Spring break is just around the corner, and if you’re looking for an escape that balances history, adventure, and relaxation for all ages, Alexandria is the perfect destination. Located just 2 hours from the Twin Cities, this region offers the perfect blend of kid-friendly fun, outdoor adventure, and relaxation. Whether you are planning a trip for the whole family, seeking a spring escape with your friends, or planning a couples getaway, Alexandria delivers something for everyone.

Dive Into Local History With Kids in Mind

Start you adventure visiting the Runestone Museum, home of the Kensington Runestone. Wander outdoors to visit the pioneer buildings and a replica Viking ship. Kids can spend time in the activity area, participate in a scavenger hunt, and check out exhibits on Native American and frontier history. If you are visiting after May 22nd, The Legacy of the Lakes Museum is just steps away. This museum celebrates lake traditions and history boat exhibits, classic and vintage boat displays, and an education center. In the warmer months, the Legacy Gardens are for you to stroll through, finding yourself surrounded by beautiful landscaping, water-features and flower beds. Across the street from both museums is Big Ole, Alexandria’s 28-foot tall Viking statue — perfect for a photo-op and a fun story telling moment.

Visit the Kensington Rune Stone Park for outdoor adventure and a history lesson. This park sits on the original farm site where the famous Runestone was discovered in 1898. The visitor center provides an interactive learning experience for kids where they can decode runic letters, learn more about the Runestone, and step outside to walk the discovery site trails.

Embrace the Outdoors – Fun For All Ages

As spring breaths new life into the lakes area, embrace the beauty of the outdoors with a variety of recreational activities. If you are in the mood for one last thrill on the slopes, Andes Tower Hills makes their own snow and aims to stay open as long as possible, allowing guests to ski, snowboard, and tube, even when the rest of winter has started to melt away. Start your days with movement along the paved Central Lakes Trail, perfect for biking, walking, or rollerblading and is a great spot for lake views and bird watching. Lake Carlos State Park is a great nature stop for spring wildflowers, wooded trails, and a chance to see wildlife. Lake Brophy County Park is perfect for biking, a picnic, or kayaking and is equipped with a brand new playground surrounded by the beautiful views of Lake Brophy. If you are up for a friendly competition, head to City Park for 6 outdoor pickleball courts!

For those seeking adventure on the water once the ice has melted, the lakes are calm and quiet, making it the perfect opportunity for kayaking, canoeing, and even paddleboarding. Rent equipment from the Alexandria Community Education and set out to explore. Pack layers as the breeze of the lake can still be chilly! For even more of a view and nature experience, venture out of town about 30 miles to Silver Sage Ranch, where you can explore 427 acres of countryside on horseback and soak in the areas wide-open landscapes.

Winery, Brewery, and Distillery Delights

Indulge your senses with a visit to one of Alexandria’s craft beverage distributors. Depending on what you are after, you can explore locally owned wine, spirits, and brews — some even all in one place. Take a drive out to Carlos Creek for blooming vineyards, wine tastings, and 22 Northmen Brewing for craft beer and woodfired pizza. Just steps away from Big Ole, you can enjoy a patio beer and a delicious lunch from Copper Trail Brewing. The Lakes Area is home to a growing craft spirits scene, featuring three different distilleries: Ida Graves, Panther, and soon to open, Little Round Still, each adding its own local flavor to the regions tasting experiences.

Pair your tasting experiences with a visit to one of the areas local eateries. Alexandria is known for welcoming, relaxed dining spots where comfort food and Midwest hospitality collide. For a fresh-forward, elevated comfort food vibe, visit The Garden Bar on 6th. Also downtown, La Ferme is a farm-to-fork style restaurant that is only open for lunch, serving fresh, seasonal local ingredients. Both restaurants showcasing an elevated feel that shows care in every course! Enjoy an elevated dining experience and a beautiful patio scene at Pike and Pint Grill or lakeside at Lure Lakebar, both serving up steaks, seafood, and other unique dishes. After a day of exploring, families can settle in at local restaurants, from comfort food to kid-friendly options.

Shopping and Art

Spring is the perfect time for a wardrobe or home decor refresh! Stroll through downtown, where local boutiques offer unique fashion for all ages, gifts, and home decor. Art lovers will enjoy galleries and studios such as the Center for Visual Arts, where local artists showcase paintings, sculptures, and handcrafted pieces. Seasonal markets like the Saturday Art Market (beginning Memorial Day weekend), offers even more chances for shoppers to discover one-of-a-kind pieces. Whether you are searching for a new outfit, antiques, or original pieces, Alexandria’s shopping scene offers a delightful combination of creativity and charm!

Indoor Family Fun

Alexandria is full of fun ways to keep the kids entertained all year round! At Hook & Slice, your whole crew can practice their golf swing and indulge in their famous Detroit-style pizza. Garden Center Lanes is a local favorite for bowling and arcade games with Fat Daddy’s bar and grill on-site for a quick and delicious meal. Little ones will love Shenanigans Indoor Playground, where slides, climbing walls, and interactive play areas keep children 0-12 active and engaged. And for a classic favorite, make a splash at indoor pools at local hotels, Lake Darling Resort, or grab a day pass at the YMCA. Alexandria truly has something for everyone to enjoy!

Spring Events

• Trivia Nights: Grab your smartest group of friends and head to Trivia Night. Wednesdays at 22 Northmen Brewing and Thursdays at Copper Trail Brewing and Zorbaz.
• Find live music every weekend at venues like The Depot Smokehouse and Tavern, 22 Northmen, Willy T’s, and Copper Trail Brewing.
• Saturday Story Hour: Take the little ones to Cherry Street Books on Saturday mornings at 10am for an hour of fun and engaging stories!
• 2nd Annual Shamrock Shuffle: Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by shuffling around local restaurants and indulging in Irish bites and beverages while supporting a local cause! March 14-17th.
• ‘Noises Off” Live at the Andria Theatre:  This play-within-a-play captures a touring theatre troupe’s production of Nothing On in three stages: dress rehearsal, the opening performance, and a performance towards the end of a debilitating run. Catch this show at the Andria Theatre March 19-21 & 26-28 at 7pm, and 22 & 29 at 2pm.
• Adult Easter Egg Hunt: Get your friends together for Rolling Forks Vineyard’s first annual 21+ Egg Hunt, a fun-filled afternoon of prizes, wine, and springtime cheer. March 28 & 29.
• Lakes Area Theatre Spring Show- ‘ The Love List‘ live at Carlos Creek. April 24 at 7pm and April 25 at 2pm and 7pm. Get tickets here.

Check out our events calendar to plan for a unique local experience! Explore all there is to see and do by browsing our visitors guide and be sure to book your accommodations!