Echo Press News Team

the Night to Shine dress designated for clothes u s a freshly pressed of the volunteers preparing Willie Wrede of Osakis Jan. 27. Wrede is one special needs. shopping day on Saturday,night for teenagers and adults with a prom for Night to Shine,

Keep plants healthy . roots of even hardy by proper maintenance needles. These maladies can be herbaceous perennials. by Timely pruning, floret buds or tips may be prevented The result of winter from fertilizing, and watering partially or completely takes protecting the plant injury sometimes the will help your plants killed. If this happens, to the wind or shading the months or years a full make it through there may not be the plant. a appear. Sometimes winters. Applying complement of flowers their Sun and wind scald leaves live on until heavy layer of mulch are on the plants. of bark (maples freezes, scald, reserves are depleted. once the ground ► Wind and sun in particularly susceptible) trunks This can occur slowly of wrapping young occurs in periods on sunny days in rapidly or sun, occurs and cool weather exposed to wind bark severe cold or extended winter when the or when the weather by or providing shade cold weather combined hot. fluctuations in winter of a of a tree is warmed suddenly becomes on windbreaks to exposed with bright sunshine. temperatures, length tissue the sun, especially long time Winter-damaged of plants, will go a Alone or in combination, severely cold period, the southwest side your may allow disease way to protecting of year that the severe can damage evergreens the trunk. The bark harsh bright the organisms and insects or it ornamentals from cold period occurs, because they cause often cracks open, or frozen to enter. Root systems, the winters. sunny days with plants to transpire ones, may separate from soil their especially shallow Hang on tight; the soil, depth to which lose water through cold. tree without splitting. isn’t may be injured by is not rollercoaster ride freezes, drying winds, leaves. The water Sunscald is more on the The damaged root the over yet. Looking low humidity, snow replaced because are prevalent on stressed, fail, and the top days our hardiness systems up side, pick plant cover, roots cannot thin and bright recently transplanted, January of the plant may frozen lengthening, and and plant location. water in cold or smooth- or thin-barked start to die. s to be racing by! e various symptoms turn brown, ROBIN

TROTT

EDITORIAL

24, 2018 Wednesday, January THE ARCHIVES OBSERVATIONS FROM



add 1968: City urged to water

fluoride to drinking Don’t take heating shortcuts; le ilab ava is help D 

g to perennials? crazy weather doin

Douglas County Extension

A4 24, 2018 Echo Press

OPINION

Wednesday, January

LETTERS



to be building activity turned out s.”

1918, 100 years ago Bellanca Cruisemaster auditorium, L.A. In the high school the Board 2008, 10 years ago Emerson, who representsfor Drafted of the Sandy Flynn, organizer for Vocational Education the opportunity Day balloon release Men, will explain Nelson Veterans the drafted men veterans past that is to be given — an event to honor from Bill the United States. in every town in and present — heard the direction New York This work is under RACHEL Melville of Amagansett, that was and is a balloon of the War Department — who found a BARDUSON of Harold Roers. nationwide movement.to St. Paul to released in honor Contributing of the eastern end Sen. E.E. Lobeck went Minnesota Columnist Melville lives at of the narrowest the of one attend a meeting Long Island, of which south fork.

Dry Federation Committee points of the island’s he is a member. the needs of busy the In order to meet Post Office Peder Reistad attended at St. Paul. customers, the Alexandriapostal center lumbermen’s convention has added an automated a day, seven 24 hours (APC), available 1968, 50 years ago can purchase by study conducted days a week. Customers look up mailing Results of a parking send packages, and Research, Inc. stamps, Planning and Midwest codes the zip the central business information including a few easy-to-use of Minneapolis on indicated that 350 more just by following district, east side, the needed to allow parking spaces were always commands. where parking is desired conditions survey 25 years ago in Alexandria. The Just for fun 1993, available to exist in magazine parking be created In the national “Pilot” recommends new Incorporated,

by Lincoln, Hawthorne, featuring Bellanca the block bounded 114 to employees Don streets of about photographs include Broadway and Fifth and Arlene Fernow, Stan Ramsdell 130 spaces.

President Chuck appearing with a Dr. Douglas Perkins, Olson, and Bellanca including company’s the persons by group of interested Holm surrounded that the city comply use meticulous four dentists, asked 21 employees who of 10 by the 1967 state p to create an average with a law passed the craftsmanshi of fluoridation Employee excellence legislature requiring 1970. airplanes each year. before January 1, story, “The skills city water system to take are is stressed in the urged the council the Super Viking Perkins strongly required to construct immediate action. not easily acquired.”

1993, 25 years ago a Council adopted The Alexandria City that Sharing Program Forfeiture/Equitable to sell property allows law enforcement of crimes. seized in the commission and weapons, money This could include property transport stolen vehicles used to or to traffic drugs. the legendary Bellanca Incorporated, manufacturer, Alexandria airplane in a lengthy cover drew rave reviews PILOT issue of AOPA story in January’s publication of the magazine, a national and Pilots Association.

Aircraft Owners paragraph states, and The story’s opening a group of business “Forty years ago, the small Minnesota civic leaders from of Alexandria sought lake region town economy by bringing That to boost the local g activity to town. some manufacturin

emergency.” It was a “public health President would my hope that the which would choose the former, use of Federthe have allowed for AgenTo the editor: As a county com- al Emergency Management addicJust to be clear: to combat not let personal cy (FEMA) funds missioner, I will president chose decisions, when tion. Instead, the public health attacks cloud my that something to declare a 90-day expire on the facts are clear rs end up emergency which is set to Commissione this deadline, is wrong. the jury for deci- Jan. 23. As we approach being the judge and has been achieved the wellbeing of all it is clear that little sions that involve and County result. a as Douglas the taxpayers of the past 90 days, issues will not Over the course of Douglas County policy and pretend not dedicated any rug the President has combat to be swept under the resources new funding or there isn’t a problem. be fair to all he announced an to addiction. Instead, has yet to I feel obligated It is a priv- awareness campaign that Administration Douglas County residents.the capacity in be seen. The Trump operate without ilege to serve you Commissioner. also continues to and Human of Douglas County a Secretary of Health the Office of for Thank you.

Services or Director Policy, both of Jerry L. Rapp tional Drug Control

Personal attacks won’t cloud my decisions

50 years ago Sports Trivia 1968, Club will welcome The Alexandria Press writers for its more than 70 sports ess party and fourth annual three-day-pr Rally. Sports the Jaycees Snowmobile special interest in Writers have shown ice fishing, and most snowmobiles and of fishing in ice mention the pleasure from areas where houses. Many come a sport. not permit such the climate does have provided Car dealers in Alexandria guests to transport the cars and drivers site and the Viking between the rally of be the headquarters Motel, which will the Press Party.

Alexandria is a regular Rachel Barduson of to the Echo Press contributing columnist Opinion page.

IN THE KNOW



Child care shortage

O

ur economy continues to be there strong, and yet done to is still work to be connect all Minnesotans with who want to work . One desired employment needs of those areas that work is the availability Center of child care. The and Policy Rural for Development found care that in-home child providers are plummeting In the across the state. , the number

hits our area

IN THE KNOW

NICOLE

FERNHOLZ



for a tighter market qualified employees local and overall less commerce.

This has led to many asking the question: to make “Whose job is it

Echo Press B1

SPORTS

property used to make the care, suitable for child related and typically are for the to improvements property to be licensed.

To address childcare level, shortage on a local local we work with our financial institutions business with assist to has startups. The AAEDC funds two revolving loan that provide businesses loan with direct loans, gap guarantees, and start financing as they business. or expand their

Emily Myrin / Echo

A True Team the Section 5, Class 200 yard IM during the third heat of the Tung competes in nine teams.

Seventh grader Logan came in third out of Alexandria. The Cardinals

Eric Morken / Echo

Press

o Bitzan gets a shot sophomore Tanner Austin Koep. Bitzan Brandon-Evansville Parkers Prairie senior added 18 for the over the defense of Koep the Chargers and had 19 points for Panthers.

Panthers roll past B-E for the 13th straight win

Cards land in third

place in home True

Team meet

to “It pushes everybody “It senior said. grader Carter Holm, do their best,” Baas eighth

By Emily Myrin to make Adam Zimmerman, pushes everybody Hoyt and it’s the emyrin@echopress.com grader Anthony those relays because more took have senior Zach Dummer left relays where you here were two heats everybody 11th place. points. It pushes of the second be more in the final event “That lost us our to work harder and teams “It’s all night where nine disciplined.” place,” Baas said. motivated, more the Section to swim several were gathered for mental. It’s harder The Cardinals had boys is physicalpersonal 5, Class A True Team mentally than it on season bests and Alexandria in meet pool. the swim ly.” bests earned in was team Saturday.

Though not everyone The 200 yard freestyle in the Chromey The swimmers readied upset by the glitch of Baas, Welle, P. buzzer came themselves for the meet. and senior Nic Chromeymeet step down a little bit set a but were asked to “It threw us off in first place and had been the rest Chromey because a mistake but I kind of liked record of 1:31.60. sheets with a with made. Multiple heat myself,” Olson said broke the meet record the varying the 100 yard were confusing smile. his 58.6 finish in in third came in first teams.

The Cardinals came breaststroke and rolling Mel“They had the ball with 1,470 points. in that event. sudden there place we Centre came in than and then all of a faster rose-Sauk “We’re of lanes and points and the end of was a shuffling second with 1,488 were last year at what lane took first process is kids weren’t sure Sartell-St. Stephen the season so the to be in,” they were supposed Walker said. with 1,746 points. coach Kathy a bit disap- working,” the CardiAlexandria head “I think they’re The process for it took but it’s a weight Walker said. “I think pointed with third, nals includes a new so we put culture their focus.” whole team scoring program, a team pause graders the After a 20 minute seventh and eighth of mentorship between coaches been in a and younger while judges and in who have never older swimmers swimmers because time off. deliberated, the meet like this before recruits and zero prolanes and the future of this got back in their been hitting it has that’s team team The relay the Alexandria A gram,” Walker said. taking any rest time Baas, junior is unique hard, not the of senior Jordon A True Team meet before meets, including grader meet in swim regular Nick Olson, eighth a meet. from big True Team junior Patswimmer this week,” Nicolas Welle and that every single “I trashed them in second in the same rick Chromey came on a team swims SteSt. Sartell swimmer B2 place behind meet and every SWIMMING: Page phen. scores points. of eighth The B relay team

T

320.763.3133

where ourselves to a point and

By Eric Morken they can be confident emorken@echopress.com play ball.” seaThe Panthers knocked The only loss of the Prairie down 11 triples and put son for the Parkers came four players in double figboys basketball team season ures. on Dec. 1 in the Ryan Senior guards opener.

