101 Fun Things To Do In Douglas County

101 fun

things to DO I N D O U G L A S CO U N T Y

An Echo Press Publication

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Serving the Community for 73 Years!

101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011 3

1 0 1 fun things to DO index Hit the golf course ................5 Garage sale for bargains ......5 Motorcycle the lakes ............5 Snoop for antiques ...............5 Try a campground .................5 Bowl a strike.........................5 Enjoy a AAAA play................6 Try a new hobby....................6 Be a volunteer.......................6 Shop historic downtown.......7 Picnic Park Osagi ..................7 Theatre L’Homme Dieu .........7 Buy a used book....................8 Savor some pie & coffee ......8 Attend an auction .................8 Explore a boat show .............9 Tap to the band fest..............9 Get informed.........................9 Drive a go-kart ....................10 Hone your marksmanship ...10 Adopt a four-legged friend ..10 Rent a pontoon ...................10 Try geocaching ....................11 Attend a concert .................11 Visit a petting zoo ...............11 Bait your hook and fish.......11 Enjoy a free concert............12 Learn scuba diving..............12 Walk to points of interest...12 Snowmobile the trails ........12 Tube the river ......................12 Take the Polar Plunge .........13 Shop a ‘niche’ boutique......13 Spend time with pooch.......13 Feed the ducks....................13 Try bowfishing ....................13 Golf guide ......................14-16 Paint a landscape ...............17 Buy farm fresh ....................17

Tour maritime museum .......17 Hunt game birds .................17 Attend radio theater ...........17 Throw some disc golf .........17 Step back to the 40s...........18 Smile for family portrait .....18 Ski cross country.................18 Throw a softball..................19 Bike or blade on the trail ....19 Pick fresh berries ................19 Immerse in local art............20 Scream for ice cream..........20 Ski a local resort.................20 Skateboard a ramp .............21 Attend Boats & BBQ ...........21 Simulate your swing...........21 Downhill sled......................22 Become a beach bum .........22 Rev your engine ..................22 Enter a fish tournament......22 Don your cowboy hat..........22 Ice skate on the pond .........22 Dining guide ..................23-25 Cheer on a hockey team .....27 Spend day at the park.........27 Take in a ballgame..............27 Rent personal watercraft....27 Take in a movie ...................27 Worship outdoors ...............27 Experience fine dining ........28 Splash at waterpark ...........28 Explore state park...............28 Show your patriotism .........28 Step back in history ............28 Kick up your heels...............28 Rent a family bike...............29 Tour ‘silk stocking’ area ......29 Visit Runestone Park...........29 Kayak Lake Agnes...............29 Cheer on a race car.............29 Tour manufacturing.............29

4 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011

Sample local wines ............30 Tour historic home ..............30 Head to the mall ................30 Climb Inspiration Peak........31 Make ice cream ..................31 Rent a movie.......................31 Write name in runic............31 Build an igloo......................34 Attend summer festival ......34 Learn at Terrace Garden .....34 Find Lady of the Hills ..........34 Visit Spruce Hill ..................34 Drive around lakes..............35 Pick out a good book...........35 Take tour of gardens ...........35 Cheer on demo derby..........35 Socialize at bazaar..............35 Watch the go-karts .............35 Dance/sing karaoke............36 Become an avid hunter.......36 Watch snowmobiles ...........36 Peruse Art in the Park.........36 Go to the fair.......................36

A publication of the Echo Press Alexandria, MN To advertise, call 320.763.3133.

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Hit the golf course

1

Do you love to golf? Here’s your chance! Home to professional and top amateur golfers alike, Douglas County has some of the premier public and semipublic courses to be found in Minnesota. With signature holes, breathtaking views of the lakes and rolling hills, and nine courses to choose from, you’re sure to find a course just made for you.

Garage sale for bargains

2

Go garage saling. Nearly every weekend in the lakes area you’ll find garage sale signs sprouting from street corners. Stop by and check out the deals – you never know what you’ll find! Here are some tips for successful garage saling: Check out the garage sale ads in the Friday issues of the Echo Press; circle the sales that are on your must-stop list; map out your route; bring dollar bills and change; and most importantly, get there early!

Bike around the lakes

3

Take a motorcycle ride around the lakes. There are about 300 lakes in Douglas County and a motorcycle ride around any of them will make for a scenic trip.

During your ride, be sure to stop in at a local café for lunch. Rev up your engine and hit the road – there’s plenty to check out from the seat of a bike.

Snoop the antique shops

4

The Alexandria area offers an abundance of antique shopping opportunities. Shoppers can spend hours snooping through antique stores for something specific.

Chances are good you’ll come across a must-have treasure to take home. Local antique store owners offer a wealth of knowledge if you have questions.

Relax at an area campground

5

Whether you’re rolling up in an RV or your tent is rolled up in a backpack, the lakes area offers everything you’ll need for campground comforts. Any of the 11 locally owned campgrounds are a great choice for a weekend of fun, and Lake Carlos State Park is a closer-to-nature choice that’s still close to town.

Bowl a strike

6

An evening of bowling is a great way to have fun. Set up the bumpers for the kids or spend a night in competition with friends. The local lanes provide plenty of options for both the serious and recreational bowlers.

101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011 5

Sit back and enjoy a play

7

Check out the local talent on stage at the Alexandria Area Arts Association in downtown Alexandria. The AAAA presents four productions a year – fall, Christmas, winter and spring. All are comprised of local talent in the cast and crew. There are also several other productions and concerts held at AAAA Theatre throughout the year.

Try a new hobby

8 9

Take a Community Education class. District 206 Community Education offers programs, classes and other learning opportunities for residents of all ages, interests and abilities. Classes are held throughout school district facilities all year.

Be a volunteer

Volunteer at the Douglas County Outreach Food Shelf, Lakes Area Humane Society or Habitat for Humanity of Douglas County. What you give, you get back ten-fold and volunteering your time is a guaranteed rewarding experience. If you contact these local non-profits, they will gratefully find something for you to help with!

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Shop historic downtown

10

Make a day of it – shopping and lunching at the unique stores of downtown Alexandria. The variety of shops is awesome – everything from funky handbags and clothes to antiques and books. Plus, the downtown dining choices are as unique as the shopping! You’ll have a hard time deciding on one. You may want to return again and again to check out everthing downtown Alexandria has to offer.

Picnic at Park Osagi

11

Have a picnic at Park Osagi along the southern shore of Lake Osakis. The park is located on Lake Street and it’s easy to get to. Once you’re there, there’s lots to do: check out the playground, fishing, picnic shelters, basketball court, shady spots to sit and open area for games. A restroom is also on site.

Attend Theatre L’Homme Dieu

12

Attend a play at Theatre L’Homme Dieu in Alexandria. For 50 years, TLHD has contributed to the vibrancy and allure of the lakes area by presenting exceptional and entertaining theater. Five productions are set this summer, including Triple Espresso; Proof; Guys on Ice; Dirty Rotten Scoundrels; and Power Balladz.

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101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011 7

Enjoy a second hand book

13

Visit the Used Book Store at the Douglas County Library. The Friends of the Library hold a hugely successful used book sale every year, and now, they have opened up shop in the library to sell used book treasures yearround. Stop by, bring cash and it’s guaranteed you’ll walk out with several books to dig into.

Savor some pie and coffee

14

Need a jolt of java and a cup of conversation? There are hometown cafes with home-baked pies, branded coffee shops, and restaurants galore in Douglas County to meet and indulge in a chat session, a piece of pie and a cup of coffee.

