Brainerd Hotels

Top reasons to visit Brainerd

• Stunning Natural Scenery: Brainerd is nestled in the picturesque Brainerd Lakes area, offering breathtaking landscapes and serene environments.
• Outdoor Activities: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, visitors can partake in skiing, golfing, and exploring diverse recreational areas.
• Thrilling Motorsports: The Brainerd International Raceway hosts exciting motorsport events, perfect for adrenaline seekers.
• Charming Downtown: Explore quaint shops and eateries in the charming downtown area, enhancing your local experience.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Amusement parks and beautiful lakes provide ample opportunities for families to enjoy their holiday.

Find great hotels in and around Brainerd

Explore a variety of hotel accommodations in Brainerd, Minnesota, perfect for families, adventurers, and business travellers alike. From charming resorts to well-equipped hotels, the area offers an array of options to suit every need. Whether you're seeking a comfortable suite or the best hotel experience, Brainerd has something for everyone, ensuring a memorable stay in this picturesque destination.

• The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes, Trademark Collection by Wyndham: Embrace a charming retreat at The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes, a family-friendly haven designed for both leisure and business travellers. Nestled in the heart of Brainerd, the lodge features a delightful array of amenities tailored for children, including an arcade game room and a water park (fees apply). The property is pet-friendly, welcoming your furry companions with open arms, while offering essential facilities like cribs at no extra charge and child safety measures. With its rustic lodge theme and comforting environment, it's perfect for creating cherished family memories.
• Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG: Experience modern comfort at the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter, where family vacations and pet-friendly policies go hand in hand. Situated conveniently in Brainerd, this hotel boasts a variety of amenities for children, including a complimentary water park and a dedicated pool for younger guests. With an inviting atmosphere and spacious rooms, this establishment ensures a relaxing stay for families. Dogs are welcome with specific restrictions, making it an ideal spot for those who wish to travel with their pets while enjoying the convenience of quality accommodations.
• Rapid River Lodge: Just a short distance from Brainerd, Rapid River Lodge is an excellent choice for families and business travellers alike. This inviting hotel features a range of amenities, including an arcade game room and a children's pool, ensuring that younger guests have plenty to enjoy during their stay. With its welcoming environment and proximity to local attractions, Rapid River Lodge makes for an ideal base to explore the beauty of Minnesota while providing a comfortable and enjoyable space for relaxation.

Where to stay in and around Brainerd

Brainerd, Minnesota, is a delightful destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a romantic escape. Nestled in the stunning Brainerd Lakes area, visitors can enjoy a blend of family-friendly activities and serene landscapes. Explore the charming downtown area, where quaint shops and eateries await, or venture into nearby regions for adventurous excursions. Whether you’re after relaxation or recreation, Brainerd offers a unique atmosphere that caters to every traveller's desires.

• Nisswa: Nestled approximately 19.3km from Brainerd, Nisswa is a charming city that attracts visitors year-round, with a notable influx during the summer months from June to August. Renowned for its scenic landscapes and outdoor activities, Nisswa offers a romantic escape with its picturesque lakes and lush parks. The area boasts excellent recreational spots, including golf courses and nature trails, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls by the lake or partake in local events held at the conference venues. The quaint atmosphere and vibrant community make Nisswa an idyllic destination for a memorable vacation.
• Baxter: Located a mere 6.4km from Brainerd, Baxter is a lively city that welcomes travellers throughout the year, with peak visitation in March and during the summer months of June to July. Known for its blend of outdoor adventures and urban conveniences, Baxter offers visitors a chance to explore recreational areas, shop at local centres, or enjoy thrilling motor racing events. The city's proximity to beautiful lakes and parks provides ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration. With its welcoming spirit and diverse attractions, Baxter is a wonderful place to experience the charm of Minnesota.
• East Gull Lake: Situated in close proximity to Brainerd, East Gull Lake is a delightful village that sees a moderate influx of visitors, particularly in the summer months. This picturesque location is celebrated for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities, attracting those seeking a romantic getaway or family-friendly adventures. With access to beautiful beaches, golf courses, and recreational areas, East Gull Lake offers a perfect blend of relaxation and activity. Visitors can unwind by the lake or explore the local parks, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Things to do in and around Brainerd

Brainerd, Minnesota, is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking a romantic getaway. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including skiing, golf, and exploring diverse recreational areas. The region boasts stunning natural scenery, inviting water parks, and ample opportunities to immerse yourself in nature. Whether you're diving into adventure or relaxing in the picturesque surroundings, Brainerd promises an unforgettable experience.