Koep each That’s a distant memory Blake and Austin the way had four of those threes. right now with are Koep had 18 points, and (13-1) Panthers the after scored a game-high playing. Three days over Blake Trawin 30. Junior forward scoring 90 in a Prai- vis Yohnke added 14 and Underwood, Parkers that in senior point guard Matt rie nearly matched 12. the road Ferley finished with 44 an 84-55 win on nsThe Panthers had lead against Brandon-Eva points and a 19-point ville (7-6). in by the half. The Chargers “We put a few things as little want- cut their deficit to 11 minthis week that we few more as 13 with almost ed to change, a Parkers Praibut left, and utes responded options for them, those rie immediately they really executed run to pull first- with another well,” Panthers good. for Mike Felt away confiyear head coach Felt credited us a lot the unselfsaid. “That got just got dence and of layups. They his guys play That’s ishness to have confidence. our: Page B2 d of what we pride

Press

event in

JUST SHY OF

Summer Carnival Viking Plaza Mall

17

Farmers Market Big Ole Park

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HISTORIC DOWNTOWN

When it comes to spending a day with friends or family or finding the perfect gift for that special someone – or for yourself - downtown Alexandria is the perfect destination! The bustling downtown features a large variety of niche boutiques, antique stores, gift shops and unique eateries lining both sides of historic Broadway Street. It’s easy to spend an entire day strolling from one shop to the next. Not only is the merchandise top-notch, but the experience of shopping in the city’s historic buildings, many of which date back to the 1800s, is memorable as well. It’s easy to see why Alexandria was named Retail Community of the Year in 2018!

DowntownAlexandria.com

Boutiques Eateries • Antiques 19

Alexandria, Minnesota – easy to get to, hard to leave That pretty much sums it up.

Alexandria is an easy access, popular destination for visitors, and those of us living here couldn’t imagine living anywhere else.

What makes this area such a draw? What was it about this area that first attracted William Kinkead and his brother, Alexander – the town’s namesake?

The answer to both is most certainly the setting – scenic, beautiful, picturesque. With plentiful lakes, wooded hills, open prairie, fish and wildlife, native grasses and more, the Alexandria Lakes Area has it all.

Since its founding in 1858, the area has continued to grow and attract tourists and

AIR • CRUISE • HOTEL CAR • RAIL Escorted Motorcoach Tours throughout the U.S. & Canada

320-762-0244 www.utopiatours.com www.alextravelagency.com

Located in the Viking Plaza Mall

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residents alike, and the town has blossomed into a regional hub for healthcare, education, industry, agriculture, tourism and the arts.

Much of Alexandria’s history is still evident as you stroll past the historic buildings that line downtown’s Broadway Street. The buildings now house a thriving community of boutiques, antique stores, eateries and other businesses.

Formed in 1967, the Alexandria Downtown Merchants Association has worked to showcase the history of the downtown area while keeping it beautiful and thriving.

Welcome to Alexandria! Whatever attracted you to our city, we’re happy you’re here!

30-70% discounts everyday on groceries, housewares, health & beauty, tools, clothing, furniture, appliances, & much more.

1408 3rd Ave. E, Alexandria 320-763-5555 www.ronswarehouse.com Also check out our website for weekly specials

Historic Downtown Alexandria, MN

21

CENTRAL LAKES TRAIL

1

This 55-mile paved trail connects the communities of Osakis, Nelson, Alexandria, Garfield, Brandon, Evansville, Melby, Ashby, Dalton and Fergus Falls. It was built on an abandoned railroad bed. The corridor is ideal for cyclists, walkers, runners and in-line skaters. It is closed to motorized traffic, with the exception of snowmobiles in the winter. The scenic trail passes through rolling countryside, hardwoods, wildlife areas, farmland, over bridges, and past waterways. Wildflowers and wildlife are a common sight. Communities along the trail offer restaurants, convenience stores, restrooms and shelters. Trail heads are located in Alexandria, Osakis, Garfield, Brandon and Evansville and include parking areas, restrooms and shelters. The trail connects to the Lake Wobegon Trail, which runs from Osakis to St. Joseph, making it one of the longest paved bike trails in the state. www.centrallakestrail.com

Lodging Along the Trail

This map only shows lodging on or near the trail.

Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center . . . . . . . . 52 Brophy Lake Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Geneva Beach Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Lake Darling Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Linwood Resort & Campground . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Shady Lawn Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Sugarbush Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Smith Lake Resort & Campground . . . . . . . . . . . 82 Spirit Cove Lodge Bed & Breakfast . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Val Halla Villa Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

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20

46

52 56 54 53 55

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79 82

For additional bike routes and map go to explorealex.com/dt_places/alexandria-area-bike-map/

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2

PUBLIC BEACHES

• Chippewa County Park Beach, two beaches – one on Little Chippewa, one on Devils Lake, off County Road 108.

(No lifeguard).

Snowmobiling DATA Trails

• City Park Beach on Lake Henry in Alexandria City Park, one block west of County Road 42. (No lifeguard).

• Lake Brophy County Park, Brophy Lane off of County Road 82. (No lifeguard).

• Lake Carlos State Park, 10 miles north of Alexandria off Highway 29 and County Road 38. Permit is required to enter the park. (No lifeguard).

Rotary Beach

• Lake Latoka Beach, north shore of Lake Latoka west of Alexandria on County Road 82, turn left on County Road 90, then right onto Latoka Beach Road. (Lifeguard).

• Lake Le Homme Dieu Beach, north of Alexandria on Highway 29. (Lifeguard).

• Lake Osakis Beach, southeast corner of Lake Osakis on East Lake Street in Osakis. (Lifeguard).

Chain of Lakes Triathalon

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3

• Rotary Beach, north end of Lake L’Homme Dieu off County Road 42.

(No lifeguard).

SNOWMOBILE TRAILS

The Douglas Area Trails Association (DATA) maintains and grooms 368 miles of snowmobile trails in Douglas County. With an abundance of lakes, DATA Trails offer a combination of open flatland to heavily wooded, hilly riding opportunities with spectacular views and abundant wildlife. Every community in Douglas County is connected by trail, so you are never far from food, gas, services or accommodations.

36 miles of the trail system is the blacktopped, multi-use Central Lakes Trail, which connects to Fergus Falls to the north or the St. Cloud Area to the south. This provides quick and easy access to trails across the county. www.douglasareatrails.com

Serving the fishermen of the Alexandria Area for 80 years.

The most complete selection of bait & tackle in West Central Minnesota - including a vast selection of bass & muskie tackle, as well as serving all of your live bait needs

309 3rd Ave. E • Alexandria • 320-763-3255

Service • Storage Winterization • Pontoons Docks & Lifts

Serving the region for over 40 years!

www.stubsmarine.net

320-762-1577 25

PARKS AND CONSERVATION AREAS

4

Alexandria City Park Located just off County Road 42 on Lake Henry, City Park is a beautiful shaded setting with a playground, tennis courts, picnic shelter, a bandstand, swings, shuffleboard, fishing pier and a beach and bathhouse. The park is connected to a walking/biking path that connects to the Central Lakes Trail.

Big Ole Central Park This park on the shore of Lake Agnes at the north end of Broadway in Alexandria is home to the city’s 28-foot Viking Big Ole. The Central Lakes Trail trailhead includes an information kiosk, off-street parking and restrooms. The Alexandria Farmers Market is held here during the summer and fall.

Noonan Park Named after Phil Noonan, local philanthropist and businessman, this picturesque park with its flower gardens,

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picnic areas and fountain is a delightful place. View the ducks and geese or stroll the paths in warm weather, or skate on the frozen pond in the winter. A warming house is available. The park is off Nokomis Street in Alexandria. Facebook: Noonan Park

Lake Carlos State Park Sculpted by glaciers, this park off County Road 38 on Lake Carlos contains a tamarack bog, marshes and woodland ponds. It features hiking, snowshoe, cross-country ski and snowmobile trails; picnic and play areas, swimming beach, campsites, camper cabins, restrooms, showers, boat landing, warming house, amphitheater, equestrian area and skating area. Enjoy the visitor and interpretive exhibit, naturalist programs, historic site and gift shop, or rent snowshoes, canoes, paddle boats, paddles, life jackets or a fish house. www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/lake _carlos

Chippewa Park Located three miles north of Brandon on County Road 108, this is the only Douglas County park that offers camping. The 34-acre park has two swimming beaches: one on Little Chippewa and another 50 yards away on Devils Lake. Includes picnic shelters, electricity, restrooms, showers, charcoal grills, drinking water, playground and horseshoe court. www.co.douglas.mn.us/parks Curt Felt Memorial Park This six-acre park off County Road 42 near the Alexandria Golf Club was created in memory of fallen deputy sheriff Curtis Felt. It features three playground areas, volleyball and horseshoe courts, picnic shelters, electricity, drinking water, restrooms and a baseball/softball field. www.co.douglas.mn.us/parks Kensington Rune Stone Park This land was once owned by Olaf Ohman, who unearthed the legendary Kensington Runestone in 1898. Original

farm buildings are preserved on this site, 14 miles west of Alexandria on County Highway 103. The 380-acre park features a new visitor center and boardwalk, kitchen facilities, picnic shelters, electricity, charcoal grills, restrooms, drinking water, softball field, horseshoe/volleyball courts and playground. There are miles of hiking and mountain bike trails. In winter, the Trollskogen Ski Trail, a 12km crosscountry trail, winds through the rolling glacial hills. A DATA snowmobile trail also crosses the park. www.co.douglas.mn.us/parks

Lake Brophy Park The newest park in the county park system overlooks Lake Brophy and North Union Lake west of Alexandria. The 142acre park is in development but will include a parking area, restrooms, fishing pier, swimming beach and fire pit area. It has access to the Central Lakes Trail. In the winter, enjoy a groomed sledding hill and cross country ski trails and access to the DATA snowmobile trail. www.co.douglas.mn.us/parks

Lake Brophy Wayside Park The historic wayside rest west of Alexandria on County Road 82 was built as a public works project in the 1930s.