Attend an auction

15

Attend an estate auction. It’s a unique experience to score a deal on a wide variety of unique treasures – everything from vintage knick-knacks to classic furniture and so much more.

It’s Just Waterpark Golf R001562298

Celebrating 40 years!

2100 Arrowwood Lane, Alexandria, MN

320-762-1124

arrowwoodresort.com

8 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011

More Fun at Arrowwood!

• 200 Deluxe Guestrooms • Riding Stables • Indoor/Outdoor Pools & Tennis Courts • Full-service Marina • Lake Cafe, Rafter’s Lounge & Deck Bar & Grill • Indoor Waterpark • Darling Reflections Spa • 18 hole Championship Golf Course

Deck Bar

Explore a boat show

16

Visit the Chain of Lakes Classic Boat Show.

On July 9, the Minnesota Lakes Maritime Museum presents a stunning display of classic boats right where they belong – floating in a local lake! Take a closer look at the boats of yesteryear all spiffed up and shiny and on display. Often the boat owners are nearby and you’ll have a chance to learn more about each boat’s story. The show is held at Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center on Lake Darling.

Tap your toes to bands

17

Attend the Vikingland Band Festival, featuring the Midwest’s finest high school marching bands. Founded in 1985, the event is a highlight of the summer parade marching season. In the past 26 years it has drawn 84 different bands from seven states, two Canadian provinces and Norway. In 2011, the 27th annual parade is set for Sunday, June 26 at 1:30 p.m. on Broadway.

Get informed of local happenings

18

Grab a copy of the Echo Press or Osakis Review and pull up a chair at one of many local coffee shops. Not only will you read about the community’s local happenings, you can strike up a conversation with the group seated next to you – we’re friendly around here. Plus, we guarantee you’ll get a great cup of coffee with smalltown hospitality anywhere you go.

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Come & experience the fun!

Saloon Downtown Alexandria

320-763-7712 104 Broadway • Alex

101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011 9

Drive a go-kart and make a splash

19

Have some fun at a local amusement park.

From go-karts and bumper boats to mini golf and batting cages, amusement parks offer plenty of fun throughout the summer months. The many activities at these parks provide hours of entertainment for all ages.

Hone your marksmanship

20

Hone your marksmanship at a shooting park. The local shooting parks offer plenty of opportunity for those looking to sharpen their aim before hunting season or just have fun on the range.

Short or tall, young or old, everyone has the chance to succeed in the shooting sports with a little practice.

Adopt a four-legged friend

21

Find a friend at the Lakes Area Humane Society. There are many four-legged friends waiting to move in to a loving home. Stop by the local humane society to tour the facility and meet dogs and cats that will be happy to meet you and melt your heart.

Rent a pontoon and tour a lake

22

There are several places across the county that offer pontoon rentals. Launch your rented ‘toon on one of the area lakes with your friends and family, pack a lunch and cooler and get set for a day of sun and water.

Boat rentals allow everyone the chance to enjoy a float in a boat.

Long Prairie, MN

Father’s Day Weekend • June 16 - 19

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Every Day - Goldstar Amusement Rides, Food Vendors, Exhibitors Friday - Fireworks Saturday - Car Show, Parade & WARRANT with Special Guest Van Halen Army Sunday - Demo Derby

See Full Schedule at www.prairiefest.net 10 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011

Try geocaching

23

Try geocaching at Lake Carlos State Park. Geocaching is the recreational activity of hunting for a hidden object with the use of GPS coordinates. Lake Carlos State Park offers hands-on training that will help you participate in Minnesota’s statewide Geocaching Wildlife Safari. The class is June 18 from 1-2 p.m. Learn more about geocaching opportunities at the Minnesota DNR website.

Attend a concert

24

Attend a series of high quality concerts through the Central Lakes Concert Association. CLCA, formed in 1983, sponsors six concerts a year for season ticket holders from September to April.

Members can attend all the concerts in Alexandria, plus concerts in five nearby communities for $35 per member.

Visit a petting zoo!

25

Pygmy goats and kids, sheep, miniature horses and mules, miniature zebu cows, llamas, potbelly pigs, rabbits, ducks, chickens, geese, peacocks and pheasants.

Where can you find all this variety? At the next best thing to grandpa’s farm – a petting zoo. You can visit the local petting zoo any time of the year and even get a chance for a little hands-on experience.

Bait your hook and catch a fish

26

There might not be a more popular activity in the Alexandria lakes area than getting on a lake for a day of fishing. From panfish to Minnesota’s favorite big-game species of muskie, walleyes and northern pike, area lakes have every kind of fish an angler is looking for. Plenty of guiding opportunities are also available for those who may need some assistance in finding the area’s hottest spots.

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101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011 11

Enjoy a free summer concert

27

Enjoy free summer concerts on the Douglas County Courthouse lawn on Thursdays at 7 p.m. beginning May 26 for 15 weeks. They are put on by the Red Willow Arts Coalition. There are also six to eight free family events at Alexandria City Park in the summer, sponsored by the Douglas County Building Connection Early Childhood Initiative.

Take a scuba diving class

28

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

Walk to points of interest

29

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

Snowmobile the trails

30

A snowmobiler’s paradise awaits you in Douglas County. Filled with spectacular views along trails that travel through flatlands and heavily wooded hills, snowmobilers are also treated to the sight of abundant wildlife. The Douglas Area Trails Association (DATA) maintains the 370 miles of trails that connect every community within the county, so food, gas, services and accommodations are always nearby.

Float down the river

31

Float down the Long Prairie River on a tube. This is the perfect way to spend a lazy summer afternoon. Load up the inner tubes and a cooler and jump in the slow-moving river with friends and family for a memorable summer adventure.

12 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011

Take the Polar Plunge!

32

During frigid February, people plunge into a lake on purpose! The Polar Bear Plunge is an annual fundraiser for Special Olympics Minnesota. This year, 263 people took the plunge and raised $48,500 for Special Olympics.

The event draws a great crowd every year. Thinking about taking the plunge? Watch for registration details later this year.

Shop a ‘niche’ boutique

33

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

There are several shops that offer items like tuxedos, lefse, bikes and more. The areas downtown are the best places to shop for something unique!

Spend time with your pooch

34

Spend some quality time with your pooch at a spot made just for them – the local dog park! Studies show that 65 percent of dogs are overweight. So get them – and yourself – off the couch and head to Pooch Playland for some quality time.

Feed the ducks

35

Feed the ducks at Noonan Park. This is a fun family event that will delight your kids or grandkids… and the ducks!

Bring pieces of bread and scatter them on the ground for the ducks and geese to devour. The kids will squeal with excitement when dozens of ducks waddle and swim their way over to the bread buffet.

Try your hand at bowfishing

36

This sport has taken off over the past couple years. It is cheap and easy to equip an old or new bow with all the accessories you need to hunt for rough fish that all the local lakes have. The best time to bowfish is in the spring when the fish are spawning in the shallow water near shore.

101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011 13

Golf Directory your guide to area golf courses!

OSAKIS COUNTRY CLUB CLUB, CART & GOLF CART RENTALS LOUNGE: BEER & SET-UPS, SANDWICHES & PIZZA GREEN FEES: 9 holes $14.50; 18 holes $23.00 Weekends & Holidays: 9 holes $15.50, 18 holes $26.00 Mini Membership: $115.00 - 10 rounds REDUCED MEMBERSHIP FOR 30 & YOUNGER Student price 9 holes $7.50 and $9.50 When accompanied by adult. 16 and under.

