We have so many enchanting towns in Minnesota that are waiting for you to visit. Alexandria is a historic Minnesota small town with plenty of charm, as well as things to see and do. This makes Alexandria ideal as a destination for a day trip – or even a weekend getaway. Welcome to one of the most historic towns in Minnesota.

Founded in 1858 - the same year Minnesota attained statehood - Alexandria is a charming and historic town in the west-central part of the North Star State.
Explore Alexandria/Facebook
People flock there for its stunning lakes, intriguing history, and relaxed, up-north vibe. But before we dive in, you'll need some fuel.
Start your day off right with a cuppa joe and some breakfast at the Coffee Pot Cafe.
Google Maps
Folks love the pancakes and scratch-made caramel rolls at the Coffee Pot Café.
After breakfast, follow Broadway north to downtown Alexandria, and the Lake Agnes shoreline, where you will find "Big Ole" - the largest Viking statue in the United States.
Explore Alexandria MN/Google
You can't miss the sign in the Viking's hand, declaring Alexandria to be the "birthplace of America." This may cause you to scratch your head, but don't say we didn't warn you that the town's history was "intriguing." Your next stop will explain Big Ole's bold declaration (fortunately it's just down the street).

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Just down the block from Big Ole, you'll find the Runestone Museum, and this is the next stop on your Alexandria day trip.
Eric Tietz/Google
The museum is home to the Kensington Runestone. It was discovered by a farmer in 1898.
Alanna Seljeskog/Google
It is claimed that the runestone dates back to the 14th century and proves that the Alexandria area was the first part of the United States visited by Europeans. Hence, "the birthplace of America."
After the museum, explore downtown Alexandria for a while, then take a walk along the Terry Ferguson Memorial Trail and ponder your new understanding of American history.
Chaplin Kaynor/Google
Cap off your day with a visit to Carlos Creek Winery, just outside of town, where you can enjoy a glass of wine and explore the trails and grounds any time of year.
Sandra Perron/Google

We think you’ll find Alexandria as charming and fascinating as we do. Be sure to make time to explore nearby Lake Carlos State Park, where you’ll find some of the best hiking trails in Minnesota.

Have you had a chance to visit Alexandria? What other historic and charming towns in Minnesota would make a great day trip destination?

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More to Explore

Wonderful Small Towns In Minnesota

Will Suphan | February 07, 2024

What are the most charming small towns in Minnesota?

The most charming small towns in Minnesota include:

  • Mantorville. This lovely town has some wonderfully quaint shops and is surrounded by beautiful countryside.
  • Cosmos. With a cool-looking space water tower and an annual Cosmos Space Festival, this is quite a lovely place to visit.
  • Windom. This town of about 4,500 people has a river running through it that is popular for canoeing.
  • Pine City. There’s a ton of natural beauty to explore as well as some excellent restaurants in its downtown area.

Learn more about the most charming small towns in Minnesota. 

What are the most peaceful small towns in Minnesota?

The most peaceful small towns in Minnesota include:

  • Tofte. Sitting at the edge of Lake Superior, this quiet, tiny town is surrounded by lush state parks. 
  • Wabasha. A quiet town on the banks of the Mississippi River that is perfect for a quiet riverside stroll.
  • Litchfield. Filled with relaxing bed & breakfasts and idyllic parks, you can also relax by the shores of Lake Ripley.
  • Two Harbors. With a lovely lighthouse and tons of natural beauty, this is a great place to come and relax.

Discover more of the most peaceful small towns in Minnesota. 

What are the most historical small towns in Minnesota?

The most historical small towns in Minnesota include:

  • Stillwater. Incorporated on the same day as St. Paul, this was the location of the convention to get statehood for Minnesota.
  • Hastings. Railroad history abounds here as it was where the Hastings & Dakota Railway and the Stillwater & Hastings Railway were started.
  • Grand Marais. This is an old lumber and fishing town that now draws a lot of tourists from all over the state.
  • New Ulm. Filled with German culture, this was the site of two battles in the Dakota War of 1862. 

Find out more about the most historical small towns in Minnesota. 

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Alexandria, MN 56308, USA