2021 Explore Brainerd Lakes Visitor Guide

Page 1

Brainerd 2021 — 2022 VISITORS GUIDE

BREWS & SPIRITS TOUR: One Sip at a Time

PAUL BUNYAN’S PLAYGROUND

Remodeling

Homeward

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

BOUND

Your Home or Cabin

TIPS & TRENDS



EST. 1992

BOAT SALES • PRO SHOP • SERVICE • STORAGE • FIBERGLASS REPAIR

OUR FAMILY PROUDLY SERVING MINNESOTA’S 10,000 LAKES SINCE 1992 BAXTER SALES & SERVICE CENTER / 15779 EDGEWOOD DRIVE BAXTER, MN 56425 EXCELSIOR SALES / 720 GALPIN LAKE ROAD EXCELSIOR, MN 55331 TWIN CITIES SERVICE CENTER / 260 STATE STREET NEW GERMANY, MN 55367


QR Codes

The Credits

Bring this issue to life!

BRAINERD LAKES CHAMBER PRESIDENT Matt Kilian

BRAINERD LAKES CHAMBER STAFF Nicole Converse, Paula Davis, Colleen Dols, Sue Galligan, Mary Gottsch, Donna Houchin, Brian Lehman, Cindy Myogeto, Trisha Reilley, Katie Wasserman, Paula Chapulis EDITORIAL CONTENT Trisha Reilley, Tourism Marketing Manager GRAPHIC ARTS Donna Houchin, Marketing & Communications Manager ADVERTISING SALES Susie Alters, Sue Galligan, Brian Lehman PUBLISHER Brainerd Dispatch, Pine and Lakes Echo Journal PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHAMBER BUSINESSES AND INDIVIDUALS 14 Lakes Brewery, Arrowwood Lodge, Billy Bones Raceway, Big Axe Brewery, BlazeAir, Brainerd International Raceway, Brainerd Zip Line Tour, Brainerd Dispatch, Brainerd Ski Loons, Bridge of Harmony, Comfort Suites, Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake, Crossing Arts Alliance, Crosswoods Golf Course, Crow Wing County Historical Society, Crow Wing Kayaks, Eric Peterson (Lake Fun Rentals), Fancy Pants Chocolates, Graddy Photography, Grand View Lodge, Holiday Inn Express, Isaac Johnson, Jack Pine Brewery, Knotty Pine Bakery, Lakes Area Music Festival, Lakes Jam, Madden’s Resort on Gull Lake, Main Street Ale House, Matt Kennedy, Minnesota Makerspace, Morey’s Seafood Market, Nelson Photography, New Heritage Architecture & Design, Nor-Son Custom Builders, Northland Arboretum, Open City Thrift, Paul Bunyan Land, Pirates Cove Adventure Golf, Prairie Bay Grill & Catering, Purple Fern Bath Company, Sage on Laurel, Tricia Plaetzer, Trisha Reilley, Rob Fitzsimmons, Renewal By Andersen, Richard Eide (Moonlite Bay Family Restaurant & Bar), Roundhouse Brewery, Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge, Whistling Wolf & Dark Moon Mini Golf, Jenny VanOrsdel PEQUOT LAKES COVER PHOTO BY BLAZEAIR BlazeAir | BlazeAirMN.com A Premier Aerial Production Company in the Brainerd Lakes Area.

4

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

We are ready to welcome you to the Brainerd Lakes Area! Lake Country Cares is our community promise to take care of our residents, visitors, and businesses with easy and effective practices. Our businesses are adhering to current executive orders, including limited capacity, required masking and social distancing, and extra cleaning protocols. We’re safer together.

Scan Me! The codes you see throughout this Guide will bring you extra content on dining, events, and all the happenings around the Brainerd Lakes Area. Hover your phone’s camera over the QR codes (no downloading of apps is necessary) to view through your phone.

Stay Connected @BrainerdLakes

@ExploreBrainerdLakes

@BrainerdLakes

Info@Explore BrainerdLakes.com

The Brainerd Lakes Chamber would like to thank all the individuals and Chamber businesses who submitted photos and content to feature in the Explore Brainerd Lakes Visitors Guide. ©2021 Brainerd Lakes Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved.

Explore Brainerd Lakes Welcome Center 7393 State Highway 371 Brainerd, MN 56401 (800) 450-2838 ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Crosslake Welcome Center Co Rd 3 and Route 66 Crosslake, MN 56442 (218) 692-4027 Crosslake.com

Pequot Lakes Welcome Center 31095 Government Drive Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 (218) 568-8911 PequotLakes.com


SPECIALIZING IN LAKESHORE

Central Minnesota’s Finest Lakeshore Properties Since 1964

(218) 963-7333

23590 Smiley Road • Box 779 • Nisswa MN

©2018 Kurilla Real Estate LTD.


5518 Lakers Lane, Nisswa

DRS. SARA AND TJ GRABER

As Functional Chiropractic Neurologists and Functional Medicine Doctors, we appreciate a team effort at a neurological and holistic approach for optimal body and brain function. We place your health goals as priority to develop a specific plan for your wellness concerns. Our team takes pride in understanding your current needs and applications necessary to to get your life back. • Successfully treated Advanced Neurological Conditions: Traumatic Brain Injuries (Concussions), Seizures, Migraines, POTS, Strokes, children body/behavior dysregulation • Board Certified Functional Chiropractic Neurologists • Certifications in Pediatrics • Over 20 years combined experience

218-232-3178 northernhopefnc@gmail.com

Acupuncture

Massage

Danette Vanderbeek, Acupuncturist

Cassandra Holtz, Massage Therapist, Certified Cupping Technician

Danette is a board-certified acupuncturist offers holistic therapeutic treatment and prevention. Ranging from Chronic pain to metabolic conditions. Accent therapies include: • Tui Na (Chinese Massage) • Cupping • Raindrop Technique • Bioscan Meridian Stress Assessment: FDA Approved retested system.

507-227-5873 Danette.bourquin@gmail.com

Therapeutic massage is focused on pain reduction, relaxation for the mind/body, improved circulation to enhance range of motion. Customized treatment plans offered: • 30-60 min massage with optional cupping or hot stone add on • Massage or cupping added onto your chiropractic appointment • Zerona fat emulsifying cold laser application for weight management and metabolic concerns.

218-838-3671 tranquiltouchmb@gmail.com

Immerse Yourself in Lake Culture

Read the Local Newspaper

o t n I e Div ture! l u C e k La Pick up the local newspaper www.BrainerdDispatch.com

6

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com


Here, you will find the best of everything. Including yourself. GOLF

NISSWA MINNESOTA

SPA

FAMILY FUN

RESTAURANTS

POOL

BEACH

GRANDVIEWLODGE.COM


10 12

34

Photo Courtesy Brainerd Zip Line Tour

Our Communities Relocation

Homeward Bound, 12 Small Town Ambiance, Wired to the World, 16

Lodging

20

Paul Bunyan’s Playground, 20 Where to Find Paul & Babe, 25 Indoor Fun 365, 26 Lodging Directory, 30

34 40 44 50

50

Local Events

On the Water

54

Photo Courtesy Jack Pine Brewery

64

Photo By Rob Fitzsimmons, The Crossing Arts Alliance

Outdoor Adventures Connecting with the Great Outdoors, 50 Out in Nature, 52

Food & Drink

64 66 72 78 79

Take me to the Water, 44

Visit MN’s Golf Mecca in the Brainerd Lakes, 54 Golf Directory, 55

56 53

Signature Events, 40

Golf

Family Fun in the Brainerd Lakes, 34 A Wild Time at Safari North, 36

Family Activities

Things to Love About the Lakes’ Food, 56 Minnesota Sweet Corn Recipe, 58 Brews & Spirits Tour: One Sip at a Time, 60

Art, Culture & Music

Shopping & Retail

Home & Cabin

Downtown Brainerd a Destination Worth Shopping, 67 Find the Unexpected, 69 Remodeling Your Home or Cabin Tips and Trends, 72 2021 Design Trends, 74

Faith & Worship

Business Directory


Sourcewell takes it to the next level and asks, “how can we make it better?”

— Kayla Voelker, Sourcewell employee

At Sourcewell you will: Be innovative and bring ideas to life Make an impact in your community Enjoy a culture built with intention and purpose Engage in leadership training and development

Find your next career at sourcewell-mn.gov/careers


Welcome

Crosslake

to the

BRAINERD Lakes Area

We’re a region made up of several communities: Brainerd/Baxter, Crosslake, Cuyuna Lakes, Pequot Lakes, and Nisswa. Each has its own character and charm. Yet we’re all connected by our abundant resources, strong businesses, and the spirit of our people.

Come explore with us.

Photo Courtesy Brainerd Zip Line Tour

Brainerd/Baxter

Enjoy one of Minnesota’s most popular chain of lakes—the Gull Chain of Lakes. Tee off at one of the area’s nationally recognized golf courses. Visit area attractions, like Northland Kart Kountry, Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf, and Paul Bunyan Land—where a 26-foot-tall lumberjack has been captivating children and saying their names for 65+ years.

Pequot Lakes

The Paul Bunyan Trail runs from Brainerd to Bemidji with a stop right in downtown Pequot Lakes. Meander through Breezy Point, Jenkins, and around the Whitefish chain on the Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway—a nationally recognized route with 54 miles of paved, wideshouldered roads.

Spend the day boating the Whitefish Chain—14 interconnected lakes that provide 119 miles of shoreline. Picnic at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Crosslake Recreation Area and walk across the Pine River Dam to watch the rushing water. Explore specialty shops and boutiques where you’ll find one-of-a-kind clothing and home décor.

Cuyuna Lakes

With its acres of undeveloped forests, natural shorelines, and rugged terrain, the Cuyuna Lakes Area is an adventure enthusiast’s playground. The Cuyuna mountain biking trails will give you an exhilarating rush as you traverse the miles of winding red dirt.

Nisswa

Nisswa is located in the heart of the Brainerd Lakes Area. With its quaint downtown, modern amenities, and friendly faces, Nisswa is your Up North destination. With easy access to golf, the Gull Chain of Lakes, skiing, snowmobiling, and shopping, you’ll find something to do in all four seasons.

Photo by Graddy Photography, Grand View Lodge

Photo by Graddy Photography, Grand View Lodge


Our Communities

Learn

in Lake Country CLCMN.EDU

218.855.8000

bl ic Schools

EOEE/ADA Accessible

d Brainer

Pu

On a mission to ensure Opportunity. Innovation. Success. for all learners!

LET’S CHECK IN Schedule your wellness visit today.

REGISTER NOW! isd181.org/enroll 218-454-6900

EssentiaHealth.org/Schedule

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

11


Photo Courtesy Nor-Son Custom Builders

Photo Courtesy Brainerd International Raceway

Photo Courtesy Grand View Lodge

Photo Courtesy Madden’s Resort on Gull Lake

work where you play

Photo Courtesy Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge

Photo By Rob Fitzsimmons, The Crossing Arts Alliance

Photo By Tricia Pleatzer

Long live Lake Life

Photo by Nelson Photo Company, Comfort Suites

Photo Courtesy Jack Pine Brewery

escape to the BL A (Brainerd Lakes Area) Photo Courtesy Brainerd Dispatch

Photo By BlazeAir, Breezy Point Resort

Photo Courtesy Renewal By Andersen


Relocation

Homeward

BOUND

IF

you're thinking about relocating, consider the Brainerd Lakes Area. We are so much more than a

vacation destination. The beautiful natural resources, connected communities, and strong businesses

make the area an ideal place to live and play. It’s a great place to call home and raise a family or enjoy a slower pace in retirement.

Small Communities

There are several communities that make up our region within a short distance of each other for you to choose where to work and live. Our small communities rally around each other, and there’s a sense of community pride here that you just can’t help but love. This is a great place to call home, raise a family, or enjoy a slower pace in retirement.

Easy Access to Nature

We have four seasons of fun. If you’re looking to have access to worldclass outdoor recreation, consider the Brainerd Lakes Area as your permanent residence. There are miles of trails for hiking, biking, snowmobiling, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing. Here, it’s easy to embrace all four seasons.

Lake Life

Small Business Support

Diverse Jobs

Top Schools

We have some of the best lakes in the state for fishing and recreation. You don’t have to live on a lake to enjoy lake life. With over 400 lakes in the area and the vast majority having public accesses, you can easily spend time on the water. Spend one day on the water, and you’ll be hooked.

We have a strong local economy with jobs in hospitality, manufacturing, healthcare, technology, government, finance, and other professional services. You can find a rewarding career here that easily balances quality of life and work.

Quality Healthcare

Moving to a smaller community doesn’t mean sacrificing quality healthcare. Our healthcare providers have modern facilities offering cutting edge and specialized services in areas like chiropractic, physical therapy, cardiac services, neurosciences, and state-of-the-art surgery centers.

We have locally owned shops, restaurants, and breweries that help make our towns vibrant with distinctive products and services. These businesses are owned by our families, friends, and neighbors. It’s easy and inspiring to be Lakes Proud and support local here.

We’re fortunate to have excellent schools that provide state-of-theart facilities with dedicated staff that prepare kids for a successful future. Take a tour of any of our area schools (Brainerd public schools, Lake Region Christian School, Crosslake Community School, Pequot Lakes school district, Pillager Public Schools, and St. Francis of the Lakes Catholic School) to find out which school is the best fit for your family.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

13


Relocation

ADVANCED MANUFACTURING CAREERS

Visit DOWNTOWN BRAINERD A DOWNTOWN FOR EVERYONE,

for every season

Learn more at downtownbrainerd.org

35668 County Road 3, Crosslake, MN 56442

(218) 692-4400 • www.crosslakevet.com

PEQUOT LAKES PUBLIC SCHOOLS Big district opportunities, small town community! Precision Machining • Fabrication • Assembly

CNC MACHINISTS & FABRICATORS

Milling • Turning • Fabrication Excellent compensation program with full benefits. Doing work you love, with precision equipment in the heart of the Brainerd Lakes region. ISO 9001 Apply online at

www.pequottool.com E-mail resume to:

LStromberg@PequotTool.com 14

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Voted #1 Best School by residents of the Brainerd Lakes area, Pequot Lakes Schools offer a rigorous academic program, rich opportunities in the arts, and a wide range of award winning athletics and activities for students.

EAGLE VIEW ELEMENTARY Serving students early childhood through grade 4

PEQUOT LAKES MIDDLE SCHOOL Serving grades 5 - 8

FOR ENROLLMENT INFORMATION

PEQUOT LAKES HIGH SCHOOL Serving grades 9 - 12

District Office 218-568-4996

isd186.org


Relocation

218.568.5095 www.pequotvet.com

Specializing in Small Animal Medicine & Surgery, Holistic Medicine including Acupuncture

Make your Lake Life Dreams a Reality today!

CALL TODAY FOR AN APPOINTMENT

Experience the Whitefish Property Finder difference!

Maximize Value. Minimize Stress. Buy with Confidence. Sell with Success.

David & Erin Olson Broker/Owner

P: 218.513.2677 David@WF-PF.com

WhitefishPropertyFinder.com

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

15


Work where you play in the Brainerd Lakes Area.

Small Town Ambiance,Wired to the World

P

erhaps you’ve thought about what it would be like to relocate to the Brainerd Lakes Area while working remotely at your current job. Or maybe you’re looking to be connected while at your cabin or seasonal campground to check in and get a little work done. If there’s one positive thing 2020 brought us is a historic shift to the working remote phenomenon. As connectivity and technology continues to evolve, more companies

16

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

will let their employees work from anywhere. The good news is as connectivity and technology continues increases, it will continue to open opportunities for you to be at the lake while working remote.

WE’RE VERY WELL CONNECTED

Our local communications, technology, and IT companies deliver high speed services and fiber

Scan Me!

Hover your phone's camera over this QR code to view 1,000+ businesses in the Brainerd Lakes Area.

optic technology you need to get connected—all across the Lakes Area. We also have businesses that can do whole house systems to help you manage your work stations, network servers, and home devices. Now, you can have the best of both worlds. Lake life living while still having access to the technology you need.


Relocation

WO R K F R OM (L A K E) H OM E

City-like broadband speeds of up to one GIG brought to you by Crosslake Communications. Sign up at fibertoyourarea.com or call 218-692-2777 Fiber Internet • Digital TV • Telephone • Home Monitoring

LIFE IS

AT THE LAKE ...And so is the internet!

Your internet connection should let you enjoy lake life even more! Whether that means connecting via video with friends and family while hanging out in your easy chair, or ordering boat parts for the pontoon faster. CTC’s unbeatable service is here to keep you connected and enhance your lake life experience. • Internet • TV • Phone

• Business • IT Services

CONNECT, HOOK, LINE, AND SINKER WITH CTC!

800-753-9104 | 218-454-1234 goctc.com |  

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

17


SPOTLIGHT BUSINESSES

Relocation

Abbie Hoelscher Agency Inc.

Finnegan & Associates, Inc.

Lakeland Veterinary Hospital

CentraCare Baxter Specialty Clinic

First National Bank

Penmac Staffing

Interfaith Volunteers

Pine River State Bank

(218) 568-8200 https://agent.amfam.com/abbiehoelscher/mn/pequot-lakes/31079front-st/ Specializing in creating a great customer experience. We offer policies in auto, home, life, business & recreational vehicle insurance with the knowledge and experience when it comes to ensuring your dreams. We look forward to building a long lasting relationship with you.

(218) 454-4725 | www.centracare.com The CentraCare Baxter Specialty Clinic is pleased to provide specialty care to patients in the following specialty areas: heart and vascular care to pediatric and adult patients. Nephrology, neurosurgery, perinatology, plastic surgery, rheumatology, urology and wound care. Some of our specialties offer virtual health appointments at our Baxter location.

Cygneture Title Solutions LLC

(218) 828-0122 www.cygnetureonline.com We ensure the process of buying, selling, building, or refinancing is carefree as possible. We offer a variety of services from providing early title assessment, to insuring and closing your residential or commercial property. Our staff are knowledgeable, friendly, and willing to work hard to give you peace of mind. 18

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

(218) 829-3040 https://agent.amfam.com/shannonfinnegan/mn/brainerd/406-wwashington-st/ We are here to help with your insurance needs. It is very important to us that you are properly covered and paying a great rate. Give us a call, we are here for you.

(218) 822-4480 | www.fnbnorth.com At First National Bank, we are invested in the growth and success of the Minnesota Communities we serve. As we continue to grow & provide the newest features to our customers, whether that be e-statements, mobile banking, or banking apps, we are committed to providing the best possible banking experience.

(218) 820-7454 www.interfaithvolunteers.org Our mission is to help seniors remain living safely and independently at home. Our 300+ volunteers provide transportation services to medical appointments and grocery shopping; they visit people who are homebound; and they help build wheelchair ramps. Please contact us if you want to join our team of volunteers.

(218) 829-1709 www.lakelandvet.net Lakeland Veterinary Hospital is an AAHA accredited, small animal practice. Our focus is on providing quality medicine that exceeds our clients' expectations. We also offer boarding and grooming services. AAHA holds our hospital to the highest quality medical standards. We must meet and maintain over 900 standards of accreditation.

(218) 824-9675 | www.penmac.com Penmac Staffing is an employment agency that connects job seekers and businesses. Whether you're an HR Manager looking for great employees, or an employee looking for your next career, Penmac is here to help! Founded in 1988, Penmac operates more than thirty offices in 8 states. "We Place People First"

(218) 562-4977 www.pineriverstatebank.com Full service banking for consumers and businesses. Offering mobile banking, consumer mobile deposit, online banking, and bill pay. Our lenders listen to your needs and specialize in everything from construction, cabin, and land loans to commercial loans. Locations in Pine River, Emily, Breezy Point, Pillager, and Northern. Equal Housing Lender.


Relocation

Working with a team lightens the load. Together we perform better. Positive Realty

(218) 829-1777 www.positiverealty.com We have been serving our clients and customers since 1979, and in recent years have consistently led the way, annually producing one of the highest volumes of any Brainerd area Real Estate. We attribute our company success to the highest quality service, experience, vast range of services, and expertise.

WEALTH ADVISORY | OUTSOURCING | AUDIT, TAX, AND CONSULTING

SPOTLIGHT BUSINESSES

Create Opportunities

Serving the Brainerd Lakes Area for 30+ years CLAconnect.com | 218-828-0100 Investment advisory services are offered through CliftonLarsonAllen Wealth Advisors, LLC, an SEC-registered investment advisor. ©2020 CliftonLarsonAllen LLP

Start to Finish Builders and Remodelers

(218) 828-0585 www.starttofinishbuilders.com The Lakes Area's quality builder for over 30 years! Whether we're working on one of our famous remodels or building a new custom home, you can expect us to treat your project like it was our own. At Start To Finish, our quality craftsmanship and attention to detail are unsurpassed.