•Season memberships available “A challenging beauty amid hills, trees and ponds!”

1 block North of Intersection Hwys. 127 & 27 E., Osakis www.osakiscountryclub.com 320-859-2140

14 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011

Twilight...$29 - Unlimited holes! Call after 4 p.m.!

“18 Hole Championship Golf course, Par 72, 6,492 Yards Overlooking Beautiful Lake Minnewaska!”

9 Holes, Weekdays $18.00; Weekends $21.00 18 Holes, Weekdays $30.00; Weekends $35.00 FREE DRIVING RANGE WITH PAID GREEN FEES BLUE TEES: 71.7 rating, 137 slope • WHITE: 70.3 rating, 132 slope RED: 70.8 rating, 125 slope Power cart rentals. State-of-the-art driving range.

Open to the public. Full service bar.

15 miles S. of Alexandria on Hwy. 29 to Glenwood.

1-1/2 miles W. of Glenwood on Hwy. 28/29 west to Golf Course road, turn right.

CALL FOR TEE TIMES: 320-634-3680

Golf Directory

Pine Ridge Executive 9 Hole Golf Course Par 32 - 5 Par Fours & 4 Par Threes

- AFFORDABLY PRICED Conveniently located minutes from Downtown!

Golf Car, Club & Cart Rental Especially enjoyable for families, seniors, juniors, couples!

ALSO AVAILABLE FOR GROUP EVENTS! 4 miles North of Alexandria on Hwy. 29 CALL FOR TEE TIMES: 320-762-5420 www.nordictrailsgolf.com

Golf Course GREEN FEES 9 hole Mon.: $10.50 (Youths $6.00) Tues.-Thurs.: $12.50 Fri., Sat., Sun. & Holidays: $14.00 Call for Youth and Senior rates and times CART RENTALS 9 hole: $12.50; Additional 9 hole $8.00 Public golf course - driving range, club & cart rentals, homemade food - breakfast, too!

We accept: Mastercard, Visa and Debit Cards From I-94, take Exit 90 at Brandon and go five miles N. on Co. Rd. 16 NW www.PineRidgeGolfCourse.net Toll free: 320-834-4028 • 320-876-4028

“Joel Goldstrand Design” 27 hole championship golf course Full practice facility Located 3 miles N. on Hwy. 29 to Cty. Rd. 73, then 1 mile E. and then S. on Liberty Rd. – OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! – www.genevagolfclub.com PRO SHOP: 320-762-7089 GENEVA GRILL: 320-762-7092 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011 15

Golf Directory

TIPS

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G OLF C OURSE

18 Holes Overlooking Pomme de Terre Lake!

Lush, open fairways, challenging greens. Relaxed and friendly atmosphere!

• Pro-Shop • Snack Bar • Rentals • Open to the Public Arrowwood is proud to announce Minnesota Golf at its finest! This newly renovated golf course was designed with wetland preservation in mind and focuses on scenic lake views and unique challenges. Experience the natural and undisturbed beauty of Alexandriaʼs most scenic golf course!

West from Alexandria 25 miles on I-94 to EvansvilleElbow Lake Exit 82.

West 6 miles on Hwy. 79, then North 1 mile on Golf Course (Co. 24) Rd. Group Rates Available • Monday & Wednesday Specials www.TipsinahMoundsGolf.com 218-685-4271 • 800-660-TMGC

2100 Arrowwood Lane NW, Alexandria, MN 56308 320-762-TEES (8337) www.arrowwoodresort.com

Seasonal or weekly punch cards

9 holes of golf...$13 • 6 & under FREE Jr. & Sr. Rates • Cart Rental Available Par 36 Course with water hazards and sand traps!

Double Eagle - $30

5 miles west of Alexandria on Hwy. 27 to CR 27, follow signs.

Call for tee times 320.886.1400 Scenic • Challenging • Par 35 www.hardwoodhillsgolf.com 16 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011

Course features: •Club Card •Golf Cart Rentals •Driving Range •Practice Green •Snack Bar Season Memberships Available!

2 miles So. of Forada to Cty. Rd. #87... or from Hwy. 29, take Cty. Rd. 30E and follow signs.

CALL FOR TEE TIMES: 320-554-3385

Paint the landscapes

37

Set up your easel, gather your paints and paint one of the many beautiful landscapes Douglas County has to offer. No matter what your artistic style is, artwork is a wonderfully unique way to capture a memorable moment. There are galleries in the area where you may have the opportunity to display your work.

Buy fresh from the farm

38

Check out the Farmers’ Market. From May to October an assortment of local specialties, fruits, organic food, meats, baked goods and vegetables are available at Big Ole Central Park in Alexandria. Hours are Saturdays and Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to noon and Thursdays from 3 to 6 p.m.

Tour the maritime museum

39

Tour the Minnesota Lakes Maritime Museum, which celebrates the area’s lake traditions and legacies. It is dedicated to the preservation of antique and classic watercraft, resort memorabilia and sporting equipment used on Minnesota lakes. The museum is located on 3rd Street West in downtown Alexandria. The season runs from May 15 to October 15.

Hunt for game birds

40

Sportsmen who can’t get enough time in the field do not have to wait until fall to chase game birds in the area.

Local game farms provide hunting opportunities for upland birds for months after the regular season ends. It is a great opportunity to tune up and get that dog ready for opening day.

Attend a live radio theater taping

41

Attend a live taping of a radio theater performance at Lakes Area Theatre. Shows are performed before a live studio audience, recorded and played on the radio. Live performances are Fridays at 7 p.m. Onair performances can be heard on KXRA 1490 AM on Sundays at 12:30 p.m. and through a live stream on the website, www.kxra.com.

Throw a game of disc golf

42

Disc golf is a great way to spend an afternoon outside with friends and family. A new 18-hole course was opened last summer right behind the Alexandria YMCA. The course offers a variety of challenges for players of every talent level.

101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011 17

Step back in time to the 1940s

43

Attend the Greatest Generation Day at Chandler Field in Alexandria on June 11. The Douglas County Historical Society presents the WWII themed event each June. The day features WWII re-enactors, vintage aircraft displays, music, food and drink, and more. Gates open at noon, with a Hangar Dance taking place from 6 to 9 p.m. Dress in period costume if you wish!

Smile for a family portrait

44

Have a family portrait taken. There are several professional photographers in the area. Do you want a photo on the dock? Maybe a casual shot of all the grandchildren giggling? Making the effort to get your family in one spot and all spiffed-up for photos will make for a longlasting memory that will be treasured forever.

Ski cross country

45

Cross country ski by lantern light at Lake Carlos State Park. The family-friendly event provides an opportunity to walk, hike, ski or snowshoe on trails illuminated by candles. Park visitors can then warm up around a fire and have a hot drink.

BIKE RENTALS

Come visit, learn & enjoy all we have to offer!

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Nelson OFF SALE Discount Liquors

Danny & Dave Close

Senior Citizens’ Discount Every Day! Sales • Service • Leasing 605 Hawthorne St. Downtown Alexandria 320.762.1114 Many Uses: Golfing • At the Lake • Camping • Home • So Much More!

18 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011

Wine 10%, Liquor 5%

Kegs Available– Low Prices!

Nelson, MN • 320-762-0113

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Shop. Relax.

Have Fun. Throw a softball

46

Softball tournaments are a great way to enjoy a weekend throughout the summer.

Whether you want to play or watch, there are plenty of opportunities to do both in Douglas County.