It includes seven acres and 1,000 feet of pristine lakeshore. There are picnic tables, a shelter, charcoal grills, restrooms, drinking water and breathtaking views. www.co.douglas.mn.us/parks

Lake Carlos State Park

Spruce Hill Park This 87-acre park is located north of Alexandria at the site of what was once the pioneer village of Spruce Hill.

Remnants of old building foundations and the remains of an earthen dam constructed to power a sawmill are visible. It has picnic shelters, charcoal grills, electricity, restrooms, drinking water, softball field and interpretive, hiking, mountain biking and cross country ski trails and connects to the DATA snowmobile trail. www.co.douglas.mn.us/parks

Noonan Park

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Inspiration Peak The highest point in Douglas County and one of the highest in the state is north of Alexandria and west of Urbank. Its elevation is 1,750 feet, 400 feet above the surrounding countryside.

The walk to the top is a quarter mile; benches are located along the trail. The view is a vista of hardwoods, farmland and lakes. The fall colors are especially breathtaking. There is a picnic area, restrooms and a paved parking lot.

Inspiration Peak

Big Ole Central Park

Seven Sisters Prairie A panoramic view of Lake Christina and the surrounding countryside is found at the top of Seven Sisters Prairie near Ashby. The seven knolls are 190 feet above the surrounding terrain. The unusual flora has attracted botanists since the late 1800s, and Lake Christina’s abundance of water plants has attracted canvasback ducks for years. The area is managed by The Nature Conservatory and is open to the public. www.nature.org search Seven Sisters Prairie

Staffanson Prairie This lies west of Alexandria and is part of a region of hills and lakes that arcs from Willmar past Detroit Lakes. Near the center of the preserve is a prairie pothole, a wetland created by glacial action thousands of years ago that supports breeding mallards and blue-winged teal. A butterfly of concern, the regal fritillary, has been found at the preserve. The area is managed by The Nature Conservatory and is open to the public. www.nature.org search Staffanson Prairie

A popular destination for sportsmen and wildlife enthusiasts

Douglas County has long been a destination for hunters and fishermen.

Many documents left by the first visitors note that it was the natural beauty of the area and the abundance of fish and wild game that attracted them here.

28

While the many lakes were a calling card for families, the hunting and fishing opportunities helped drive the area’s popularity as a tourist destination in the 1800s. Photos of successful pheasant, prairie chicken and wolf hunts and fishing excursions are plentiful.

That still holds true today. With nearly 50 wildlife management areas within Douglas County, hunting, fishing and wildlife watching are all popular reasons to visit the area.

Youth Outdoor Activity Day 29

GOLF OPTIONS GALORE

A dozen golf courses nestled among the lakes and woodlands within a 30-mile radius of Alexandria offer a fun, challenging and beautiful golf experience. The natural beauty of our wooded lakes area offers the perfect setting for a few hours of relaxation on the golf course with friends or family members, or a little friendly competition among business associates. From an 18-hole regulation course experience to a more casual nine-hole course, the lakes area has numerous courses to choose from, offering whatever type of experience you are looking for.

Alexandria is also home to the Resorters Golf Tournament, an annual tradition dating back to 1921!

Resorters Golf Tournament

Additional

GOLF OPPORTUNITIES

More than 150 holes on Alexandria’s Golf Trail!

Visit ChainofLinks.com

30

Geneva Golf Club

GROUP RATES SENIOR RATES EXECUTIVE COURSE

PRO SHOP ON SITE PGA PRO ON SITE GOLF LESSONS RENTAL CLUBS RIDING CARTS PRACTICE PUTTING GREEN FOOD & BEVERAGE ON SITE

The Alexandria Lakes Area is Minnesota’s premier and affordable golf destination.

Atikwa Golf Club at Arrowwood Resort 2100 Arrowwood Lane, Alexandria, MN 320-762-TEES (8337) • www.arrowwoodresort.com

Open to the public. Newly renovated, discover the natural undisturbed beauty of Alexandria’s most scenic golf course.

18 Holes Par 72 Yardage 6,167

n n n n n n n n

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

Joel Goldstrand Design. Area’s finest championship 27 hole golf course.

Full Bar and Grill. Open to public.

27 Holes Par 35, 36, & 37 Yardage 3335, 3586, 3605

n n n n n n

Hardwood Hills Golf Club 8446 CR 27 SW, Alexandria, MN 320-886-1400 • www.hardwoodhillsgolf.com

Affordable & family friendly. Scenic & challenging course with driving range. Food on site. Student, Senior & Military discount.

9 Holes Par 35 Yardage 2,431

n n n n

Lake Miltona Golf Club 3868 County Road 5 NE, Alexandria, MN 320-852-7078 • www.lakemiltonagolfclub.com

Open to public. Scenic and playable for all levels of golf. Golf cars equipped with Bluetooth speakers, interactive GPS, music, sports ticker and live TV.

18 Holes Par 72 Yardage 6,470

n n n n n n n n

Pine Ridge Golf Course 13955 County Rd 16 NW, Evansville, MN 320-834-4028 • www.pineridgegolfcourse.net

Scenic public course near Alexandria. Well maintained & family friendly. Senior & student discounts. Kids golf free with paid adult on Thursdays!

9 Holes Par 35/36 Yardage 2,880

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31

A VARIETY OF OPTIONS FOR ALL SPORTS

Alexandria is the perfect place to host your favorite sporting event or tournament! Alexandria has been a long-time host location for such tournaments as the Resorters Golf Tournament, Annual Lions Cross-Country Invitational, State Trapshooting Championship, the Big Ole Hockey Tournament and more!

Alexandria is home to the NorthStar Sports Complex and the national headquarters for FCA Hockey. Our high school sports complex was completed in 2014 and offers all the amenities to host tennis, baseball, softball, soccer and football events. The complex has a lighted stadium with field turf and the ability to seat 3,000, softball and baseball fields each with a scoreboard, as well as an additional smaller lighted stadium with the capacity to seat 200 fans.

Runestone Community Center

The Alexandria Lakes Area is also home to more than 100 miles of trails, including mountain bike, cross-country ski and motorcycle racing trails. To top it off, you can curl up after your event in one of our many lodging options from resorts, to hotels and bed and breakfasts.

To find out how to bring your team event to Alexandria, contact Kristen at 320-763-0102 or Kristen@explorealex.com.

Baseball

32

16

Mountain Bike Trails

30+ miles

Batting Cage

1

Pickleball

4

Basketball

13

Sand Volleyball

8

Bowling

34 lanes

Snow Tubing

1

Curling

5 lanes

Soccer

10

Dance

1+

Softball

12

Downhill Skiing

16 runs

Snowmobile Trails

368+ miles

Football

10

Summer Trails

100+ miles

Golf

12 courses/150 holes

Swimming

8 lanes

Groomed X-Country Skiing

57+ miles

Tennis

20

Gymnastics

3

Track

1

Hockey

3

Volleyball

13

Horseshoes

4 parks

Wrestling

6 mats

NorthStar Sports Complex

Call The Agents With Answers!

Residential ∙ Lake Homes ∙ Land ∙ Commercial 320-762-2172 ∙ www.coldwellbankercrown.com

33

SMALL GROUPS

GUEST ROOMS

30,000

750

YES

229

Hampton Inn & Suites By Hilton and Broadway Ballroom 2705 South Broadway St, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-763-6565 | 1-800-HAMPTON www.alexandriasuitesmn.hamptoninn.com

7,200

500

YES

80

Holiday Inn of Alexandria 5637 Hwy 29 S, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-763-6577 | 1-800-HOLIDAY www.hialexandria.com

19,000

500

YES

149

UNIQUE MEETING SPACES MAX. SEAT. CAPACITY

SMALL GROUPS

17,700

500

YES

Grand Arbor by Knute Nelson 4403 Pioneer Rd SE, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-763-1600 www.knutenelson.org

5,800

100

YES

Crooked Willow 11181 County Rd. 82 SE, Osakis, MN 56360 612-207-4040 www.crookedwillowmn.com

7,435

500

YES

Legacy of the Lakes Museum 205 3rd Ave W, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-759-1114 www.legacyofthelakes.org

12,000

250

YES

Gathered Oaks 4550 County Road 34 NW Alexandria, MN 56308 218-979-2101 www.gatheredoaks.com

5,550

275

YES

Runestone Community Center 802 3rd Ave W, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-763-4466 www.arcceventcenter.com

41,200

2,500

YES

TOTAL EVENT SQ. FT.

SMALL GROUPS

Carlos Creek Winery 6693 County Rd. 34 NW, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-846-5443 www.carloscreekwinery.com

TOTAL EVENT SQ. FT.

MAX. SEAT. CAPACITY

For more information call 800-235-9441.

34

Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center 2100 Arrowwood Lane NW, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-762-1124 | 866-386-5263 www.arrowwoodresort.com

TOTAL EVENT SQ. FT.

Alexandria is centrally located in Minnesota on Interstate Highway 94, only two hours from the Twin Cities, and just an hour and a half from Fargo-Moorhead.

Our lodging and convention facilities have the amenities needed to host business meetings from 10 people to several hundred. There are a wide variety of lodging options in all price ranges, and plenty of entertainment options for your group’s time off. With so much to offer, it should come as no surprise that many of our returning vacationers first discovered Alexandria when they attended a business meeting here.

