Why Alexandria Minnesota Should Be on Every Family’s Bucket List

Ah, summer. ‘Tis the season of sunscreen-coated toddlers, melting popsicles, and the search for that just-right family vacation spot that checks all the boxes: fun in the sun for kids, a little relaxation for parents, and maybe even some time on a lake or five. Then let me introduce you to Alexandria Minnesota! A small-town gem tucked in the heart of Minnesota’s lake country that serves up lakeside fun, local flavor, and family-friendly adventures in spades.

If you’ve never considered Alexandria for your summer travels, let me just say: it’s time to think about it. Whether you’re raising toddlers who want to splash in the water, tweens who crave action-packed outings, or grown-ups who are silently mouthing “Is there wine here?”, this charming little town is an unexpected summer paradise for families.

Hey, before I share some great free info, could you help me out by using my affiliate links to book your trip? It doesn’t cost you anything, and it supports my blog. Let’s keep the good vibes flowing! Thanks a bunch!

Let’s dive into why you should be booking your next trip to Alexandria Minnesota:

Lake Life is the Best

First things first—Alexandria is nestled in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, and boy, does it live up to the hype! More than 350 lakes in Douglas County alone means water is basically a way of life here. Families can:

• Rent a pontoon for a chill cruise around Lake Carlos or Lake Darling. This was one of the highlights of our family trip to Alexandria.
• Swim and build sandcastles at Lake Darling’s public beaches, which, when paired with a chilled bottle of wine, is pure heaven.
• Go fishing with the kiddos (no gear? No worries—local outfitters have you covered).
• Or get adventurous with paddleboarding, kayaking, or tubing.

My water babies rejoiced! This town was built for long days in swimsuits and the magical nap that follows.

Because Where Else Can You Meet a Giant Viking?

If you’re the kind of parent who likes sneaking in a little learning into your family trips, Alexandria delivers with quirky attractions that kids love:

• Say “hi” to Big Ole, the 28-foot-tall Viking who’s basically Alexandria’s unofficial mascot. He’s right downtown and makes for an excellent (and very Minnesotan) family photo. Built in 1965 by artist Gordon Shumaker for the New York World’s Fair. After the fair, the statue was moved to Alexandria, Minnesota, where it stands across the street from the Runestone Museum.
• Visit the Runestone Museum to see the famous and controversial Kensington Rune Stone. Since the doors opened, the museum has grown to include additional artifacts found in Minnesota that relate to Middle-Age Nordic explorers.
• Check out Central Lakes Trail, perfect for family bike rides, stroller walks, or scooter races, depending on your crew’s age range.

Sweets, Treats & Eats

Let’s talk food—because no family adventure can survive on string cheese and Goldfish alone. Alexandria’s food scene is surprisingly diverse for a small town, with plenty of family-friendly restaurants with patios and ice cream stops. The balance between :

• Zorbaz on the Lake: Part pizza joint, part beach bar. Order a ‘za, let the kids run wild, and soak in those lake views.
• Pike & Pint Grill: The mac and cheese here is the most divine! I was happy to finish my son’s bowl when he couldn’t finish it. For my own meal, I had the Honey Citrus Salmon, and I polished it off so fast – the waitress’s hand had barely left the plate.
• Depot Smokehouse and Tavern: This might be THE best pasta I’ve had. The brisket tortellini with the creamy sauce was comforting, rich, and decadent.
• Travelers Inn Restaurant: Take the picture-perfect American small town, main street diner, and you have the Travelers Inn Restaurant.
• Up North Ice Cream Shop: Because nothing says “vacation” like a double scoop of cotton candy ice cream.
• Coffee Pot Café: A classic diner that’ll satisfy your pancake-and-bacon cravings after a long lake day.

🍷 Wineries & Breweries Where Families Are Welcome

Here’s the magic of Alexandria: you can enjoy a chilled glass of rosé or a local craft beer with your kids happily entertained nearby.

• Carlos Creek Winery: Arguably one of Minnesota’s most family-friendly wineries. There’s live music, big open lawns, wood-fired pizza, and space for kiddos to roam. It’s laid-back, lovely, and perfectly parent-friendly.
• 22 Northmen Brewing Co.: As part of Carlos Creek Winery, it shows how Minnesota is creating spaces where there is something for everyone! Order a flight and a pretzel the size of your face while kids enjoy the outdoor area.
• Copper Trail Brewing: Downtown and perfect for an afternoon refreshment between strolls and shopping. Bonus: There are food trucks that are often parked out front.

Where to Stay with Kids

From lakeside cabins to cozy resorts, Alexandria gives you options that work for every travel style and family size:

• Local Airbnb Stays: We stayed at a home booked through Airbnb, and it was the perfect location for a quiet yet centrally located place to stay with my two kids.
• Lake Darling Resort: Fully equipped cabins with lake access and amenities perfect for families—think paddle boats, fire pits, and playgrounds.
• Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center: This one’s got it all—indoor waterpark, onsite dining, and a golf course (if that’s your jam). Bonus: it’s very stroller-friendly.
• Camping at Lake Carlos State Park: Got a little adventurer? Tent or RV it up for a true “s’mores and stargazing” summer memory.

Rainy Day Options (Because, Let’s Be Real)

Not every day is going to be sunny perfection, but Alexandria has indoor activities that still pack a punch:

• Legacy of the Lakes Museum: Learn about boat-building, lake culture, and regional history. The kids can even take a scavenger hunt throughout the museum and get a prize as a reward for finding all of the hidden items.
• Casey’s Amusement Park: Mini-golf, bumper boats, go-karts—an all-day favorite.
• Kids’ Corner at the Douglas County Library: Great for toddlers and preschoolers needing some calm, cool time.

🧳 Worldschooling Moment: Minnesota Style

Want to sprinkle in some educational content without the kids catching on? Between the historical museums, hands-on nature at Lake Carlos State Park, and cultural heritage exhibits at Fort Alexandria, your little learners will be soaking up history and science without even realizing it.

Pro tip: Pack a nature journal or some coloring pages about Vikings, wildlife, and lake life. Instant homeschool credit!

Why Families Love Alexandria (And Come Back Every Year)

Alexandria has that sweet mix of nostalgia and discovery. It’s where you can:

• Let your kids run barefoot in the grass.
• Enjoy a winery without sacrificing family time.
• Fill your days with lake breezes, bonfires, and belly laughs.

It’s Minnesota at its finest—welcoming, unpretentious, and full of heart.

Ready to Pack the Car?

If Alexandria isn’t on your summer bucket list yet, I hope it is now. This is one of those rare destinations that truly caters to every member of the family—whether they’re building sandcastles, biking trails, sipping wine, or enjoying a refreshing plunge in one of the thousands of lakes.

So load up the wagon, grab your water shoes, and get ready to make memories. Your best family summer vacation yet is waiting in Alexandria.