Lowry MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Lowry, Minnesota.
1. Rolling Forks Vineyards
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Rolling Forks Vineyards offers visitors a chance to sample a variety of locally produced wines in a scenic rural setting. Guests can enjoy guided tastings, educational vineyard tours, and regular live music events. The atmosphere is both welcoming and relaxing, making it a favorite stop for both wine enthusiasts and casual travelers.
2. Kensington Runestone County Park
HISTORIC PARK & TRAILS
Kensington Runestone County Park is renowned for its connection to the famous Kensington Runestone, a controversial artifact with mysterious runic carvings. The park features well-maintained hiking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds in addition to the on-site Runestone Museum. Nature lovers and history buffs alike will find plenty to enjoy at this peaceful county park.
3. Andes Tower Hills
WINTER SPORTS PARADISE
Andes Tower Hills is a beloved regional destination for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing during the winter months. The area provides slopes for all skill levels, along with rental equipment and lessons for beginners. During the off-season, it offers mountain biking and hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
4. Glacial Lakes State Park
WILDLIFE & RECREATION
Glacial Lakes State Park boasts rolling hills, clear lakes, and wide hiking trails, making it perfect for camping, fishing, and kayaking adventures. The park is known for its diverse wildlife and wildflower displays throughout the seasons. Visitors enjoy both tranquil solitude and family-friendly activities in this preserved natural gem.
5. Big Splash Indoor Waterpark
FAMILY WATER ACTIVITIES
Big Splash Indoor Waterpark entertains guests year-round with its thrilling water slides, wave pool, and lazy river. The park is popular among families seeking an all-weather destination for aquatic fun. It is conveniently located within a resort complex, offering easy access to additional amenities and lodging.
6. Lake Minnewaska
LAKESIDE RECREATION HUB
Lake Minnewaska is a prominent destination for boating, fishing, and lakeside picnicking in Pope County. The expansive shoreline and public beaches invite visitors to swim or relax, while boat launches and pier facilities cater to anglers. Starbuck's historic downtown is just a short stroll from the lake, adding shopping and dining options to the experience.
7. Lowry Nature Center
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION SITE
The Lowry Nature Center serves as an educational hub within Carver Park Reserve, providing interactive exhibits and naturalist-led programs focused on local ecology. Visitors can explore a network of trails through forests, prairies, and wetlands, spotting native wildlife along the way. The center is a popular destination for families and school groups interested in hands-on nature learning.
8. Minnewaska Golf Club
SCENIC GOLF COURSE
Minnewaska Golf Club features an 18-hole course with stunning views of Lake Minnewaska and the surrounding countryside. The club welcomes both casual and experienced golfers, offering a pro shop, clubhouse, and practice facilities. Its beautifully maintained greens and rolling fairways make it a top choice for golf enthusiasts in the region.
9. Starbuck Depot Museum
RAILROAD HISTORY EXHIBIT
The Starbuck Depot Museum preserves the town's rich railroad heritage in a restored 19th-century train depot. Exhibits feature railroad artifacts, historical photographs, and memorabilia documenting the area's transportation history. The museum also hosts special community events and seasonal displays for visitors.
10. Pope County Historical Museum
REGIONAL HERITAGE CENTER
The Pope County Historical Museum offers a comprehensive look at the county's past through engaging exhibits and immersive displays. Visitors can view artifacts from the area's early settlers, Native American history, and the evolution of local industries. Educational programs and guided tours are available for all ages.
11. Barsness Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Barsness Park is a spacious municipal park featuring sports fields, playgrounds, and hiking trails overlooking Lake Minnewaska. The park's shelters and picnic areas make it a popular gathering spot for families, community events, and outdoor celebrations. In winter, trails are groomed for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
12. Wakefield House Museum
VICTORIAN HOME TOUR
The Wakefield House Museum invites visitors to step back in time inside a beautifully preserved Victorian home. Guided tours showcase period furnishings, historical photographs, and stories of the families who once lived there. The museum highlights Alexandria's architectural and cultural heritage.
13. Legacy of the Lakes Museum
BOATING HISTORY SHOWCASE
Legacy of the Lakes Museum features an extensive collection of vintage boats, motors, and lake memorabilia from central Minnesota. Interactive exhibits trace the evolution of boating culture on the region's lakes. The museum also hosts art displays, workshops, and special seasonal exhibits.
14. Central Lakes Trail
MULTI-USE BIKING PATH
Central Lakes Trail is a scenic, paved trail that stretches for over 55 miles through the heart of west-central Minnesota. Cyclists, runners, and walkers enjoy the gently rolling route, which passes lakes, farmlands, and several charming towns. Trailheads in Alexandria make it easily accessible for day trips and longer adventures.
15. Terrace Mill Historic Site
RESTORED 19TH CENTURY MILL
The Terrace Mill Historic Site preserves an iconic 1870s water-powered flour mill along the Chippewa River. The complex includes a museum, restored mill, performance stage, and scenic park grounds. Special events, art exhibits, and guided tours make it a favorite for history lovers and families.