Bike or blade on the trail

47

Spend an afternoon biking, walking or rollerblading on the Central Lakes Trail, a paved trail that spans Douglas County. It connects the cities of Osakis, Nelson, Alexandria, Garfield, Brandon, Evansville and Melby and on to Fergus Falls. The trailhead in Alexandria is at the north end of Broadway in Big Ole Central Park.

Pick some fresh berries

48

Pick some berries at a local berry farm. There’s nothing more tasty than fresh sundrenched strawberries or raspberries right from the garden, and there are several pick-your-own options in the Douglas County area.

• Fabrics • Furniture • Window Treatments • Rugs • Accessories • Many USA Made Products • Interior Design Service 609 Broadway • Alexandria 320.763.8377 theinteriorshoppe@embarqmail.com theinteriorshoppe.com

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Alexandria Area Arts Association Miles from New York...

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Downtown Alexandria

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101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011 19

Immerse yourself in local art

49

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Visit a local art gallery. Douglas County offers lots of opportunities to enjoy art in many forms, including art studios displaying local paintings and drawings; a pottery place, silversmithing and glass fusing studio; photography studios; and local art clubs that include classes and time to hone your own artistic skills.

Scream for ice cream

50

Do you scream for ice cream?

Not to worry. Douglas County is rich with places to indulge that craving for ice cream, smoothies, frozen yogurt and other cool summer-time treats.

Ski a local resort

51 New name name.

Same commitment to excellence.

MN Relay Service 1-800-627-3529 A Member of MN State Colleges & Universities System An Equal Opportunity Employer/Educator

(320) 762 762-0221 0221 alextech.edu R001574131

20 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011

Love the outdoors? Then head to Douglas County’s local ski resort and get your fill of snowboarding, downhill or cross country skiing, and even tubing. You can take a lesson or even try your hand at racing. It’s all there for you. With 15 downhill runs, there’s something suitable for any skill level.

1213 Broadway, Alexandria • 320-763-4455

Skateboard a ramp

52

Those who want to hone their skateboarding skills can hit up the Alexandria skate park. The park, located on Fillmore Street, is free to visit and offers a variety of ramps and pipes for boarders of every talent level.

Attend Boats, Blues and BBQ

53

Attend the annual Boats, Blues and BBQ event on Saturday, August 6 at the Minnesota Lakes Maritime Museum. The event is a summer celebration and fundraiser for the museum. It includes a barbecue dinner and dessert, an evening of blues music and a silent auction and raffles.

Simulate your golf swing

54

Get your swings in at a golf simulator.

Golfers don’t have to wait for sunny weather to get out on the course anymore. Golf simulators are available in both Brandon and Carlos for those in the area who want to keep their swing sharp throughout the off-season.

Reinvent your summer with Sea-Doo & Can-Am!

e Te s t D ri v

One

TODAY

!

R001572745

www.olliesservice.com ®TM Trademark of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates.

101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011 21

Downhill sled at the park

55

Go sledding at Kensington Runestone Park. Open every day from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., the park has a toboggan hill and warming house. Take Highway 27 west of Alexandria about 13 miles and turn left on County Road 103 for 1 mile.

Become a beach bum

56

Spend a lazy day at the beach.

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

Rev your engine

57

Attend the Vintage Car Club car show and swap meet.

The Vintage Car Club, formed in 1969, is a group of enthusiasts who share an interest in vintage automobiles. Its 23rd annual car show and swap meet is set for Sunday, June 26 at the Douglas County Fairgrounds. It typically features 125 to 175 vehicles.

Enter a fishing tournament

58

Enter a fishing tournament. Many local tournaments and some fishing tours from all over the country offer a chance to compete for fun or nice prizes against other competitive anglers. The Ice Fishing Challenge is one of the biggest tournaments held here each year. Almost 2,200 anglers hit the ice on Lake Agnes for the 2011 event looking for a chance at a big payday.

Don your cowboy hat and try a horseback ride

59

Spend the day horseback riding. Local stables can provide you with a horse and scenic trails and you can take a leisurely, relaxing ride through the countryside.

Ice skate on the pond

60

Spend an afternoon iceskating at Noonan Park, located at Nokomis Street and 10th Avenue in Alexandria. The rink is regularly maintained, has a warming house and is well lit for night skating. The park is usually open around December 20 or when there is 8 inches of ice. There is no charge to skate.

22 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011

What’s for dinner tonight?

ALWAYS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

OPEN DAILY AT 11AM

at Geneva Golf Club 3 miles East of Alexandria on Hwy. 27 to Liberty Road, North 3/4 mile

320-762-7092 • Full Service Bar • Finest Quality & Wide Variety of Menu Choices • More than 50 Lunch Choices • Dinner Specialties Hand Cut Steak, BBQ Ribs, Pan Fried Walleye, Prime Rib, Broasted Chicken

• Daily /Nightly Specials • Most Items available for Take Out

…the art of wine The Area’s premier wine bar and restaurant • Over 70 wines by the glass • Specializing in unique craft beers • Eclectic gourmet food – all from scratch • Live music every Thursday & Some Saturdays

Tues-Wed 4-10 • Thurs-Sat 4-11:30 sixthavenuewineandale.com

Sixth Avenue Wine Ale

&

115 6th Ave E Downtown Alexandria 320-759-2277

The Best home-style cooking in the area!

An 80 year tradition of bringing you the BEST Chicken and Fall-off-the-Bone Ribs you will find anywhere!

Open 7 days a week!

11am - 10pm Dining Room • 11am - 1am Bar

••• Located downtown Nelson

320-762-2416 We offer our catering service for your special events.

Our same saaame Family serving the “Best to the Best” • Famous Swedish Chicken • Prime Rib •Fresh Walleye •Soup n’ Salad Bar • Cocktails OPEN Monday & Wed-Sat at 5 Sundays at 11 • Closed Tues.

Facebook.com/Chet’s “ChickenShack” Just a short drive— Near Miltona!

Just off Hwy. 29 on Co. Rd. 102, W Side of Lake Irene 218-943-2471 • 320-760-5639 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011 23

...your local dining guide

located at the

Rudy’s Redeye Grill has been noted as having the best steak in town. We know you will also enjoy our Walleye, Pasta, and Sandwiches, or take a look at our full menu.

Also don’t forget our famous pizzas & every Wednesday Pasta Bar!

Winery Tours 1 & 3 pm, 5:00 on Saturdays Live Music every ery Fri, Sat, Sun 2-6pm Grape Stomp - 3 Full Days - Sept. 16 -18 Applefest & Catapult Contest - Oct. 15

www.CarlosCreekWinery.com

320-846-5443

Alexandria, MN • Call 320-763-9983

Restaurant Restaurant

5 miles N of Alexandria on CR 34 Open Sun–Thurs Noon-5pm; Fri-Sat 11am-6pm

Saloon

320-763-7712

Downtown Alexandria

Renovated Old Burlington Train Depot overlooking Lake Agnes.

•Large Menu •Salad Bar • Sunday Brunch • Pizza - The Best in the Area •Dine In or On the Deck • Full Loung, TV’s, Pool Tables & Games •DJ Thurs-Sat Nights •Large Groups Welcome Reservations recommended, but not a must!

See you at the Depot!

24 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011

110 30th avenue east • 320.763.7763 [across from Cinema 9 & Viking Plaza Mall]

Open at 11a.m. Daily

HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS Monday–Saturday 3-6pm & 9pm-11pm a n d A L L D AY S U N D AY

D A I LY S P E C I A L S E V E R Y D AY !

What’s for dinner tonight?