MAX. SEAT. CAPACITY

HOTELS

A PLACE TO MEET

35

36

gAme room

pool Indoor / Outdoor / Both

SAunA / Whirlpool / Both

N

N

n n

I

B

Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center 2100 Arrowwood Lane NW, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-762-1124 • 866-386-5263 • www.arrowwoodresort.com Children’s programs offered. Indoor waterpark-on property. Convention facility.

35 229

B

B

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O

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B

W

Fairfield Inn & Suites 4929 Sanibel Drive, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-763-0133 • 888-236-2427 • www.marriott.com/STCAL Indoor pool, free breakfast, in-room coffee, microwave & fridge, NetFlix access, free Wi-Fi, Fitness room, Newest Hotel

38

80

B

B

n

N

N

GrandStay Hotel & Suites Parkers Prairie 211 West Main Street, Parkers Prairie, MN 56361 218-338-3380 • 1-866-936-7829 • www.grandstayparkers.com Stylish, comfortable yet affordable hotel offers a variety of rooms & specialty suites.

37

33

B

B

n n

N

N

n

I

W

n

n

GrandStay Hotel & Suites Glenwood 114 West Minnesota Ave., Glenwood, MN 56334 320-334-3700 • 855-455-7829 • www.grandstayhospitality.com Alexandria Lakes Area newest resort hotel. Walk to beautiful Lake Minneweaska.

37

39

W

B

n n

N

N

n

I

W

n

n

Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton 2705 S. Broadway, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-763-3360 • 1•800•HAMPTON • www.alexandriasuitesmn.hamptoninn.com Indoor pool, hot tub, free hot breakfast. Microwave/fridge in all rooms.

36

80

B

B

n n

N

N

n

I

W

n

Holiday Inn of Alexandria 5637 Hwy. 29 South, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-763-6577 • 1-800-HOLIDAY • www.hialexandria.com Large family recreation center. Convention facility. Email: info@hialexandria.com.

34 148

B

B

n n

N

N

n n

I

B

B

Super 8 of Alexandria 4620 Hwy. 29 S., Alexandria, MN 56308 320-763-6552 • 800-800-8000 In-room coffee. Microwave, refrigerator & hair dryer. Pets: Dogs Only.

38

B

B

n n

N

N

57

Snowmobile/biking trAilS AcceSS/ On

tenniS NeAr / On

n

outdoor plug-inS

golf NeAr / On

B

pet AccommodAtionS

hAndicApped fAcilitieS

B

continentAl breAkfASt

CAble / Premium / Both

ReStAurAnt / Lounge-bAr / Both

internet AcceSS / Wifi / Both

57

meeting room

number of unitS

38

kitchenetteS

See Ad on pAge #

AmericInn Lodge and Suites - Sauk Centre 1230 Timberlane Drive, Sauk Centre, MN 56378 320-352-2800 • www.americinn.com/hotels/mn/saukcentre Whirlpool and Family suites, Indoor pool, whirlpool and sauna.

n

n

n

A

B

n

I

n

O

n

A

n

A

n

n

A

n

n

A

n

n

A

REWARDS PROGRAM

2 Great Ways to

GRANDSTAY

®

Mention this Ad for

GrandStay® Glenwood • Seven room types for all travelers

• King Bedroom and Whirlpool Suites

• Complimentary WiFi and HD Cable TV • Indoor Pool, Whirlpool, Guest Laundry

• Glenwood’s Newest Resort Hotel

15% OFF YOUR NEXT STAY! REDEEMABLE AT BOTH GRANDSTAY® PROPERTIES

Based on availability, black out dates may apply.

114 West Minnesota Avenue • Glenwood, MN 56334 Front Desk: 320.334.3700 www.grandstayglenwood.com

GrandStay® Parkers Prairie • King, Queen, Whirlpool Rooms

• Extended Stay Suites with Full Kitchenettes • FREE Wireless Internet Access • Indoor Pool and Whirlpool

• Attached to Prairie Event Center

211 West Main Street • Parkers Prairie, MN 56361 Front Desk: 218.338.3380 www.grandstayparkers.com

Book your grand stay today! grandstayhospitality.com

37

Our Legacy o

For generations, the Alexandria Lakes Area served as a summer retreat for some of America’s most wealthy families, including Minnesota’s own Mayo brothers of Rochester. Each June they would arrive via the railroad. Trains would stop in Alexandria and passengers would be transported to luxurious resort-hotels - the Dickinson, the Blake, the Maryland - where they were greeted and treated with world-class service.

The first passenger train steamed into the depot in Alexandria on November 5, 1878, transforming the quiet farming community into a stopover for the two great rail lines that had opened up the Minnesota frontier some years earlier.

By the spring of 1879, the idea of the lakes area as a summer get-away was being marketed, thanks in part to businessman J.C. Letson, who opened the Letson House - Alexandria’s first resort-hotel.

For the next half a century, the Alexandria Lakes Area was defined by elegant resort-hotels featuring

After seeing much success with the Letson House, James Letson purchased property on the south shore of Lake Geneva where he built Hotel Alexandria in 1883. The hotel was renamed Geneva Beach Hotel in 1896. The structure burned to the ground in 1911 and was rebuilt in 1915 and named the Dickinson Inn. This property still houses a resort today – Geneva Beach Resort.

#Stay Amazing 4929 Sanibel Drive Alexandria, MN 56308 320.763.0133 www.marriott.com/STCAL

38

f Hospitality In 1880, James Letson came to Alexandria on a fishing trip. He was so impressed with the area that he decided to construct the Letson House, the first hotel in Alexandria. It was built a block off Broadway and today operates as the Alexon Apartments.

chauffeur quarters and American-plan meals, lawn tennis tournaments and lazy afternoons on the lake. Fishing guides and gourmet picnics were available around the clock, and live bands provided the background music.

Each summer families would reconnect with lifelong friends and with each other over fish fries, afternoon teas and leisurely rounds of golf.

With time, however, resorthotels gave way to summer cottages and cabin resorts, and automobiles surpassed trains as the preferred mode of vacation transportation. New pastimes joined old favorites, and new summer traditions were established. But through it all, the Alexandria Lakes Area has remained a haven of relaxation and family entertainment, and is The second lakeshore resort to spring up in the area a splendid summertime was Hotel Blake, built by John Blake in 1903 between Lake Carlos and Lake Le Homme Dieu. This property is destination! now home to privately owned condominiums.

Planning a wedding or event has never been so easy.

AN EVENT STUDIO

FIND LOCAL VENDORS FOR YOUR EVENT!

VENUES | PARTY RENTALS | PARTY SUPPLIES | EVENT PLANNERS

CATERING

PHOTOGRAPHERS | BRIDAL SHOPS | BAKERIES | CATERERS

FLORISTS | SALONS & SPAS | LIMOS | HOTELS | DJs & BANDS

lakes areacelebrations lakes areacelebrations.com/guide

39

Those listed in red have ads in this publication.

Angelina’s Restaurant & Bar 1215 Hwy. 29 N (320) 762-1324 www.angelinasll.com Ad on Page 41 Art Bar 39 & G’Day Café 3015 Hwy. 29 S, Ste. 4122 Viking Plaza Mall (320) 759-2039 www.artbar39.com Ad on Page 8 Birchwood Restaurant & Bar 22182 Birchwood Loop Sauk Centre, MN (320) 352-5112 www.birchwoodresortllc.com Boulder Tap House 4961 Sanibel Dr. Alexandria, MN 56308 (320) 759-5622 www.bouldertaphouse.com/ alexandria-mn/ Carlos Creek Winery 6693 County Rd. 34 NW (320) 846-5443 www.carloscreekwinery.com Ad on Page 9

Deck Bar & Grill at Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center 2100 Arrowwood Ln. NW (320) 762-1124 www.arrowwoodresort.com Ad on Page 35

The Lake Café at Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center 2100 Arrowwood Ln. NW (320) 762-1124 www.arrowwoodresort.com Ad on Page 35

Depot Express 104 Broadway St. (320) 763-7712 www.depotalex.com

Lake Miltona Golf Club 3868 County Rd. 5 NE (320) 852-7078 www.lakemiltonagolfclub.com Ad on Page 31

Doolittles Woodfire Grill 4409 Hwy. 29 S (320) 759-0885 www.doolittles.com Fat Daddy’s Bar & Grill 115 30th Ave. E (320) 763-6565 www.gardencenterlanes.com/ pages/fat-daddys-bar-grill-home Ad on Page 41 Food Dudes Delivery (800) 599-8770 www.fooddudesdelivery.com Forada Supper Club 1380 County Rd. 4 SE (320) 763-4400 www.foradasupperclub.com

The Clubhouse at Alexandria Golf Club 2300 N Nokomis St. NE (320) 763-3604 www.alexandriagolfclub.com

The Garden Bar on 6th 115 6th Ave. E (320) 759-2277 www.thegardenbaronsixth.com

Common Ground Coffee House 516 Hawthorne St. (320) 219-6239 www.facebook.com/ commonground.alexandria

Geneva Grill at Geneva Golf Club 4181 Geneva Golf Club Dr. (320) 762-7089 www.genevagolfclub.com Ad on Page 30

Corral Saloon & Eatery 117 N Nelson St. Nelson, MN (320) 762-2416 www.corralsaloonandeatery.com

Herby’s Bar, Gill and Café 211 Main Ave. Carlos, MN (320) 852-7170 www.herbysincarlos.com

Culvers 610 50th Ave. W (320) 763-2266 www.culvers.com/restaurants/ alexandria

Interlachen Inn 4960 County Rd. 42 NE (320) 846-1051 www.interlacheninn.com

D. Michael B’s Resort Bar & Grill 3015 Hwy. 29 S, Ste. 4065 Viking Plaza Mall (320) 762-2697 www.dmichaelbs.com Ad on Page 41