Live Here, Work Here

Let us help you find a career and get connected here in paradise!

Whitefish at the Lakes Senior Living

(218) 210-0770 www.whitefishatthelakes.com Whitefish at the Lakes Senior Living in Crosslake, a new distinctive senior living community offering spacious Independent, Assisted & Memory Care apartments. The conveniences of home with the comfortable luxury of lake style living. Our state-of-the-art amenities, experienced staff, and individualized services feature activities to keep life fun!

Brainerd Lakes Area ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Corporation

Contact Mike at (218) 454-2698 or email mike@growbrainerdlakes.org. ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

19


Lodging

Photos Courtesy Crow Wing County Historical Society

LIKE ANY GOOD TALL TALE, there’s mystery and intrigue around the legend. Paul Bunyan is a larger-than-life lumberjack known for his superhuman strength. He has been a part of American folklore since the early 1900s. Paul Bunyan and his sidekick, Babe the Blue Ox, have a

Paul Bunyan & Babe the Blue Ox.

The legend lives on in a tale for the ages.

history in Minnesota. Folklore says that they created Minnesota’s 10,000 lakes when Paul’s giant footprints filled with water as they explored the state. But how did Paul Bunyan come to settle in Brainerd? Now that’s a tale for the ages.



Photo Courtesy Paul Bunuan Land

PAUL BUNYAN LAND, BRAINERD

Brainerd Goes Big for Paul Bunyan

In the Brainerd Lakes Area, no legend has been so famous as Paul Bunyan. But it was no accident how Paul Bunyan’s presence came to the Lakes Area. In 1933, W.J. Madden, Jr. (Madden’s Resort on Gull Lake) and Merrill Cragun (Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake), were both forward-thinking in promoting tourism—helping to create and shape the Brainerd Lakes into the premier tourism destination that it is today. They approached the Brainerd Lakes Chamber of Commerce about a cooperative, “Paul Bunyan’s Playground”, to create a unified tourism group to attract people from the Twin Cities (and all over) to visit the Brainerd Lakes Area.

The Brainerd Chamber of Commerce adopted this idea of using Paul Bunyan as a promotional tool, and in 1935 held the 1st Annual Paul Bunyan Exposition. The Expositions ran until at least 1938, and featured lumberjack events, parades, diving and canoe competitions, and beard growing contests.

Paul Bunyan Comes to Life

Paul Bunyan came to Brainerd in 1950 from Chicago (where he’d been the main attraction at the Chicago Railroad Fair in the summer of 1949). Paul settled in to his new home at the junction of Hwy 371 and 210. Paul Bunyan was sure to be the most spectacular tourist attraction! He was huge at 26’ ft tall and his lips,

1st Annual Paul Bunyan Exposition

eyes, head, and arms all moved. He would talk to the youngest visitors saying their names and telling the tallest tales! By 1963, 200,000 visitors annually were visiting Paul Bunyan Land and being greeted by the giant lumberjack. In 1965, Babe the Blue Ox joined Paul at the amusement park. In 1978, owners of Paul Bunyan Land felt it was time Paul Bunyan received a facelift. Paul’s head was packed and shipped to Anaheim, CA. A mold of the old head was used to build a new, more animated head for Paul, equipped with a hydraulic system. Now, Paul could nod his head up and down in addition to blinking his eyes. By the late 1980s, Paul Bunyan and Paul Bunyan Land was a local landmark and a must-do tourist attraction. The park had over 40 rides and attractions.

Paul Bunyan Land moves to its current home at This Old Farm and Pioneer Village 6 miles east of Brainerd

1932 1935 1950 2004 Local resort owners adopt using Paul Bunyan’s Playground

22

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

The 26-ft. animated lumberjack comes to Brainerd from Chicago


Lodging

Paul Bunyan’s Big Move In 2003, the fate of Paul Bunyan staying in the Brainerd Lakes Area seemed uncertain.

Lois Moon and Alan Rademacher, owners of This Old Farm Pioneer Village, remember visiting Paul Bunyan Land as kids with their parents. But the two siblings never thought they would actually own Paul Bunyan.

The Lore Continues

The early resort owners were on to something when they adopted Paul Bunyan’s Playground as a way to bring tourists to the area. And Paul Bunyan Land, which followed, became an iconic tourism symbol and memory for many vacationers. We’re fortunate that Lois, Alan, and their family took the leap of faith to keep the magic of Paul Bunyan and the amusement park here. Today, Paul Bunyan remains virtually unchanged from the late 70s, and he continues to bring smiles to the faces of adults and children alike.

Lois and her brother approached the owners to purchase pieces of the amusement park that would fit in at their pioneer village. “Within a week to two weeks’ time, it snowballed into [buying] Two Hollywood firms that the entire park,” worked on one of the sharks Lois said with featured in the blockbuster a chuckle. The “Jaws” movies—worked on family thought it Paul Bunyan’s new head. would be a good addition to their family’s pioneer village. And they certainly had the space for it on the farm. In May 2004, Paul Bunyan Land reopened at its new home 6 miles east of Brainerd.

Hollywood

connection

“It’s been exciting, it really has,” said Lois. “We hear the stories every day…I was here as a child, or I’m bringing my grandkids or my kids…I remember Paul Bunyan saying my name.” “It’s such a lifetime memory when Paul says your name,” Lois said. One thing Lois and her family stresses to their staff is although it may be another work day for us, to someone, this is a lifetime memory.

Rated “Best of MN” by the Star Tribune This cozy property has big resort amenities including two heated swimming pools, great sandy beach, full service lodge and adjoins the championship Whitefish golf course. All cottages have central A/C, washer/ dryers, dishwashers, fireplaces and much, much more. Open year ‘round. Maintenance free ownership available - come visit us today!

Clamshell Beach Cottages on Whitefish 35197 S. Clamshell Dr. Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 (888) 252-6743

www.clamshellbeach.com

W E H AV E T H E V E N U E . YO U P I C K T H E S E A S O N .

Photos Courtesy Crow Wing County Historical Society

2 1 8 . 2 5 1 . 8 8 0 0 | p i n e p e a k s e v e n t c e n t e r. c o m | P i n e R i v e r, M N

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

23


Lodging

Your Destination AWAITS!

Gracious service by owners & staff

Stay a few days, a week, or more!

LODGING . RESORT ACTIVITIES . GOLF . FISHING . DINING

14 sparkling clean individual cabins on the

Whitefish Chain of Lakes BOOK ONLINE, CALL OR E-MAIL

At Bay View Lodge, we welcome you to create a wonderful vacation with us. Our location on Rush Lake, part of the Whitefish Chain of Lakes, connects our visitors to all the activities the Lakes area has to offer, while also providing a relaxing and memorable vacation. Come see why so many of our visitors return year after year.

www.blackpinebeach.com

218-543-4714

relax@blackpinebeach.com 10732 County Road 16 Pequot Lakes, MN

24

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

12038 HARBOR LANE, CROSSLAKE MN 56442

bayviewcrosslake.com . 218-543-4182 . 888-543-4182


Lodging

PAUL & BABE

can be found all around the area. Take a tour and find Paul & Babe.

Brainerd

where to

Find Paul & Babe

Explore Brainerd Lakes Welcome Center Take your picture with Paul Bunyan as he greets visitors coming to the Lakes Area. In the gift shop, you can find Paul and Babe stuffed plushes that make perfect souvenirs! Paul Bunyan Land This nostalgic theme park is home to the original animated Paul Bunyan statue and has many of the same rides and attractions. Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake A Paul and Babe statue sit at the main entrance greeting guests as they enter the resort. New Statues Coming Soon! Find the newest Babe statues in Downtown Brainerd and at the Brainerd Chamber office on Washington Street!

Baxter

Hwy 371 and 210 You can still find Paul’s foot prints in the parking lot where he used to sit on the corner of Hwy 371 and 210 (now the Kohl’s parking lot).

Crosslake

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Campground and Recreation Area Explore an exhibit room that boasts the world’s largest 13 ft. Paul Bunyan rag doll. You can walk the grounds and find Paul Bunyan interpretive signs and a photo-op. At the Crosslake Chamber office, you’ll find another set of Paul Bunyan’s footprints. The Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway Along the 54-mile scenic route you’ll find 12 interpretive kiosks written in the voice of Paul Bunyan—telling his tall tales—and giving information about the region.

Pequot Lakes

Log Chair and Bobber Tower Here, you’ll find Paul Bunyan’s oversized log chair. Legend says Paul Bunyan used to kick back in this chair and watch his fishing bobber (Pequot Lakes’ bobber water tower).

Photo Courtesy Paul Bunuan Land

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

25


Indoor Fun 365

Photo by Nelson Photo Company, Comfort Suites

COMFORT INN & SUITES RAPID RIVER LODGE

Photo Courtesy Arrowwood Lodge

Swim, slide, & splash at our indoor water parks! ARROWWOOD LODGE’S PAUL BUNYAN WATER PARK AND RECREATION CENTER has a four-story body slide, lazy river, zero-depth entry pool, and a large treehouse with water cannons. HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS’ THREE BEARS WATER PARK features the Big Splash featuring 1,000 gallon splash bucket, multiple slides, a lazy river, and family and adult only hot tubs. COMFORT INN & SUITES RAPID RIVER LODGE has an indoor/outdoor hot tub, lazy river with a waterfall and rapids, and a tube slide.

ARROWWOOD LODGE’S PAUL BUNYAN WATER PARK AND RECREATION CENTER

Photo Courtesy Holiday Inn Express' Three Bears Water Park

YEAR ROUND FUN!

No need to worry about the weather when you stay and play at one of our hotel water park destinations!

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS’ THREE BEARS WATER PARK


Lodging

Celebrating our 100 year anniversary... all year long! Enjoy the wide choice of lodging options, great food in four distinctively different restaurants, golf one of the three spectacular courses, Serenity Spa, Coffee House, live entertainment in the lounge...and let’s not forget crystal clear, sandy Pelican Lake. 80 0 .43 2 .37 7 7

Experiences to last a

MINNESOTA’S CLASSIC RESORT

• 1000 acres, miles of Gull Lake shoreline • 287 guest rooms, most with outside entry and views of the lake or golf course • Limitless outdoor fun • Waterski school • Six restaurants – 4 outdoor dining choices

breez y pointres or t.com

lifetime

• 63 holes of award-winning golf • Lakeside spa • Three sand beaches, four pools • Tennis & Croquet Club • Kids activity program

Gull Lake • Brainerd, MN • maddens.com • 800.233.2934 ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

27


SPOTLIGHT BUSINESSES

Lodging

Agate Lake Resort

Bay View Lodge

Campfire Bay Resort

Arrowwood Lodge at Brainerd Lakes

Birch Bay RV Resort

Cragun's Resort

Auger's Pine View Resort

Boyd Lodge

Fritz's Resort and Campground

(218) 963-2224 www.agatelakeresort.com Enjoy a quiet, relaxing time in our modern, clean cabins. Make memories with your family swimming at our clear, sandy beach and trying the many free water toys. Play ping pong and other games in the game room. Campfires under the stars in the evenings are always a favorite.

(218) 822-5634 www.arrowwoodbrainerd.com Arrowwood Lodge is the perfect location! Full service hotel with 102 spacious rooms. Baxter's Bar & Grill. Free breakfast. 7,500 sq. feet meeting & banquet space. Paul Bunyan Indoor Waterpark & indoor/ outdoor hot tub. Arcade, zipline, fitness center, sand volleyball court, horseshoe pits, bonfire pit and children's play set.

(218) 575-2100 www.augerspineview.com Located on pristine Lake Shamineau with clean & comfortable 2-6 bedroom cabins, all within 75 feet from the lake. Large beach, multiple water activities, cabin campfire rings, private boat launch, dock space and great fishing. Gift shop, game room and bait. Pontoon rentals. 18-hole golf. Your perfect family vacation destination! 28

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

(888) 543-4182 www.bayviewcrosslake.com Traditional Crosslake vacation destination. Classic clean 3 to 4 bedroom cabins on the beautiful crystal clear waters of the Whitefish Chain. Close to great golf, restaurants, and shopping. Family friendly, large beach, and lots of on-site water activities. We offer beach volleyball, kayaking, sauna, paddle boarding and more!

(218) 963-4488 www.birchbayrvresort.net Family resort and RV park located on Agate Lake. Birch Bay offers 9 lakefront cabins and will accommodate stays of less than a week. Our RV Park has 174 FHU RV sites. We are located within miles of everything the Brainerd Lakes area has to offer.

(800) 450-2693 www.boydlodge.com One of Minnesota’s premier family resorts located on the Whitefish Chain. Popular loft cabins are tastefully decorated. Each cabin is equipped with full kitchen, wireless internet, fireplaces and cedar decks with gas grills. Heated pool, sandy beach, and boat rental. Weekly rental in summer, daily rental in fall and winter.

(218) 575-2432 www.campfirebayresort.com At Campfire Bay, we strive to treat you like family and help you make warm memories while enjoying our cozy 1-4 bedroom cabins, all within 150 ft of the lake, our coffee, gift, and ice cream shop, full gym, day spa, fitness room, play room, and boat rentals.

(218) 825-2700 | www.craguns.com We specialize in making family memories that last a lifetime. Cragun's has more of everything for your vacation-at the best value. Enjoy our long sandy beaches, indoor & outdoor pools, family centered recreation program, water sports like boating, fishing & swimming, & winter activities like snowmobiling, x-country skiing & skating.

(218) 568-8988 www.fritzsresort.com Fritz’s Resort and Campground offers a north woods family feel to campers. Located on the east side of Edna Lake. Fritz’s offers a clean sandy beach, boat rentals for fishing, pontoon and paddle boats. They also have cabins and an air conditioned rec hall for family fun.


Lodging

Northland Pet Lodge

Leisure Suites of Breezy Point

Pampered Pets Boarding & Daycare

Niemeyer's Rugged River Resort

Shing Wako Resort

(218) 656-6965 www.gulllakebeachresorts.com Nestled along Gull Lake’s popular sandy beaches, our wide array of cozy cabins make the perfect backdrop for four-season fun. Our beautiful units have everything you need for enjoying the lake life. From stunning sunset views to our fire pits and pontoon rental, we’ve got something for everyone!

(888) 651-5300 | www.leisuresuites.com Leisure Suites of Breezy Point, near Pelican Lake, offers a variety of accommodations and a price range for everyone from deluxe condos on the lake to standard motel rooms and suites nearby. In addition to many outdoor activities, enjoy the Pelican Center water slide, pool and gym during your stay!

(218) 829-4587 www.RuggedRiverResort.com Niemeyer's Rugged River Resort is a scenic family resort nestled on the banks of the beautiful Mississippi River. Our location is minutes from area activities. With over 100 acres, heated pool, walking trails, boat rental, fishing and yard games your vacation memories start here.

(218) 692-4364 www.northlandpetlodge.com We are the Brainerd Lakes Area premier pet resort offering cat and dog boarding, doggy daycare, dog obedience training, grooming, pet food/ supplies and professionally installed underground fencing. Your pet’s vacation includes 3+ hours of adult supervised playtime per day in our 2.5 acre play yards and unlimited belly rubs!

Woodland Beach Resort

SPOTLIGHT BUSINESSES

Gull Lake Beach Resorts

(218) 866-0711 www.woodlandbeachresort.com Two new cabins for 2021! Making vacation memories for 84 years, Woodland Beach Resort is located on Bay Lake a 2,392 acre lake with bays, points and islands. We have 20 1-4 bedroom cabins with A/C, decks, grills, and outstanding WIFI. We offer paddleboards, kayaks, boats, pontoons, and a canoe.

(218) 454-0835 www.pamperedpetsmn.com Five star service for you and your furry friends. Conveniently located just off 371 in the Baxter industrial park. Our 8,000 sq.ft. facility offers 3 indoor play areas and many luxury boarding options. Our services include full service grooming, overnight boarding, daycare and private training.

(218) 765-3226 www.shingwako.com A fun and relaxing family resort on Lake Edward. 12 miles from Brainerd, Nisswa or Crosslake. Relax on our sandy swimming beach, swim and fish in the clear water and play on our eleven park-like acres. There is something for everyone! You will feel right at home! Reunions welcome! ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

29


Lodging Directory & Key

Hotel / Motel

Resort / Lodge

Waterpark on Property

BRAINERD / BAXTER

Lodging

AmericInn Baxter (218) 833-2062 | (800) 634-3444 www.americinn.com 7836 Fairview Dr, Baxter, MN 56425

Directory

Our lodging options are almost as endless as our sunsets. Our Lodging Directory will help you find the perfect place to stay based on your preference and budget.

Arrowwood Lodge at Brainerd Lakes (218) 822-5634 | (877) OUR-LODGE www.arrowwoodbrainerd.com 6967 Lake Forest Rd, Baxter, MN 56425

Auger's Pine View Resort (218) 575-2100 | (888) 705-5253 www.augerspineview.com 34052 Auger Rd, Motley, MN 56466

Bed & Breakfast / Historic Inn

RV Park / Campground

Crow Wing Lake Campground (218) 829-6468 www.crowwingcamp.com 2393 Crow Wing Camp Rd Brainerd, MN 56401

Days Inn & Suites - Baxter (218) 829-3080 | (800) 634-3444 www.daysinn.com 14466 Dellwood Dr, Baxter, MN 56425

Econo Lodge (218) 270-5001 | www.choicehotels.com 2115 S 6th St, Bldg B, Brainerd, MN 56401

Gull Four Seasons Resort (218) 963-7969 | (800) 964-4855 www.mnresortcabins.com 4132 St. Columbo Rd, Brainerd, MN 56401

Baymont Inn & Suites (218) 822-1133 | www.baymontinns.com 7208 Fairview Rd, Baxter, MN 56425

QUARTERDECK RESORT, NISSWA

Campfire Bay Resort (218) 575-2432 | (800) 677-7263 www.campfirebayresort.com 31504 Azure Rd, Cushing, MN 56443

Comfort Suites/Rapid River Lodge & Water Park (218) 825-7234 | (877) 543-8938 www.rapidriverlodge.com 7376 Woida Rd, Baxter, MN 56425

Country Inn & Suites By Radisson® (218) 828-2161 | (800) 456-4000 www.countryinns.com/baxtermn 15058 Dellwood Dr, Baxter, MN 56425

Scan Me!