Since 1925, Alexandria’s Recommended Family Dining Open 7 Days a Week

Breakfast served All Day

Visit us at travelersinncafe.com • Full Menu from Omlettes & Pancakes, to Walleye & Prime Rib • Known for Great Breakfasts...

Egg Dishes, Omelettes, Pancakes, Waffles and Biscuits & Gravy • Breakfast Specials Mon - Sat until 10 AM • Home-made Soups & Daily Specials • Deli Sandwiches – Area’s Best Salad Bar • Caramel Rolls & Home Made Pies 511 Broadway - Historic Downtown - 320-763-4000

DINING ROOM HOURS 11am - 2pm everyday • Nightly at 5 pm BAR HOURS 3pm Mon-Fri • 11 am Sat-Sun • Burgers • Sandwiches • Baskets • Salads • Pasta • Pizza Hwy 29 N • Alexandria • 320-762-1324

Great Food, Great Music, & Great friends

ffoun found oun here!

OPEN DAILY • Serving lunch & dinner • BURGERS • STEAKS • SEAFOOD • PASTAS • ICE CREAM DRINKS • FULL BAR

4960 Co. Rd. 42 NE, Alexandria 1 Block N. of the Carlos / L’ Homme Dieu bridge HIGHWAY 4820 820 HIGH H IGHWAY WAY 29 SO SOUTH UTH ALEXANDRIA, MN 56308 (320)763 7128 | www.tennesseeroadhouse.com (320)763-7128

320-846-1051 www.interlacheninn.com 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011 25

...your local dining guide OPEN DAILY FOR LUNCH HOURS: Mon-Sat 11am-1am Sun 10am-9pm

115 30th Ave E, Alexandria, MN

2 for 1 Happy Hour Mon-Thurs 3-6 & 9-11 • Fri 9-11 Tues: All You Can Eat Taco Bar $5.95 Wed: 4 lbs. of Wings (38 flavors to choose from!) & Pitcher of Beer $13.95

FULL MENU • Take Out Available WEEKEND SPECIALS VIKING GAME NIGHT 2 FOR 1 SPECIALS

Broasted Chicken & Rib Specials 320-834-3250 - www.firestationbar.com

320-763-6565 • 1-800-657-3294 FULL MENU FROM A VARIETY OF Appetizers to Salads, Sandwiches, Prime Rib and Steaks Fast Track Lunch Special Mon-Fri 11am-1:30pm Sunday Buffet starting at 9am • Over 25 varieties of tap beer • Nightly drink specials

“PEOPLE’S CHOICE” Douglas County Dining, 2010

“BEST DINNER RESTAURANT” Readers Choice Award, Echo Press, 2009

320-759-0885 Full Menu 11 am - 11 pm daily Hwy 94 & Hwy 29 S, Alexandria www.doolittlesrestaurants.com

26 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011

Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 11:30am-1am Fri.-Sun. 11am-1am Full Menu including Ribs, Broasted Chicken & Burgers!

Food Served Until 11 pm Full Service Bar For more information call 320-834-2532 or 218-267-2726 during club hours.

Cheer on a hockey team

61

Hockey enthusiasts are in luck. Alexandria is home to the Blizzard, a team that boasts some of the nation’s best collegiate hopefuls on ice. As a member of the North American Hockey League (NAHL), the Blizzard team showcases young players and allows them to develop into outstanding collegiate and professional players.

Fast and furious, you’re never far away from the action at a Blizzard hockey game, so check out the team at the Runestone Community Center.

Spend the day at the park

62

Spend the day at Chippewa Park near Brandon. Located right between two lakes – Little Chippewa and Devils – this beautiful, shady county park offers a perfect oasis on a hot summer day.

Take in a baseball game

63

America’s pastime is alive and well in Douglas County!

Along with the dozens of youth and amateur teams, Alexandria is home to the Beetles, a summer team comprised of top college players from around the nation. You never know when you might see the next Major League Baseball player in action.

After all, the Beetles have had several players drafted by the MLB. You might even spy one of Major League Baseball’s greats, such as pitcher Goose Gossage, former Minnesota Twins Frank Viola, Gary Serum, Dan Gladden and Ron Coomer, all whom have visited historic Knute Nelson Memorial Park as special guests.

Rent a personal watercraft

64

Rent a personal watercraft and splash around an area lake. You don’t have to own your own to have fun on the lakes! Rentals are available for everyone. Try it for a day or make a weekend out of viewing the lake from a new vantage point!

Take in a movie

65

Who doesn’t love a great film on the big screen? The local movie theater offers nine theaters and the most up-todate movie options. A perfect activity for a day when the weather is frightful, or when you just need to sit back and do nothing but be entertained.

Worship in the great outdoors

66

Attend an outdoor worship service. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, outdoor services are held Sundays at 10:30 a.m. at Lake Carlos State Park and 11 a.m. at Alexandria City Park. The natural setting provides the perfect way for you to find your inner peace and spirituality.

101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011 27

Experience fine dining

67

Dine at one of Douglas County’s local fine-dining establishments. There is no shortage of these, and all offer something unique that you won’t want to miss! Stick around town and try out one of the many options, or unwind by taking a scenic drive to an out-of-the-way restaurant. You won’t be sorry!

Make a splash indoors

68

If you’ve got water fun on your mind but the weather just won’t cooperate, don’t despair! Tons of fun await you at the local 38,000-square-foot indoor water park featuring a four-story slide that twists and turns, lazy river and 500-gallon splash bucket!

Explore Lake Carlos State Park

69

Visit Lake Carlos State Park. Sculpted by ancient glaciers, this 1,231-acre park contains a tamarack bog, marshes, woodland ponds and lakes. One third of Minnesota’s 80 mammals and more than 150 species of birds inhabit the park. Thte park is a perfect setting for camping, hiking, swimming, canoeing and just exploring all nature has to offer.

Show your patriotism

70

Take in a fireworks display on the 4th of July. Spectacular fireworks shows can be found in Alexandria, Osakis and Evansville. There’s also some great 4th of July boat parades held on area lakes. Fun for all ages!

Step back in history

71

Spend a day back in history at the Evansville Historical Foundation. Check out the log cabin, dug-out house, original school house and replica pioneer church, as well as the thousands of historical artifacts on display throughout all of the buildings. The little town is big on history. It will be worth the trip!

Kick up your heels

72

Kick up your heels at a summer street dance. Lots of communities in the area have summer festivals, many of which include a good old street dance! Some of the best bands and DJs around showcase their talent at these popular events.

28 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011

Ride a bicycle built for two... or more!

73

Try something new, like a bicycle built for two, or maybe four! Local establishments have bike rentals of all kinds. What could be more fun than pedaling along side-by-side with friends or family members in a four-seater umbrella bike?

Tour ‘Silk Stocking’ District

74

Take a guided tour of Alexandria’s historic “Silk Stocking” District. Learn about the architecture of the historic homes in one of the prestigious neighborhoods of Alexandria’s past, as well as about the residents of those homes and their ties to the city’s history.

Visit Runestone Park

75

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

Kayak Lake Agnes

76

Rent a kayak and paddle around Lake Agnes. Located at the heart of Alexandria, this little lake was named in honor of the girlfriend of one of the town’s earliest settlers, William Kinkead.

Cheer on a race car

77

Attend a stock car race at the local half-mile dirt track. Auto racing has been going on at this track since the 1950s.

Every Saturday night from May through August the rumble of the WISSOTA-sanctioned stock cars and the cheering fans can be heard!

Tour a manufacturing facility

78

Tour an area manufacturing facility. Douglas County is a manufacturing mecca, and many of the industries are more than happy to open their doors and show you what they do!