40

Jan’s Place 612 3rd Ave. W (320) 763-3877 Ad on Page 41

Northwoods Café 903 3rd Ave. E (320) 763-3700

Starbucks at Target 4404 State Hwy. 29 (320) 763-6661 www.starbucks.com Taco John’s 1702 Broadway St. (320) 763-7885 www.tacojohns.com Travelers Inn 511 Broadway St. (320) 763-4000 www.travelersinncafe.com Ad on Page 41

Papa Murphy’s 915 Broadway St., Ste. A (320) 763-7420 www.papamurphys.com

Willy T’s at Holiday Inn 5637 Hwy. 29 S (320) 763-9983 www.willytsalex.com Ad on Page 34

Perkins Restaurant and Bakery 4920 Hwy. 29 S (320) 763-6611 www.perkins.com Ad on Page 41

Zorbaz in Alexandria 2710 N Nokomis St. NE (320) 219-7813 www.zorbaz.com Ad on Page 41

Pike & Pint Grill 110 30th Ave. W (320) 763-7468 www.pikeandpint.com Ad on Page 41 Pioneer Grill at Grand Arbor 4403 Pioneer Rd. SE (320) 763-1600 www.knutenelson.org/ our-services/dining

Traveler’s Inn Restaurant

Pizza Ranch 1522 Broadway St. (320) 762-4010 www.pizzaranch.com Ad on Page 41 Qdoba Mexican Grill 3109 Hwy. 29 S (320) 460-7904 www.qdoba.com Raaper’s Eatery & Ale 506 Broadway St. (320) 763-2337 www.raapers.com Starbucks 615 44th Ave. W www.starbucks.com

D. Michael B.’s

“PEOPLE WHO LOVE TO

EAT ARE ALWAYS THE

BEST PEOPLE.”

- JULIA CHILD

41

2019 Calendar JANUARY

Alexandria Bridal Show Holiday Inn of Alexandria January 6 www.facebook.com/events/ 1446739205463174/

Candlelight Walk Lake Carlos State Park January 19 www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/ park.html?id=spk00211#homepage Lakes Area Wedding Expo Carlos Creek Winery January 20 www.lakesareaweddingexpo.com

FEBRUARY

Hot Dish Bake-Off & Silent Auction Douglas County Historical Society February 2 www.dchsmn.org Candlelight Walk Lake Carlos State Park February 16 www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/ park.html?id=spk00211#homepage

Beer & Wine Tasting Event United Way of Douglas & Pope Counties February 22 www.uwdp.org Alexandria Polar Plunge Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center February 24 www.plungemn.org/events/alexandria

MARCH

KXRA KX92 Z99 Home and Garden Show Runestone Community Center March 9 & 10 15th Annual Rudy Zwieg Decoy & Sporting Collectible Show Runestone Community Center March 16 STEAM Expo Alexandria Area High School March 28

42

APRIL

The Taste of Douglas County Douglas County Car Care Program April 11 www.douglascountycarcare.org

MAY

Run for the Roses Theatre L'Homme Dieu May 4 www.tlhd.org

Mai Fest Runestone Museum May 18 www.runestonemuseum.org

Sidewalk Sales Downtown Alexandria May 23-27 www.downtownalexandria.com Ole Oppe Fest Big Ole Central Park May 24-26 www.alexjaycees.com

Awake the Grapes 5K & 10K Fun Run Carlos Creek Winery May 26 www.carloscreekwinery.com Memorial Day Parade & Service Broadway St. and Kinkead Cemetery, Alexandria May 27

JUNE

State Trap Shooting Tournament Alexandria Shooting Park June 10-18 championship.mnclaytarget.com Wine, Ale and Art Crawl Downtown Alexandria June 21 www.downtownalexandria.com Ribfest & Awake the Lakes Big Ole Central Park June 29 www.awakethelakes.com

Vikingland Band Festival June 30 www.marching.com/events/vbf

Vintage Car Show Douglas County Fairgrounds June 30 www.facebook.com/pg/VintageCarClubOf Alexandria/events/

History Live! In Fort Alexandria Runestone Museum www.runestonemuseum.org Shrine Circus Douglas County Fairgrounds Kensington Town Festival www.kensingtonmn.com Osakis Town Festival www.visitosakis.com

JULY

Star Storm Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center July 4 www.arrowwoodresort.com Tour of Gardens Douglas County Master Gardeners July 14 Big Ole SUPathon July 12 & 13 www.facebook.com/bo.supathon/

Legacy of the Lakes Summer Showcase Legacy of the Lakes Museum July 13 legacyofthelakes.org Party in the Street Downtown Alexandria July 19 www.downtownalexandria.com

Art in the Park Alexandria City Park July 27 & 28 andriatheatre.org/art-in-the-park

Rose City Threshing & Heritage Festival July 27 & 28 www.rosecitythreshing.org Resorter's Golf Tournament Alexandria Golf Club July 28 - August 3 alexandriagolfclub.com/Resorters Evansville Town Festival www.evansvillemn.com

Glenwood Waterama Festival www.waterama.org Miltona Tornado Days www.miltona.org

All dates are subject to change. Visit the event website or www.alexmncalendar.com for more information.

For live music, theatre, or other ongoing events visit the Alexandria Area Community Calendar at www.alexmncalendar.com.

of events AUGUST

Crazy Days Downtown Alexandria August 1-3 www.downtownalexandria.com

Friends of the Library Used Book Sale National Guard Armory August 7-8 dclfriends.org Douglas County Fair Douglas County Fairgrounds August 14-17 dcmnfair.com

Wine, Ale & Art Crawl Downtown Alexandria August 16 www.downtownalexandria.com Flashlight Corn Maze Country Blossom Farm August 30 www.countryblossomfarm.com Fall-a-Palooza Country Blossom Farm August 31 - September 2 www.countryblossomfarm.com

Alexandria Festival of the Lakes Lakes Chamber Music Society www.alexfest.org Brandon Town Festival www.brandonmn.com Forada Town Festival www.foradadays.com

Garfield Town Festival www.garfieldmn.com

Hoffman Town Festival www.hoffmanmn.com

Parkers Prairie Town Festival www.parkersprairie.net

SEPTEMBER

Moonshine Madness Osakis, MN September 7 www.pantherdistillery.com/events Grape Stomp Festival Carlos Creek Winery September 13-15 www.ccwgrapestomp.com

Downtown Fall Shop Crawl Downtown Alexandria September 19-21 www.downtownalexandria.com

Flashlight Corn Maze Country Blossom Farm September 21 www.countryblossomfarm.com

Smithsonian’s Museum Day Free admission to local museums September 21

Matt Kjelland 5K Memorial Walk/Run September 21 runsignup.com/Race/MN/Alexandria/ MattKjellandMemorial5K Apple Pie Days Country Blossom Farm September 21-22 www.countryblossomfarm.com

OCTOBER

Flashlight Corn Maze Country Blossom Farm October 4 www.countryblossomfarm.com Pumpkin Mania Country Blossom Farm October 5-6 www.countryblossomfarm.com MEA Weekend Fun Country Blossom Farm October 17-20 www.countryblossomfarm.com Flashlight Corn Maze Country Blossom Farm October 18 www.countryblossomfarm.com

Applefest Carlos Creek Winery October 19 https://www.carloscreekwinery.com/ Fall Fest in the Fort Runestone Museum October 31 www.runestonemuseum.org

Trick-or-Treat in Downtown Downtown Alexandria October 31 www.downtownalexandria.com

NOVEMBER

Holiday Shopping Country Blossom Farm November 2-3 www.countryblossomfarm.com

Arts & Crafters Tour November 7-9 www.facebook.com/crafterstour

Shoppers on the Hunt Downtown Alexandria November 7-9 www.downtownalexandria.com Veterans Day Program November 11

Christmas in the Fort Runestone Museum November 29 www.runestonemuseum.org

Small Business Saturday Downtown Alexandria November 30 www.downtownalexandria.com

DECEMBER

Holiday Ball December 7 www.dchholidayball.org

Jingle Bells Telethon December 7 www.jinglebellsalexandria.org

Annual Bake Sale Douglas County Historical Society www.dchsmn.org

ONGOING EVENTS

Alexandria Farmers Market www.facebook.com/alexandriafarmersmkt Andria Theatre www.andriatheatre.org

Blizzard Hockey www.alexandriablizzard.com

Central Lakes Symphony Orchestra www.centrallakessymphony.org Lakes Area Theatre www.lakesareatheatre.com

Music in the Gardens Legacy of the Lakes Museum www.legacyofthelakes.org

Red Willow Arts Coalition Free Summer Concert Series www.redwillowartscoalition.org Theatre L’Homme Dieu www.tlhd.org WISSOTA Car Racing Viking Speedway vikingspeedway.net

43

44

N

n

N

n

F

N

n

O

AcceSS/ On

F

SnoWmobile/biking trAilS

outdoor plug-inS

n

petS Accepted YeS / No

S

W

fireplAceS Some / All

N

SAunA / Whirlpool / Both

N

pool Indoor / Outdoor / Both

C

Full breAkfASt / ContinentAl

n

n

meeting room

B

B

gAme room

4

tenniS NeAr / On

44

golf NeAr / On

Spirit Cove Lodge Bed & Breakfast 7458 39th Ave. NW (aka County Road 56) Garfield, MN 320-834-7250 • Info@spiritcovelodge.com • Craig & Janet Hamilton Exquisite lodge overlooking Spirit Cove. 20 secluded, wooded acres in magnificent nature. Top-rated in Alexandria Lakes Area. Mention this ad for a 10% discount (on your entire stay.) Restrictions apply. Call for details. www.spiritcovelodge.com.

TeleViSion / CAble

W

Air conditioning

internet AcceSS / Wifi / Both

4

TubS / ShoWerS / Both

number of unitS

44

hAndicApped fAcilitieS

See Ad on pAge #

Lake L’Homme Dieu Bed & Breakfast 441 S. Le Homme Dieu Dr. NE, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-846-5875 • Email: sjradj@rea-alp.com • Judy Radjenovich Beautiful lake view, quiet, full breakfast. www.llbedandbreakfast.com

inns

MILTONA

Lucky Acres Campground 15133 Spring Lake Road NW, Miltona, MN 56354 218-267-2881 • www.luckyacrescampground.com Nice sandy beach, well shaded sites, good fishing. Public access next door. No credit cards.

