Alexandria, Minnesota, Was Just Named One Of The Best Cities In The State
By Betsy Rathburn|Published November 05, 2019
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Betsy Rathburn
Author
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
Here in Minnesota, the Twin Cities and Duluth get all the love. But there are many smaller cities and towns across the state that deserve more attention. These places may not be the most populous, but they are wonderful communities with plenty to offer. That’s certainly the case for Alexandria, Minnesota, the winner of Minnesota Monthly‘s 2019 Best Minnesota Town contest. Once you look at all that the city has no offer, it’s easy to see why it was given the honor. Here’s why we love Alexandria:
The small city of Alexandria is found in west-central Minnesota, about 75 miles northwest of St. Cloud.
With a population of around 13,000 people, Alexandria is one of the larger cities in the region. It’s been growing since it was first founded all the way back in 1859.
The city’s growth is thanks to all that it has to offer. For one thing, Alexandria's location in the middle of lake country gives it a leg up. There are nearly four dozen in the area!
Lake Carlos - and all of Alexandria's many lakes - offer excellent outdoor recreation. Boating, fishing, swimming, and ice fishing are among the many activities people enjoy on Alexandria's lakes.
If you prefer land-based nature adventure, a trip to Lake Carlos State Park will not disappoint. Though it’s named after a lake, there are plenty of hikes through the hardwood forests that make up its 1,200 acres. It’s especially great in fall!
If you prefer adventure on wheels, what about a bike trail? The Central Lakes Trail is a 55-mile paved route from Osakis to Fergus Falls. There are trailheads in Alexandria that make this an excellent place to visit for cyclists.
Of course, it's not all nature in Alexandria. The historic downtown is filled with restaurants and local shops. There are even theaters that put on local productions of plays and musicals.
Exciting events are another draw to Alexandria. The holiday season is full of festive activity, winter holds ice fishing events, and summer holds food-filled fairs.
All in all, Alexandria is an excellent place to visit for those who love charming towns filled with nature, art, activity, and more. Have you ever been to this beautiful city? What was your favorite thing to do there? Let us know in the comments below! And for more of Minnesota’s best towns, check out our list of 10 towns in Minnesota with the best scenery.
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