Hover your phone's camera over this QR code to learn more about our many lodging options. Photo Courtesy Quarterdeck Resort

Cragun's Resort on Gull Lake (218) 825-2700 | (888) 873-0161 www.craguns.com 11000 Cragun's Dr, Brainerd, MN 56401

Gull Lake Resort (218) 829-1344 | www.gulllake.com 1304 Gull Lake Ln, Brainerd, MN 56401

Hardy's Lake in the Woods RV Resort (218) 541-0130 | www.lakeinthewoods.camp 1788 330th St, Motley, MN 56466

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites - Baxter (218) 824-3232 | (888) 824-3232 www.brainerdhi.com 15739 Audubon Way, Baxter, MN 56425

Kavanaugh's Sylvan Lake Resort (218) 829-5226 | (800) 562-7061 www.kavanaughs.com 1685 Kavanaugh Dr, Brainerd, MN 56401


Open Year Round

Handicap Accessible

Pool on Property

On the Water

Lake Edward Resort (218) 765-3419 www.lakeedwardresort.com 25103 CR 3, Merrifield, MN 56465

Sullivans Resort & Campground (218) 829-5697 | (888) 829-5697 www.sullivansresort.com 7685 Co Rd 127, Brainerd, MN 56401

Madden's on Gull Lake (218) 829-2811 | (800) 642-5363 www.maddens.com 11266 Pine Beach Peninsula Brainerd, MN 56401

Super 8 - Brainerd/Baxter (218) 828-4288 | www.super8.com 14341 Edgewood Dr, Baxter, MN 56425

CROSSLAKE Mission Beach Resort and Campground (218) 765-3447 www.missionbeachresort-camp.com 26847 CR 19, Merrifield, MN 56465

Niemeyer's Rugged River Resort (218) 829-4587 | (800) 416-4587 www.ruggedriverresort.com 12241 Stallman Rd, Brainerd, MN 56401

Paul Bunyan Land Campground (218) 821-9617 www.paulbunyanland.com/campground 17553 State Hwy 18, Brainerd, MN 56401

Quailty Inn & Suites (218) 270-7333 www.choicehotels.com 2115 S 6th St Bdg A, Brainerd, MN 56401

Shamineau Acres Resort (218) 575-2254 www.shamineauacresresort.com 34824 Aztec Rd, Motley, MN 56466

Shing Wako Resort (218) 765-3226 | www.shingwako.com 24713 CR 3, Merrifield, MN 56465

Bay View Lodge (218) 543-4182 | (888) 543-4182 www.bayviewcrosslake.com 12038 Harbor Ln, Crosslake, MN 56442

Boyd Lodge (218) 543-4125 | (800) 450-2693 www.boydlodge.com 36539 Silver Peak Rd, Crosslake, MN 56442

Manhattan Beach Lodge (218) 692-3381 | (800) 399-4360 www.mblodge.com 39051 CR 66, Manhattan Beach, MN 56442

Pine Peaks Lodge and Suites (218) 692-7829 | (888) 488-7829 www.pinepeakscrosslake.com 14047 Swann Dr, Crosslake, MN 56442

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Crosslake (877) 444-6777 | (651)290-5793 www.recreation.gov 35507 CR 66, Crosslake,MN 56442

Whitefish Lodge & Suites (218) 692-2246 | (800) 692-0727 www.crosslakereservations.com 14150 Swann Dr, Crosslake, MN 56442

Pet Friendly

Lodging Directory & Key

DEERWOOD / CROSBY Appeldoorn's Sunset Bay Resort (320) 676-8834 | appeldoorns.com 45401 Mille Lacs Pkwy, Isle, MN 56342

Camp Holiday Resort and Campground (218) 678-2495 | (800) 450-2495 www.campholiday.com 27406 Round Lake Rd Deerwood, MN 56444

Fiddlestix RV & Golf Resort (320) 676-3636 | www.fiddlestixrv.com 1081 395th St, Isle, MN 56342

Grand Casino Mille Lacs (320) 532-7777 | (800) 626-5825 www.grandcasinomn.com 777 Grand Ave, Onamia, MN 56359

Hunter Winfield's Resort (320) 676-1100 | www.hunterwinfields.com 510 W. Lake St, Isle, MN 56342

Red Rider Resort (218) 838-6858 | www.redriderresort.com 23457 Co Rd 31, Crosby, MN 56441

Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge 218-678-2885 | www.ruttgers.com 25039 Tame Fish Lake Rd Deerwood, MN 56444

Summer Breeze Resort (218) 678-2881 www.facebook.com/SummerBreezeResort 27461 435th Ave, Aitkin, MN 56431

Woodland Beach Resort on Bay Lake (218) 866-0711 | (888) 436-7770 www.woodlandbeachresort.com 15596 Woodland Beach Ln Deerwood, MN 56444

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

31


Lodging Directory & Key

Hotel / Motel

Resort / Lodge

NISSWA Agate Lake Resort (218) 963-2224 | www.agatelakeresort.com 9326 Agate Lake Rd Lake Shore, MN 56468

Birch Bay RV Resort (218) 963-4488 | www.birchbayrvresort.net 1497 Sandy Point Rd SW Nisswa, MN 56468

Cozy Bay Resort (218) 829-6861 | 1-888-829-6861 www.cozybay.com 23684 CR 4, Nisswa, MN 56468

Waterpark on Property

Bed & Breakfast / Historic Inn

RV Park / Campground

Fritz's Resort and Campground (218) 568-8988 | www.fritzsresort.com 26483 State Hwy 371, Nisswa, MN 56468

Good Ol' Days Family Resort (218) 963-2478 | (800) 227-4501 www.goodoldaysresort.com 26050 Oak Ln, Nisswa, MN 56468

Grand View Lodge (218) 963-2234 | (866) 801-2951 www.grandviewlodge.com 23521 Nokomis Ave, Nisswa, MN 56468

Gull Lake Beach Resorts (218) 656-6965 www.gulllakebeachresorts.com Nisswa, MN 56468

Lake Mollie Rv Parcels (218) 232-4811 www.lakemolliervparcels.com 23675 CR 4, Nisswa, MN 56468

Lost Lake Lodge Resort & Restaurant (218) 963-2681 | (800) 450-2681 www.lostlake.com 7965 Lost Lake Rd, Lake Shore, MN 56468

Eagles Nest (218) 963-2336 | (800) 922-0440 www.eaglesnestnisswa.com 5108 Poplar Ave, Nisswa, MN 56468

North Boutique Hotel (800) 368-1885 | (866) 801-2951 www.grandviewlodge.com 3480 Graden Cottage Dr Nisswa MN 56468

CAMPFIRE BAY RESORT your new happy place...

Quarterdeck Resort (218) 963-2482 | (800) 950-5596 www.quarterdeckresort.com 9820 Birch Bay Dr SW, Nisswa, MN 56468

with so many sweet amenities boat rentals . coffee + gift shop . rec-fitness center

800.677.7263 ^ www.campfirebayresort.com

Samara Point Resort (218) 963-2615 www.samarapoint.com 1026 Birchwood Hills Trl Nisswa, MN 56468

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Gull Lake (877) 444-6777 | (218)829-3334 www.recreation.gov 10867 E Gull Lake Dr, Brainerd, MN 56401

32

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com


Open Year Round

Handicap Accessible

PEQUOT LAKES AmericInn Lodge and Suites Pequot Lakes (218) 568-8400 | (888) 568-8400 www.americinn.com 32912 Paul Bunyan Trail Dr Pequot Lakes, MN 56472

Black Pine Beach Resort (218) 543-4714 www.blackpinebeach.com 10732 CR 16, Pequot Lakes, MN 56472

Breezy Point Resort (218) 562-7811 | (800) 432-3777 www.breezypointresort.com 9252 Breezy Point Dr Breezy Point, MN 56472

Pool on Property

On the Water

Shooting Star Casino and Event Center (218) 936-6723 | (800)-453-STAR www.starcasino.com 777 Casino Rd, Manohmen, MN 56557

The Oliver Acreage (218) 568-8560 www.theoliveracreage.com 7396 45th Ave SW Pequot Lakes, MN 56472

Thunder Lake Lodge (218) 566-2378 www.thunderlakelodge.com 5316 Cisco Ln NE, Remer, MN 56672

Pet Friendly

Lodging Directory & Key

Trapper's Landing Lodge (218) 836-2500 www.trapperslandinglodge.com 1812 Merit Rd, Walker, MN 56484

Wilderness Point Resort (218) 568-5642 | (800) 231-4050 www.wildernesspointresort.com 6316 Wilderness Rd Pequot Lakes, MN 56472

Wildwedge Golf and RV Park (218) 568-5000 | www.wildwedge.com 32620 Paul Bunyan Trail Dr Pequot Lakes, MN 56472

Clamshell Beach Resort (218) 543-4731 | www.clamshellbeach.com 35197 S Clamshell Dr Pequot Lakes, MN, 56472

Galles' Upper Cullen Resort and Campground (218) 963-2249 | (888) 872-8553 www.uppercullen.com 28317 Upper Cullen Rd Pequot Lakes, MN 56472

WILDERNESS P O I N T

R E S O R T

Highview Campground & RV Park (218) 543-4526 www.highviewcampground.com 11090 Old CR 39, Breezy Point, MN 56472 www.WildernessPointResort.com

Reservations (218) 568-5642

Lakeshore Properties

Leisure Suites of Breezy Point (218) 562-5300 | (888) 651-5300 www.leisuresuites.com 30199 CR 4, Breezy Point, MN 56472

LOST LAKE LODGE & GOOD OL' DAYS RESORT

www.lostlake.com • www.goodoldaysresort.com

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

33


Photo Courtesy Whistling Wolf & Dark Moon Mini Golf

FAMILY in the Brainerd Lakes There’s so much to do around the Lakes Area! If you’re looking to be on the go, these destinations are sure to be a hit with the whole family!

Brainerd Zip Line Tour

Add adventure to your vacation by booking a zipline tour! Brainerd Zipline Tour is the best bird’s eye view of Gull Lake and the Brainerd Lakes. Your guides will safely lead you through a thrilling outdoor 2.5 hour adventure. The tour consists of 7 zip lines, a suspension bridge, and The Drop—an exhilarating 50 foot free fall experience. Feel the rush of soaring among the trees!

Photo Courtesy Brainerd Zip Line Tour

Brainerd Ski Loons

On the banks of Lum Park in Brainerd, you’ll see the talented and gravitydefying Brainerd Ski Loons. The Ski Loons hit the water to put on entertaining waterski shows with pyramids, ballet lines, kids ski lines, doubles, and trios. It all leads up to the high-flying stunts off the ski jump! Bring your chairs and enjoy concessions. Admission is free. Check www.skiloons.com for show dates and times.

BRAINERD ZIP LINE TOUR


Family Activities

Photo Courtesy Jenny VanOrsdel, Paul Bunyan Land

Photo Courtesy Billy Bones Raceway

Go Karts and More

Mini Golf

Paul Bunyan Land

Brainerd International Raceway

Race through twists, turns, and straightaways at Billy Bones Raceway and at Kart Kountry! Your family will love making memories here. Both attractions have tracks for all ages. There are one-or-two passenger go carts so even the youngest riders can enjoy the thrill. Kart Kountry also has other attractions like batting cages, NASCAR simulators, bungee bounce, and bumper boats. Billy Bones Raceway and Kart Kountry are full-speed fun!

Paul Bunyan Land is a nostalgic vacation destination that grandparents, parents, and children love. The highlight is the 26-foot animated lumberjack, Paul Bunyan. Children will be captivated to hear Paul Bunyan say their names—a 65-year tradition. At the amusement park, there are over 40 rides (like the iconic tilt-a-whirl, carousel, and Ferris wheel), a pioneer village, and campground.

Are you up for a friendly challenge? Bring your family to one of the local mini golf courses. Think you can handle the hazards? Pirate ships, meandering streams, rolling greens, boulders, and waterfalls are just some of the things you’ll encounter. Check out Pirate’s Cove, Kart Kountry, Wildwedge Mini Golf, and Whistling Wolf for your next mini golf adventures.

Centerstage at BIR is the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals (scheduled for Aug. 20–22), which has entertained drag racing fans for 38 years. Nationals brings the stars of the NHRA to BIR with 11,000-horsepower nitro-fueled dragsters that fly down the drag strip at 330 mph. The rest of BIR’s schedule has a wide range of drag racing, road racing, watercross, drifting, autocross, live music and more. You can get behind the wheel and try your hand at racing or driving events, starting with the BIR Performance Driving School. See the calendar of events and buy tickets at www. BrainerdRaceway.com.

Bring your chairs and enjoy concessions and watch as the Brainerd Ski Loons hit the water!

Photo Courtesy Brainerd Ski Loons

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

35


Plan your trip!

SAFARI NORTH IS OPEN MAY 8 – OCTOBER 3, 2021

Safari North a wild time at

S

afari North Wildlife Park is an immersive, family friendly attraction on 43 acres with animals from several continents. You can feed giraffes, ride a camel, mine for gemstones, feed the barnyard animals, experience hundreds of parakeets in the parakeet encounter! It’s a visitor favorite—and for good reason! We caught up with owner Kevin Vogel to get an inside scoop and learn what to expect for the 2021 season.

Go for a camel ride!

Known as ‘ships of the desert’, camels carry people and cargo across deserts of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. But you can ride one here at Safari North!

What’s new for 2021? We will have our biggest expansion since opening. We have added a 10-acre safari train ride this year. There’s nothing else like it around! Take the train ride and see: hyenas, lions, monkeys, zebras, ostrich, buffalo— and many more—from the comfort of the train. We’re adding cheetahs sometime late spring or early summer. We’ll also be adding more monkeys throughout the summer. We also have added the Przewalski’s horse, the only truly wild horse left in the world. How many different species of animals do you have? We have over 125 different species of animals and birds.

What do you like most about owning and operating a wildlife park? Owning a zoo has been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember. And to finally be able to do something that I not only dreamed about, but also love is awesome. I also enjoy the interaction

with the visitors. I love watching kids’ smiles as they feed the giraffes or ride a camel. It’s really rewarding to watch people enjoy our dream—pretty cool actually!

What are some interesting facts that people often ask? One of the most commonly asked questions is where the animals go in the winter. All the animals but the gators stay here. We have 6 barns that we heat all winter long. It takes a staff of 5 to 6 people every day to clean and do feedings. We go through about 35,000 lbs of meat a year—just for the carnivores! The most popular attractions are the gators, sloth bears, and giraffes. When do you open for 2021? We are going to open this year on Mother’s Day weekend, which is May 8, and we’ll run through Oct 3.


Family Activities

GUIDED ART EVENTS

Highway 371 North • Brainerd EXPLORE YOUR CREATIVE SIDE

TAP into your creativity at one of our local guided art events or book a private party for your group today!

• ADULT PAINTING • STUDIO OR TRAVEL • WOOD SIGN & DESIGN CLASSES • KIDS CAMPS • DIY KITS TO-GO (218)454.1888 | thetravelingartpub.com

Family FUN for all AGES!

3 GO-KART TRACKS

Can Am • Bullit Indy • Jr. Karts

MINI GOLF BATTING CAGES BUMPER BOATS BUNGEE BOUNCE WATER WARS NASCAR SIMULATORS JUMP SHOT CLIMBING WALL 9D VIRTUAL REALITY VIDEO ARCADE SNACK SHACK

d website an Check our for hours! Follow Us! Facebook

northlandkartkountry.com

218.454.1602

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

37


SPOTLIGHT BUSINESSES

Family Activities

Big Jay's Pizza Arcade

(218) 270-3519 www.bigjayspizzaarcade.com A social destination for all ages! Big Jay's is proud to serve up scratch made pizza, frosty beer on tap, and old school entertainment! Open 7 days a week. Give us a call to place an order for takeout or stop in for food and fun. Child friendly, great food.

Billy Bones Raceway

(218) 828-4245 www.billybonesraceway.com Experience the rush of racing! Speed through twists, curves and straightaways, zooming past buried treasure and infamous pirates. Three racetracks for all levels from kiddies to competitive racers. Younger pirates can ride along in our two passenger go-carts, or drive their own on a track just for kids. Swashbuckling fun!

Brainerd Family YMCA

(218) 829-4767 www.brainerdlakesymca.org A member driven organization that provides youth development, social responsibility, healthy living, fitness classes, swimming lessons, water exercise, walking track, weight room, cycling classes, gym, pickle ball court & child care. Originated in Brainerd in 1889 & still building healthy spirits, minds & bodies based on Christian values. 38

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Crow Wing County Fair

(218) 829-6680 www.crowwingcountyfair.com Mark your calendars for the Crow Wing County Fair from August 3 - 7, 2021! The fair has entertainment for the whole family. Watch animal judging events or take a ride at the carnival! Grandstand events include bull riding, moto cross, demo derby, baja racing, tractor contest, and much more!

Deerwood Civic and Commerce

(218) 534-2936 www.DeerwoodCommerce.org Deerwood Civic and Commerce exists to meet the diverse and everchanging needs of its membership and to promote the growth and economic prosperity of the greater Deerwood area. Come join us at Summerfest August 13 & 14, 2021. Crafters, vendors, food, fun, 5K & 10K walk/run and more!

Little Falls Convention & Visitors Center

(320) 616-4959 www.LittleFallsMN.com Perfect day trip for the whole family! Discover history at Charles Lindbergh House and Interactive Museum, encounter the wild at the Pine Grove Zoo, catch a memory at the MN Fishing Museum, and indulge your sweet tooth at Lindy Scoop Ice Cream Shop. Plan your Trip Today!

Northern Hope Veterinary Care

Dr. Sara Hooge, DVM, CVA, CVH (218) 746-4000 | www.hopevet.care

We are passionate about providing care developed specifically for your pet’s needs. Our wide variety of services include: vaccinations, titers, preventative care, diagnostic laboratory testing, Lyme disease screenings, certified acupuncture, herbal & food therapy, holistic prevention and treatment, geriatric palliative care, & Certified Animal Chiropractic by Dr. Sara Graber.

Northern Minnesota Railroad Heritage Assoc.

(218) 692-1900 www.northerntrackersrrclub.com See 8,000 sq. ft. of three scales of model railroading in HO scale, O scale and G scale (Garden), all operating on individual scenic model train layouts. Kids can operate a separate children's model train layout. Educational and Entertaining. Both children & adults love it!

Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf

(218) 828-9002 www.piratescove.net/brainerd The adventures and legends of infamous pirates come to life at Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf. Putt through the world of 18th century buccaneers and wind your way through mountain caves, over footbridges and beneath cascading waterfalls. Read about famous pirates as you test your skills on two award-winning 18-hole courses.


Family Activities SPOTLIGHT BUSINESSES

Safari North Wildlife Park

(218) 454-1662 www.safarinorth.com Safari North is a family activity fun for all ages. Ride a camel, feed a giraffe, or take a ride on our new 10 acre Safari train ride, where you can see African lions, hyenas, and much more. With 100's of birds and animals a truly unique experience for all.

Lots of Chocolate

Wildwedge Golf, Mini Golf, Maze and RV Park

(218) 568-6995 www.wildwedge.com Scenic, family-friendly 9-hole golf course. Award-winning 18-hole miniature golf. 10,000 square foot wooden treasure hunt maze. Driving range. Big rig friendly RV park with FHU for nightly, weekly or seasonal stays.

Scan Me!

Hover your phone's camera over this QR code to find more family activities in the Brainerd Lakes Area.

17992 State Hwy. 371, Brainerd (Just South of The BIR) Pirate's Cove: (218) 828-9002 PiratesCove.com

Billy Bones: (218) 828-4245 BillyBonesRaceway.com ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

39


Signature

Events

Photo By BlazeAir

The Brainerd Lakes Chamber, in partnership with the Pequot Lakes and Crosslake Chambers, host signature events year-round with the support of local businesses. Make these popular events a family tradition!

"Bobber Town"

aka Pequot Lakes, is known for hosting family friendly summer events. Mark this destination down on your summer bucket list!

STARS & STRIPES DAYS, PEQUOT LAKES, MN


Local Events

Stars & Stripes Days

JULY 3–4, 2021 | Pequot Lakes, MN Celebrate our nation’s independence at the Pequot Lakes Stars and Stripes Days in Trailside Park honoring our heritage with food vendors, music, games, parade, and fireworks. On July 3, try your hand at the bean bag tournament or listen to live music. Once the sun sets, the spectacular fireworks burst into the night sky. On July 4, come for the all-you-can-eat Pequot Lakes fireman pancakes, kids’ games, craft fair, and the Stars and Stripes Parade!

Bean Hole Days

JULY 13–14, 2021 | Pequot Lakes, MN Join in the historic Bean Hole Days, which dates back to 1938. Business owners asked local farmers to come into town for the day, and they served the farmers beans that baked overnight in the ground as part of a community event. Today, Bean Hole Days is a reminder and celebration of Pequot Lakes’ history serving over 3,000 hungry visitors. The Burying of the Beans ceremony begins July 13 and is accompanied by a community picnic. Lines form early on July 14 for free beans. Purchase a Bean Hole Days mug and head to the front of the “Fast Pass for Gas” line or go through the drive thru for some rootin’ tootin’ good beans!

hand crafted arts and crafts, bazaar and flea market, a Corn Hole Tournament and live entertainment make this a fun family-friendly event.

Photo By BlazeAir

WinterFest

FEB. 3–5, 2022 | Crosslake, MN Have cabin fever? Crosslake has the cure. Celebrate Winterfest, a threeday festival for old-fashioned winter fun. Beginning Thursday, daily clues are released for the Lost Medallion Hunt with more than $1,000 in prizes. Friday, there’s a kick-off party at the Crosslake Community Center with fun for everyone: sledding, skating, horse-drawn wagon rides, s’mores, and a huge bonfire and fireworks! Saturday is a full day of activities with helicopter rides (weather permitting), cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and Italian Olympics. You’ll find deals and discounts all over town. With a snowmobile trail running right through town, stop in to participating businesses to warm up and get free soup as part of the annual SoupFest. Don’t forget to vote for which business has the best soup—pride and a golden ladle trophy are on the line!