JUST OFF I-94, EXIT 97

Oak Park Kampground 9561 Co Rd 8 NW, Garfield MN 56332 320-834-2345 • www.oakparkkampground.com Spacious, shaded, grassy sites, storm shelter. Outdoor pool.

45 20 10 n n n n n n n

S

44 20 38 n n n n n n n B

B

N

n

n

N N O n n

n

F

rec. trAil - AcceSS / On

firewood

GAS / FiShing bAit / Both

pontoon

boAt lAunch

boAt / motor rentAl

petS Allowed

lAundry fAcilitieS

pool - Indoor / Outdoor

tenniS - NeAr / On

B n

n B

golf - NeAr / On

N N O n n n n n

Rec room / Store / Both

B

Shower houSe

n n n n

dump StAtion

45 77 5

Sewer hookup

Swim AreA / PlAyground / Both

MARY

Big Foot Resort 8231 St. Hwy. 114 SW, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-283-5533 • 1-888-239-2512 • Joe & Teresa Martin Excellent fishing, level grounds, quiet, clean cabins.

Lots for kids to do. • www.bigfootresort.com

wAter hookup

B n

electric hookup

n n n

tentS Allowed

O N

hAndicApped fAcilitieS

B

number of overnight SiteS

n n n n n n B

number of SeASonAl SiteS

45 0 20

See Ad on pAge #

AMELIA

Shady Rest Resort 16953 142nd St., Box 178, Villard, MN 56385 320-554-2017 • www.shadyrestresort.com • The Langhoff Family Park-like grounds. Family oriented, bait & tackle shop. Internet access.

n

n

45

Shady Creek Resort 14563 Lakes Rd. NW, Brandon, MN 56315 320-876-2228 • 800-398-9917 • Dick & Linda Wagner Boats and docks on 2 lakes, exc. sandy beach, lake level cabins.

Amelia

Shady Rest Resort 16953 142nd St., Box 178, Villard, MN 56385 320-554-2017 • The Langhoff Family Lakeside vacation homes, family oriented, clean lake. www.shadyrestresort.com

Andrew Cottage Grove Resort 7870 Cottage Lane SW, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-762-1336 • www.cottagegroveresort.com Quiet family resort. Lakefront cabins. 2 miles from Alexandria.

Brophy

Brophy Lake Resort 1532 Brophy Park Rd. NW, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-762-8386 • Greg Bowen & Angela Dotty New cottages with fireplaces, open year round, on Central Lakes Trail.

Public access next door. www.brophylakeresort.com

Carlos

Windjammer Resort 4860 County Rd 42 NE, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-846-2281 • Wayne & De Mosher On the chain of lakes, 12 cottages, beautiful beach, no pets, inquire about short stays, public access nearby. gojammer@yahoo.com

Darling

Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center 2100 Arrowwood Lane NW, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-762-1124 • 866-386-5263 Regency Hotels Children’s programs offered. Indoor waterpark - on property.

Convention facility. Renovated rooms.

f

f Darling

Shady Lawn Resort 13221 S. Darling Dr. NW, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-763-3559 • Glen Rustand Clean, pleasant, family-oriented resort. www.ShadyLawnResort.net

Darling

Val Halla Villa Resort 1301 S. Darling Dr. NW, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-763-5869 • Jim & Lois Willert A super clean modern family resort only 1 1/2 miles from Alexandria.

Email: valhalla@rea-alp.com

Geneva

Geneva Beach Resort 105 Linden Ave., Alexandria, MN 56308 320-763-3200 • www.GenevaBeachResort.com • Tim & Carolyn Aarsvold On the Chain of Lakes & Central Lakes Trail. Great beach, attractive accommodations, wireless internet.

f Ida

f Le Homme Dieu

46

Betsy Ross Resort 3791 Betsy Ross Rd. NW, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-834-2562 • Gary & Patty Palmersheim Family Fishing Retreat. 8 Lakeside cottages and 2 Lakeside Vacation Homes. 5 Bedroom Reunion Lodge.

Bergs Resort 1306 Berg Ave. NE, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-762-1426 • www.bergsresort.com • The Berg Family Quiet family lake level resort on chain, clean cabins, shaded.

No pets please. info@bergsresort.com. Inquire about short stays.

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f Open year around

SNOWMOBILE/BIKING TRAILS ACCESS / ON

INTERNET ACCESS / WI-FI / BOTH

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TV / CABLE / BOTH

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GASOLINE

BAIT AVAILABLE

PONTOON BOATS

BOAT/MOTOR RENTAL

POOL - INDOOR / OUTDOOR / BOTH

P n

BOAT LAUNCH

GOLF/ TENNIS ONSITE / BOTH

SWIMMING AREA

GAME ROOM / PLAYGROUND / BOTH

STORE

PETS ALLOWED

LAUNDRY FACILITIES

AIR CONDITIONING / SOME / ALL

HANDICAPPED FACILITIES

SHORT STAYS

NUMBER OF CABINS/UNITS

SEE AD ON PAGE #

Aaron

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Open past Labor Day

T W

DOUGLAS COUNTY’S BEAUTIFUL LAKES Source: MinnesotaLakes.Net Lake Aaron See page 50 Lake Agnes 137 Acres Specializing in Northern Pike, Bluegill, Crappie.

Connects to Winona and Heart Lakes via channel.

Maximum depth 32 ft.

Public Boat Access: S shore Lake Andrew See page 50 Lake Blackwell 307 Acres Specializing in Northern Pike, Bluegill, Crappie. Walleye and Largemouth Bass also caught.

Maximum depth 43 ft.

Public Boat Access: E shore Lake Brophy See page 51 Lake Carlos See page 52 Big Chippewa Lake 1,186 Acres Specializing in Walleye, Northern Pike, Bluegill. Rock Bass, Crappie, Largemouth Bass also caught.

Maximum depth 97 ft.

Public Boat Access: NE side off Co. Rd. 12 Lake Christina 3,978 Acres Specializing in Northern Pike, Bluegill, Crappie. Walleye, Large and Smallmouth Bass also caught.

Maximum depth 16 ft.

Public Boat Access: SW shore off State Hwy. 82 Cowdry Lake 238 Acres Specializing in Northern Pike, Bluegill, Largemouth Bass. Walleye, Rock Bass, Crappie also caught.

Maximum depth 53 ft.

Public Boat Access: NE shore off Co. Hwy. 22

Crooked Lake 153 Acres Specializing in Northern Pike, Bluegill, Crappie. Largemouth Bass, also Sunfish.

Maximum depth 36 ft.

Public Boat Access: NE side off Co. Rd. 27 Lake Darling See page 52 Devils Lake 221 Acres Specializing in Northern Pike, Bluegill.

Walleye, Largemouth Bass, also Crappie.

Maximum depth 36 ft.

Public Boat Access: N shore off Co. Hwy. 7 and Devils Lake Rd. Freeborn Lake 241 Acres Specializing in Walleye, Northern Pike, Bluegill. Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Sunfish also caught.

Maximum depth 19 ft.

Public Boat Access: N shore off Co. Hwy. 96 Lake Geneva See page 53 Grant Lake 171 Acres Specializing in Northern Pike, Bluegill.

Walleye, Crappie, Largemouth Bass also caught.

Maximum depth 62 ft.

Public Boat Access: NW shore off Co. Rd. 4 Lake Henry 159 Acres Specializing in Northern Pike, Bluegill, Crappie. Connects to Lake Agnes via channel.

Maximum depth 34 ft.

Public Boat Access: Through channel from Lake Agnes Lake Ida See page 53

Lake Irene 630 Acres Specializing in Northern Pike, Bluegill, Crappie. Walleye, Largemouth Bass also caught.

Maximum depth 46 ft.

Public Boat Access: 1 on NW corner off State Hwy. 29 and Irene Rd., 1 on SE side off Co. Hwy. 14

Lake Latoka 776 Acres Specializing in Walleye, Northern Pike, Rock Bass. Bluegill, Largemouth Bass, Crappie also caught.

Maximum depth 112 ft.

Public Boat Access: 1 on N shore off Co. Hwy. 82, 1 on S shore of South Basin off State Hwy. 27

...continued on page 49

Edina Realty

Alexandria 320.762.8181 alexandria.edinarealty.com

2919 Hwy 29 S. Suite 140, Alexandria MN 56308

47

Big Foot Resort 8231 St. Hwy. 114 SW, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-283-5533 • 1-888-239-2512 • Joe & Teresa Martin Excellent fishing, level grounds, quiet, clean cabins. Lots for kids to do. www.bigfootresort.com

Mary

Eden Acres I & II 5181 Fish Hook Dr. SW, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-763-7434 • 800-535-6095 • Ron, Pat & Kurt Meyers Great fishing, level sandy swim beaches, clean, modern cabins. www.edenacresresorts.com

Mary

Maryview Beach Resort 6082 N. Lk. Mary Dr. SW, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-762-2747 • 1-800-793-2747 • Dale & Donna Lidberg Level sandy beach. Great family place.

Mary

Westridge Shores Resort 6907 State Hwy 114 SW, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-886-5434 • www.westridgeshores.com • Eric and Erin Frederiksen Alexandria’s premium four season family resort offering a unique experience and family friendly environment.

Mill

Mill Lake Resort 3551 W. Mill Lk. Rd. SW, Farwell, MN 56327 320-886-5381 • 320-766-7954 • Scott & Kari Sandwick Lake’s edge cabins on park-like grounds, sandy beach, large playground. www.milllakeresort.com

f

f

Miltona Rusty Moose Resort 13430 E. Lake Dr. NE, Miltona, MN 56354 507-340-1135 • www.RustyMooseResort.com Classic, laid-back family and fishing resort on one of the top angling lakes in Minnesota!

