Albert Lea, Minnesota: Itasca Rock Garden
Early 20th century creation of farmer John L. Christensen includes a castle, grottos, and bridges. Some say the castle was meant to be his tomb; he was buried elsewhere. Restored and reopened for tours in 2024.
- Address:
- 2129 Itasca Rd, Albert Lea, MN
- Directions:
- Northwest of town. I-90 exit 154. Turn south onto MN-13, then make an immediate left (no stoplight) onto 225 St. Drive one mile. Turn right (no stoplight) onto Bluegrass Rd. Drive a third of a mile. When the road veers left, the Rock Garden will be straight ahead.
- Hours:
- Open by appt only. (Call to verify)
- Phone:
- 507-373-8003
- Admission:
- Adults $5.
- RA Rates:
- Worth a Detour
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The Itasca Rock Garden in Albert Lea was built by John Christensen over the span of a decade or so beginning in 1925. The 14,000-square-foot rock garden features castles, bridges, grottos, plants/flowers, and, in its original heyday, fish ponds with working fountains. It was recently restored by the Kohler Foundation and gifted to the Freeborn County Historical Society in Albert Lea. It's somewhat visible from the road, but for a proper visit you should call the Freeborn County Historical Society and set up a tour.
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