STARS & STRIPES DAYS

BEAN HOLE DAYS

St. Patrick's Day Parade MARCH 19, 2022 | Crosslake, MN

If you haven’t experienced Crosslake’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, you’re missing out on the best parade in the state (WCCO-TV’s Viewers’ Choice for Best Parade in Minnesota)! One visit and you’ll come back year-after-year. The Crosslake community rallies around this family friendly event. Float after float is buzzing with activity, music, and candy. While the parade is the highlight of the weekend, you can also take in the Clover Dash 5K. If you chase the clues to find the Lost Pot O Gold, you could find yourself donning a basket FULL of gifts courtesy of Crosslake Chamber member businesses! Local shops and restaurants offer deals on green beer and corned beef, sweatshirts and décor! End the night dancing away at one of the area establishments with live music and more! Make the Crosslake St. Patrick’s Day Parade your next tradition.

CROSSLAKE DAYS

Crosslake's St. Pat's

Day Parade Named Best in State by WCCO!

Trailside Park in the center of town is teaming with people visiting craft vendors, playing games, and enjoying free beans.

Crosslake Days

SEPT. 23–25 2021 | Crosslake, MN Visit in September and attend the annual Crosslake Days celebration. Crosslake is beautiful in the fall as the trees burst into hues of auburn and amber. The crisp air is the perfect backdrop to cool the heat of the chili cook-off contest. Taste the free samples and vote for your favorite. Local businesses compete for the coveted trophies and for bragging rights! A missing chili pepper hunt, outdoor movies, kids’ games, shopping deals,

WINTERFEST

ST. PATRICK'S DAY PARADE


Local Events

Lakes Jam

June 24–26, 2021 | Brainerd International Raceway Rock and country unite for this annual music festival at Brainerd International Raceway (BIR). This 4-day event is more than just music— it’s a whole experience! On Friday and Saturday, concert goers who camp can watch Watercross (snowmobile racing on an open water oval course). Drifting, poker and bean bag tournaments, costume contest, meet and greets, and on-stage viewing are open to all attendees. Of course the music is the main attraction. Headliners include: Ratt, Jon Pardi, and Brothers Osborne. Wednesday, June 23 Hairball and The Crown Jewels will rock the stage—always a fan favorite! Buy tickets and learn more at: www.lakesjam.com.

The Lineup!

See the full lineup and purchase camping and concert tickets at: www.LakesJam.com

Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals

August 20–22, 2021 | Brainerd International Raceway The 39th annual Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals is set to return to BIR August 20–22, 2021. You don’t want to miss this heart-pumping adrenaline rushing event! You’ll see the world’s best drivers, the fastest cars on the fastest track, with the most insane race fans! Everyone has heard stories about BIR during the NHRA Nationals, but you need to experience it for yourself because nothing else compares. Every ticket comes with a pit pass, so fans can watch their favorite teams tear down their cars and rebuild them in between races. On Nitro Alley, you’ll find interactive displays, simulated competitions, merchandise, and food. Camping is available on-site at the infamous The Zoo campground. Camping in The Zoo brings live music Thursday through Saturday, 24-hour food, and shenanigans. For those who have children or want quieter evenings, the reserved and restricted family camping have early noise and traffic rules that are strictly enforced. Daytime parking is also available. Visit www.brainerdraceway.com for more information. From a seat in the grandstand or behind the wheel of a race car, fans can enjoy this world-class track in a multitude of ways

Online Events Directory Find an updated list of local events online!

Hey, what 's happening?

Scan Me!

If you’re curious about what’s happening in our communities while you’re here, you’ve come to the right place. The Brainerd Lakes is home to some of the best events in the state. Hover your phone's camera over this QR code to check out our local events calendar.

LAUREN ALAINA & JUSTIN MOORE, LAKES JAM 2019

Photos By Matt Kennedy, Lakes Jam

Photo Courtesy Brainerd International Raceway

www.explorebrainerdlakes.com/events


Local Events

LAKESJAM.COM

4 Days of Country and Rock in June 25+ Bands in Brainerd, MN @

MORE THAN A MUSIC FESTIVAL WaterCross

Drifting

Bean Bag Tourney

Poker Tourney

Lawn Mower Racing

BRAINERD INTERNATIONAL

RACEWAY 2021 Major Events May 28-30 June 4-6 June 11-13 June 24-26 July 2-4 July 16-18

Street Car Showdown Wet & Wild Weekend MAP Proving Grounds Lakes Jam PleasureLand RV Show & Go Jed Copham Memorial Race – Trans Am Series F4 U.S. Championship Racing Series July 30-Aug 1 MotoAmerica Superbike Championships Aug 20-22 Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals For a complete & current list Sep 3-5 GSTA Muscle Car Shootout of events, visit our website. Sep 10-12 MAP Proving Grounds 2.0

www.BrainerdRaceway.com Local: 218-824-RACE (7223) Toll free: 866-444-4455

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

43


Photo Courtesy Richard Eide, Moonlite Bay Family Restaurant & Bar, Crosslake

Photo Courtesy Eric Peterson, Lake Fun Rentals

Photo Courtesy Madden’s Resort on Gull Lake


On the Water

Did You

Know?

The only reason we have the Whitefish Chain of Lakes is the Pine River Dam in Crosslake.

take me to the

Whether you’re in it, on it, or next to it, there’s just something about water that we all love. With over 400 lakes in the region, you’ll quickly see why we’re one of the state’s top lake destinations.

KAYAK If you’re looking to slow the pace and soak in some unfiltered nature, head down river. Check out Crow Wing Kayaks in Crosslake to buy or rent kayaks for paddling around the lake. You can even do day trips down the Pine River with their preplanned kayak routes. These trips range from 1.5 hours to all day. Kayaking is a great family friendly activity for all ages. Visit www.crowwingkayaks.com or call 218692-1200 to learn more!

FISH We have so many lakes and different types of fish to catch. It’s no wonder we’re a world-class fishing destination. Popular species include largemouth and smallmouth bass, muskie, crappies, northern pike, and of course, walleye. With so many

NO BOAT? NO PROBLEM! Check out these places that offer watercraft rentals!

variables, including time of year, bait preferences, and water conditions, it can be a bit overwhelming on where and how to catch fish. Check out local guides Walleyedan’s Guide Service and Nate Berg Fishing Guides. You’ll have a great fishing adventure!

CRUISE

BOAT OR JET SKI

Gull Lake Cruises is docked at Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake and has two bars, two levels, and is one unforgettable experience. Visit www. gulllakecruises.com to find out more and buy tickets.

When you’re in Lake Country, it’s hard to beat spending the day on the water. You can chill and float, dial it up by pulling the kids tubing or waterskiing, or rip around on a jet ski. Whether you want to cruise the Gull Chain or Whitefish Chain of Lakes or prefer a quieter more low-key lake, you’ll find a body of water that fits your style. Don’t have a boat or jet ski? No problem! If you’re staying at a resort, many offer boat rentals and on-the-water excursions.

Take in the beauty of Gull Lake and Pelican Lake with a public sightseeing or dinner cruise! You’ll love your time aboard one of these entertaining vessels. You can also celebrate a milestone occasion with your own private event and catered cruise.

The Breezy Belle is an authentic stern wheel paddleboat propelled by two paddlewheels at the rear of the vessel. The Breezy Belle departs from Dockside Lounge at Breezy Point Resort. Check out www.breezybelle. com to learn more!

• Bertha Boatworks

• Brothers Motorsports

• The Power Lodge

• Boats and Beyond

• Lake Fun Rentals

• Your Boat Club

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

45


On the Water

ICE FISHING EXTRAVAGANZA

DIVE You might not think of the Brainerd Lakes Area as a scuba diving destination, but the Cuyuna Lakes are considered some of the best diving in the Midwest. These lakes were once mine pits and now offer some of the clearest visibility (30–50 ft)! When diving, you can see old mining equipment that was left. You’ll also see a variety of aquatic wildlife.

Kayak sales and rentals (local delivery available) Paddleboard and lake float rentals River trips with shuttling Locally owned Unique kayaks 100% manufactured in the Brainerd Lakes area Reservations recommended for rentals 36414 County Rd 66, Crosslake,MN 218-692-1200 info@crowwingkayaks.com

46

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Drop a line at the

world’s largest ice fishing contest at Hole in the Day Bay on Gull Lake.

Photo By BlazeAir

PHOTOS: CAMERON & TIA PHOTOGRAPHY

Photo Courtesy Trisha Reilley

The Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza is the world’s largest ice fishing contest, and something you should experience first-hand. 20,000 holes are drilled in anticipation of this monster event. The ice fishing contest is held the end of January (2022 date not announced as of this writing) at Hole in the Day Bay on Gull Lake. This event raises $150,000 for local charities, so the contest is for a good cause. You can win fish houses, four-wheelers, vacation packages, and more. Whether you win or not, you’ll have an experience like no other!

Scan Me!

Hover your phone's camera over this QR code to find more ways to get out on the water.

PUBLIC CRUISES

Gull Lake 833-232-0317 GullLakeCruises.com


Paid for by Brian Lehman, LEHMAN & Associates


SPOTLIGHT BUSINESSES

On the Water

Bay View Lodge

Gull Lake Sailing School

Boats and Beyond Rentals

Nisswa Marine

Gull Lake Cruises

Whitefish Chain Yacht Club

(218) 543-4182 www.bayviewcrosslake.com Located in Crosslake we provide a warm up-north feel with tranquility. Being on the White-fish Chain we have activities for the whole family. Enjoy our clean 3 to 4 bedroom cabins with great views of the lake, beach volleyball, bonfires, wood-burning sauna, kayaking, paddle boarding & much more!

(218) 963-7700 www.boatsandbeyondrentals.com Your local, family owned and operated rental adventure center for the Brainerd Lakes Area. We rent pontoons, tritoons, ski boats, jet skis, fishing boats, snowmobiles and fish houses. Our boating office is located on Gull Lake in our private marine with gas dock, or we can deliver to your lake!

(218) 825-2700 www.gulllakecruises.com Escape on the majestic waters of Gull Lake aboard Gull Lake Cruises’ magnificent luxury yacht, the North Star. Day and evening, dining and sightseeing cruises as well as private charters for any occasion.

48

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

(612) 750-7003 www.GLYC.com Learn to sail this summer at Gull Lake Sailing School. Get on the water in the sunshine and fresh air. Our skilled instructors will teach youths (5+) how to sail a variety of sailboats along with boating and water safety. Come join the fun at the lake!

(218) 963-2292 www.nisswamarine.com Providing quality boat lines and accessories for everyone from the serious fisherman to the recreational boater, Nisswa Marine has been helping people just like you enjoy the water for 80+ years. Your full-service dealer, including sales, service, storage, and rentals. Experience boat buying the way it is meant to be.

(612) 518-3935 www.wcyc.info The WCYC is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting boating & water safety on the Whitefish Chain of Lakes since 1952. WCYC conducts 3 important programs: navigation buoys in partnership with the Crow Wing County Sheriff's Department, boating safety instruction & swimming lessons. Visit wcyc.info to learn more & join.

Your Boat Club

(612) 208-1800 www.yourboatclub.com Both our Gull Lake & Crosslake locations provide unlimited boating memberships, daily & weekly rentals. C-store for your boating needs, & certified technicians to get you back on the water with ease. Come make amazing memories with YBC! Crosslake: 218-692-3850, Gull Lake: 218-963-1010



g n i t c e n n o C t a e Gr e h t h t i w

s r o o d t u O

Getting outside while on vacation offers the opportunity to disconnect from the craziness and reconnect with yourself, your partner, and your family. The science on being outdoors is sound. Nature offers some of the best ways to boost your mental and physical well-being. Check out some of the ways you can get outdoors while vacationing here.

Biking

If you love biking, you’ve come to the right place. You and your family can enjoy miles of biking along the backdrop of lakes, woods, and parks. The area’s renowned Paul Bunyan State Trail is 120 miles long. The trail winds through the Crow Wing State Park south of Brainerd/Baxter and heads north through Nisswa, Pequot Lakes, and Pine River. From there, the trail will carry you all the way to Bemidji State Park. Along the route you can stop and rest, repair your bikes at bike stations, and enjoy the small towns with shops and restaurants. If you are chasing an adrenaline rush, visit the mountain bike trails within the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area (CCSRA). Cuyuna’s 5,000 acres are mostly undeveloped offering a rugged landscape perfect for the outdoor enthusiast. CCSRA has 25 miles of singletrack trails at a variety of difficulties (from green to double black diamond), so if you’re a newbie or avid biker there’s a trail for you. Biking in Cuyuna isn’t just for summer months. Fat tire biking in the winter brings a new dimension to biking.

Birding

With easy access to the woods, water, and trails, the Lakes Area is the perfect place to view wildlife and birds. The Birds of the Byway (Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway) offers 54 miles of opportunities to view our feathered friends. You can see loons, eagles, osprey, owls, waterfowl, and swans.

Minnesota has the highest loon population outside of Alaska with approximately 12,000 birds.

Did you

know?

The Paul Bunyan trail is the longest paved trail in MN—120 miles from Brainerd to north of Bemidji— and offers more biking fun.


Photo Courtesy Northland Arboretum

Outdoor Adventures

NORTHLAND ARBORETUM, BRAINERD lakes, ponds, and climb hills and slopes around the forest. If you’re looking to rent UTVs, check out Seaberg Motor Sports or The Power Lodge.

Cross Country Skiing

and Snowshoeing Crow Wing State Park and the Pillsbury State Forest also are close to There’s something peaceful about Brainerd/Baxter and offer excellent trekking through the woods on birding opportunities. The Crow Wing skis or snowshoes. The Brainerd State Park has 230 bird species on Lakes Area makes it easy for you to its park checklist and over 18 miles enjoy the woods. Trails are groomed of trails. The regularly during Pillsbury State winter months. Explore 12 miles of trails Forest has 25 You can find miles of trails, directions to trails, and over 175 trail information within brainerd city limits at bird species and maps on have been the Crow Wing the Northland Arboretum documented. county website. Using a local guide increases your chances of seeing birds. Judd Brink is the owner and guide of MN Backyard Birds. Contact Judd at 218-838-4784 to plan a bird watching tour.

ATV and UTV Trails

Perhaps you like the idea of trail riding on an ATV or UTV and traversing the trails with a little throttle. We have an expansive trail system covering hundreds of miles that cover all of the Lakes Area regions: Brainerd, Cuyuna Lakes, Emily and Outing, and Pine River. The Spider Lake Trails, located in the Foot Hills State Forest near Pine River, is one of the most popular trail systems in Minnesota. You’ll travel 29 miles on diverse terrain. From smooth and sandy to rough and rocky, it’s exciting, challenging, and a great place to improve your riding ability. While riding the trails, you’ll also see

The Northland Arboretum, which is within the Brainerd/Baxter city limits has 12 miles of trails with nearly 5 km lighted for evening skiing. The Crow Wing State Park is a great place to snowshoe, especially the beautiful trails that follow the Mississippi River.

You can snowshoe on the trails around the Paul Thiede Fire Tower Park just outside of Pequot Lakes. Easy Riders in Brainerd rents snowshoes and cross country skis. The Crosslake Community Center also rents snowshoes.

Snowmobiling

Traversing trails through the woods and across frozen lakes is a fun way to spend a winter’s day. Ride for a few hours and stop to grab a bite to eat before heading back to your resort or hotel. If you’d like to experience snowmobiling but don’t have sleds, you’re in luck. You don’t need your own snowmobile to enjoy the hundreds of miles of trails around the Brainerd Lakes. Businesses that rent snowmobiles: • Boats and Beyond • Brothers Motorsports • Central Lakes Motorsports • Cragun’s Resort on Gull • The Power Lodge • Seaberg Motorsports

Watercraft & Snowmobile Rentals Available!

Factory Authorized Dealer Arctic Cat | Honda Kawasaki | Can-Am Sea-Doo | Ski-Doo Suzuki | Yamaha Kymco | KTM | CFMoto

218.829.6656

www.BrothersMotorSports.com

001813102r1

The Northland Arboretum is designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA), and it’s right in the city limits of Brainerd/Baxter. With its mosaic of habitats, you’ll find an array of bird species (sandhill cranes, red-shouldered hawks, black-billed cukoo, eagles) as you hike the trails.

Photo by Isaac Johnson, Cragun's Resort on Gull Lake

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

51


out in

Nature PAUL M THIEDE FIRE TOWER PARK, PEQUOT LAKES

Brainerd

Northland Arboretum: Nearly 12 miles of trails for hiking and cross-country skiing. Snowshoeing trails are available, too. Trails accommodate all ages and skill levels and are some of the best trails in Minnesota—within the Brainerd city limits. Crow Wing State Park: You’ll find over 18 miles of hiking trails—some along the banks of the Mississippi River. Step back in time seeing the history of an epic Ojibwe and Dakota battle. Walk the boardwalk into the settlement of Old Crow Wing. Camping is available in the park. A new paved trail connects to the Paul Bunyan Trail for easy access for hikers, cyclists, and snowmobilers.

Crosslake

Crosslake Community Center: Over 13 miles of trails for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. There’s an outdoor skating rink, sledding hill, 9-hole disc golf course, and tennis courts. Equipment is available to rent. Inside, there’s a gym and weight room. Open 7 days a week. Day passes and memberships available. Rollie Johnson Natural and Recreational Area: A series of three islands located within the Upper Whitefish Lake with hiking trails, swimming beach, and 11 primitive campsites available on a first come, first served basis.

Nisswa

Fritz Loven Area Park: A beautiful 80-acre park with a playground, picnic shelters, hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing trails. Come see this beautiful nature sanctuary with wildlife, towering pines, and a stony brook. Go West on County Road 77 (off Hwy. 371 North), take a right on County Road 78, and then right on Ridge Rd. Nisswa Lake Park: You can also visit Nisswa Lake Park near downtown Nisswa for hiking, lake access, and picnic tables.

Pequot Lakes Area

Photo By BlazeAir

Scan Me!

Find more ways to get out in nature by hovering your phone's camera over this QR code.

Mayo Lake Nature Preserve: This 67-acre nature preserve is located on the southern portion of Mayo Lake in Pequot Lakes. The preserve is surrounded by diverse trees, plus picnic tables, recreational trails, and lookouts to Mayo Lake.


Outdoor Adventures

(218) 829-8770 www.northlandarb.org Nearly 500 acres of stunning nature reserve hosting a year-round 12mile trail system, educational programming, and beautiful backdrops for weddings and events.

Historic Fire Tower

When traveling on Hwy 371 towards Pequot Lakes, chances are you’ve seen a giant metal structure towering over the trees. Decades ago, these fire towers gave foresters a bird’s eye view of spotting smoke—a telltale sign of wildfires. With advancements in technology, these towers became obsolete with many disappearing across the state. The DNR closed the tower for several years because of safety concerns. Crow Wing County bought the structure—along with 40 acres of land— for $1. The county made about $50,000 in repairs and safety upgrades to preserve the tower.

SPOTLIGHT BUSINESSES

Northland Arboretum

Where the Mississippi Pauses...

Discovery Begins LittleFallsMN.com

The Paul M. Thiede Fire Tower Park opened to visitors June 2020. You can walk the Fire Tower Trail and the Wildlife Loop. Interpretive signs are along both trails. Pack a picnic lunch and eat under the pavilion. The 135 steps on the 100 ft. tower are worth the climb. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic 20 mile view in each direction. The fire tower is open for you to climb from dawn to dusk daily. It’s closed in the winter for safety.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

53


Scan Me!

Hover your phone's camera over this QR code to for golfing in the Brainerd Lakes Area. Photo Courtesy Madden's on Gull Lake

Photo Courtesy Crosswoods Golf Course

visit MN’s

GOLF MECCA in the Brainerd Lakes

Photo Courtesy Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge

D

id you know that the Brainerd Lakes has more golf holes than lakes? That’s no easy feat as we have over 400 lakes just in Crow Wing county.

Did you

know?

Brainerd Lakes Area has more golf holes than lakes? Photo Courtesy Grand View Lodge

Whether you’re an avid golfer, beginner, or somewhere in between, you’ll find a course that matches your style and pace of play. With courses near Gull Lake, Cuyuna, Pequot Lakes, Breezy Point, Crosslake, and Emily, you can easily play multiple courses during your stay. Our courses are challenging yet beautiful. You’ll find rolling fairways, woods and wetlands, and lake views. But what really sets us apart as a golf destination is the accessibility, playability, and affordability you can’t find elsewhere. We have championship courses designed by Arnold Palmer and Robert Trent Jones Jr., traditional courses, and family friendly par 3 courses. Load up your clubs for a golf stay with your coworkers, friends, or bring the whole family!