Miltona Viking Bay Resort 12844 E. Lk. Miltona Dr. NE, Miltona, MN 56354 218-943-2104 • Bill, Janice & Jebb & Anne Garrison f Open year round, meeting facilities, great beach, beautiful grounds. www.vikingbay.com

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SNOWMOBILE/BIKING TRAILS ACCESS / ON

INTERNET ACCESS / WI-FI / BOTH

TV / CABLE / BOTH

GASOLINE

BAIT AVAILABLE

PONTOON BOATS

BOAT/MOTOR RENTAL

BOAT LAUNCH

POOL - INDOOR / OUTDOOR / BOTH

GOLF/ TENNIS ONSITE / BOTH

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Miltona Woodland Resort 13270 E. Lk. Miltona Dr. NE, Miltona, MN 56354 f 218-943-5191 • 877-MNWOODS • Steve & Michelle Russell Open year round. Beautiful grounds. Ideal clear swim beach, large playgrounds. www.vacationminnesota.com

56 8

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Osakis

Midway Beach Resort & Campground 1821 E. Lake Street, East, Osakis, MN 56360 320-859-4410 • 800-367-2547 A family resort with modern lakefront cabins, level grounds, beautiful sand beach. Free Wi-Fi. www.midwaybeach.com

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Smith

Smith Lake Resort 3189 Smith Lk. Rd. SE, Osakis, MN 56360 320-859-2501 • Jeff & Amy Pantze Family resort, sandy beach, on the lake, 6 miles east of Alexandria. www.smithlakeresort.com

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Villard

Canary Beach Resort 17405 Cty Rd 28, Villard, MN 56385 320-554-2471 • Scott & Christine Olschalager Family resort with the sandiest beach in the area. New lakefront cabins & event room for 100. www.canarybeachresort.com.

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f Open year around 48

SWIMMING AREA

GAME ROOM / PLAYGROUND / BOTH

STORE

PETS ALLOWED

LAUNDRY FACILITIES

AIR CONDITIONING / SOME / ALL

HANDICAPPED FACILITIES

SHORT STAYS

NUMBER OF CABINS/UNITS

SEE AD ON PAGE #

Mary

Open past Labor Day

B W A

Lobster Lake 1,308 Acres Specializing in Northern Pike, Bluegill, Crappie.

Walleye, Largemouth Bass, Rock Bass also caught.

Maximum depth 66 ft.

Public Boat Access: W shore off Co. Hwy. 27

Smith Lake See page 57

Lake Louise 219 Acres Specializing in Northern Pike, Bluegill. Walleye, Rock Bass, Crappie also caught.

Maximum depth 34 ft.

Public Boat Access: W shore off Co. Hwy. 22

Lake Victoria 419 Acres Specializing in Walleye, Rock Bass, Bluegill. Northern Pike, Crappie, Sunfish also caught.

Connects to Alexandria chain of lakes.

Maximum depth 61 ft.

Public Boat Access: S shore off Co. Hwy. 81

Lake Le Homme Dieu See page 53

Stowe Lake 366 Acres Specializing in Northern Pike, Bluegill. Walleye, Largemouth Bass, Crappie also caught.

Public Boat Access: W shore off Co. Hwy. 82 and Stowe Lake Rd.

Maple Lake 815 Acres Specializing in Walleye, Northern, Bluegill. Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Sunfish also caught.

Maximum depth 79 ft.

Public Boat Access: 1 on N shore off Co. Hwy. 4, 1 on E side off Co. Hwy. 87 Lake Mary See page 54 Mill Lake See page 54 Lake Miltona See page 56 Lake Mina 424 Acres Specializing in Walleye, Northern Pike, Bluegill. Muskie, Crappie, Largemouth, Rock Bass also caught.

Maximum depth 126 ft.

Public Boat Access: NW shore off Co. Rd. 8 Lake Moses See page 50 Lake Osakis See Page 55 Lake Oscar 1,040 Acres Specializing in Walleye, Northern, Bluegill. Muskie, Crappie, Largemouth Bass also caught.

Maximum depth 27 ft.

Public Boat Access: N shore off State Hwy. 27 Red Rock Lake 708 Acres Specializing in Walleye, Northern, Crappie. Bluegill, Largemouth Bass, Sunfish also caught.

Maximum depth 23 ft.

Public Boat Access: E shore off Co. Hwy. 1

Open year around!

1,000 feet of the Best Natural Sand Beach in the Lakes Area!

Cabins and es Vacation Hom 17405 County Rd 28 Villard, MN 56385

320-554-2471 info@canarybeachresort.com

www.canarybeachresort.com

WAKESURFING PADDLEBOARDING PONTOON RENTALS CONVENIENCE STORE SURF SHOP GAS (320)852-7575

49

Lake Moses

5

10

10

Water Area: 822 Acres

' 16 x Ma

5 10

Lake Aaron

15

Maximum Depth: 33 Ft.

20 25

Game Fish: Specializing in Northern Pike, Rock Bass, Bluegill. Walleye, Crappie, Largemouth Bass also caught.

Lake Moses

Lake Aaron

39

30

Unique Features: Clear water and sandy beaches.

Map Location: B-2

'

30

32

15

'

10

Public Boat Access: W shore off Co. Hwy. 16

5

16

30

30 25 20 15

10 5

Water Area: 545 Acres

Map excerpts from Alexandria Area Fishing Map Guide, www.scmaps.com

Shore Length: 4.8 miles Maximum Depth: 17 Ft. Game Fish: Specializing in Northern Pike, Bluegill, Crappie.

Walleye, Largemouth Bass, Sunfish also caught.

Unique Features: Abundant northern and sunfish populations giving novice fisherpeople plenty of excitement.

Natural sandy safe beach area for swimming.

Lake Andrew

Map Location: B-2

Public Boat Access: S shore off Lakes Rd

10 20 30 40 50 60 80 70

Lake Andrew 60

Shore Length: 5.3 miles

50

Maximum Depth: 85 Ft. 40

30 20 10

Unique Features: Spring fed, quiet and uncrowded, sandy beaches with no drop-offs.

Map Location: D-6 Public Boat Access: S shore off Co. Rd. 28

Shady Creek Resort

Located on 2 Lakes – Aaron & Moses

800-398-9917

14563 Lakes Rd. N.W. Brandon, MN 56315 www.shadycreekresort.com • Dick & Linda Wagner

50

70 60 50 40 30

41

20 10

70

Water Area: 946 Acres

Game Fish: Specializing in Walleye, Northern Pike, Bluegill. Crappie, Rock and Largemouth Bass also caught.

83'

70

H Excellent sandy beach

H Boats & docks on 2 lakes

H Lake level air-conditioned

cabins with 3-season porches H Large playground H Volleyball, shuffleboard, horseshoes, basketball H Boat included H Pontoon H Free standup paddleboards, paddleboats, kayaks & canoe H Motor rental H Free Wi-Fi, Cable TV/DVD H Gas Grills H Foot Pool

5 10

15

39' 35

46

20

5 30

10 25

20

Shore Length: 2.7 miles

25

44'

20

30

Brophy Lake 30

5

35

25

25

30 31'

10 15

30

20

5

10 15

Lake Vil ard

Maximum Depth: 45 Ft.

25

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

Map Location: D-4

Lake Villard 35

82

83

Game Fish: Specializing in Northern Pike, Bluegill. Walleye, Large and Smallmouth Bass, Crappie also caught.

15

3' 15

5 10

Water Area: 289 Acres

15

20

40 Max

Brophy Lake

38'

Lake Amelia

15

40

10 5

Public Boat Access: NW corner off Co. Hwy. 82

Cyclists and walkers enjoy the Central Lakes Trail near Lake Brophy.

Lake Amelia

5

1 30 20 0

10 20

40

10

5

20

Shore Length: 7.3 miles

Game Fish: Northern Pike, Largemouth Bass Walleye & Panfish

Game Fish: Northern Pike, Largemouth Bass, Walleye & Panfish

20

30 40

15 20

Water Area: 909 Acres

Water Area: 536 Acres Shore Length: 3.6 miles

5

30

20

15

30

15

9'

15 20 16

20

40

20 10

40

5

9'

30

'

5

20 10

30 50 25 29

6 M 9' ax 60 30

Unique Features: This lake will bring smiles to any Walleye fisherman. It is also abundant in Bass and Panfish.

Map Location: F-7 – Pope County Public Boat Access: Off Co. Rd. 28

Unique Features: Centrally located 17 miles SE of Alexandria, 8 miles north of Glenwood and 18 miles west of Sauk Centre. A breathtaking beauty!

63 60' 40

60 69 50

' 50

30 20 10 5

Map Location: F-8 – Pope County

4 3 0 2 0 10 0 5

Public Boat Access: Off Co. Rd. 25

51

10 15

20

10

20

10 20

40 11

14' 20

40

60 80

110 120 140 130

40 24' 30

10

100 40

Shore Length: 14.1 miles

141'

Lake Carlos

38

Maximum Depth: 166 ft.

50

40 20 10

120

130

110

Game Fish: Specializing in Walleye, Northern Pike, Bluegill.

Crappie, Largemouth and Rock Bass also caught.

100

80

8'

10

50

9' 10 20 40

73'

20

60 20

30

6'

70

Unique Features: Clear cool water; depth from 2 to 200 feet. Largest lake on the Alexandria chain of lakes. Great swimming and water sports.

10

71'

20

40 60 20

15

40 60

11

80

163' Max

80

160 60

150

40 140

120 100 80

10 20

60

40 40 60 10

20 10

20 50

54'

40

30 40

51

20

20

Lake Darling

30

10

20 15

10

30 50

15 20

30

Game Fish: Specializing in Northern Pike, Bluegill, Crappie.

Walleye, Rock and Largemouth Bass also caught.

60

8' 10 20 30

10 20

62' Max

40

40 30 15 8' 10 20

30

50

20 10

54 53

10

30 20

7'

Map Location: D-4

30

10

Water Area: 954 Acres

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.

