What is there to do in Albert Lea, MN? I am glad you asked because I am excited to share with you all of the fun ways you can enjoy our community.
Wind Down Wednesday
Music, Food, Art, and Crafts Oh Yes! I want to personally invite you to come and explore our beautiful, historic downtown during Wind Down Wednesday. Let your kids play in the kid zone, make a craft, have their face painted and experience Bruno’s Corn Dogs. A treat Albert Leans look forward to all winter long. Enjoy live entertainment throughout the day. Cruise through our local shops, we even have Whimzy, our local Toy Store and you won’t want to miss stopping into Between Friends, a cute boutique with unique clothing and accessories. A favorite local treat, Renae’s Ice cream will be there along with many other wonderful vendors. Wind Down Wednesday is held the third Wednesday of every month from June through August. This year’s dates are June 20th, July 18th, and August 15th. I hope to see you downtown!
Thursdays on Fountain
Thursdays on Fountain is an event put on and supported by our Tourism and convention bureau, the City of Albert Lea and this year’s big sponsor is the Mayo Clinic. Enjoy live music from 5:30-7pm in our beautiful Fountain Lake Park overlooking Fountain Lake. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from local businesses. You can find the music line up here.
Third of July Parade
Why does Albert Lea have their parade on the Third of July? Great question, I’m glad you asked. It is a simple answer. Many small towns around us such as Hayward, Hollandale, New Richland and other small farming communities have their own Fourth of July parade. The Albert Lea Chamber of Commerce, who coordinates Albert Lea’s parade every year, can get more surrounding small towns to participate when ours is on the third. Honestly, I like the way our city does it. It makes it a two-day celebration and who doesn’t love a reason to eat more great food and spend time with family and friends. Ever since I can remember the parade route has been from The Freeborn County Fairgrounds all the way to Central Park. The route follows Bridge Ave and then turns off onto Fountain Street along the lake.
Fourth of July Fireworks
Our family spends the day swimming, fishing, eating delicious hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salad, and having a great day celebrating our nation’s Independence. Then around 9 pm, we head down to Fountain Lake Park with our lawn chairs and a blanket to view one of the most spectacular fireworks displays in Southern Minnesota. We purchase our favorite Kiwani’s kettle corn and settle in to watch the grand show that usually starts around 10 pm.
The Aquatic Center
Albert Lea Aquatic Center is a large outdoor swimming pool. It has a waterslide, diving board, and two climbing walls. As well as plenty of room for swimming fun. The kiddy pool is spacious with lots of different water fun for toddlers and infants. Our favorite day is to visit on $2 Tuesdays. Frugal fun at its best.
Albert Lea’s Chapel Con is back, July 21st – July 22nd. Get your tickets and meet stars from some of your favorite shows. There will also be a free block party downtown Albert Lea following the first night of the Chapel Con. Visit their website for more information.
I paddle Port Port at Frank Hall Park
Did you know you can rent a kayak or a canoe at Frank Hall Park? Head to ipaddleport.com to reserve your boat today.
Pickle Ball Rental
What is that tennis court looking thing by the Aquatic Center and Frank Hall Park? This local favorite is the latest and greatest Pickle Ball. We see people meet there all day long for a quick game or tournaments are held there also. Want to get in the action, they have a Facebook Page if you want to learn more about the game or to find someone to teach you. There is even a rental station for you to rent equipment just in case you want to try it out.
Boathouse at the Brookside Boat Launch
The Boathouse is located by the Brookside Boat Launch. You can rent kayaks, canoes, paddle boards and more. You can pay for single use or purchase a punch pass. A fun way to stay cool this summer.
Park & Rec Houses are Open
Albert Lea is surrounded by parks. Within our neighborhood alone we have four different parks within four blocks of our house. We love it! It makes our town beautiful, gives kids something to do, and is a place to meet and get to know our neighbors. In the summers the City of Albert Lea opens up the warming houses and pays people to play with the kids that come to the park. Water games, arts & crafts, field trips and more fun adventures await the kiddos. Many of the crafts and field trips are either free or low cost to make it affordable for any income.
The Albert Lea Public Library
The Albert Lea Public Library is AWESOME! Miss Patty is terrific, loves kids, is crazy patient and is the heart of the children’s programming. Lego Time, Rad Zoo, MNZoo Mobile, and they have a summer reading program as well. These programs are free and open to the public courtesy of the Friends of the Library.
Pelican Breeze II Cruises
Explore Albert Lea Lake on the Pelican Breeze II with one of their relaxing, fun pizza cruises or take a Sunday boat cruise. Do you have an event coming up or a board meeting? Consider hiring the Pelican Breeze II. Head to their website for more information.