Just two hours northwest of the Twin Cities, you’ll find Alexandria. This lakes-area destination is home to endless winter fun. From cozy indoor escapes to outdoor adventures on sparkling snow and ice, Alexandria offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation all season long.
Winter in Alexandria provides an abundance of activities—something for everyone. Fish across more than 300 frozen lakes or explore the trails for snowmobiling and cross-county skiing. Nearby, Lake Carlos State Park features 6 miles of groomed cross-country skiing trails, nine miles of snowmobile routes that are connected to the 500-mile DATA Trail System, and open areas perfect for snowshoeing. Lake Carlos State Park is an ideal spot for a peaceful morning outdoors. Andes Tower Hills is also a winter hot spot for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, plus 800 acres for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Families also love ice skating at Noonan Park or sledding down the area’s snowy hills for some good old-fashioned fun!
After a day of chilly adventures, warm up in one of Alexandria’s cozy lodging options. Make a splash at the indoor water park at Arrowwood Resort, or consider Lake Darling Resort for a winter retreat complete with indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, and fireplaces. Just in case you want more fresh air, rent a snowmobile or play hockey on Lake Darling. Afterward, refuel and relax with local flavors at one of Alexandria’s restaurants. Enjoy homemade soup from Travelers Inn, a handcrafted cocktail at The Lure, or even a cozy mocktail at Ollie Birch Boutique and Lounge.
The winter calendar in Alexandria is packed with events to celebrate the season. Get in the Christmas spirit on Nov. 28 at Christmas in Alex downtown celebration, including Christmas in the Fort, the Parade of Trees, a holiday light parade, and carolers. On Saturday the 29th, experience the MN Made Christmas Market at Carlos Creek. This event is the perfect way to make memories with loved ones while decorating cookies, creating a holiday planter, meeting Santa, and enjoying a holiday cocktail with live Christmas music in the background.
Once the sun sets, head over to the Legacy of the Lakes Gardens for a walk-through light display. A new event called SNØfest is taking place this year on Jan. 17 at Carlos Creek Winery. Think live ice carving demonstrations, bonfires, ice bars, wagon rides, live music, and so much more! For music lovers, consider attending the Beat the Winter Blues and Jazz Fest on Feb. 6-9. This three-day festival was created to help you beat those winter blues and warm your soul with live blues, jazz, gospel, and soul music. Taking place at Gathered Oaks, this festival invites you to soak in winter’s beauty with live music, outdoor activities, delicious food and drinks, and of course, the ones who mean the most to you!
Whether you come for skiing, shopping, or the serenity of a lakeside morning, you’ll find everything you need to embrace the chill this winter in Alexandria.