20

52

Shore Length: 6.5 miles • Maximum Depth: 63 ft.

52

10

Public Boat Access: 1 on N shore off Co. Rd. 38 within Carlos State Park, 1 on NE shore off Co. Rd. 38, 1 on E shore off E Lake Carlos Dr., 1 on W shore off Co. Rd. 11.

100 140 150 120

38'

20

Map Location: E-4

Lake Darling 42

20 10

60

Water Area: 2,520 Acres

20

50 42'

Lake Carlos

30

20

Lake Geneva

20 28' 30

30

30

35'

60

40

36'

Shore Length: 5.4 miles • Maximum Depth: 64 ft.

40 20

5

10

40 49'

4'

40

52'

50 60

30

24'

40

50

72'

10

40

38'

20 15

4'

20 30

42'

40

10 5

30 20 15 10 5

50 60

50 60 79' 70

40

20

40

40 20 10

50

30

5

20 30 40 50 60

5 10 20

60

40

40

40 50

50

40

60

80 70

30 50

60

67'

85'

30

80

70

60

70 60

80

58'

60

70

80

90 98'

5 5 10 20

60 50 40 20 10 5

34'

30

40

50 40 60

22'

80 70 106' 90 Max 100

Water Area: 4,289 Acres

30

75

60

40 59'

10 5

50 48'

38' 50

49'

40

51'

30 43'

28'

5

Lake Geneva 10 15

40

30

45'

20

30

40

25'

40

30

46'

30

20

50

15

5 10

41'

EV

25'

55

38'

30 20

3'

30 15 10

25

Map excerpts from Alexandria Area Fishing Map Guide, www.scmaps.com

5

27

Shore Length: 21.2 miles • Maximum Depth: 107 ft.

50 40

60

10

30

20

68'

70

23'

Lake Ida

30 20 15

Public Boat Access: 1 on NW shore off State Hwy. 29, 1 on SE shore off Cty. Rd. 82.

34

53'

38'

Map Location: E-5

7'

10

27'

40

5'

30

27'

30 25'

65'

60

15

23'

10

24'

20 10

5

21' 15 10 5

5

70 20

80

70

40

40

20

10

28'

15 20

60 86'

80

Unique Features: One of the largest lakes in the area; crystal clear water, sandy beaches and the finest walleye fishing in the county.

24'

30

67'

10 20 40

60

5

Game Fish: Specializing in Walleye, Northern Pike, Bluegill. Rock Bass, Crappie, Largemouth Bass also caught.

70

70 75'

25'

60

70

60

20

11'

30

10

20

63' x Ma

Unique Features: Part of the Alexandria chain of lakes.

Natives say it is one of the prettiest lakes in the area.

10 10

Lake Ida

5' 5

5

73

30

15

7'

5

5 10

20 40

56

5

Game Fish: Specializing in Walleye, Northern Pike, Bluegill.

Largemouth Bass, Crappie, Rock Bass also caught

40

5

20

20

10

5

20 15

30 28'

10

10

5

20

40 30 20

5

5 29

34

50

67'

10 15

Water Area: 631 Acres 10

3'

5

Lake Le Homme Dieu Map Location: D-3

10 15

30

20

Public Boat Access: 2 on E shore off Co. Hwy 34, 1 on N shore off Big Horn Bay Rd.

40

10 15 20 20

22'

25' 10

15

60 50

Lake Le Homme Dieu 57'

15

10 20

50

30

40

30

40

30

20

18'

60

50

20 40 50 55'

30

40

Water Area: 1,744 Acres

30 50

50

Shore Length: 9.0 miles • Maximum Depth: 87 ft.

20 10 15

60 68'

40 38'

30 15

Game Fish: Specializing in Walleye, Northern Pike, Bluegill.

Crappie, Largemouth and Rock Bass also caught.

20 10

19

30

40

60

20

70 60

20 10 20

70

30 40 50 38'

Unique Features: On windy days 3 sheltered bays make any water recreation possible. Part of the Alexandria chain of lakes.

42

40

40

40

30

50 20 15

10

38' 40

Map Location: E-4

80 85' Max

70

60

50 40

Public Boat Access: 1 on W. side off Co. Rd. 42, 1 on NE side off Co. Rd. 120.

The “Beach” on Lake Carlos Known for our crystal clear water and sandy beach.

12 cottages feature sliding glass door & deck overlooking the lake.

Children’s swim area, paddle boats, canoe, swim raft, playground, boat, motor, pontoon rental.

4860 County Road 42 NE Alexandria, MN 56308

Windjammer Inn Resort gojammer@yahoo.com 320-846-2881

BERGS RESORT all cabins have a view of beautiful Lake Le Homme Dieu • 2, 3 & 4 bedroom cabins – Weekly, inquire for short stays • Spacious – Lake Level – Great Sunsets!

• Great swimming – Sand beach & beach toys • Picnic tables – Grills – Playground – Lawn games – WiFi • Pontoon – Boat – Motor – Boat Lift Rentals Owned and operated by the Berg Family since 1955

Email: info@bergsresort.com 1306 Berg Ave NE, Alexandria, MN 56308

320-762-1426

www.bergsresort.com

10 mins to Downtown Alex

53

5 15

Lake Mary

10 20 25

30

74

35

40'

72 27

Water Area: 2,371 Acres

25

20

25

Shore Length: 24 miles • Maximum Depth: 42 ft.

35 15

5 10

10 5

40'

30

Game Fish: Specializing in Walleye, Northern Pike, Bluegill. Crappie, Large and Smallmouth Bass also caught.

67

20

15

34' Max

30 20 27'

25 114 20

Mil Lake 15

5

10

71

Public Boat Access: 1 on NW shore off State Hwy. 27, 1 on SW side off Co. Hwy. 4

Lake Mary 66 5

10

Water Area: 600 Acres

11'

20

15

10

Shore Length: 5 miles • Maximum Depth: 42 ft.

2

Game Fish: Specializing in Walleye, Northern Pike, Bluegill.

Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Sunfish also caught.

Unique Features: Scenic Mill Lake is noted for its deep, clear spring fed waters.

Great fishing & recreation 7 miles west of Alexandria.

Map Location: C-5 Public Boat Access: SE shore of lake off State Hwy. 27

#71 54

5

Spawning Area

Mill Lake 27

10

15

Map Location: C-6

25

20

70

Unique Features: Excellent swimming due to gradual slopes. Fun, large recreational lake surrounded by majestic trees.

5

73

5 10 20

5

10

20

30

30 40 50

40 30

50

64'

60

20 10 40

5

51'

5

5

10

40

10

7' 20

20

20 10' 30

5 10

Max 67' 60

50 40

5 5

10

20 30

Lake Osakis

5 5

Water Area: 6,270 Acres • Shore Length: 53 miles

30 20 10'

10

30

Lake Osakis

20

10

5

Game Fish: Specializing in Walleye, Northern Pike, Bluegill.

Crappie, Rock and Largemouth Bass also caught.

Unique Features: Top walleye lake with abundant panfish. Large year-round lake for many activities. Large waterfowl rookery.

Map Location: H-5 Public Boat Access: 1 on NW side off Co. Hwy. 10, 1 on N shore of Battle Point off Co. Hwy. 37

30

20

10

20 10 5

80

Map excerpts from Alexandria Area Fishing Map Guide, www.scmaps.com

55

10 20

36

14

30 10 20 30

Lake Miltona

90 40

50

30 20 10

70 60

50

10

50

5

60 40'

6'

70 40

30 20 30

10 15 40 30 20

10 8'

20

20 30 10

50

7'

60

40 30 30 20

90'

70 80

Lake Miltona

70 44' 40

17'

50

10

20 30 105'

Water Area: 5,838 Acres

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80

18' 30

50 40

70 80

Shore Length: 15 miles • Maximum Depth: 108 ft.

90'

30

50 40

30 20 19'

30'

20 30 50 40 20 30

10

Game Fish: Specializing in Walleye, Rock Bass, Bluegill.

Northern Pike, Muskie, Largemouth Bass, Crappie also caught.

20 30

60

40 50

25

60 70

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 snowmobilinng opportunities.

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60

15'

29

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Public Boat Access: 1 on NE shore off State Hwy. 29 and North Lake Miltona Dr., 1 on N shore off Co. Hwy. 14, 1 on W shore off Co. Hwys 6 and 14

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Map Location: E-2

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95' 90 80

5

76

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Smith Lake Water Area: 575 Acres

30

Shore Length: 5.5 miles • Maximum Depth: 32 ft.

30

Smith Lake

Game Fish: Specializing in Northern Pike, Bluegill, Crappie.

Walleye, Largemouth Bass, Sunfish also caught.

Unique Features: Spring-fed lake with great weedlines, points, and bays creating great fish habitat.

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20

Map Location: F-5 Public Boat Access: NE shore off State Hwy. 27 and Smith Lake Rd.

15 10

Snowmobile/biking trAilS AcceSS / On

outdoor plug-inS

pet AccommodAtionS

fireplAceS / Some / All

Whirlpool / JAcuzzi

SAunA

hot tub / Indoor / Outdoor

pool / Indoor / Outdoor

meeting room

gAme room

golf NeAr / On

premium chAnnelS

cAble

televiSion

Air conditioning

TubS / ShowerS / Both

lAundry on Site

hAndicApped fAcilitieS

credit cArdS Accepted

internet AcceSS

number of bedroomS

See Ad on pAge #

5

Sugarbush Lodge f 105 Linden Ave., Alexandria, MN 56308 320-763-3200 • www.SugarbushLodge.com • Carolyn & Tim Aarsvold Luxurious vacation home & retreat lodge on Lake Geneva and the Central Lakes Trail.

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Oriole Lodge f Oriole Lodge on Lake Mary – Alexandria, MN 320-886-5434 www.vacationAlex.com Sunsets and perfect sandy beach – very private location

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Vacation Rental Management Experts

320-808-7851 www.sumacco.com

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