101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011 29

Sample local wines

79

Yes, Minnesota truly is “wine country!” Check out a local winery and learn more about wine making in Minnesota. Not only can you get a tour of the vineyards and orchards and get to enjoy some samples, but there are lots of activities and events to take part in as well.

It’s a great way to spend an afternoon with friends.

Tour the Knute Nelson house

80

Tour the historic Knute Nelson house and visit the Douglas County Historical Society. Organized in 1976, the mission of the society is to discover, preserve and disseminate the history of the county and its people. And what better place to do that from than the historic home of one of the town’s most famous residents, Knute Nelson? Nelson served in public office for more than 50 years. His home was built in 1874 and was listed on the National Register of Historic places in 1978.

Head to the mall!

81

Head to the shopping mall!

There’s something for everyone at the local mall. Of course there’s plenty of shopping opportunities, but if you aren’t a shopper, don’t despair! The mall welcomes mall walkers, and also offers numerous special displays and events throughout the year.

BATTER UP! Buy one general admission ticket,

get one

*Limit one coupon per visit.

FREE!

IN N STO SSTORE RE AND AT HOM HOME OM ME W WINEMAKING INE NEMAK NE MAKING MA MAK ING

YYour Yo o r ccomplete our ompl om pllet plet etee store stor st oree fo or fforr wi wine nee and and beer hom ho mema me makkiingg supplies. sup uppliees. upp s. llargest argest selection sel el election homemaking of wine kits in wine in the area. area eaa. make make your own wi ine in in our store.

22900-4490 44 to make an an appointment appo ap poin po oin intm ntm tment for Call 320 29 wine neemaking or or to o attend att t end a free frreee winemaking winem w mak akin ingg class. in clas asss.. winemaking

*

Good on Mon-Tues-Wed Games thru 8-12-11

store sto ore re hours: hours: 10-6 mon../weds./friday mon m a sat. 10-5 and

located in bob’s aadium, ad adi um, m,, br brand a on, brandon, m min nesota nesota nes ot minnesota R001575654

(320) 763-8151

alexandriabeetles.com 30 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011

MCLEARY@GCTEL. MCLEAR MCL EAR AR RY@G @G @GCTE GCT T L. L NET T • 32 33200

290-4490 444900

Climb Inspiration Peak

82

Climb Inspiration Peak and enjoy the view overlooking Douglas County. At 1,706 feet, it’s the highest point in the area and one of the tallest peaks in Minnesota. It offers a captivating view any time of the year. It is part of what is known as the Leaf Hills, which are the greatest development of glacial moraines in Minnesota.

Make homemade ice cream

83

Make some homemade ice cream. If you’ve never tried it, now is the time. It’s a fun family activity, and the final product is better than anything you’ve ever tasted!

Rent a movie and get cozy

84

Rent a movie for a cozy evening in. Sometimes you just want to stay home, and there’s nothing like renting an old movie classic, popping up some popcorn and snuggling in with your loved ones for a quiet evening.

Write your name in runic

85

Learn to write your name in runic and see the famed Kensington Runestone at the Runestone Museum in Alexandria. Decide for yourself – is the controversial runestone real or is it a fake? While there, be sure to step outside to visit the historic buildings in Fort Alexandria.

Something for everyone!

Bring the kids PLAYLAND OPEN!

Changing the way we think about our health.

R001572751

Check out our blog updates at VikingPlaza.BlogSpot.com

4617 St Hwy 29 S. Ste. #107 (in Jimmy John’s bldg)

320.763.6876

R001569898

3015 Hwy. 29 S • Alexandria, MN

Wi-Fi Hot Spots Available in the mall

101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011 31

e m o c l We AKES! to the

L

E

njoy your stay with us, whether it’s for a day, a week, the entire summer, or the rest of your

life! Our community is proud to offer many exciting and fun events throughout the season and you can count on the Echo Press ess to cover all of them.

In addition to our award winning newspapers, we also offer special supplements that have in-depth information: on on: n: Real Estate Guide, Community Guide, Vacationer, Churches of Douglas County, Lakes Area Savings Coupon Book, Wedding ng Planner and more! Most of these are available free on newsstands or in our lobby. by. by You can keep up with everything that’s happening in our area by checking out our website: www.echopress.com, where you’lll find up-to-the-minute news plus many of ourr special publications!

225 7th Avenue East, Alexandria (320) 763-3133 | www.echopress.com 32 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011

Buy 1 Meal Get 1 FREE? Like to

2011 Lakes Area Dining Club Card

The

35 restaurants offering Buy One Meal, Get One Free!

g the dinin

CLUB CARD 2011-20

On Sale now only

$ ho | An Ec

n blicatio Press Pu

Buy a Regular Roast Beef Combo, and receive a Regular Roast Beef FREE!

CONVENIENCE STORE 4621 Hwy. 29 South, Alexandria, MN 320-762-1960 www.arbys.com

Expires April 30, 2012

Equal or Lesser Value FREE. Expires April 30, 2012

320-859-FOOD (3663) • Osakis, MN

FREE!

Present Coupon when ordering.

Expires April 30, 2012

Buy One Large Reg. Price Pizza and get a 14” Cheese Pizza FREE! 1702 BROADWAY • ALEXANDRIA

Buy one Breakfast Burrito get one Free!

Excludes Six Packs & Combo Meals of equal or lesser value. Expires April 30, 2012

610 McKay Ave. S. Alexandria (1 block south of 27 on McKay) 320-762-8121 Expires April 30, 2012

Buy One Breakfast, Get 2nd One FREE! 10 am - Noon

ON & OFF SALE

Dine-In Only • Equal or Lesser Value FREE Expires April 30, 2012

Buy 1 Breakfast, Get 1 FREE

Buy One Large Pizza, Get 2nd large pizza of equal or lesser value FREE.

320-762-2416 Downtown Nelson

Buy One 1/4lb Classic Burger w/Cheese and two beverages & Get One 1/4lb Classic Burger w/Cheese FREE

BUY ONE ENTREE

Get one under $10 FREE!

Buy One Breakfast with 2 beverages, Get 2nd breakfast

dairyqueen.com

Expires April 30, 2012 • Not valid with any other coupons or specials.

320-763-7712

Saloon Downtown Alexandria

A Classic Place to Meet and Eat

Excludes Pizzas. Equal or lesser value free • Expires April 30, 2012 Not valid with any other specials, coupons or promotions.

of equal or lesser value

FREE! Expires April 30, 2012

505 Broadway, Alexandria Open Daily at 11am Carry-Out Only

Expires April 30, 2012

320-834-4514 218-948-2213

Parkers Prairie, MN • 218-338-3283 Expires April 30, 2012

Buy 1 Appetizer, Get 1 FREE

• OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • DAILY LUNCH & DINNER SPECIALS 106 CO. RD. 82 NW • EVANSVILLE

Equal or Lessor Value.

Lunch Specials vary daily.

Expires April 30, 2012

Open 7 days a week ••• Breakfast Sat & Sun 7:30 - 11 a.m.

Expires April 30, 2012

10 Mile Tavern Buy One Bacon Cheeseburger Basket ~ Get One FREE

Leaf Valley, MN 320-834-2532

Equal or Lesser Value.

Expires April 30, 2012

Buy one Sundae, any size & Receive one FREE.

©2010 Hardee’s Food Systems, Inc.

Expires April 30, 2012

FREE!

