Hotels in Alexandria, MN

Plan a worthwhile trip to Alexandria, a thriving city resting on the edge of Minnesota's western prairie, and you’ll get the chance to discover its hundreds of clear, blue Minnesota lakes, fascinating local history museums, and its many green spaces all across town. Alexandria is one of the fastest growing communities in the western part of the state. It’s located in the heart of West Central Minnesota, near the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, making it a melting pot of culture, cuisine, and a thriving arts community. While here, stay at top Alexandria hotels to tour everything this town has to offer and drink in the incredible heritage of this prairie town.

For some active time outdoors not far from the best Alexandria hotels, head to the extensive Central Lakes Trail. This 55-mile trail runs right through the heart of West Central Minnesota from Osakis to Fergus Falls and features an array of jaw-dropping scenery, including beautiful views of lakes, rivers, flowers, wildlife, and more. While on the trail, you’ll pass by 10 unique cities and towns along the path, all offering excellent attractions and dining to discover. Carve out a few hours to ride along this stunning trail and make a few stops along the way for a nice bite to eat or recharge with a coffee from one of the many local cafes. Fun fact: The trail is actually built on an abandoned Burlington Northern Railroad corridor purchased by the State of Minnesota in 1992.

Located in bustling downtown Alexandria is the Runestone Museum Foundation, a local history and heritage museum not far from the top Alexandria hotels. When the museum opened its doors in 1958, its only artifact was the iconic (and controversial) Kensington Rune Stone. Since then, the museum has grown to include additional artifacts found in Minnesota that relate to Middle Age Nordic explorers. The 40-piece collection includes the Climax fire steel, found in Climax, Minnesota, and one of the only Middle Age Nordic fire steels on display in North America. If visiting with kids, take them to the Children’s Discovery Room, an area of the museum that encourages education through active play including games, dress-up, designing a Viking shield, learning the Rune alphabet, and picturing what life was like as a homesteader.

Anyone interested in boats (and history, for that matter) can’t miss the opportunity to tour the impressive Legacy of the Lakes Museum just outside hotels in Alexandria. Here, you’ll be able to explore excellent exhibits of classic wooden and fiberglass boats plus landscaped gardens, which are open spring through fall. Enjoy the many incredible displays of old boats, motors, fish, and some great art, before wandering through the museum’s beautiful flower garden in the back. Then, find lake- and museum-themed gifts and souvenirs, including clothing, books, and children's toys at the cute museum gift shop before you head out!

Enjoy your striking nature stay in Alexandria, and don’t forget to check out our other hotels nearby in Mankato, Bemidji, and Woodbury.