While most Minnesotans are familiar with the Brainerd Lakes Area as a summer destination, not many are used to visiting the area in the winter. But there is just as much fun to be had once waterskiing and golfing wind up. A two-hour drive north of the Twin Cities, Brainerd doesn’t sleep once winter rolls around. It offers an abundance of activities for those who like to play in the snow and for those who prefer to stay warm by the fire.
For the recreational enthusiast, there are many activities to choose from, including cross-country and downhill skiing, snowboarding, hockey, tubing, ice-skating, snowshoeing, ice fishing and snowmobiling. The Brainerd Lakes Area features more than 1,200 miles of maintained snowmobile trails. There is also an opportunity for dog sledding with a local musher.
Holiday shopping at Christmas Point Wild Rice Co. is a favorite for tourists and locals alike. Merchandise includes local jams, furniture, clothing, jewelry, paintings and, of course, wild rice. It also houses its own cafe and coffee shop. Spa services are offered at most of the major resorts, including Grand View Lodge’s Great Waters Spa and Breezy Point Resort’s Serenity Spa. For a more local feel, The Fine Line Salon and Spa is located inside a beautiful historical home.
The Brainerd Lakes Area is a great place to spend the holidays, with plenty of related activities. Everything from horse-drawn trolley rides to visits from Santa to holiday-themed dinners can be found throughout the area. Favorite events include the Walker Festival of Lights, held shortly after Thanksgiving, and the Sertoma Winter Wonderland, which includes a driving tour of more than 80 animated light displays. The annual Holiday Arts & Crafts Festival is held at Brainerd Senior High School.
Favorite fine-dining options include the Classic Grill at Maddens, the Prairie Bay Grill and the Bar Harbor Supper Club. There are also pizza eateries, coffee shops and saloons.
When looking for a place to stay in Brainerd in the winter, there many options. Local hotels are available, but it’s tough to go wrong with one of the resorts, as they have an array of winter activities available right outside the door. In addition to its regular winter activities, Craguns Resort has a 22,000-square-foot indoor sports complex, a lighted broomball rink and s’more bonfires.
To learn more, call (800) 450-2838 or visit explorebrainerdlakes.com.
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