103 Central Ave, Brandon, MN

320-524-2646 12 Central Ave, Elbow Lake, MN

Buy one Breakfast with purchase of a beverage.

Get 2nd one FREE 107 Central, Brandon • 320-524-2453 Equal or Lesser Value FREE. Expires April 30, 2012

Buy any Lunch and 2 beverages, get 2nd one of equal or lesser value for

FREE!

320-685-6162 Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-9:30pm Sat & Sun 10:30am-9:30pm

BUY 1 ENTREE, GET 1 FREE Expires April 30, 2012 • Equal or Lesser Value FREE.

Equal or Lesser Value Expires April 30, 2012

FAMILY RESTAURANT 605 50th Avenue West, Alexandria 320-762-5425

Not valid with other offers and discounts. Customer must pay any sales tax due. Available during regular lunch/dinner hours.

Buy e Basket, and 2 Get eBasket On Beverages On 203 Sanstead St. W., Garfield, MN

Buy one Lunch Special (1–14) & 2 Beverages, Get one Lunch Special (1–14) FREE

Angelina’s

Buy any 1/3 lb.

Thickburger®, get same FREE!

320-834-3250 • firestationbar.com Expires April 30, 2012 • Not to be combined with any other offers.

401 Nokomis St. N. Alexandria 320-759-5686

Buy One LUNCH & Get One LUNCH FREE

Equal or Lesser Value.

Expires April 30, 2012

Mexican Restaurant

FREE

320-763-6669

Culver’s of Alexandria. 610 - 50th Avenue. 320-763-2266

180 S. Lakeshore Dr. • Glenwood, MN 320-634-0307 • lakeside-ballroom.com

Expires April 30, 2012

Buy 1 meal get the 2nd 1518 Broadway, Alexandria

FREE.

Open Tues.-Sat. 11 am-1 am; Sun. 12 pm-12 am; Closed Mondays

Restaurant Restaurant

Buy one Appetizer, Get ONE

763-5007

Buy 1 lunch Special, get 2nd one FREE

506 Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-2337 Equal or Lesser Value FREE. Expires April 30, 2012

(320) 554-2939 • Westport

®

SOUTH

SOMETHING DIFFERENT

Not available on take-out or any other offers. • Expires April 30, 2012

D002027819-031

Buy One Breakfast, Get One FREE. Valid Monday - Friday Only.

1700 N Nokomis, Alexandria Expires April 30,• 320-763-9260 2012

Buy any Salad or Burger + 2 Beverages, Get ONE FREE! Equal or Lesser Value.

Buy a Large 3 Topping Pizza & Get 1 Large 1 Topping FREE. CARRY-OUT ONLY

Propane • Gas • Diesel • Bait 1700 N Nokomis, Alexandria Broasted Chicken • Deli Groceries320-763-9260 • Lunch Specials Mon-Sat

Expires April 30, 2012

FREE!

Free Entree of Equal or Lesser Value • Expires April 30, 2012

Equal or Lesser Value FREE • Expires April 30, 2012

Alexandria, MN

Equal or Lesser Value FREE. • Expires April 30, 2012

Nokomis Market

Buy One Regular Priced Sunday Brunch and 2 Beverges, Receive one Sunday Brunch FREE.

411 - 1/2 Broadway, Alexandria 763-1703

Located at Pipeline Travel Plaza I-94 & Hwy. 27, Alexandria • 320-763-9222

Equal or Lesser Value FREE. Expires April 30, 2012

Includes: 2 legs, 2 breasts, 2 thighs, 2 wings

Have it your way.

DOWNTOWN DINER

4417 St. Hwy. 27, Alexandria • 320-763-6677

110 30TH AVE. E, ALEXANDRIA 320-763-7763

FREE!

Coffee Pot Cafe

Buy an 8 piece Chicken, Get an 8 piece Chicken FREE

Buy 1 Breakfast, receive 2nd of equal or lesser value

3rd & Nokomis and Midway Mall, Alexandria Valid at Alexandria Burger Kings.

Not valid with any other discounts or coupons. Expires April 30, 2012.

FREE! www.westonstation.com

Buy One Appetizer, get one

Expires April 30, 2012

FREE Whopper With Purchase of a Chicken Tendercrisp Value Meal

Uptown Forada

320-762-1635

763-8777

Valid on Carryout Only.

Buy one regular priced Wednesday Night Chicken Buffet & 2 Beverages, receive 1 Chicken Buffet

Buy 1 foot long sub & med. beverage at Reg. Price Get 2nd foot long FREE Downtown Subway - 902 Broadway • 763-SUBS • Fax 763-9595 Subway North - 903 N. Nokomis • 762-4288 • Fax 762-4289 Subway South - 519 50th Ave. West • 762-0791 Subway in WalMart - 515 50th Ave. West • 762-8956 Subway in Pipeline Travel Plaza - 3181 Evergreen Lane • 759-3979 Osakis - Hwy. 27 West • 320-859-2450

Better Ingredients. Better Pizza.

NORTH

Equal or Lesser Value FREE. Expires April 30, 2012

each

Valued over $200

Buy one Breakfast or Lunch entree, get the second one

Buy 1 Single Topping Personal Pan Pizza, Get 2nd FREE! 1705 Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-6577

00

20

12

g rants offerin Area restaut one free buy one ge

Mon. - Fri. 11 am -2 pm ONLY 4820 Hwy 29 S Alexandria, MN • 763-7128

Not valid with other offers.

Expires April 30, 2012

Hwy. 29 North, Alexandria • 762-1324

Expires April 30, 2012 • Limit 1 per customer.

BUY ONE SUNDAY BRUNCH

Get one FREE! Restaurant Restaurant

320-763-7712

Saloon Downtown Alexandria

A Classic Place to Meet and Eat

Expires April 30, 2012 • Not valid on Holidays.

Not valid with any other specials, coupons or promotions.

Buy 1 Entree, breakfast, lunch or dinner & Get the 2nd Entree

FREE I-94 & Hwy 29 S. Alexandria, MN • 320-763-9983

Equal or Lesser up to $14.00 FREE. Expires April 30, 2012 Not Valid with any other offers or coupons.

On Sale at the Echo Press Newspaper office, 225 7th Avenue East, Alexandria

Build an igloo

86

Tired of building snowmen? Why not build an igloo? Amaze your kids with your building know-how while teaching them what could be a life-saving skill. It’s a great way to have fun in the snow, which we seem to have plenty of in this area!

Attend a summer festival

87

Attend a summer festival!

Most of the communities in Douglas County celebrate summer with an annual festival – Brandon Midsummerfest, Miltona Tornado Days, Evansville 4th of July Celebration, festivals in Osakis, Kensington, Garfield, Forada, Parkers Prairie...attend one or all! They all promise good food, fun parades, creative displays and good old-fashioned fun!

Learn at the terrace garden

88

Check out the Terrace Learning Garden by the Douglas County Services Center. This garden is a labor of love, created and maintained by the Douglas County Master Gardeners.

Find Our Lady of the Hills

89

Take a drive through the country roads near Millerville and visit Our Lady of the Hills.

This shrine of the Virgin Mary was erected by a local resident in response to answered prayers for healing. The steel and cement statue stands 22 feet tall and weighs 4,500 pounds.

Visit historic Spruce Hill

90

Visit historic Spruce Hill Park and spend the day hiking the trails or having a family ball game. This 97-acre park is located at the site that was once the village of Spruce Hill. The village was vacated in the early 20th century, but remnants of it are still evident today through depressions in the ground and old building foundation pieces.

The remains of an earthen dam constructed to power a sawmill are also still visible in the landscape.

