TOUR of 10,000 LAKES:
Destination Alexandria
by Lee Voss, WJON.com
ALEXANDRIA -- It's a land where legends are born and tales are tall. A place where many believe Vikings discovered America long before Christopher Columbus. Take a trip with us to Alexandria, Minnesota for this week's "Tour of 10,000 Lakes."
Alexandria, Minnesota was settled in 1859 by two brothers. But, it wasn't until 1898, when a Swedish farmer living near Alexandria found the famous Runestone. The Runestone tells a story of the Vikings being the first settlers in America in 1362...long before Christopher Columbus in 1492.
Coni McKay is the Executive Director of the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce. She says the Runestone Museum houses the rock and is the foremost expert on the history behind it. So, is it authentic? McKay says the Smithsonian Institute has wavered on its authenticity so they now let folks decide for themselves.
And, whether you believe in the Runestone or not, Alexandria has a lot to offer visitors. McKay says they're a resort and lake town with so much more to see and do. She says they have a winery you can 
tour, shopping and more than 350 lakes.
She says they also have the golf courses, amusement parks and restaurants you're looking for. But, McKay says there is one feature that no other community can claim and that's Inspiration Peak. It's considered the highest point between the Mississippi River and the Rocky Mountains. It also gave Sinclair Lewis the inspiration to write the book "Our Town.".
Alexandria is also in the heart of the Central Lakes Trail -- a 90-mile trail connecting Fergus Falls to near St. Cloud. And, when looking for a place to lay your head at the end of a busy day, Alexandria has what you need. McKay says they have resorts on or off the lake, bed and breakfasts and hotels.
So, if you are looking for a get-a-way close to home, consider taking the trip up I-94 to Alexandria. The Chamber of Commerce is open seven days a week during the summer to help you plan your trip too. Join us next week when we continue further up I-94 with a stop in the Fargo-Moorhead area.
AUDIO: You can hear Lee Voss' report -- with expanded comments -- by clicking on the player.