This article is from DESTINATIONS magazine, your source for inspiration and resources about travel in Central and Northern Lakes Area Minnesota! Read on for more links and information about some of Alexandria's most noteworthy sites and events, or click here to return to mndestinations.com , where you can browse travel articles about other communities throughout the region.
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DESTINATIONS is a travel magazine published annually by select Forum Communications Company newspapers.
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With a population of 1,773, Osakis is serenely seated on the southern shores of Lake Osakis – one of the state’s premier walleye fishing lakes. The sparkling waters of the 6,700-acre lake also offer the perfect setting for soaking in a relaxing summer afternoon, or taking a spin on your watercraft. For waterfowl hunters, public hunting areas are nearby. During the winter, the lake makes for great snowmobiling and ice fishing. Any time of year, be sure to check out the family resorts, campgrounds and motels inviting you to stay for your next vacation.
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NOTEWORTHY THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Check out downtown Osakis
Those looking for off-the-water options should definitely check out downtown, which features gift and antique shops, cozy dining options and family attractions, including the local parks. There are many community events and festivals held throughout the year. Check out visitosakis.com for a list of lodging and accommodations as well as a calendar of events.
Visit the state's first legal whiskey distillery
Panther Distillery , at 300 East Pike Street, opened in 2011. Take a tour and learn how the company makes whiskey by hand, then enjoy a sample of the distillery’s products and check out the gift store. In the fall, the distillery hosts its annual Moonshine Madness – a citywide celebration with a theme going back to the Prohibition days.
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Pet some animals at Erickson's
From spring Easter egg hunts to fall corn mazes, pony rides and pumpkin patches, families will enjoy an afternoon at Erickson’s Petting Zoo , located at 11890 Hope Road SE, near Osakis. Admission ranges from $6.50 to $8.50 per person, depending on the time of year. The zoo features a playground, plus wholesome family fun on an old-fashioned farm. Animals include pygmy goats and their kids, sheep, miniature horses, llama, potbelly pigs, rabbits, and many varieties and colors of chickens, ducks, geese, pheasants, peacocks, pigeons, doves and more.
Knock 'em down and eat 'em up
Here’s some fun that could be right up your alley – The Bowling Barn & Grill in downtown Osakis is a newly remodeled bowling alley with a little country flare and a full kitchen and bar. Once the weather gets nice, outdoor dining will be available. The menu includes the likes of the Cowboy Burger, Three Little Pigs, Onion Lassos and the Moo Burger for kids 12 years of age and younger. Follow the restaurant on Facebook for up-to-date happenings and daily specials.
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LOCALS LOVE THIS: Tip Top Dairy Bar
Tip Top Dairy Bar : This iconic ice cream shop has been serving up treats on West Nokomis Street since 1955. The business even won WCCO-TV’s “Viewer’s Choice” for Best Ice Cream Shop in Minnesota. It’s open from about April through September, depending on the weather. The ice cream shop serves up ice cream cones, malts and sundaes along with hamburger baskets and other classic menu items.
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