34 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011

Drive around the lakes

91 92

Grab a map and take a scenic drive around the county’s 300 lakes. Yes, it will take more than a day if you want to drive around them all!

Pick out a good book Pick up a good book at a local bookstore or the library and head to a shady spot under a tree and read the day away. Ahhhh, summer

in Minnesota!

Take the tour of gardens

93

Take time to smell the roses…and the peonies and the daisies and the petunias… during the Tour of Gardens sponsored by the Douglas County Master Gardeners! Held every July, this tour features about six local gardens, and is definitely a must-do for anyone who enjoys the beauty of a well kept garden.

Cheer on the demo derby

94

Are you a demolition derby fan? Then don’t miss the demo derbies held at the Viking Speedway in Alexandria in mid-August during the county fair. They promise lots of banging, slamming, scraping and fun!

Socialize at a church bazaar

95

For a great lunch and the best pie around, attend a church bazaar. With more than 60 churches in Douglas County, there’s no shortage of bazaars, complete with food, intricate crafts, bake sales, and lots of other treasures.

Watch go-kart races

96

Check out the miniature racing action at the weekly go-kart races held Friday nights all summer long at the Douglas County Fairgrounds. These youngsters will wow you with their driving expertise and amaze you with their speed!

101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011 35

Dance and sing karaoke

97

Spend an evening “on the town.” Douglas County features lots of night life options for the night owls. Many local establishments feature karaoke, bands or deejays, pool or dart tournaments and more. If an evening out is what you’re looking for, we’ve got lots of options for you.

Become an avid hunter

98

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

Watch vintage snowmobiles race

99

Check out the VOLS vintage snowmobile races held every January on Lake Osakis. This event features multiple classes of vintage snowmobiles.

Peruse Art in the Park

100

Art in the Park is one event you won’t want to miss! Held each July, the event is sponsored by the Alexandria Area Arts Association and features local and regional artists displaying their wares at Alexandria City Park. There is also a variety of music and food. This year’s event is set for July 30 and 31.

Go to the fair

101

Attend the great Douglas County get-together – the county fair!

This year’s event is set for August 18-21 at the county fairgrounds in Alexandria. Come for the exhibits, the food, the rides, the socializing, the food, the performances, the stock car races, the demolition derbies, the food, the commercial displays, the animals, and of course, the food!

36 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011

Timeless Treasures

Unique Boutiques of the Lakes Area!

&

ANTIQUES OSAKIS 26 West Main A Fun Shop! Multi-antique dealers, offering two floors of quality antiques and collectibles!

320-859-3200

Grandpa’s Attic Gifts Antiques & Collectibles

Good Used Furniture, Primitives, Books, Framed & Unframed Les Kouba Prints, Antiques, Glassware, Hummels & So Much More!

210 1st Ave. E, Osakis

Open Daily May 14 – October 23, 10am-5pm. Air conditioned comfort!

Open 10am-5pm Daily!

320-859-5575

Recycle Reuse Renew

Tours Daily at 1 & 3 Sat at 1, 3 & 5:00

Open 7 Days a Week ~ Tours ~ Tasting ~ Live Music 6693 County Road 34 NW, Alexandria ~ 320.846.5443

Antique Store Furniture • Pottery • Glassware Vintage Clothing & Jewelry • Primitives Unique Home Décor

Sandi Johnson & Ron Moritz • Mon–Fri 9-6, Sat 9-5:30, Sun 12-4

320-762-8990 • 517 Broadway, Alexandria 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011 37

s i k a s O

...where the fun begins

O

sakis is a growing community of 1,615 people located in both Douglas and Todd counties in west central Minnesota.

Osakis is located on the south end of Lake Osakis, a 6,300 acre fishing and recreation area. Lake Osakis is rated as one of the best fishing lakes in the state, featuring walleye, northern, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie and sunfish.

Visitors to the community will find a variety of recreational opportunities, including resort lodging, gift and

antique shops, restaurants and family attractions.

Osakis is also the beginning of the Central Lakes Trail, a 55-mile paved biking and walking trail that runs through Nelson, Alexandria, Garfield, Brandon, Evansville, and on to Fergus Falls and connects to the Lake Wobegon Trail that runs from Osakis to St. Joseph making it the longest paved trail system in the state.

The economic base of the Osakis area is tourism, agriculture and manufacturing.

200 Central Ave E, Osakis 320-859-2161

BURGERS FRIES SHRIMP SHAKES

Est. 1955

MALTS SUNDAES

Convenient Walk-up Window, Inside Seating or Take-Out! 22 West Nokomis (on Hwy. 27), Osakis

320-859-2217

The General Store 204 Central Ave, Osakis • 320-859-5159

Pharmacy • Health & Beauty • Kodak Picture Maker • Giftware American Greetings Cards • UPS Shipping • Lk. Osakis Clothing Household & School Supplies • Home Health Care Supplies Store Hours: M-Sat 8am-6pm, Sun 8am-Noon Pharmacy Hours : M-F 8am-6pm, Sat 8am-Noon

County Line Marine & Storage, Inc. • Marine & Small Engine Repair • Retail Store • Winterization & Shrink Wrap • Trailer Rentals • Secure Outdoor or Climate Controlled Storage 610 3rd Avenue E, Osakis

The area’s ONLY Winchester Advisory Center & Browning Full Line Dealer Largest Winchester & Browning Firearms Dealer in Central MN

320-859-6000 Authorized Service Center

www.countylinems.com R001572472

38 101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011

s i k a s O

...where the fun begins

Events

Osakis Os sakis City-Wide Garage Sales ower Pots & Garden Stops Memorial Day Parade & Service Flower Parish Festival

May

June une

November Holiday Bazaar Community Thanksgiving Dinner

Rally ally for the Cure Golf Tournament Osakis sakis 5K Run Lions’ ions’ Walleye Fishing Tournament Osakis Festival

August

December

Douglas County Fair, Alexandria Osakis Silverstreak Golf Classic

Santa Day

July

Sportsmen’s Club Corn Feed Quilts Along the Trail

4th of July Fireworks Roddin’ Round the Lake Car Show Celebrity Auction

October Christmas Boutique Community Halloween Party

February Old-Fashioned Sunday Afternoon Musicale

March Ice Tee Golf Tournament

Exquisite Events

Upscale pscale ale Resale esale Bou BBoutique ti

New & Use Used ed Consignment Consii meeent nt Items mss · Clot Cloth Clothing Clo hingg · · · Souvenirs enirs Cards Ca Crafts Scrapbooking pbookini

SAVE NOW

25

VOLS Twin 100/50 Mile Snowmobile Race

September

Introductory offer!

Paint & primer in one • Our highest quality paint • Our most durable finish • Superior coverage *Limit 5 gallons per customer. Available at participating stores.

January

%*

Something Fun for Everyone! Mon-Sat 10am-5pm

Downtown Osakis

209 Central Avenue, Osakis | 320-859-4621

FOOD • LODGING • COLD BEER 320-859-FOOD (3663)

Family Dining, Delicious Walleye, Best Prime Rib in Town, Fish Fry every Friday & Saturday, Broasted Chicken Buffet Wednesdays, Banquet & Private Party Facilities

320.305.1622

300 W Nokomis St • Osakis

320.859.2450

R001572475

101 Fun Things to Do • Spring 2011 39

Q H Q B B Elden’s FOOD FAIR Open 24 hours a day & 7 days a week Corner of 3rd & Nokomis, Alexandria • 320-763-3446 • www.ELDENS.com R001567521