Brainerd pulled me in with its fresh northern air and a rhythm that was part small-town nostalgia, part wild outdoor energy. There’s a feeling here—of cabins warmed by campfires, of long bike rides that end in lake swims, of ice cream cones dripping down your wrist in the summer heat. I came looking for nature and quiet, but what I found was something more: a place that lives in motion and memory. I remember coasting through the woods on my bike, wind in my ears, thinking, "This is what it means to breathe deep and feel free."
Best Things to Do in Brainerd, MN
Gliding Through Pine-Scented Silence on the Paul Bunyan State Trail
The Paul Bunyan State Trail was like a green ribbon through the heart of Minnesota wilderness—smooth, quiet, and endlessly peaceful. I biked a stretch near Brainerd in the early morning, mist still clinging to the ferns, and chipmunks darting across the path like tiny ushers of the forest. The trail wound through wooded corridors, past lakes and picnic spots, and every few miles, a new view opened up. I remember pausing at a wooden bridge, looking down at the still water below, and thinking, "I could keep riding forever."
The best part? It felt made for wandering. Whether on foot, bike, or snowmobile, the trail offered escape without effort—just you, the trees, and the quiet hum of your own breath.
Afterward, I grabbed brunch at The Local 218, just a short drive away. Their wild rice pancakes with maple butter were rich and earthy—exactly the kind of cozy fuel I needed after the ride.
Paul Bunyan State Trail At a Glance
- Trailhead Access: Easily accessible from downtown Brainerd
- Vibe: Serene, woodsy, timeless
- Highlights: Scenic bridges, pine forests, wildlife, paved path
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or golden hour for light and stillness
- Cost: Free
- Hours: Open year-round, daylight hours
- Address: Trail access near 4th St NE & Washington St, Brainerd, MN
Wild Encounters at Safari North Wildlife Park
Safari North was the kind of place that brings out wide eyes—even in adults. From the moment I stepped through the entrance, the sound of birds, the scent of hay, and the rustle of leaves gave it a kind of safari-meets-Minnesota charm. I hand-fed a giraffe, rode a camel for the first time, and watched a little girl next to me burst into laughter when a goat nibbled her shirt. I remember standing near the kangaroo habitat and thinking, "Sometimes joy sneaks up on you in the simplest places."
The park felt hands-on and heartwarming. It was well-kept and full of staff who clearly cared about the animals and the guests. The small aviary was a highlight—bright parrots and friendly cockatiels landing on outstretched arms like we’d known each other forever.
After all the excitement, I stopped by Caribou Coffee in town and sipped an iced latte while replaying the morning in my head. Something about watching animals up close just lifts the spirit.
Safari North Wildlife Park At a Glance
- Drive Time from Paul Bunyan Trail: ~10 minutes north
- Vibe: Playful, family-friendly, hands-on
- Highlights: Giraffe feeding, camel rides, petting zoo, aviary
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning for active animals and cooler temps
- Cost: ~$18 adults, ~$15 kids (under 2 free)
- Hours: May–October, daily 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Address: 8493 MN-371, Brainerd, MN 56401
Soaking Up the Stillness at Gull Lake
Gull Lake was the Minnesota postcard I’d been hoping for—calm water framed by pine trees, fishing boats drifting like clouds, and loons calling in the distance. I spent an afternoon lakeside, toes in the sand and heart settled. Whether you're paddleboarding, boating, or just skipping rocks, there’s something about this place that whispers, “Stay a while.” I remember looking across the water and thinking, "Peace has a shape—and this is it."
The public beach was clean and quiet, the perfect place to cool off after a warm summer day. Locals were friendly but gave space. I watched a group of kids build a sandcastle shaped like a fish and realized how many kinds of stories were unfolding along the shore at once.
That evening, I treated myself to dinner at Ernie’s on Gull, right by the water. I ordered their walleye sandwich and a crisp local beer. Sitting on the patio as the sky blushed pink over the lake was one of those moments you don’t forget.
Gull Lake At a Glance
- Drive Time from Safari North: ~15 minutes northwest
- Vibe: Relaxed, breezy, lakeside leisure
- Highlights: Swimming, fishing, water sports, beach walks
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon into sunset
- Cost: Free (some activities may require rental fees)
- Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset
- Address: Public access near 10424 Squaw Point Rd, Brainerd, MN 56401
Chasing Thunder at Brainerd International Raceway
I never expected to feel so electrified by an engine. But when the drag strip lit up and the cars tore down the track, the sound hit me in the chest like a drumbeat. Brainerd International Raceway wasn’t just fast—it was full throttle, all the time. I wandered the grounds during a race weekend, watching cars and fans alike buzz with adrenaline. I remember leaning on the rail, hearing the roar, and thinking, "There’s no mistaking it—this place has horsepower in its bones."
Even outside of major events, the track had character. I met people who’d been coming for decades—bringing their kids, their coolers, and their stories. The experience felt rugged and real, a piece of Brainerd’s bold heart.
Afterward, I cooled down at The Barn, a local spot where I devoured a smoked brisket sandwich and fries, still half-hearing the echo of engines in my ears.
Brainerd International Raceway At a Glance
- Drive Time from Gull Lake: ~20 minutes south
- Vibe: Loud, thrilling, all-American
- Highlights: Drag strip, road course, national racing events
- Best Time to Visit: During NHRA Nationals or local race weekends
- Cost: Varies by event (general admission ~$25+)
- Hours: Event-dependent
- Address: 5523 Birchdale Rd, Brainerd, MN 56401
Flying Downhill at Mount Ski Gull
Mount Ski Gull had that cozy Midwestern energy—humble in scale but big on heart. I visited in winter and felt the crunch of fresh snow under my boots as I watched kids learning to ski and teens zipping down the tubing hill. Even the air tasted crisp, like peppermint. I remember riding the chairlift up and thinking, "This hill isn’t just about elevation—it’s about memory-making."