Photo Courtesy Cragun's Resort on Gull Lake

Photo Courtesy Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf


Golf

Breezy Point Resort Deacon's Lodge, Whitebirch Course, Traditional Course (218) 562-7811 | (800) 432-3777 www.breezypointresort.com 9252 Breezy Point Dr, Breezy Point, MN

Madden's on Gull Lake Pine Beach East, Pine Beach West, Social 9, The Classic at Madden's (800) 642-5363 | (218) 829-2811 www.maddens.com 11266 Pine Beach Peninsula, Brainerd, MN

Cragun's Legacy Courses Dutch's Legacy, Bobby's Legacy, Reversible 9 (218) 825-2789 | 888-873-0161 www.craguns.com 11000 Craguns Dr, Brainerd, MN

Northland Kart Country Mini-Golf | (218) 454-1602 www.northlandkartkountry.com 17568 State Hwy 371, Brainerd, MN

Crosswoods Golf Course Sunrise, High Noon, Sunset (218) 692-4653 | www.crosslakegolf.com 35878 County Rd 3, Crosslake, MN Cuyuna Rolling Hills Golf 18 Hole Course | (218) 534-3489 www.cuyunarollinghillsgolf.com 24410 State Hwy 210, Deerwood, MN Emily Greens Golf Course 18 Hole Course (218) 763-2169 | www.emilygreens.com 39966 Refuge Rd, Emily, MN Fiddlestix RV & Golf Resort 9 Hole Course (320) 676-3636 | www.fiddlestixrv.com 1081 395th St, Isle, MN Golden Eagle Golf Club 18 Hole Course (218) 763-4653 | (866) 316-4653 www.golfgoldeneagle.com 16146 W Eagle Lake Rd, Fifty Lakes, MN Grand View Lodge The Pines, The Preserve (218) 963-2234 | (866) 801-2951 www.grandviewlodge.com 23521 Nokomis Ave, Nisswa, MN

Northwood Hills Golf Course 18 Hole Course (320) 692-4325 | www.golfmillelacs.com 18217 Captive Lake Rd, Garrison, MN Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf Mini-Golf (218) 828-9002 | www.piratescove.net 17992 State Hwy 371 North, Brainerd, MN

CRMC Championship

(218) 825-2789 www.CRMCchampionship.com Watch up-and-coming professional golfers as they embark on their path to the PGA TOUR. The CRMC Championship is an official PGA TOUR sanctioned event and the first Mackenzie Tour–PGA TOUR Canada event held in the U.S. Be a part of the action at Cragun’s Legacy Courses.

SPOTLIGHT BUSINESSES

Golf Directory

Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge Jack's 18, Alec's 9 (218) 678-4646 | www.ruttgers.com 25039 Tame Fish Lake Rd, Deerwood, MN Whistling Wolf Mini Golf and Gifts Mini-Golf (218) 692-7888 | www.crosslakegolf.com 36006 County Rd 66, Crosslake, MN Whitefish Golf Club 18 Hole Course | (218) 543-4900 www.whitefishgolf.com 7883 County Rd 16, Pequot Lakes, MN Wildwedge Golf, Mini Golf and Maze 9 Hole Par 3 Golf, Mini-Golf (218) 568-6995 | www.wildwedge.com 32792 Paul Bunyan Trail Dr Pequot Lakes, MN

Cuyuna Rolling Hills Golf Course

(218) 534-3489 www.cuyunarollinghills.com Cuyuna Rolling Hills is a par 72 championship golf course located just 15 minutes east of Brainerd. We pride ourselves on being the best value in the Lakes Area. For the experienced golfer, the course offers a challenging design while also providing the occasional golfer an enjoyable outing. Established 1923.

NEW FOR 2021!

The Mackenzie Tour – PGA TOUR Canada is coming to Brainerd! August 23-29. Purchase spectator tickets at www.CRMCChampionship.com.

play where the

pros play! Coming to Cragun’s Legacy Courses Aug 23-29, 2021

TONY FINAU

Mackenzie Tour Alumni

Emily Greens Golf Course

(218) 763-2169 www.emilygreens.com "Voted Brainerd Lakes #1 golf course two years in a row in the Best of the Brainerd Lakes contest. A scenic and affordable course that emphasizes ‘fun on the golf course’. Emily Greens features MN’s largest green, along with many memorable holes. Come see why the players voted us #1!" ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

55


Hungry? Find a list of local dining by hovering your phone's camera over this QR code. Photo Courtesy Knotty Pine Bakery

. Get a drink . Try som

ething ew . Sha n

re with friends. S

avor

the

e m om

it e Grab a b

EEP CALM & EAT.

Scan Me!

nt.

5 FOOD things to love about the lakes' We’re diverse in many areas, and food is no

exception. You could enjoy a different culinary delight each night you’re here no matter your mood: Fine dining, dockside dining, grab-n-go, and sweet treats. If you’re not in the mood to leave the lake, no problem. Take out or

catering options mean you don’t have to!

Did you

know?

Lake Country Crafts & Cones in Crosslake sells more Kemps ice cream than any other ice cream shop in Minnesota.


Food & Drink

We t you r w histle a

Photo Courtesy Main Street Ale House

1. FINE DINING

There aren’t many things better in life than enjoying a fine meal. Many of our local establishments have chefs that are consistently creating new and flavorful dishes. You’ll find unique twists on old favorites or contemporary plates that haven’t been seen before. Some of these restaurants require reservations. Resorts that have fine dining restaurants are open to the public.

4. SPECIALTY

Authentic Italian food. Gourmet coffee. BBQ. Burgers. Sushi. Walleye. When you’re on vacation, you can find many authentic and tasty dishes. A lot of restaurants change their menus often and offer specials that will keep your palate coming back for more.

2. CATERING

Are you feeding a crowd, but you’d rather not cook? After all, you’re on vacation, right?! Luckily we have catering businesses that will work with you to create and deliver the perfect meal. Some may even come and set up, serve, and clean up for you too. Giving you more time to enjoy time at the lake.

tic Salmon Paired w d Atlan ith H e k o ou Sm

We

Sometimes you just need to grab a quick meal when you’re on the run to your next adventure. Burgers, fries, subs, soups, and pizza are just some of the quick bites you can find. What if you’re on the water? No problem. On some of our bigger chains of lakes you’ll find dockside food service. Grab food to go while watching the sun going down is the perfect end to a good day.

. wery

3. ON-THE-GO

t a local bar or bre

Photo Courtesy Grand View Lodge

hav e doz ens to

5. SWEET

choose from!

CONFECTIONS After your main course, you’ll want to save room for dessert. Who doesn’t love ice cream on a hot summer evening?! Or maybe some handmade chocolates (drool). You’ll also find some sweet pie that is almost too pretty to eat—almost. From homemade baked goods, oodles of ice cream, or even eclectic candy, you’ll feel like a kid again!

isque | Prairie Bay Gr Lobster B i ll & C

aterin

i ll S a u ce

eys' Seafood Markets | Mor

Photo Courtesy Morey's Seafood Markets

Photo Courtesy Prairie Bay Grill & Catering

eD

se M ad

g


Food & Drink

Minnesota Sweet Corn

Ingredients

• 8 ears MN sweet corn (husked) oil for corn

Cooking for a crowd? Give Minnesota sweet corn a kick with this recipe from Sunshine’s Summer House. It’s sure to be a hit!

• 1/2 cup sour cream (or crema!) • 1/2 cup mayonnaise • 1/2 cup cotija cheese • 1/2 cup cilantro • 1/2 tsp chili powder • 1/4 tsp garlic powder • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

-ELOTEMEXICAN STREET CORN

On the cob not your style? Enjoy Esquites, “off the cob” Mexican Street Corn at Sunshine's Summerhouse by Nisswa.

• 1/4 tsp kosher salt • 8 lime wedges for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat grill to medium high. 2. In a small bowl mix together sour cream, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, cilantro, and spices.

3. Rub corn cobs

with oil and place on grill.

4. Cook until the kernels

are golden brown, rotating until all sides are cooked (approx. 12 min).

5. Remove corn from grill and

use spoon to coat each cob with the sauce mixture from step 2.

6. Garnish with a fresh squeeze of lime juice.

7. Serve right away for immediate enjoyment!

www.SunshinesSummerHouse.com


Food & Drink

Visit Our Mobile Galley • Nationwide Shipping • Fresh Fish Delivered Daily • Smoked Fish • Fresh & Frozen Walleye • Gourment Cheese and Grocery

• Homemade Deli Salads • Frozen Fish & Seafood • Best Pricing on Crab & Lobster in the Area • Dry Ice • Baxter Market Sushi Fridays

TWO LOCATIONS: HWY 371, BAXTER • 218-829-8248 | HWY 10, MOTLEY • 218-352-2110 Next to Von Hanson’s Meats 001821884r1

SHOP ONLINE

SAVE TIME

CHOICE THE BEST NIENT E V N O C R FO G EE SHOPPIN HASSLE-FR

YOU ORDER

Open 7 days a week • www.moreysmarkets.com

YOU ORDER

WE SHOP

YOU PICK-UP

WE SHOP

YOU PICK-UP

PEQUOTLAKESSUPERVALU.COM 30581 Patriot Ave., Pequot Lakes 218-568-5001 ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

59


Raise a glass and cheers to good times with family and friends.

BREWS & SPIRITS TOUR: One Sip at a Time

Travel around the Lakes Area and you’ll find local breweries and a microdistillery. Each place has a cool, laid back vibe and

Scan Me!

Thirsty? Find a craft drink at local brewery or distillery by hovering your phone's camera over this QR code.

some seriously tasty brews and spirits. They’re the perfect places to slow down, sip, and unwind.


Food & Drink

Photo Courtesy Jack Pine Brewery

Jack Pine Brewery

Jack Pine Brewery’s taproom offers a laidback, family friendly atmosphere that focuses on great beer and good conversation. The Jack Pine crew are always experimenting so every few weeks customers have new seasonal beers to sample. On warm days, the taproom’s large industrial door opens, and the crowd effortlessly spills out on to the patio tucked in a grove of pine trees. Tasty Brew: Dead Branch. Cream ale that has a mild and grainy flavor. Suitable for all palates.

5Rocks Distilling Co.

5Rocks is making a splash since it opened in 2020. Family owned and operated, 5Rocks uses locally sourced ingredients to make small batch spirits. You’ll find Cold North Vodka, Lizzy’s Gin, Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and Double Barreled Bourbon (limited edition). Sample spirits, or try mules, old-fashioneds martinis, specialty and dessert cocktails! Bring a cocktail kit (or two) home as a souvenir! Tasty Spirit: Cold North Vodka. Handcrafted from MN wild rice and sugar beets, this vodka has a sweet vanilla finish. Tasty Cocktail: Cold North Espresso Martini. Cold North Vodka, 5Rocks Roast Espresso Liqueur, and Espresso.

Photo Courtesy 5Rocks Distilling Co.

Ya-Sure Kombucha

Ya-Sure Kombucha is new to downtown Brainerd! If you’re into the health benefits of kombucha—a bubbly, probiotic-rich fermented tea—check out Ya-Sure Kombucha! Stop in to the tap room and enjoy a variety of on-tap flavors. Whether you’re new to the world of kombucha or you like more hopped flavors, you’ll find a healthy kombucha you love. Ya-Sure Kombucha is also on tap at many local establishments! Try it: Apple Crisp. Tarte apples with cinnamon and oats. It tastes like apple crisp and is the easiest drinking kombucha on-tap.

14 Lakes Brewery

14 Lakes Craft Brewing Company offers an intimate setting for friends and family to enjoy quality beer and good company. The taproom is family friendly with board games and cards. On warm summer evenings, you can play a game of cornhole (bags) on the patio and just relax or take in the surrounding beauty. Visitors often bring their favorite four-legged friends to socialize, too. When vacationing in Crosslake, make sure to stop in and enjoy great beer! Tasty Brew: Blond Rush Ale. A clean, crisp, and refreshing ale with a slight citrus taste and mild bitterness.

Photo Courtesy Big Axe Brewery

Big Axe Brewery

Big Axe is serious about brewing good beer and providing a one-of-akind atmosphere. You’ll appreciate not only the variety but the quality of beer. Kids and nonbeer drinkers will love the homemade cream soda and root beer. Big Axe also has a full-service menu that pairs nicely with their craft beers. The patio is the perfect place to enjoy the summer sunshine, drink a cold one, and relax after shopping downtown Nisswa. Tasty Brew: Agropelter Mosaic. Light-bodied single hop pale ale. Packed full of aroma with notes of grapefruit, tropical fruits, and a touch of blueberry.

Roundhouse Brewery

Roundhouse offers classic and seasonal brews, plus nonalcoholic beverages. Roundhouse moved into a larger space near Nisswa and expanded its taproom, along with a private event space. You’ll also find an outdoor patio with a firepit. It’s the perfect place to unwind on a summer’s evening! New! Channel your inner Paul Bunyan with axe-throwing in the Wreck Room! Tasty Brew: Coal Train Porter. A robust porter, dark and smooth. Flavors of roast malt, coffee, and cocoa. A mild caramel sweetness rounds out the flavor.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

61


SPOTLIGHT BUSINESSES

Food & Drink

Baxter's Bar & Grill

(218) 822-3663 www.arrowwoodbrainerd.com Baxter's Bar & Grill is a full-service bar and restaurant located at Arrowwood Lodge at Brainerd Lakes. Serving daily specials, fresh pasta, salads, burgers, hand-tossed pizzas, sandwiches, desserts, appetizers and more. Our bar offers all of your favorite beverages and has daily drink specials. Outside patio available seasonally.

(218) 825-2725 | www.craguns.com/ dining/legacy-bar-grille A casual menu served 11 am to sunset during the golf season. Dine on the large patio or in air-conditioned indoor comfort overlooking the emerald greens, pond & rolling fairways of Cragun's Legacy Golf Courses. Signature walleye sandwich & great happy hour at the Sports Bar.

Irma's Kitchen

(218) 825-2700 | www.craguns.com/ dining/irmas-kitchen Irma’s Kitchen is located on the south end of Cragun’s Resort and overlooks Gull Lake. Food items are made in house from the freshest possible ingredients. There is also a bar and deck area that often features local entertainment. Irma’s Kitchen is open for dinner May-September .

Black Bear Lodge & Saloon

Ernie's on Gull

Jack Pine Brewery

Commander Restaurant & Bar and JJ's Pub

Grand Champion Meats Crosslake

Loide' Oils & Vinegars Tasting Bar

(218) 828-8400 www.blackbearlodgemn.com Black Bear Lodge & Saloon has been serving quality food and beverages to the lakes area for over 21 years. We've got something for everyone...prime rib, steaks, walleye, ribs, burgers, sandwiches, soups & salads. We are family friendly and our patio deck is dog friendly. Locally owned and operated.

(218) 562-4198 www.commanderbar.com Open daily for breakfast, lunch specials, great burgers, pizza, ribs & much more. Home of the famous Commander Garbage Pizza! Featuring live music every Friday & Saturday night year around. Open from 6:30 am to 2:00 am every day. JJ’s Pub downstairs is open at 4:30 pm Monday-Saturday. 62

Cragun's Legacy Bar & Grille

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

(218) 829-3918 www.erniesongull.com Dine just feet from water's edge while enjoying a sunset view and your favorite cocktail. Casual, unique menu with local favorites and on trend dishes. Outside bar, lakeside deck, live patio entertainment and beach volleyball has made Ernie's a summer tradition for generations.

(218) 692-6328 www.grandchampionmeats You will find the freshest cuts of beef and pork, as well as a wide variety of sausages, smoked products, chicken and seafood. Stop by today for free samples of our award winning products!

(218) 270-8072 www.jackpinebrewery.com Jack Pine pioneered the brewing industry in the Brainerd Lakes area when it opened in January of 2013. After years in a small industrial space, it launched a new brewery and taproom and continues to provide the best selection of high quality craft beer that the area has to offer.

(218) 961-6457 www.loideoilsandvinegars.com Opening soon in downtown Brainerd on Laurel, check the website. Full operations in Nisswa, Walker & Monticello. Over 70 varieties of the freshest, highest quality olive oil & authentic balsamic vinegars with an array of clean, preservative free & gluten free food items along with YL Essential Oils & gifts!


Food & Drink

Pit Happens Catering

Norway Ridge Supper Club

Sage on Laurel

Pequot Lakes Supervalu

Sunshine's Summerhouse

(218) 961-6724 www.mainstreetnisswa.com The new favorite in the Lakes Area. Main Street Ale House is a family friendly restaurant and pub located in downtown Nisswa. 30 tap beers, extensive wine and liquor lists, a fresh unique menu all in a modern lodge atmosphere makes Main Street the place to dine in Nisswa.

(218) 543-6136 www.norwayridge.com An old-world supper club serving hand-cut steaks, award winning ribs and delectable fish and seafood. We invite you to take a step back in time and enjoy a spirited cocktail or an aromatic glass of wine along with a meal that you won't soon forget.

(218) 568-5001 www.pequotlakessupervalu.com Take the north or south exit off 371 onto Patriot Avenue in Pequot Lakes and you are there. Enjoy our comfortable seating area with our 60" TV while you enjoy your hot or cold Sibley Lake Deli meal. We also have all the fresh produce, bakery, and meat items.

SPOTLIGHT BUSINESSES

Main Street Ale House

(218) 851-0003 www.pithappenscatering.com Pit Happens Catering brings award winning barbecue experience in creating specialty smoked dishes. We provide catering, food trucks, vending, and pop ups for any special event.

(218) 454-7243 | www.sageonlaurel.com At Sage, we create memorably exquisite food with community, food integrity, & iconic character. Minnesota comfort foods meet vibrant global flavors. You will love our eclectic atmosphere, dining outdoors surrounded by historic buildings & beautiful gardens, & culinary treasures from our from-scratch kitchen. Full bar, allergy menu, takeout, delivery. Love.

(218) 961-4300 www.SunshinesSummerhouse.com Your new favorite restaurant! Just opened in 2020. Known for our fresh, craveable food and craft cocktails - the SummerHouse burger and raspberry mojito are a must! Great breakfast spot on the weekends with jumbo caramel rolls. Catering also available. Indoor and patio seating open daily. See you at Sunshine's! ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

63


Photo By Rob Fitzsimmons, The Crossing Arts Alliance

Photo Courtesy Lakes Area Music Festival

Lakes Jam

Location: Brainerd International Raceway June 24–26, 2021 Warm nights, cool music—there’s just something about the ambiance of an outdoor summer concert. Lakes Jam is a summer highlight with music goers and is the Lakes Area’s biggest rock and country music festival. 25 bands will perform over 4 days. Lakes Jam gives festival goers the ultimate experience in rock and country music and adds other spectator events like drift car demos, watercross (snowmobile) racing, lawnmower races, poker tournaments, and bean bag contests. What sets Lakes Jam apart from other music festivals in the Midwest are the amenities at BIR, camping, and allowing ATVs, UTVs, and golf carts to get around the property. You can see the full lineup and purchase camping and concert tickets at: www.lakesjam.com.

Photo Courtesy Lakes Area Music Festival

Crossing Arts Alliance Location: 711 Laurel St., Brainerd

The Crossing Arts Alliance helps enrich the Brainerd community through education and access to art. The Crossing Arts Alliance regularly holds art exhibits, adults’ and kids’ classes, and a gallery to purchase work by local artists. The Crossing Arts Alliance also makes for a unique venue for special occasions—where everyone can tap into their creativity and make an art keepsake. The Crossing Arts Alliance will work with you to help design your event. Choose the art medium so that everyone in your group will enjoy the project. For more information on the art happenings, visit www.crossingarts. org.


Art, Culture & Music

Heartland Symphony Orchestra

Lakes Area Music Festival

Kicks on Route 66...The ART Place

The Crossing Arts Alliance

(800) 826-1997 www.HeartlandSymphony.com The Heartland Symphony Orchestra performs fall, winter, and spring concerts in both Brainerd & Little Falls. During this 44th season, the performances have been, and are still, available virtually on HSO's website & YouTube channel. Spring 2021 Concert: Music From the New World will be presented in a similar fashion.

SPOTLIGHT BUSINESSES

Photo Courtesy Crossing Arts Alliance

(218) 275-5263 www.lakesareamusic.org Central Minnesota is home to one of the nation's premier classical music festivals! Each August the Lakes Area Music Festival features 200 all-star musicians from the top orchestras and opera companies in the world. Over three weeks, audiences enjoy performances of chamber music, orchestra, opera, and ballet at Tornstrom Auditorium.

