Brainerd Lakes

Lakes and small town charm.

Welcome to the Brainerd Lakes Area!

People from throughout the Midwest continue to  fall in love with the Brainerd Lakes Area for its natural beauty – the clear blue lakes and the plush green forests – as well as its abundance of recreational opportunities, beloved festivals, and destination shopping. Just 130 miles northwest of the Twin Cities; with small-town charm and set along some of the most popular lakes in Minnesota, it’s the quintessential lake destination. 

What to Love

  • World class destination golfing
  • Diverse shopping opportunities
  • Miles of biking, hiking and off-road adventure trails
  • Access to more than 465 lakes in the region

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

The dining options are as varied as the things to do. Across the lakes area, you’ll find trendy tap rooms with award-winning beer, lakeside dining with laidback summer vibes, and farm-to-table style dining with locally sourced ingredients. Originally built as a gambling hall and bar in 1937, Bar Harbor Supper Club has a rich history. Today, it is a first class restaurant with a menu of incredible steak choices, fresh seafood, pastas, salads, soups, sandwiches, and more. Big Axe Brewing Company features a brand new brewery that will bring you as close to the beer making as it gets. Whether you’re catching up with an old friend, or stopping by on a Friday after a hard week of work, you’ll find the company friendly, and the beer tasty and cold.  Everyone’s outdoor favorite is Zorbaz Pizza and Mexican restaurant and bar on the great Gull Lake narrows with a fun casual atmosphere with dancing, games, and music. Be sure not to miss the diverse shopping opportunities as well. The Brainerd Lakes Area features a mix of retail stores, both big and small, including many specialty stores offering those one-of-a-kind finds, many created by local artisans! The region also is known for its many antique stores. Are you planning to indulge in water sports for your summer vacation? Perhaps you’re preparing for winter sports. Stay outfitted with the best sportswear from Martin’s Sport Shop.

Things to Do

One of the best ways to see the Brainerd Lakes is to experience a thrilling bird’s eye view from the Brainerd Zip Lines. Be sure to check it out! Looking for great stays? The historic Grand View Lodge on Gull Lake has been providing guests with memorable vacations since 1916. Explore a variety of activities, two championship golf courses, the rejuvenating Glacial Waters Spa, a collection of distinctive dining venues and some of the best accommodations in the state. Not to miss; with four outstanding course layouts including the historic Pine Beach East, scenic Pine Beach West, the fun Social 9, and the championship course The Classic, Madden’s offers a truly diverse golf experience for any golfer. Rent bikes and explore your way through the 155 miles of the Paul Bunyan State Trail.  For kids of all ages - do not miss the Nisswa Turtle Races, Ice Cream and Candy from The Chocolate Ox, mini golf at Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf. For the lake lover in your family make sure to set in some boating, fishing and jet skiing - rentals available in the area! Check out Dave’s Sportland!

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