The runs were fun and accessible, perfect for families or casual riders. And in summer, the hill transforms for zip-lining and mountain biking—meaning the adventure doesn’t end when the snow melts.
After a chilly afternoon of tubing and people-watching, I drove a few minutes to Roundhouse Brewery in nearby Nisswa. A seasonal porter and soft pretzel warmed me up fast—and the relaxed vibe was the perfect cap to an active day.
Mount Ski Gull At a Glance
- Drive Time from Raceway: ~15 minutes northwest
- Vibe: Friendly, outdoorsy, fun-focused
- Highlights: Skiing, snowboarding, tubing, summer zip lines
- Best Time to Visit: Winter for snow, summer for bike and zip tours
- Cost: ~$25–$40 depending on activity
- Hours: Seasonal, check schedule online
- Address: 9898 County 77 SW, Nisswa, MN 56468
Letting the Horizon Stretch at Mille Lacs Lake
Mille Lacs felt like more than a lake—it felt like an ocean in the heart of Minnesota. The water went on forever, blue and wide beneath a sky that somehow matched it perfectly. I drove out in the late afternoon, hoping to catch the sunset, and ended up staying until twilight. I remember standing on the dock with the breeze in my hair and thinking, "This is what it means to feel small—in the best possible way."
It’s a destination for anglers, yes, but also for wanderers like me. There are state parks, scenic overlooks, and long pauses that ask for nothing but your attention. It’s the kind of place that clears your head.
On the way back, I stopped at Spirit Lake Steakhouse in Wahkon for a perfectly grilled sirloin and garlic mashed potatoes. Simple, hearty, and just right after all that open air.
Mille Lacs Lake At a Glance
- Drive Time from Mount Ski Gull: ~45 minutes southeast
- Vibe: Vast, peaceful, awe-inspiring
- Highlights: Fishing, kayaking, sunset views, Father Hennepin State Park
- Best Time to Visit: Sunset hours or early morning
- Cost: Free (state park may require a daily pass)
- Hours: Open year-round, daylight hours
- Address: Lake access via Hwy 169 or Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
Wandering in Green at Northland Arboretum
Northland Arboretum was like stepping into a living meditation. Trails meandered through tall pines, prairies full of buzzing bees, and boardwalks stretched over marshland teeming with frogs. I didn’t come here expecting to stay long, but it was so quiet and grounding that I lost track of time. I remember sitting on a bench by the pond and thinking, "This kind of peace is its own kind of healing."
The arboretum felt lovingly maintained and never crowded. There were gardens, interpretive signs, and even snowshoe trails when winter rolls in. It was a side of Brainerd I hadn’t expected—quiet, green, and full of life just beneath the surface.
After my walk, I stopped by Prairie Bay Grill for a seasonal flatbread and cucumber salad. It was fresh and bright—like the arboretum itself.
Northland Arboretum At a Glance
- Drive Time from Mille Lacs Lake: ~50 minutes north
- Vibe: Tranquil, lush, natural
- Highlights: Woodland trails, prairie flowers, boardwalks
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or early evening
- Cost: ~$5 donation suggested
- Hours: Daily, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
- Address: 14250 Conservation Dr, Baxter, MN 56425
Sunset Sips at Ernie’s on Gull
There’s dinner with a view—and then there’s Ernie’s on Gull. I timed my return just right and landed a lakeside table just as the sky was dipping into orange and lavender. Boats bobbed in the marina, laughter carried across the patio, and the walleye fingers I ordered were crispy perfection. I remember lifting a cold drink, looking out across the lake, and thinking, "This is exactly how I wanted to end the day."
It was casual but polished, with friendly service and a buzz of happy conversation. I lingered long after my plate was clean, soaking in the feeling of contentment that only lakeside dining can bring.
Ernie’s on Gull At a Glance
- Drive Time from Northland Arboretum: ~20 minutes north
- Vibe: Relaxed, scenic, celebratory
- Highlights: Walleye, lake views, patio seating
- Best Time to Visit: Just before sunset
- Cost: $$ (entrees ~$18–30)
- Hours: Daily, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Address: 10424 Squaw Point Rd, Brainerd, MN 56401
Travel Tips: How to Get There
- If you're driving: I usually take MN-371 or MN-210. You’ll be looking at about a 2.5-hour drive north from Minneapolis–St. Paul. Not bad for a weekend escape.
- Flying in? You can land right at Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport (BRD). I’ve flown this route before—it connects easily through MSP.
- Riding the bus? I haven’t taken it myself, but Jefferson Lines does run service through Brainerd if that’s more your style.
Where to Stay
- Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake – I stayed here with my family and we loved the marina, golf, and the warm cabin vibes. It’s a full-service resort, and that indoor pool comes in handy on rainy days.
- Grand View Lodge – If you’re celebrating something special, I’d steer you here. I’ve written about luxury stays across the country, and this one checks every box—spa, fine dining, and gorgeous lake views.
- Holiday Inn Express Brainerd-Baxter – When I need something easy and kid-friendly, I go for this. The indoor water park is a huge hit if you're bringing children, and you’re close to shops and restaurants.
Where the Pines Meet the Water—and You Exhale
Brainerd gave me more than I came for. It gave me motion and stillness, thunder and hush. It was morning bike rides through whispering trees, surprise animal encounters, lakes that stretch into thought, and dinners where the only agenda was to linger. I left with windburn on my cheeks and trail dust on my shoes, thinking, "If the goal was to feel grounded and free at once, this place delivered."
It’s the kind of destination that doesn’t just show you something—it lets you feel something. And once you’ve felt it, you know you’ll want to come back.