Albert Lea exceeded my expectations. Two days proved not to be enough time to see and do everything the City has to offer. I will be going back!
Reading about the concept of Blue Zones communities is not the same as visiting a Blue Zones community. So what does a Blue Zones community mean to a visitor? To summarize, a Blue Zones community is “A choice to be healthy.” Albert Lea is a model Blue Zones community and is recognized as a Blue Zones community on the Blue Zones website, www.bluezones.com.
Table of Contents
Recreation
The City’s tagline, “The Land Between the Lakes” is not a surprise as Albert Lea is nestled among six lakes – Fountain Lake, Pickerel Lake, Albert Lea Lake, Goose Lake, School Lake, and Lake Chapeau. What is surprising is the planning and work that has gone into developing the natural attractions into user-friendly recreational spots for all ages and skill levels. It is cliché to say there is something for everyone, but it is true about Albert Lea.
The City boasts 41 parks and recreation areas, one State Park – Myre-Big Island State Park and one State trail – Blazing Star State Trail, and six lakes providing a full menu of outdoor recreational activities – skateboarding, swimming, baseball, softball, tennis, basketball, playgrounds, walking and biking trails, boating, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, birdwatching, photography, camping, and geocaching. Don’t forget to include Albert Lea in your winter itinerary.
The City made it easy to enjoy the trails and the lakes. There are kayak and bike rentals available at the parks.
After a day of recreation, it is time to recharge at one of Albert Lea’s premier restaurants.
Recharge
I ate breakfast at the hotel as I hate wasting time in the morning when all I want to do is get out the door and get going for the day. I love being outside in the fresh morning air plus it is the perfect time of day to take photos.
I love having a pocket filled with fresh beef jerky to chew on while out for the day. I purchased some teriyaki-flavored beef jerky, and it was so good. Not too dry or meaty, and not too salty or sweet. On my own personal rating scale, the jerky from Conger Meat Market in historic downtown Albert Lea deserves a 10 plus.
During my visit, I checked out 112 on Broadway, Jake’s Pizza, and Taco King 2. I was not disappointed in any of them. As a fan of grilled cheese sandwiches, I ordered a grilled cheese sandwich at 113 Broadway and can not remember what else. The sandwich is a gourmet sandwich with three types of cheeses blended to form a rich-tasting sandwich will cheese oozing out on all four sides. The sandwich not only has a huge flavor, but it is a huge sandwich, making for a delicious snack the next day.
My last meal before heading home was a pizza at Jake’s in downtown historic Albert Lea. I must say it was the best pizza I have had in a long time. It was my first experience having green olives on a pizza and from now on there will always be green olives on my vegetarian pizza. I rate Jake’s a 10 out of 10.
When I first arrived in town, I had to stop and get a Mexican food fix. I stop at Taco King 2 and enjoyed a ‘warm’ green chile chicken enchilada. It had just enough heat and flavor to quench my taste until I get back to New Mexico.
Full? Now time to get a good night’s sleep and wake up renewed.
Renew
Being this is my first overnight trip to Albert Lea, I have only stayed at one lodging facility, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites, 77820 Main St. East. The property is located just two blocks off I-35 and five minutes from Myre Big Island State Park. Friendly staff, clean up-to-date rooms, continental breakfast, mid-range prices, and easy access are my top five criteria when choosing a place to stay. Holiday Inn Express & Suites had all five. I must admit I do not spend a lot of time in a hotel room, but when I do, I must be comfortable, so I can recharge.
Relate
If you would like to know more about Albert Lea, MN, or Blue Zones Communities visit www.explorealbertlea.com and www.bluezones.com and visit their Social Media sites.