Scan Me!

Plays, art exhibits, museums, concerts.. Hover your phone's camera over this QR code to explore art in the Brainerd Lakes Area.

Lakes Area Music Festival

Location: BHS Performing Arts Center, 702 S 5th St, Brainerd Lakes Area Music Festival (LAMF) connects nationally acclaimed and world renowned artists with audiences right here in Brainerd. Each year, LAMF offers a packed 3-week calendar of chamber music, orchestra, opera and ballet performances, featuring an elite roster of 200 artists from top orchestras and opera companies worldwide. Most concerts are offered with donation-based admission, in order to ensure that world-class performances continue to be available to anyone interested.

ARTcrosslake Designs, Artistically Restored Furniture Mark J Harlow's Nature Photo Gallery (218) 692-5425 www.kickscrosslake.com • Furniture showroom • Dealers of Dixie Belle & Paint Couture paints, finishes, & supplies • Award winning photo gallery • Creative DIY painting technique classes • Unique gifts • Schedule a party with us. Birthday, bachelorette, girl’s night out, “whatever party” • Art & Soul of Crosslake

(218) 833-0416 www.crossingarts.org Serving the Lakes Area for 20 years. Crossing Arts offers arts workshops, exhibits, events, art supplies, and a retail shop of local art. We provide meaningful arts opportunities for everyone through access, education, and experiences. Visit our mural in downtown Brainerd.

THE REAL VIKINGS ARE COMING! August 21, 2021 - Crow Wing County Fairgrounds - Brainerd, MN

Real Vikings - No Horns

Crow Wing

More information on the concerts, musicians, and other activities is available at: www. lakesareamusic.org.

CROW WING VIKING FESTIVAL .COM

Authentic Viking Age costumes, weapons, crafts, music, and games! An affordable family event with special activities for kids! Onsite food!

“This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Five Wings Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.” ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

65


Photo Courtesy Crossing Arts Alliance

Photo Courtesy Sage on Laurel

Brainerd

Photo Courtesy Minnesota Makerspace

Photo Courtesy Open City Thrift

boomed as a railroad town in the late 1800s when Northern Pacific Railway came to the Photo Courtesy Open City Thrift

area. Today, dedicated business owners and organizations, like Destination Downtown Business Coalition and Brainerd Community Action, continue to restore and preserve downtown. Their efforts are making a difference and downtown is a vibrant place to live, work, and play.

Photo Courtesy Purple Fern Bath Company

Downtown Brainerd has an eclectic mix of shops, furniture stores, a bakery, and restaurants offering a perfect afternoon of meandering in and out of stores and ending the day by grabbing a bite to eat.

Photo Courtesy Fancy Pants Chocolates

Photo Courtesy Bridge of Harmony


Shopping

Downtown Brainerd

A DESTINATION WORTH SHOPPING

Vintage Love

Good Eats

Design Consign blends retail and consignment with furniture and home décor.

Crow Wing Food Co-op: Locally grown foods and goods, allergenfriendly, and fresh organic food. Deli with ready-to-go and to-order foods!

Art

Sage on Laurel: Creative fromscratch dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Featuring vegan, vegetarian, gluten free, and traditional Minnesota fare.

Bargains on Seventh and Open City Thrift are the perfect places to find vintage clothing that reflect your true style—all at a discount.

Minnesota Makerspace: A creative workshop for DIY classes, education, and access to woodworking tools— possibilities are endless. DIY kits and other retail items available. Crossing Arts Alliance: A fun and eclectic venue that connects art and community. Art exhibits, classes, and a retail gallery to purchase work by local artists.

Self-Care

Purple Fern Bath Company: Pamper yourself and feel like your on vacation every day. Handcrafted bath and body goods, candles, lotions. Hand-pour your own candle with a signature scent!

Big Jay’s Pizza Arcade: From-scratch pizza and old school entertainment make this stop a social destination for all ages!

612 Station: Down-home good food in a fun and rustic atmosphere. Great place to grab sandwiches, burgers, and a cold beverage! Fancy Pants Chocolates: A chocolate lover’s paradise. From scratch chocolates made with milk chocolate (from Belgium) and dark chocolate (from Columbia). 21 flavors of Kemps ice cream, too! Knotty Pine Bakery: Save room for dessert! From scratch pies, pastries, cookies, and cakes like grandma used to make. Made with fresh, real ingredients.

Loide’ Oils & Vinegars: 70 varieties of the freshest, highest quality olive oils and vinegars from all over the world. Taste test the oils and vinegars at the tasting bar. Pasta, olives, seasonings, and gifts. Ya-Sure Kombucha: Enter the world of Kombucha! Check out the kombucha tap room with a variety of flavors for everyone.

Game Time

Dragon Forge Games: Whether it’s board games, trading card games, role-play games or puzzles, they’ve got something for you.

Music

Bridge of Harmony: Stop in for a full range of music instruments, accessories, and vinyl records. Music General: You can find a full range of musical instruments and dance apparel. Open City Thrift: Find vintage vinyl records to add to your collection.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

67


Shopping

Be Kind. SmilesForJake.org

Downtown

Washington St.

Mill Ave. & East

You Betcha Shop Small. Shop Safely. Shop Brainerd.

68

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

South 6th St.


Shopping

Find the Unexpected

While you’re here on vacation, take some time visiting our local shops and retail stores. We have quaint downtowns and shopping districts with one-of-a-kind items. Bring home some souvenirs to remind you of your time spent in the Lakes Area.

Crosslake

If you’re vacationing up in Crosslake, you can find everything you need right in town. Check out the hardware store that carries so much more than hardware goods. You’ll have fun exploring specialty shops and boutiques that feature clothing, specialty soaps, home décor and furniture, and unique clothing. Crosslake businesses are famous for being welcoming—so stop in and say hello!

minnesota makerspace is a collaborative for making, learning, and sharing that offers tools, training and classes to create new or improve on existing things. we also offer: personalized gifts, custom builds, parties, business to business pricing, and much more. contact us for you next project, gift or to book a party! www.mnmakerspace.com • 218-845-MAKE (6253) 217 S 7TH ST. STE 18, BRAINERD, MN 56401 • info@mnmakerspace.com

Pequot Lakes

You’ll find an abundance of shopping in Pequot Lakes. Whether you’re stocking up on groceries during your stay or out for a leisurely walk through the many specialty shops, you’ll find it in Pequot Lakes! Get lake country sweatshirts for the whole family, shop for cottage furniture, and find home décor. Pequot Lakes is ready to welcome you!

Nisswa

Nisswa has small town charm and lots of boutiques selling delicious oils and vinegars, clothing, sporting goods, and home décor. When you’ve worked up an appetite from shopping, enjoy lunch and a beverage outside.

Cuyuna Lakes

If you like hunting for old treasures, head to Crosby, which is known as the Antique Capital of the Lakes Area. Walk the downtown streets and explore the antique stores for treasures you certainly won’t find anywhere else!

Family owned and operated USDA Choice Cuts of Beef and Pork

Award Winning Smoked Meats

Chicken

Hand Crafted Sausages

Seafood

Scan Me!

Hover your phone's camera over this QR code for more shopping destinations.

FREE SAMPLES

14043 Swann Drive Crosslake, MN

218-692-ME EAT (6 6328)

ww ww.gcmeats w s.com ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

69


SPOTLIGHT BUSINESSES

Shopping

371 Furniture & Mattress

Cub Foods

Q Squares

Christmas Point

Lake Country Crafts and Cones

Schaefer's Foods

Common Goods

North Country Floral

Shoe Sensation

(218) 828-3020 www.371furniture.com Everything you need for inside your home or cabin! 371 Furniture is a familyowned business providing furniture, mattresses, dining room tables, log furniture, pillows & bedding. The only authorized retailer of Flexsteel in the area. Open Monday - Saturday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm, Sunday 11:00 am - 4:00 pm.

(218) 828-0603 www.christmaspoint.com Christmas Point is locally owned and family operated. With 26,000 square feet we provide our customers with a one of a kind shopping experience. We also have a full service cafe that serves gourmet salads and sandwiches.

(218) 824-0923 Baxter 218-692-7682 Crosslake www.commongoodsmn.org Common Goods is a trendy thrift store with locations in Brainerd & Crosslake. Proceeds from the stores support Bridges of Hope, a nonprofit that serves local families in need. Offering high-quality goods at reasonable prices, including clothing, accessories, sporting goods & home furnishings. 70

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

(218) 828-4601 www.cub.com With two convenient locations to serve you on 371 in Baxter and 210 in Brainerd, Cub has all you need from grocery to pet and baby to flowers and cake for your wedding or special event. Cub now offers delivery too. Visit www.shop.cub.com for details.

(218) 692-4411 www.lakecountrycrafts.com Open all year and have drive-thru service. Serving 36 flavors of Kemps ice cream, ice cream cakes, fudge, Stonehouse Coffee, fresh scones, delicious breakfast & lunch sandwiches, soup, & great shopping featuring handmade items from local crafters & artists. Home of the Doozie Club & annual ice cream eating contest!

(218) 825-0522 www.northcountryfloralmn.com We are your locally owned floral shop offering stunning arrangements and caring service. For 24 years, we've provided beautiful flowers for all your special events: birthdays, funerals, weddings, anniversaries, holidays, special occasions, and more. We offer same-day delivery and 10% discount to any military, police, fire, and EMS.

(218) 454-1642 www.qsquares.com The Q Squares Stores added a new liquor store at our Pine Square location! Locally owned & operated gas stations, convenience stores, & now 3 liquor stores! Locate sores online for great amenities: E85, premium ethanol-free gasoline, 110 at the dispenser, racing fuels, deli, & live bait!

(218) 963-2265 www.SchaefersFoods.com Schaefer’s Foods offers the best produce, meat and groceries available. Our meat department features topquality Angus Pride cuts. All bakery items are made in-house including our made-from-scratch Grandma Bettie Jane’s Pies. Our friendly staff, carry-out service and great selection make us a local favorite!

(218) 454-0440 www.shoesensation.com Our mission at Shoe Sensation, Inc. is to provide quality and brand name footwear for the entire family. Our large selection of shoes has something for everyone from Hey Dudes to Crocs. Sensational brands at sensational prices. Come see us today at the Westgate Mall here in Baxter!


LOCATED BEHIND MOREY’S & VON HANSEN’S IN BAXTER

REUSE • RECYCLE REINVENT • RECREATE SALVAGESISTERSREPURPOSED.COM

218-820-0515 • 15840 Audubon Way, Baxter, MN 320-251-4757 • 115 28th Ave. S, Waite Park, MN salvagesisters4@gmail.com Monday-Saturday 10 AM to 6 PM • Sunday 10 AM to 4 PM


Photo Courtesy Nor-Son Custom Builders

Remodeling Your Home or Cabin tips & trends


Photo Courtesy NewHeritage Architecture & Design

Home & Cabin

Photo Courtesy Renewal By Anderson

H

AVE YOU RECENTLY PURCHASED A FIXER-UPPER HOME OR CABIN? Or have you had your property for several years and its ready for an upgrade? Either way, it may be time to consider a remodel project. Whether you’re doing a full remodel or just tackling a few rooms at a time, it can be overwhelming to think about where to start and how to maximize your budget. Thankfully, you don’t have to go it alone. You’ll find quality construction contractors, architects, and home improvement companies that can walk you through the whole process—start to finish. These companies are experts in building and remodeling and can help make your visions become a reality. Here are some tips from local experts when you’re remodeling your home or cabin.

Plan ahead.

Consider your short-and-long-term goals. Decide what’s most important to you and your family. How long you plan to have the property? Do you want to use it to create a family legacy? Plan, design, and budget the project within different schemes or phases that make sense for what’s right for your family and your budget. If you aren’t planning to keep the property long, it may not make sense to put much money into the property. Do more simple cosmetic updates until you know for sure. Changing light fixtures is an easy and affordable way to update your space.

Think about budget.

Most of us don’t have unlimited funds when it comes to remodeling our cabin or home. The good news is you can work with your contractor to create a plan. Perhaps it’s a multiphase “master plan” for an entire house remodel over a period of years,

which can help with affordability while also making the project less daunting. If you don’t want to do a whole home remodel, you also can look into increasing efficiency in existing spaces. You may be able to adjust the layout of an existing space or add storage solutions instead of a full remodel. This can help you save time and money. Make a list of “must haves”, “would like to haves”, and “if we could get everything we wanted” lists. It’ll make it clear what your priorities are and make it easier if you need to make cuts to stay on budget.

Consider staying elsewhere.

If you’re doing an extensive remodel or addition and it’s your permanent residence, consider finding another place to stay while the project is ongoing. Construction can be messy and loud. Living in a home while you have subcontractors coming and going is disruptive for everyone.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

73


Photo Courtesy Nor-Son Custom Builders

Try a new trend: oversized bifold, lift, or slide doors operated by electric switches

2021 DESIGN TRENDS D

esign is always changing. Our local experts gave some insight to what they’re seeing trending in 2021.

Add some color.

While gray and white paint colors are still popular, there’s a shift to greige, beige, and browns. Bold colors like cool and calming blue tones are also making a return in popularity. You’ll also find two-toned cabinets where the bottom cabinets or center island are a painted different than the top cabinets to add a pop of color and dimension. Photo Courtesy Nor-Son Custom Builders

Dark exteriors—particularly black—are also trending creating a modern design. If you’re looking to renovate the exterior of your home or cabin, consider a deep color that will eliminate distraction and blend into the natural environment. To get a moody, modern look, opt for dark bronze or black windows. You also can choose different window colors for your exterior and interior.

Bring the outdoors in. Living in the Lakes Area is all about enjoying the outdoors. Creating usable indoor space that effortlessly flows outdoors is a timeless trend. A relatively new trend is oversized bifold, lift, or slide doors with large screen panels operated by electric switches.

You also can’t go wrong with a well-appointed classic threeor-four season porch with large windows or doors that provide spectacular views and easy outdoor access. If you’re replacing or adding windows, focus on bringing abundant natural light and connecting the outdoors with your indoor space.

Blend design styles.

Scandinavian design is very ontrend. Simplistic styling, clean lines, light or muted colors, and natural wood tones. Bohemian design also continues to rise in popularity with the potential to edge out the modern farmhouse for the top design trend in 2021. The key to boho design is mixing textures, colors, natural finishes, and vintage pieces. It’s eclectic, yet pulled together, making the space feel cozy and lived-in as well as personalized—but not haphazard.

Content Contributed by: Nor-Son Custom Builders, Hy-Tech Construction, and Renewal by Andersen


Home & Cabin

218-821-3971

320 293 6379

AgencyNorthRE.com COMMERCIAL | RESIDENTIAL

Wendy Hendricks

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

75


SPOTLIGHT BUSINESSES

Home & Cabin

Backyard Reflections

Edina Realty

Hy-Tec Construction

Carol Amundson Weichert Realtors Tower Properties

First Western Bank & Trust

Jr's Painting & Prefinishing

Complete Cleaning Solution

Greater Lakes Association of Realtors (GLAR)

Lakelife Homes

(218) 454-1065 | www.backyardmn.com Founded in 2000, Backyard Reflections is a full-service landscape design/ build company with locations in Nisswa & Annandale. From initial consultation through project completion, our talented team specializes in collaborating closely with our clients to transform dreams into reality, creating unique outdoor spaces.

(218) 656-2234 www.carolamundson.com Helping clients build wealth with real estate! Carol is a full service real estate agent that takes pride in providing exceptional service, accurate information & resources to help clients make informed decisions. She believes that regular communication & truly listening to her clients are key to successful transactions & relationships.

(218) 821-6747 www.completecleaningmn.com We are a dedicated team of professionals who strive to serve the Brainerd Lakes area by providing quality residential, commercial & janitorial. Our mission is to provide a superior cleaning service & maintain a high standard. We achieve this by providing our customers with a reliable & professional cleaning service. 76

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

(218) 828-7000 | www.EdinaRealty. com/office/brainerdbaxter#1 Our office has local experts and skilled support staff backed by the marketleading visibility and networking capabilities of Edina Realty to help you achieve your real estate goals. Whether buying or selling, we can help you with all your real estate needs including real estate, mortgage, title and warranty.

(218) 829-8712 www.firstwestern.bank We operate as a full-service financial center providing traditional banking products as well as trust services, all lines of insurance, leasing, and much more. We have four locations in the Brainerd Lakes Area. Visit us in Baxter, Crosslake, or Nisswa!

(218) 828-4567 www.greaterlakesrealtors.com My REALTOR® Knows! Your local REALTOR® know many things, including the answers to your questions about buying and selling homes. Contact one of our many REALTOR® and/or affiliate members to guide you through the process.

(218) 829-8529 www.hytecconstruction.com At Hy-Tec Construction we take a slightly different approach to commercial, industrial, and residential construction. As our name implies, we rely on the latest technology and building methods to ensure our work meets or exceeds the highest standards. Everything we do starts and ends with craftsmanship.

(218) 568-8330 www.jrspainting.net We are your interior and exterior painting and staining professionals. We are committed to creating an excellent, quality finish on your project. Call us for a free on-site consultation and estimate.

(218) 821-3971 www.lakeliferestoration.com Tired of scraping & painting that tired old deck? Sun fading and drying out your logs or siding? “Live the LakeLife and leave the rest to us!” Custom built composite decks. Exceptional staining and painting. Log & metal railings. Full-service log & cedar home care. Visit our local office/showroom today!


Home & Cabin

Minnesota Cleaning Solutions

Renewal by Anderson

Lands End Development

Nor-Son Custom Builders

Sue Lehman, Realtor®

Lonesome Cottage Furniture Co.

Rahn's Oil & Propane

Woods to Water Real Estate

(218) 692-6003 www.lakeplace.com LakePlace.com isn't just the largest and most visited lake property website in the Midwest, we are also a fullservice real estate firm with fantastic agents and "brick-n-mortar" offices throughout Minnesota & Wisconsin. Whether buying or selling, let us help make your dreams come true!

(218) 692-5263 www.landsenddev.com Voted "Best Builder/General Contractor" in Minnesota, Lands End Development is a unique design-build firm. Focusing on lake home & cabin design, we promote timeless design & exquisite craftsmanship in a wide range of architectural styles. Based locally in Crosslake, Lands End Development serves the entire Brainerd Lakes & surrounding areas.

(218) 568-8223 www.lonesomecottage.com Looking to decorate your lake home? Lonesome Cottage is the perfect place to start your search. Stop in for amazing factory direct deals on home furnishings from the nation's largest rustic furniture manufacturer. From reclaimed barnwood, to log furniture, to custom designed pieces: we have what you are looking for!

(218) 821-9141 www.minnesotacleaningsolutions.com Minnesota Cleaning Solutions is locally-owned! We are reliable & friendly professionals offering many cleaning services: windows, residential, janitorial, construction clean-up, carpets, strip & wax flooring, ducts, move in/out cleaning, mold, lead, efflorescence, fire, water, bio-hazard & trauma, VRBOs & more! We are Lakes Proud! Give us a call!

(218) 828-1722 www.Nor-SonCustomBuilders.com Nor-Son builds custom homes that afford you the space, comfort & quality in which you can create lifelong memories. Our craftsmen combine building science with skilled artistry to transform every design detail into a stunning, one-of-a-kind, meticulously built home – the kind of home you can hand down for generations.

(320) 256-3680 www.rahnfuels.com Building a new home & looking for heating options? Look to Rahn's Oil & Propane for all your heating needs. We also provide access to appliance rebates through the Minnesota Propane Association. You can save money on water heaters, furnace/boilers, space heaters, fireplaces, clothes dryers & garage heaters.

SPOTLIGHT BUSINESSES

LakePlace.com

(218) 454-5624 www.renewalbyandersencorp.com Renewal by Andersen is the fullservice replacement division of Andersen Windows, the company with the 117-year old reputation for superior windows. Full-Service window replacement means no hassles for you! We've ramped up capacity over this last year and we're ready to help in the Greater Twin Cities!

(218) 838-4159 www.SueLehmanSells.com "Hometown Service with Results!" A hard-working, full-time agent with local Weichert Realtors, Tower Properties, Sue offers experience & knowledge paired with personal service & attention to detail! Whether selling or buying a starter home or luxury lake home, Sue Lehman is a great choice for all your real estate needs!

