Alexandria Farmers’ Market
Located in Big Ole Central Park, the Alexandria Farmers’ Market is the perfect place to find fresh, Minnesota-grown food. The market has a variety of fruits and vegetables, meats and cheeses, and baked goods from local bakeries. Enjoy the market on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon or Thursdays from 3 to 6 p.m. The last day for the Farmers’ Market will be on Saturday, October 28. 2nd Ave and Broadway Street, Alexandria, MN 56308 • explorealex.com
Lake Carlos State Park
Only 15 minutes from the heart of Alexandria, Lake Carlos State Park is an ideal place to hike, kayak, or drive through to view the vibrant colors of the changing scenery. With more than 14 miles of hiking trails, visitors can spend a few hours—or a whole afternoon—in this picturesque location. 2601 Cty. Rd. 38 NE, Carlos, MN 56319
Horse Stables at Arrowwood Resort
The Arrowwood Stables, home to 30 horses, provide a way to get out on the trails and enjoy fall colors. The guided tours last about 45 minutes and bring riders past breathtaking views of the autumn landscape. Trail rides are $29.95 and riders must be 8 years old. The Stables also provide lessons for those who are younger and less experienced, or those who are curious to learn more about horseback riding. 2100 Arrowwood La. NW, Alexandria, MN 56308 • arrowwoodresort.com/recreation
Erickson’s Petting Zoo
Erickson’s Petting Zoo, just 15 minutes away from Alexandria in the city of Osakis, has been a fall destination for families since 1915. Its giant red barn, with a huge smiling face on the exterior, is home to pygmy goats, sheep, miniature horses, llamas, pigs, rabbits, and cats. The farm also has a goat tree house (yes, it’s real), a trolley, corn maze, and countless other fall activities. The petting zoo is open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. until October 31. Admission is $8.50 per person. 11890 Hope Rd., Osakis, MN 56360 • ericksonspettingzoo.com
Country Blossom Farm
Known for its corn pit, the Country Blossom Farm in Alexandria is home to attractions for all ages. From a five-acre corn maze to a giant jumping pillow amidst the corn to the Woodland Walk trail, there’s no shortage of things to do. The farm also has an assortment of fresh fruits and vegetables, pumpkins, and famous baked goods. One reviewer gushed that the apple cookies and raspberry white chocolate cookies were the best they ever had. All baked goods are available for catering or pre-order options for your next fall get-together. The farm is open Tuesday-Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and will close November 12 for the season. 1951 Englund Rd. SW, Alexandria, MN 56308 • countryblossomfarm.com