Shopping

In Brainerd, visit local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you’re up for a drive, MN Surf Co, located 19.3km away, offers a fantastic selection of surf and outdoor gear, perfect for those seeking something special to take home.

Recreation

The Classic at Madden's Golf Course offers an invigorating golfing experience amidst scenic views, perfect for sports enthusiasts. Pine Beach invites you to enjoy outdoor golfing in a vibrant atmosphere, while Legacy at Cragun's combines a challenging course with stunning landscapes for a fulfilling day of recreation.

Adventure

The Cuyuna Lakes Trail, located 22.5km from Brainerd, offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventure for hiking enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the Brainerd International Raceway, situated in the area, provides thrilling motorsport experiences for adrenaline seekers. For skiing, Mount Ski Gull, 16.1km away, promises exhilarating slopes and sports vibes.

Nightlife

Brainerd's nightlife buzzes with energy, featuring lively bars like Jack's House for a vibrant atmosphere and the classic 371 Bar & Grill for a relaxed pub feel. For something unique, try the local breweries that showcase craft beers and a welcoming environment to unwind after a day of adventure.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Brainerd

Brainerd offers a wealth of free activities, such as the beautiful Buffalo Hills Park, making it easy to enjoy the area on a budget. For transport, consider using private vehicles, as they are the most common option. To save on accommodation, plan your visit in April or November to December when prices drop, and aim for a Tuesday stay for the best rates. Utilise Expedia’s search tools to find budget-friendly hotels and consider package deals that combine your stay with flights and activities for added savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Brainerd are April and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Brainerd is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Brainerd is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Brainerd hotel reservations with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Brainerd

Brainerd is a charming destination ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking scenic, romantic getaways. Visitors can enjoy beautiful lakes, urban parks, and amusement parks, perfect for a beach experience. Notable attractions include the Brainerd International Raceway, offering thrilling motorsport events. This delightful blend of nature and recreation makes Brainerd a lovely spot for travellers looking to unwind and explore the great outdoors.

• Paul Bunyan Land: Experience the charm of this whimsical amusement park, where the legendary giant Paul Bunyan comes to life. Enjoy family-friendly rides, engaging attractions, and outdoor adventures that cater to visitors of all ages, making for a memorable day out.
• Lake Ossawinnamakee: Discover the serene beauty of Lake Ossawinnamakee, perfect for romantic strolls along its sandy beach. The picturesque scenery offers a tranquil escape for swimming, picnicking, or simply soaking in the natural surroundings.
• This Old Farm: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage at This Old Farm, where you can learn about local farming practices, traditional crafts, and community events, showcasing the heart and soul of Brainerd's agricultural legacy.

Best time to go to Brainerd

The best time to visit Brainerd is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	11.7°F (-11.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
February	13.1°F (-10.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
March	28.4°F (-2.0°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	40.1°F (4.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
May	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	68.5°F (20.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	60.6°F (15.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	45.3°F (7.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	31.3°F (-0.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
December	18.3°F (-7.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Brainerd

For your visit to Brainerd, Minnesota, the main airport is Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport (BRD), situated 6.4km from the city. Nearby accommodation options include the 3.5-star Good Ol' Days Resort, 19.3km away, the 3-star Lodge at Brainerd Lakes, 9.7km away, and the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter, located 8.0km from the airport. These hotels offer various transportation services, including a 24-hour airport shuttle and free airport transportation. Alternatively, you can fly into St. Cloud Regional Airport (STC), located 59.7km away, with hotels such as the 3-star Holiday Inn & Suites St. Cloud and Hilton Garden Inn St. Cloud nearby.