(218) 656-2787 www.woodstowatermn.com A boutique real estate company, serving the BLA. Built on a passion for true northern Minnesota living, we strive to be immersed in local communities. We have a catered approach to buying, selling, renting, & property management in the Lakes Area; all while embracing the beautiful lifestyle this area offers. ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

77


Worship & Faith

Scan Me!

View a local workship directory online by hovering your phone's camera over this QR code.

Faith & Worship When vacationing to the Brainerd Lakes Area, attending a worship service with a new

congregation can be an enriching experience. You’ll find many different worship options

depending on your denomination and your preferences. Attending a worship service while vacationing here can strengthen your personal connection to the area, help you meet new people, and remind you that God is with you no matter where you travel.

Lakewood Evangelical Free Church

flcbrainerd.com

Visit out website for the most current worship schedule.

(218) 829-5271 www.lakewoodfc.com In the Brainerd Lakes Area for the weekend? Consider worshipping with us at Lakewood Evangelical Free Church on Sunday morning. We are conveniently located just off Highway 210, 1 mile west of 371. Sunday services are at 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM. Our 10:30 AM service is Live Streamed.

The Log Church

(218) 692-4141 www.crosslakeefc.org Sunday Worship Service (Summer Hours) 9:00 and 10:30 am in person or on-line. We are a safe place to know, love & follow Jesus. All are welcome! 78

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com


Business Directory

Business

Directory

View 1,000+ local businesses at, www.ExploreBrainerdLakes.com.

ARTS & CULTURE

Carrie Benson Photography (218) 443-0149 www.CarrieBenson Photography.com 1001 Kingwood St, Suite 123 Brainerd, MN 56401 I am a portrait (family, couples, children, generational, mother/ daughter, headshots, reunions, events) and commercial (business branding, product, real estate) photographer in studio or on location.

Heartland Symphony Orchestra (800) 826-1997 www.HeartlandSymphony.com PO Box 241 Little Falls, MN 56345 Heartland Symphony Orchestra is a 50-piece symphony orchestra representing central Minnesota. HSO holds three concert series a year in both Brainerd and Little Falls.

BREWERIES Lakes Area Music Festival (218) 275-5263 www.lakesareamusic.org 715 Laurel St Brainerd, MN 56401 Each August the Lakes Area Music Festival presents all-star musicians from top orchestras and opera companies around the world in orchestra, opera, ballet, and more!

The Crossing Arts Alliance (218) 833-0419 www.crossingarts.org 711 Laurel St Brainerd, MN 56401 We provide meaningful arts opportunities for everyone through access, education, and experiences. Arts workshops, exhibits, events, art supplies, and local art.

The Legacy Chorale of Greater Minnesota (218) 272-8212 www.legacychorale.org PO Box 2751, Baxter, MN 56425 The Legacy Chorale is a multi-community choir promoting creativity and imagination in the communities it serves by delivering beauty and joy through choral music.

AUTOMOTIVE Kelli Engstrom Photography (218) 232-0333 www.kelliengstrom.com PO Box 1014 Crosslake, MN 56442 Memories are not captured within a studio, but lived candidly within beautiful locations. Based in beautiful Crosslake, Minnesota. Specializing in portrait, wedding, and commercial photography.

Kicks on Route 66 ARTcrosslake Designs Mark Harlow's Photo Gallery (218) 692-5425 www.kickscrosslake.com 36066 Co Rd 66 Crosslake, MN 56442 Furniture & accessories showroom, furniture paints & finishes, eclectic mix of painting classes, exclusive award-winning nature photography, unique gifts, party hosting, fun for all! Art & soul of Crosslake.

Brainerd Truck & Trailer (218) 454-2868 www.brainerdtruck.com 16707 Highway 371 North Brainerd, MN 56401 Full service maintenance and repairs for heavy duty vehicles, trailers and equipment. Mobile service available.

Greenheck Auto Glass (218) 824-6065 www.greenheckautoglass.com 118 Washington St Brainerd, MN 56401 We are a locally owned and operated auto glass repair/replacement shop. We work with most insurance companies. We offer fast, convenient, professional and affordable service.

Big Axe Brewing Company (218) 961-2337 www.bigaxebrewing.com 25435 Main St Nisswa, MN 56468 Big taste from a little brewery in downtown Nisswa. Fantastic food and brew made onsite. Family owned with a great dog-friendly patio and weekly events.

Jack Pine Brewery (218) 270-8072 www.jackpinebrewery.com 15593 Edgewood Dr Baxter, MN 56425 Bringing fresh, locally brewed beer to the Brainerd Lakes Area since 2012. Serving flights, pints, & growlers to go at the brewery taproom.

Ya-Sure Kombucha (218) 270-8185 www.yasurekombucha.com 216 S 8th St, Brainerd, MN 56401 We are a Kombucha producer and non-alcoholic taproom. We offer many flavors on tap as well as in bottles. Also ginger beer and root beer.

Brainerd Dispatch, Echo Journal (218) 829-4705 www.brainerddispatch.com www.pineandlakes.com 506 James St, Brainerd, MN 56401 We provide local news coverage with our daily newspaper, the Brainerd Dispatch (printed twice weekly, e-edition daily) & our weekly newspaper, the Echo Journal.

Brainerd General Rental (218) 828-2815 www.brainerdrental.com 15248 State Highway 371 Baxter, MN 56425 In business serving the lakes area since 1993, locally owned Brainerd General Rental sales, rents & services equipment for contractors & homeowners alike.

Country Works (218) 692-4878 countryw@crosslake.net 37322 County Rd 66 Crosslake, MN 56442 Copy it, print it, ship it, pack it, scan it, fax it, e-mail it, create it, computer access, wide format printing, UPS, FEDEX.

BUSINESS SERVICES

ATEK Access Technologies (218) 829-4719 | www.AtekAccessTechnologies.com 210 10th Ave NE Brainerd, MN 56401 Using the power of advanced machine-to-machine technologies to provide customers superior efficiencies and savings, essential data and systems, improved safety control, expert solutions and support.

Borden, Steinbauer, Krueger & Knudson, P.A. (218) 829-1451 www.brainerdlaw.com 302 South Sixth St Brainerd, MN 56401 BSKK provides legal services to businesses and individuals throughout the Brainerd Lakes Area. We focus on business, real estate, personal injury, estate planning/probate, family law.

Diane K Dubej CPA (651) 485-9161 www.taxingcryptoco.com 6290 Highland Scenic Rd Baxter, MN 56425 Offering a range of services for business owners and individuals. Cryptocurrency certified and affordable with 34 years of experience in public accounting.

Essential Web Strategies (218) 270-4047 www.essentialwebstrategies.com 521 Charles St, Suite 101 Brainerd, MN 56401 Your web presence matters! We're here to help: Web strategy, SEO, websites, social set-up, content writing, consulting, strategy power hours. 25 years experience. Integrity focused.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

79


Business Directory CONSTRUCTION Grace Built Co. (507) 450-6341 www.gracebuiltco.com Breezy Point, MN 56472 Your business deserves a brand that tells your story, builds trust, and delivers results. Our expert team can help: Branding, Web Design, Advertising, and Marketing.

Gullview Technologies (218) 454-7711 www.gullviewtech.com 7651 Universal Rd Baxter, MN 56425 We provide high capability software development services. Our services include application development, maintenance, QA, DevOps, staff augmentation and technical help desk services.

Impel Authority Marketing Solutions (612) 424-3221 www.impelprofits.com PO BOX 62 Isle, MN 56342 I help small businesses 2x their leads, 2x their sales, and find $10k+ or 5% of their annual revenue trapped inside their marketing. Guaranteed.

Indigo Signs (320) 846-9698 www.indigosigns.com 4133 Iowa St, Suite 100 Alexandria, MN 56308 Indigo Signs is a complete full-service sign company that designs, sells, manufactures, installs, and services signs.

LEHMAN & Associates Consulting (218) 838-4158 PO Box 262 Nisswa, MN 56468 Small business consulting services. Marketing and advertising, meeting facilitation, small business strategic planning and development, public relations; Brainerd Lakes Chamber membership consulting; IQ Magazine advertising.

80

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Nelson-Doran Funeral Home & Crematory (218) 829-4755 www.nelson-doran.com 202 NE 8th Ave Brainerd, MN 56401 Staff members are caring and experienced professionals who understand that each family is unique and personal requests and traditions are of utmost importance.

North Country Janitorial Supply (218) 828-4188 www.northcountryservicesmn.com 7485 County Rd 9 Brainerd, MN 56401 Commercial & residential general cleaning. Carpet & upholstery cleaning. Stripping, waxing & polishing tile floors. Air duct & vent cleaning. Biohazard & crime scene cleanup.

Penmac Staffing (218) 824-9675 www.penmac.com 607 Washington St Brainerd, MN 56401 Penmac Staffing connects job seekers and businesses. Whether you're a business looking for employees, or an employee looking for your next career, Penmac can help!

Bercher Design & Construction (218) 829-1381 www.bercher.com 7676 Design Rd Ste 100 Baxter, MN 56425 Lakes Area’s full-service residential & commercial design/build firm for 40+ years. Visit www. Bercher.com or give us a call. "Considerate people, considerate service, consider it done."

Lands End Development (218) 692-2563 www.landsenddev.com 13817 County Rd 36 Crosslake, MN 56442 Based out of Crosslake, Lands End Development is an award winning custom lake home and cabin design-build firm. We promote timeless design and exquisite craftsmanship.

Brainerd Glass (218) 829-5430 www.brainerdglass.net 302 5th Ave NE, Suite 4 Brainerd, MN 56401 We provide a complete range of residential and commercial glass products with over 60 years of serving the Lakes Area with unmatched quality & service.

Neumann Construction (218) 270-0009 www.brainerdroofing.com 34664 Hay Creek Trail Pine River, MN 56474 Neumann Construction is the residential roofing specialist in the Brainerd Lakes area. We install all types of roofing products including asphalt, metal, and cedar shakes.

Electric Etc Inc (218) 829-4112 www.electricetc.com 1014 Laurel St, Suite 100 Brainerd, MN 56401 Providing first class electrical services in the Brainerd Lakes Area for over 25 years, Electric Etc. Inc. prides themselves on quality work & competitive pricing.

Nor-Son Custom Builders (218) 828-1722 www.Nor-SonResidential.com 7900 Hastings Rd Baxter, MN 56425 An award-winning design and construction services firm that specializes in creating custom homes of distinctive character, precision craftsmanship and incomparable quality.

Pequot Tool & Mfg. (218) 568-8069 www.pequottool.com 3457 Veterans St Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 Pequot Tool and Manufacturing, Inc. is a thriving, family owned, quality-driven, precision machining and fabrication leader in the lakes area with 175+ employees!

Holden Electric Co., Inc. (218) 829-4759 www.holdenelectric.com 7669 College Rd, PO Box 2688 Baxter, MN 56425 Our work includes residential service, new homes, and additions. Installation and maintenance of commercial and industrial businesses, institutional and health-care facilities, airports, and St lighting.

Start to Finish Builders & Remodelers (218) 828-0585 www.starttofinishbuilders.com 17025 Commercial Park Rd, Suite 4, Brainerd, MN 56401 The Lakes Area's quality builder and remodeler for over 30 years! At Start To Finish, our quality craftsmanship and attention to detail are unsurpassed.

Quality Equipment Sales & Service (218) 297-0991 www.qualityequipmentmn.com 5140 Landmark Dr Brainerd, MN 56401 Quality Equipment is a full line Kubota dealership that offers sales, service, parts & rentals. Service & parts for many makes & models of equipment.

Hy-Tec Construction (218) 829-8529 www.hytecconstruction.com 11360 Business 371, PO Box 621 Brainerd, MN 56401 Commercial, industrial, and residential construction is what we do. We rely on the latest technology/building methods to ensure our work meets/exceeds the highest standards.

Vision Electrical Services (218) 454-0458 www.visionelectricalservices.com 7953 College Rd, Ste 105 Baxter, MN 56425 Specializing in custom electrical design and installation, our highly skilled electricians provide new and remodel home wiring, back-up generators, service calls and much more!


Business Directory

Wes Hanson Builders (218) 692-1760 www.weshansonbuilders.com 34103 County Rd 3 Crosslake, MN 56442 Located in the heart of lake country, Wes Hanson Builders is a family-owned company with a 30 year tradition of designing and building excellence.

DINING

Baxter's Bar & Grill (218) 822-3663 www.arrowwoodbrainerd.com 6967 Lake Forest Rd Baxter, MN 56472 Full service bar and grill serving daily specials, fresh pastas, salads, burgers, hand-tossed pizzas, sandwiches, desserts and more. Happy hour specials!

Chef Mike's Catering (218) 232-3734 www.facebook.com/lakesareacatering/ 9364 Wild Rice Rd Brainerd, MN 56041 Fabulous custom catering services, our place or yours. No group too big or small. It is our pleasure to cater to you and your needs!

Commander Restaurant & Bar & JJ's Pub (218) 562-4198 www.commanderbar.com 30279 Airport Rd Breezy Point, MN 56472 Home of the famous Commander Garbage Pizza! Full-service restaurant and bar. Live music every Friday and Saturday year around.

Crosslake Coffee (218) 692-3994 www.CrosslakeCoffee.com 35522 County Rd 66 Crosslake, MN 56442 Quaint, friendly and cozy! We offer specialty coffees, Iced lattes, smoothies and more. We have fresh baked goods and breakfast sandwiches.

Crow Wing Food Co-op (218) 828-4600 www.crowwingfoodcoop.com 624 Laurel St Brainerd, MN 56401 Newly expanded local food coop on 7th and Laurel in Downtown Brainerd! Deli, smoothies, fresh, local, organic, natural, delicious foods for your lakeland getaway.

Ernie's on Gull Lake (218) 829-3918 www.erniesongull.com 10424 Squaw Point Rd East Gull Lake, MN 56401 Unparalleled views of Gull Lake all in a casual fun atmosphere makes Ernie's on Gull a must stop when visiting the Lakes Area.

Fancy Pants Chocolates (218) 828-7844 www.fancypantschocolates.com 704 Laurel St Brainerd, MN 56401 Downtown Brainerd's premiere chocolate and ice cream headquarters. Come in and say hi to Nancy, who handmakes all the chocolates and adds a little love!

Irma's Kitchen (218) 825-2700 www.craguns.com/dining/irmas-kitchen 11000 Cragun's Dr Brainerd, MN 56401 Located on the south end of Cragun's Resort, Irma's Kitchen is open May-September and features many of Irma Cragun's recipes and the freshest local ingredients.

Knotty Pine Bakery (218) 454-2470 www.knottypinebakery.com 707 Laurel St Brainerd, MN 56401 A locally owned bakery and cafe in the heart of Downtown Brainerd specializing in madefrom-scratch pies, cookies, pastries, bread, and custom cakes/ desserts.

Lake Country Crafts & Cones (218) 692-4411 www.lakecountrycrafts.com 36084 County Rd 66 Crosslake, MN 56442 36 flavors of Kemp's Ice Cream, Stonehouse coffee, breakfast and lunch served all day. Home decor and gifts. Ice cream cakes ready/made to order.

Norway Ridge Supper Club (218) 543-6136 www.norwayridge.com 34757 County Rd 39 Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 Norway Ridge Supper Club, a tradition in the Brainerd Lakes area for over 70 years! Offering steaks, ribs, fish, seafood and a full bar.

Legacy Bar & Grille (218) 825-2725 www.craguns.com/dining/legacy-bar-grille 11000 Cragun's Dr Brainerd, MN 56401 A casual menu served during the golf season overlooking the emerald greens, ponds and rolling fairways of Cragun's Legacy Golf Courses.

Pit Happens Catering (218) 851-0003 www.pithappenscatering.com 2700 Oak St Brainerd, MN 56401 Specializing in wood smoked meats, cheeses, deserts, and appetizers. Catering to all life events. Have our food truck at events as well!

Madden's on Gull Lake (218) 829-2811 www.maddens.com 11266 Pine Beach Peninsula Brainerd, MN 56401 Six restaurants to choose from, overlooking the lake or the golf course, casual or upscale. Carefully prepared, locally sourced and made to order. By reservation.

Main St Ale House (218) 961-6724 www.mainStnisswa.com 25559 Main St, Suite 1 Nisswa, MN 56468 Unique menu, 30 tap beers, extensive wine and liquor lists, all in modern lodge setting makes Main St a must stop in the Lakes Area.

Nisswa American Legion Post 627 (218) 963-9946 www.nisswalegion.com 25807 Main St Nisswa, MN 56468 Full bar, dining, entertainment, pull tabs, bingo and meat raffle. Lunch and dinner specials. Event venue. Open to the public. Service club for military personnel.

Roundhouse Brewery (218) 963-2739 www.roundhousebrew.com 23836 Smiley Rd Nisswa, MN 56468 Roundhouse Brewery serves craft beers and hard seltzers in a family friendly setting. Large outdoor patio and music venue, axe throwing. Event center and kitchen coming Sumer 2021.

Sage on Laurel (218) 454-7243 www.sageonlaurel.com 606 Laurel St. Brainerd, MN 56401 Amazing food in a fun, eclectic atmosphere. Global flavors meet comfort classics. From-scratch kitchen, full bar, outdoor dining. A local favorite, come see why!

Stonehouse Coffee & Roastery (218) 454-2835 www.stonehousecoffee.com 14540 Dellwood Dr. N, STE 100 Baxter, MN 56425 Fresh-roasted coffee right out of the roaster... delightfully rich, extraordinarily aromatic, alive with flavor. Enjoy espresso, coffees and some of Minnesota’s most delicious pastries.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

81


Business Directory ENTERTAINMENT Tasty Pizza North (218) 568-4404 www.tastypizzanorthmenu.com 28921 Peterson Path Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 Think of us for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Dine in, delivery or take it with you. You’ll see we deliver a lot more than pizza!

The 612 Station (218) 454-1995 www.612station.com 612 Front St, Brainerd, MN 56401 The 612 Station is a fabulous owned and operated restaurant in the heart of Downtown Brainerd. Stop by for a cold beer and great food!

Wings Airport Cafe (218) 828-0206 www.wingsairportcafe.com 16384 Airport Rd, Suite 7 Brainerd, MN 56401 Fresh, made from scratch, classic Minnesota cuisine. Featuring hot dishes, walleye & wild rice. Home made breads, rolls & desserts. Open everyday. Breakfast & lunch.

EDUCATION

JC's Innovative Creations (218) 833-3080 www.jcsinnovativecreations.org 1602 Graydon Ave Brainerd, MN 56401 JC's Innovative Creations provides high quality tutoring, homeschool classes, and STEM workshops. If your child is struggling with school this year, please reach out.

Stepping Stones Childcare Learning Center (218) 270-3100 www.steppingstonesmn.com 810 NW 7th St Brainerd, MN 56401 Our professional staff provide quality childcare and early childhood education to children, starting at age six weeks, in Brainerd, Baxter, Pequot Lakes and surrounding community.

82

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Claudia Around The World Tours (218) 513-8922 | www.ClaudiaAroundTheWorld.com 21955 Gull Lake Dr Nisswa, MN 56468 Escorted small leisure group travel company focuses on maximum tour size of only 16 people to many of the world's most exotic destinations.

Commander Restaurant & Bar & JJ's Pub (218) 562-4198 www.commanderbar.com 30279 Airport Rd Breezy Point, MN 56472 Home of the famous Commander Garbage Pizza! Full-service restaurant & bar. Live music every Friday & Saturday year around.

Iconic Fest (218) 764-2151 www.iconicfest.com 9033 Raddatz Rd Brainerd, MN 56401 July 9-10th with pre-party on July 8th. Diamond Rio, Exile, John Conlee, Atlanta Rhythm Section & more! 2-Day outdoor concert w/camping available.

Lakes Jam (218) 640-3785 www.LakesJam.com PO Box 2856 Baxter, MN 56425 Lakes Jam is a multi day country and rock festival at the end of June inside Brainerd International Raceway. Great camping is available.

Minnesota Makerspace (218) 845-6253 www.mnmakerspace.com 217 S 7th St, Suite 18 Brainerd, MN 56401 Register for a DIY class in downtown Brainerd! We offer a wide range of classes for all ages and interests. Personalized gifts are also available.

Safari North Wildlife Park (218) 454-1662 www.safarinorth.com 8493 State Highway 371 Brainerd, MN 56401 Safari North is a family friendly outdoor adventure where you can feed the giraffes, ride a camel, and experience wildlife up close and personal.

