Nestled right in the heart of Minnesota, the Brainerd Lakes Area is an exciting summer destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to unwind and reconnect with the great outdoors. Its plethora of lakes, stunning natural beauty, and small-town charm make the Brainerd Lakes Area nothing but a good time—especially in the summer months!
If you’re making travel plans for the upcoming summer season, Nisswa, Pequot Lakes or Crosslake, MN, are great places to make lasting memories. From golf courses and fishing rentals to horses and trails, it’s the perfect setting for some fun in the sun.
Need some ideas for activities to fill up your summer days in the Brainerd Lakes Area? We’ve got you covered with some standout options below.
We are the Land of 10,000 lakes for a reason! If you are looking to explore the waters of the Brainerd Lakes Area, there are plenty of options to get out on the water. Whether it’s via pontoon, ski boat, fishing boat or jet skis, you get to choose your own waterway adventure!
Picking your perfect lake in the Brainerd Lakes Area is half the fun! Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
No matter which lake you choose, it’s guaranteed to feel like a Northwoods dream in the BLA!
Lake Fun Rentals, a family-owned business, offers a luxurious fleet for cruising the shores of the Gull Lake Chain, focusing on high-end equipment and personalized service. For those near Crosslake, MN, Larry’s Lake Rentals is great for enjoying the stunning Whitefish Chain of Lakes and the surrounding lake communities.
We also love Boats and Beyond Rentals, which offers convenient delivery to spots like Gull Lake, ensuring you have everything you need for an unforgettable day. Whether you’re fishing, cruising, or waterskiing, you’ll get to explore the beauty of the Brainerd Lakes Area from the best perspective—on the water!
Ready to make waves? Check out more boat rental options in our Area Guide. And if you’ve already booked a vacation rental with us, our concierge can book your boat rental for you!
With the Mississippi River running through the heart of Brainerd, it’s no wonder fishing is such a popular activity around here! From Pelican Lake to Leech Lake, the Brainerd Lakes Area offers tons of great spots to reel in a catch.
Leisure Outdoor Adventures will take you to some of the most beautiful lakes in Minnesota, making sure you have an awesome time, no matter if you’re a pro or just starting out. If you’re after walleye, Walleye Dan has got you covered, showing you all the best spots, complete with top-of-the-line gear.
And if you’re looking for a laid-back, family-friendly trip, The Nisswa Guides League has been leading successful fishing trips for over 60 years. Don’t have your own gear? They’ll supply almost everything you need, from rods and reels to bait and tackle.
Looking to cast a line? Discover even more fishing guides and charters in the Brainerd Lakes Area with our Area Guide.
Before you set out to explore the lakes, don’t forget to gear up for success! Whether you’re chasing walleye, reeling in bass, or just casting a line for fun, having the right rods, reels, bait, and tackle can turn a good day into a great one. No gear? No problem! Many local guides and shops have you covered with rentals.
Already booked a stay with us? Our concierge is here to make it even easier! We can hook you up with gear rentals or share the inside scoop on the best fishing spots based on what’s biting. Let us handle the details so you can focus on the thrill of the catch.
There’s no shortage of great golfing in the B.L.A., with options for every skill level. Known as Minnesota’s golf capital, the area boasts stunning courses designed by legendary names, offering lush fairways and breathtaking views at every turn.
The golf course you choose depends on the type of experience you’re after, and we’ve got a wide selection here in the Brainerd Lakes Area!
For a premier experience that’s second to none, these top courses are sure to impress:
Here’s a Tip: Keep the fun going after your round! Many courses have great on-site dining options, like The Pines’ restaurants at Grand View Lodge, The Preserve Smokehouse, The Classic Grille at Maddens, Legacy Grille and Irma’s Kitchen at Cragun’s, or Palmer’s Grille at Deacon’s. Golf, eat, repeat—easy as that!
Want to keep it light and fun? These courses are perfect for a laid-back golfing adventure!
Got kids? The Brainerd Lakes Area is perfect for a golf adventure the whole family can enjoy! With courses designed for all ages and skill levels, everyone can join in on the fun.
The Brainerd Lakes Area offers a variety of biking experiences. From scenic paved trails to adrenaline-pumping mountain biking routes, there’s a path for every rider to chase the thrill of the trail.
The Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area is a top choice for cyclists, featuring the Cuyuna Lakes State Trail, an eight-mile paved path that winds through former mine pits turned crystal-clear lakes. When you’re done, you can grab a bite at Rafferty’s or the Iron Range Eatery, or grab a bar at Cuyuna Brewing Company.
For a different kind of adventure, hop on the Paul Bunyan State Trail, connecting Baxter to Bemidji. Make it a full-day excursion by biking from Nisswa to Pequot Lakes—shop the charming downtown (don’t forget a backpack for your finds!), snack on a charcuterie board at MN Traders Co., then pedal back to explore Nisswa’s shops and toast your ride with a beer at Big Axe Brewing.
Looking for more biking ideas with fun stops along the way? Check out our Area Guide for all the best routes and tips!
For mountain biking enthusiasts, Cuyuna’s mountain bike trails offer breathtaking overlooks, aspen forests, and rugged terrain for all skill levels. Don’t have your own wheels?
Crosslake’s Pay-per-Use Crosslake Bikes makes it easy to grab a bike on the go, explore the area, and dock it when you’re done. This is great for a more leisurely ride where you can enjoy peaceful shoreline views and rolling countryside.
Gear up and go! Find more rental options and biking tips in our Area Guide.
If you love horses, the area has some amazing spots to saddle up and explore! Pine River Riding Stable, a family-owned 400-acre ranch, has a variety of well-trained horses and ponies, plus plenty of critters like kittens, donkeys, and chickens for the kids to enjoy.
For a more scenic adventure, Outback Ranch offers horseback riding through Pillsbury State Forest, where you can take in the beauty of the woods, lakes, and wildlife on a trail ride that’s tailored to your group’s experience level.
Your summer adventure in the Brainerd Lakes Area isn’t complete without exploring its delightful downtowns! Each one has its own unique charm, from cozy shops and local eateries to lively events and lakeside vibes.
To make your Brainerd Lakes vacation truly unforgettable, you’ll need a place that feels like home—an abode that suits your style. Book the B.L.A. offers a variety of stunning vacation home rentals, from luxurious lakeside abodes to peaceful escapes surrounded by nature.
With personalized services and the option to pre-book curated activities, we’ll help you create experiences tailored to your interests, ensuring every moment of your stay is special.
Ready to find your perfect spot? Let us help you plan a getaway you’ll never forget. Book your stay with Book the B.L.A. today and take advantage of our concierge service to craft your ideal trip. From the best sunset spots to the juiciest burgers and our favorite local watering holes, we’ve got the insider tips to make you feel like a true local.
With our Area Guide, you’ll have all the best local businesses and activities at your fingertips—so there’s always something fun to do. Let us handle the details while you focus on making memories. Your perfect Brainerd Lakes adventure awaits!
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