Discover America’s Birthplace: A Hidden Midwestern Lake Paradise with Resorts, Campgrounds, and Shops

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Discover America's Birthplace: A Hidden Midwestern Lake Paradise with Resorts, Campgrounds, and Shops

A well-known fact is that St. Augustine, Florida, is the nation’s oldest city, but historians have assigned the title of “birthplace of America” to Alexandria, Minnesota. This claim-to-fame title stems from the World Famous Kensington Runestone, an artifact disputedly belonging to the Scandinavian Vikings that dates back to 1362.  This artifact was discovered in 1898 by a local farmer in Kensington. While its authenticity has never fully been determined, the runestone is on display within the Runestone Museum, which houses 40 pieces from the Viking era, including one of the only Climax fire steels on display throughout North America.  



 The number of bodies of water is quite impressive, with the Alexandria Lakes Area owning more than 350 lakes. Within Alexandria itself, there are 11 interconnected lakes. Boating, kayaking, and fishing are just a few activities available for tourists and locals alike.

While there are plenty of additional water activities (outlined below), there are just as many things for land lovers to do. Shopping is plentiful throughout Alexandria, with major chains, local boutiques, antique and thrift stores, and a bustling downtown shopping smorgasbord. Stop by 6th & Broadway for upscale clothing and home décor, or grab a fun outfit from the Adorable Chaos Boutique. Find a unique gift from Bazara or the Creative Touch Boutique.  Swing by Dawn’s Quilt Shop or Exquisite Soaps & More for local, handmade items. 



Alexandria lakes flow throughout the town and region

View of Lake Cowdry in wintertime

Located in the heart of Lake Country, the town of Alexandria provides a wide variety of water activities across its 11 lakes. From Lake Carlos to Lake Jessie and nine others in between, this chain of lakes covers over 20 miles of water.  With the lakes being such a large draw for visitors to Alexandria, it’s no surprise that there is a large amount of aquatic sports and rental possibilities in the town. To increase the fun level at the lakes, Barefoot Aqua Sports is the place to go for all sorts of rentals: water skis, paddleboards, pontoon boats, and the popular water Jet Pack.   

These 11 lakes are sure to keep you busy with watery activities, for example, Lake Cowdry connects to Lake Darling, but is only for smaller boats, while Lake Latoka offers a swimming beach and two public docks for fishing.  Lake Geneva offers a handicapped-accessible fishing pier, along with two boat landings, while Lake Agnes is a prime location for kayakers and canoe trips. 

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Resorts and campgrounds provide unsurpassed lake views

An overlooking view of nature with the lake in the background in Alexandria, Minnesota

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.