Crow Wing County Fair (218) 829-6680 www.crowwingcountyfair.com PO Box 169 Brainerd, MN 56401 The Crow Wing County Fair Association coordinates the annual county fair and grounds use throughout the year. Educational, non-profit organization that invites membership. Join today!

Summer Lantern Bash (218) 764-2151 www.huff-entertainment.com/ summer-bash.html 9033 Raddatz Rd Brainerd, MN 56401 Outdoor concert August 27 & 28 w/camping at The Green Lantern 9 miles East of Brainerd on Hwy 18. Purchase tickets by phone, call 1-800-595-4849.

Lakeshore Conservation Club (218) 963-4003 www.lakeshoregunclub.com 9911 County Rd 77 Nisswa, MN 56468 A family shooting facility offering trap, skeet and five stand which are open to the public. The rifle and handgun ranges are open for members.

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

Big Jay's Pizza Arcade (218) 270-3519 www.bigjayspizzaarcade.com 217 South 7th St Brainerd, MN 56401 A social destination for all ages! Big Jay's is proud to serve up scratch made pizza, frosty beer on tap, and old school entertainment!

Boys-N-Berries (218) 839-9918 www.facebook.com/boysnberries 9925 St Mathias Rd Brainerd, MN 56401 Family owned, quality Drn, extreme hobby farm providing in-season annual and vegetable plants, hanging baskets, asparagus, sweet corn, squash and ten acres of pumpkins.

Crosslake Bikes (218) 820-3444 www.crosslakebikes.com 36037 County Rd 66 Crosslake, MN 56442 Ride. Return. Repeat. Pay-PerUse bike share system. Download our free App to locate, select, rent, and ride bikes in Crosslake.

Little Falls Convention and Visitors Center (320) 616-4959 www.LittleFallsMN.com 606 1st St SE Little Falls, MN 56345 One stop shop for visitor information in Little Falls, MN. Find us on Facebook and YouTube--VisitLittleFallsMN

Northern Minnesota RailRd Heritage Assoc. (218) 692-1900 www.northerntrackersrrclub.com 36184 County Rd 66 (across from Zorbaz Restaurant) Crosslake, MN 56442 Model trains, planes and automobiles, fun for the entire family. Educational non-profit invites new family memberships. Join today! Kids get free train magazines.

Northland Kart Kountry (218) 454-1602 www.northlandkartkountry.com 17568 Hwy 371 North Brainerd, MN 56401 Northland Kart Kountry has all day family fun for everyone! Go Karts, attractions, snacks, arcade & so much more! Bring a kid, be a kid!


Business Directory

We Rock The Spectrum Kid's Gym For All Kids ~ Brainerd Lakes (218) 454-0631 www.werockthespectrum brainerdlakes.com 13495 Elder Dr Ste 160 Baxter, MN 56425 Our sensory gym with specialized equipment and activities offers a fun, safe and inclusive environment for kids of all abilities! Follow us on Facebook @ WRTSBrainerdLakes!

Wildwedge Golf, Mini Golf & Maze (218) 568-6995 www.wildwedge.com 32792 Paul Bunyan Trail Dr Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 Minnesota's best mini golf, scenic par 3 golf course, and 10,000 sq ft treasure hunt maze. Driving range. RV Park. Lodge rooms.

Primerica (612) 310-9015 www.primerica.com/rjaney 3030 Harbor Lane N Ste 213 Plymouth, MN 55447 Primerica, the largest independent financial services distribution organization in North America, helps Main St families become properly protected, debt free and financially independent.

GOLF

Crosswoods Golf Course (218) 692-4653 www.crosslakegolf.com 35878 County Rd 3 Crosslake, MN 56442 Experience golf as it was meant to be played in the North woods. 27 scenic holes venture through a secluded, natural setting. A must play!

FINANCE

bremer.com Bremer Bank Member FDIC (218) 829-8781 www.bremer.com 321 S 7th St, Brainerd, MN 56401 A wide variety of banking, investment, trust, and insurance products and services. Locations in Brainerd, Baxter, and Aitkin.

First National Bank (218) 822-4480 www.fnbnorth.com 14521 Edgewood Dr Baxter, MN 56425 Full-service bank. Experts in business and construction loans, 24 hour ATM and insurance services. Member FDIC. Personal, business, loans, investments, warranties and online services.

First Western Bank & Trust (218) 829-8712 www.firstwestern.bank 14084 Baxter Dr Suite 16 Baxter, MN 56425 We operate as a full-service financial center providing traditional banking products as well as trust services, all lines of insurance, leasing, and much more!

Cuyuna Rolling Hills Golf Course (218) 534-3489 www.cuyunarollinghills.com 24410 State Hwy 210 Deerwood, MN 56444 Located just 15 minutes east of Brainerd, we offer the best value in the Lakes Area. Beautiful rolling fairways for all levels of golf.

Emily Greens Golf Course (218) 763-2169 www.emilygreens.com 39966 Refuge Rd Emily, MN 56447 Voted Brainerd Lakes #1 golf course two years in a row! Emily Greens is a scenic and affordable 18 hole course featuring MN’s largest green.

Madden's on Gull Lake (218) 829-2811 www.maddens.com 11266 Pine Beach Peninsula Brainerd, MN 56401 Featuring four courses (63 holes) for every golfer. The Classic at Madden's voted 'best buddies golf trip' (The Golf Channel). Multi-bedroom houses perfect for groups.

Northwood Hills Golf Course (320) 692-4325 www.golfmillelacs.com 18217 Captive Lake Rd Garrison, MN 56450 A beautiful and historic course that has been offering a great golf experience for over 50 years. An unparalleled 18 18-hole, par 72 golfing experience.

Whistling Wolf Mini Golf & Gifts (218) 692-7888 www.Crosslakegolf.com 36006 County Rd 66 Crosslake, MN 56442 Two courses to choose from; the Dark Moon Mega Mini Golf and Original Whistling Wolf. One of the most unique mini golf complexes in the country.

Whitefish Golf Club (218) 543-4900 www.whitefishgolf.com 7883 County Rd 16 Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 An 18-hole public golf course with a full bar and grill and practice range.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Baxter Dental (218) 829-4207 www.baxterdentalclinic.com 13442 Elmwood Dr Baxter, MN 56425 We are a family-friendly team that is committed to providing proactive first quality dental care at the most affordable prices.

Birch Lake Counseling (218) 692-5101 www.birchlakecounseling.com 14295 Gould St Crosslake, MN 56442 Providing hope and healing for individuals, couples and families. We also have locations in Wadena, Hackensack and Remer.

CentraCare Baxter Specialty Clinic (218) 454-4725 | www.centracare.com/locations/profile/specialty-clinic-baxter/ 7418 Forthun Rd, Baxter, MN 56425 CentraCare Baxter Specialty Clinic offers care to patients with heart & vascular (pediatric & adult), nephrology, neurosurgery, plastic surgery, perinatology, urology, rheumatology, & wound care.

Crosslake Drug (218) 692-2502 www.CrosslakeDrug.com 14311 Gould St Crosslake, MN 56442 A locally owned pharmacy with a reputation for knowledgeable healthcare advice, friendly service and unique gift ideas found in Crosslake's town-square.

Encompassing Beauty (218) 692-9642 www.encompassingbeauty.com 35734 Allen Ave Crosslake, MN 56442 Encompassing Beauty in Crosslake’s Town Square offers a full-service Aveda salon offering permanent make-up, a unique boutique & Pilates/Yoga/Barre studio.

Flame Nutrition (218) 454-1630 | www.facebook. com/flamenutritionbaxtermn 15175 Edgewood Dr, Suite 140 Baxter, MN 56425 We serve Herbalife vitamin packed meal replacement shakes and energizing teas that are healthy and nutritious. Include our tasty shakes as a weight loss aid.

Inner Reliance Massage & Wellness (218) 368-8313 | www.massagebook.com/Baxter~Massage~I nnerRelianceMassage 13021 Evergreen Dr Baxter, MN 56425 Certified massage therapy, relaxation, deep tissue, headache relief, hot stone and wellness coach. Helping people through daily stresses with massage. Call to make an appointment. ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

83


Business Directory HOME AND CABIN Lakes Area Eyecare (218) 829-2929 www.lakesareaeyecare.com 7734 Excelsior Rd N Baxter, MN 56425 The leading provider of optometric services and vision care products in Brainerd. We will help you achieve and maintain clear vision for years to come.

Lakewood Health System (800) 525-1033 www.lakewoodhealthsystem.com 49725 County Rd 83 Staples, MN 56479 From our unmatched women’s health program and family practice providers, to advanced surgery and virtual visits, Lakewood offers care, compassion, and innovation at every turn.

MaxBotix (218) 454-0766 www.maxbotix.com 13860 Shawkia Dr Brainerd, MN 56401 MaxBotix Inc. has supplied over 20,000 engineers with reliable and easy to use ultrasonic sensors for their applications.

Midwest Family Eye Center (218) 828-9545 www.midwestfamilyeyecenters.com 7870 Excelsior Rd Baxter, MN 56425 Optometrists and Opticians Comprehensive eye exams, treatment of eye infections, glaucoma and cataract consultations. Outstanding customer service and satisfaction.

Northern Hope Functional Neurology & Chiropractic (218) 232-3178 www.northernhopefnc.com 5518 Lakers Lane Nisswa, MN 56468 Full service traditional chiropractic office with pediatrics, acupuncture, therapeutic massage & cupping amenities. Drs. Graber provide extensive specialty care offered through functional neurology & medicine.

84

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Northern Lakes Assisted Living & Memory Care (218) 454-2121 www.northernlakesseniorliving.com 8186 Excelsior Rd Baxter, MN 56425 Laugh more! Reminisce more! Worry less! Enjoy a social life with daily activities, restaurant style dining and home health care options. It’s a good life!

Northern Psychiatric Associates (218) 454-0090 www.npamn.com 7115 Forthun Rd, Suite 105 Baxter, MN 56425 Northern Psychiatric Associates is a full-service, private mental health clinic providing psychiatric and psychological services to all ages in the Brainerd Lakes area since 2007.

Northern TMS (218) 454-4386 www.northernTMS.com 7115 Forthun Rd, Suite 105 Baxter, MN 56425 Northern TMS provides transcranial magnetic stimulation, an effective & non-invasive outpatient procedure that is used to treat major depressive disorder.

Wellness in the Woods (218) 296-2067 www.mnwitw.org 738 3rd Ave NW Eagle Bend, MN 56446 Wellness in the Woods is Minnesota's largest mental health consumer run organization. We offer mental health support through several services such as a warmline.

Whitefish at the Lakes Senior Living (218) 210-0770 www.whitefishatthelakes.com 35625 Ostlund Ave Crosslake, MN 56442 Whitefish at the Lakes, a new senior living community in Crosslake, offering upscale, spacious Independent, Assisted and Memory Care apartments. Love where you live!

371 Furniture & Mattress (218) 828-3020 www.371furniture.com 16413 Highway 371 Brainerd, MN 56401 371 Furniture is a family-owned business providing furniture, mattresses, dining room tables, log furniture, pillows and bedding. An authorized retailer of Flexsteel in the area.

A.W. Research Laboratories (218) 829-7974 | www.awlab.com 16326 Airport Rd Brainerd, MN 56401 Certified water testing for your home or cabin. Safe drinking water, real estate transactions, and more. Contact us for a sampling kit and more information.

Backyard Reflections (218) 454-1065 www.backyardmn.com 24142 Smiley Rd Nisswa, MN 56468 Backyard Reflections is a full-service landscape design/build company. Our proven process & talented team will help clients transform dreams into reality, creating unique outdoor spaces.

Carol Amundson, Realtor® Weichert Realtors Tower Properties (218) 656-2234 www.carolamundson.com 17122 State Hwy 371 N Brainerd, MN 56401 I take pride in providing exceptional service and resources to help clients make informed decisions. I will guide you through the often complex process.

Complete Cleaning Solutions (218) 821-6005 www.completecleaningmn.com 1302 Oak St Brainerd, MN 56401 Cabin cleaning, janitorial, commercial, fire, mold restoration, window, duct, carpet cleaning.

Copper Creek Landscaping & Garden Center (218) 961-1294 www.coppercreeklandscapes.com 24735 Highway 371 Nisswa, MN 56468 From designing outdoor living spaces to helping with all your gardening needs, we enjoy creating your unique customized outdoor environment. Stop in today!

Crosslake Communications (218) 692-2777 www.crosslake.net PO Box 70, 35910 Co Rd 66 Crosslake, MN 56442 Crosslake Communications provides high speed internet, cable TV, local and long distance telephone and computer repair. Quality customer service for residential customers, telecommuters and businesses.

CTC (218) 454-1234 | (800) 753-9104 www.goctc.com 14385 Edgewood Dr Baxter, MN 56425 CTC is a technology advisor and full service telecommunications provider offering telephone, high-speed internet, digital television, and IT services to businesses and individuals throughout Minnesota.

Cygneture Title Solutions LLC (218) 828-0122 www.cygnetureonline.com 13021 Evergreen Dr Baxter, MN 56425 We provide abstracting, title insurance, and closings for all real estate transactions. We take pride in providing the best possible service to our customers.

JAG Interior Solutions (218) 692-4521 www.jaginteriorsolutions.net 35762 County Rd 3 Crosslake, MN 56442 Interior design to help pull out your design to make your home comfortable & inviting to you & your guests. Showroom, flooring, window treatments, more.


Business Directory

Lonesome Cottage Furniture Co. (218) 568-8223 www.lonesomecottage.com 30773 Patriot Ave Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 Lonesome Cottage is the factory direct showroom for the nation's largest rustic furniture manufacturer: reclaimed barnwood, log furniture, home decor, custom furniture design, and more!

Minnesota Cleaning Solutions (218) 821-9141 www.minnesotacleaning solutions.com 411 W Washington St Brainerd, MN 56401 We provide exceptional cleaning services to the Brainerd Lakes area and beyond. Homes, cabins, offices or construction, call us for all your cleaning needs.

Optimum Cleaning (218) 821-0152 www.optimumcleaning.net PO Box 725 Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 Over 8 years in the Lakes Area, we offer a high standard of cleanliness, honest and reliable service. We are proud to offer senior discounts!

Outdoor Living Landscapes (218) 839-5097 www.outdoorlivinglandscapes.com 1387 River Bend Dr SW Brainerd, MN 56401 A father and son company with 20+ years experience. Built on integrity, hard-work, quality, creativity and a focus on customers. Bring your vision to life.

Rahn's Oil & Propane (218) 256-3680 www.rahnfuels.com 1220 East Main St Melrose, MN 56352 Home! Cabin! Farm! Business! We are the answer for your heating oil, propane & transportation fuel needs. Local, family-owned business, fuel with muscle!

Thelen Heating & Roofing (218) 829-1491 www.ThelenHeating.com 1717 13th ST. SE. Brainerd, MN 56401 Thelen has earned the reputation as Minnesota’s premier single source provider of heating, cooling, roofing and ventilation systems for residential and commercial customers.

INSURANCE

Abbie Hoelscher Agency (218) 568-8200 https://agent.amfam.com/ abbie-hoelscher/mn/pequotlakes/31079-front-st/ 31079 Front St. Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 We offer knowledge and experience when it comes to insuring your dreams. An American Star Certified Agency for 5+ years.

Aflac (218) 421-5868 | www.aflac.com 302 E. Howard St. Hibbing, MN 55746 Offer Aflac to your employees. Aflac policies are 100% employee-paid. Companies make Aflac policies available to increase benefits options without impacting their bottom line.

Experienced Insurance Advisors (218) 421-5868 | www.experiencedinsuranceadvisors.com 302 E. Howard St. Hibbing, MN 55746 Experienced Insurance Advisors, a trusted leader, impeccable service & commitment to its clients. Nationally recognized consultants providing responsible education to both employers & employees.

Farmers Insurance - Tyler Monda Agency (218) 828-4488 https://agents.farmers.com/mn/ brainerd/tyler-monda 510 Laurel St, Brainerd, MN 56401 Local agency providing insurance education and solutions for your personal and professional needs.

First National Bank Insurance Services (218) 568-5800 www.fnbnorth.com 30886 2nd St PO Box 180 Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 We offer homeowners, automobile, commercial, recreational vehicle, watercraft, life & health insurance products. We offer a wide variety of competitive products to serve your needs.

Hanneken Insurance Agency (218) 829-3251 www.hannekeninsurance.com 1306 S 6th St, Brainerd, MN 56401 A locally owned, independent insurance agency that has served the lakes area since 1983. Visit us online or at one of our 4 local offices.

Integrated Insurance Agency (320) 232-9132 www.integratedinsuranceinc.com Little Falls, MN 56345 Independent insurance brokers offering medicare plans, individual & family health insurance, dental, vision, long term care, final expense & life insurance. Retiring soon? Call today.

Trinity Business Partners (218) 818-4400 www.trinitybusinesspartners.com Two locations: Baxter, MN 56425 & Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 A team of professionals specializing in employee benefits, individual/family life & health coverage, Medicare plans, long term care & final expense. Including human resources guidance & payroll/bookkeeping services. We put our client’s needs first.

Arrowwood Lodge at Brainerd Lakes (218) 822-5634 www.arrowwoodbrainerd.com 6967 Lake Forest Rd Baxter, MN 56472 Full-service hotel with 102 spacious rooms. Onsite Baxter's Bar and Grill, Paul Bunyan indoor waterpark, indoor/outdoor hot tub, meeting/banquet rooms, fitness center, arcade, outdoor recreation.

Bay View Lodge (218) 543-4182 www.bayviewcrosslake.com 12038 Harbor LN Crosslake, MN 56442 Enjoy a classic MN family resort on the beautiful Whitefish Chain. With a great sandy beach, activities, lake views, restaurants, shopping, fishing, and golf nearby.

Birch Bay RV Resort (218) 963-4488 www.birchbayrvresort.net 1497 Sandy Point Rd SW Nisswa, MN 56468 Family resort and RV Park on Agate Lake, SW of Nisswa. New RV park offers large FHU sites. Cabin rentals available.

Black Pine Beach Resort (218) 543-4714 www.blackpinebeach.com 10732 County Rd 16 Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 Your destination awaits, book your stay today at Black Pine Beach Resort! Located on the Whitefish Chain, families, couples, friends getaways are all welcome.

LODGING

Agate Lake Resort (218) 963-2224 www.agatelakeresort.com 9326 Agate Lake Rd Lake Shore, MN 56468 A quiet, clean, groomed, family resort on 23 acres with 11 modern cabins. We are close to many restaurants, bike trails, shopping, and other attractions.

Boyd Lodge (800) 450-2693 www.boydlodge.com 36539 Silver Peak Rd Crosslake, MN 56442 Premier family resort located on the Whitefish Chain. Enjoy total relaxation all year round. Cabins with full amenities, boat rental, sandy beach and outdoor pool.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

85


Business Directory

Breezy Point Resort (800) 432-3777 www.breezypointresort.com 9252 Breezy Point Dr Breezy Point, MN 56472 Located on Pelican Lake, Breezy Point Resort has 3 golf courses, 4 restaurants and over 250 lodging rooms with hotel rooms, condos and big cabins.

Campfire Bay Resort (218) 575-2432 www.campfirebayresort.com 31504 Azure Rd Cushing, MN 56443 Relaxing, fun, family/fishing resort on Fish Trap Lake. Sandy beach, organized activities. Charming lake level, 1-4 br units. Retreats and weddings.

Cozy Bay Resort (218) 829-6861 www.cozybay.com 23684 County Rd 4 Nisswa, MN 56468 Come relax at Cozy Bay Resort on Lake Edward. Whether you’re interested in cabins or camping, our family-friendly environment offers a perfectly peaceful Northwoods getaway.

Cragun's Resort (888) 873-0161 www.craguns.com 11000 Cragun's Dr Brainerd, MN 56401 Make family memories that will last a lifetime. Long sandy beaches, indoor and outdoor pools, golf, all the water sports and winter activities like snowmobiling.

Crow Wing Lake Campground (218) 829-6468 www.crowwingcamp.com 2393 Crow Wing Camp Rd Brainerd, MN 56401 100-site, all wooded, lakeside campground. Cement patios, picnic tables, fire pits, playground, frisbee golf, bankshot basketball, shuffle board, heated pool, dog wash station and park.

86

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Fiddlestix RV & Golf Resort (320) 676-3636 www.fiddlestixrv.com 1081 395th St, Isle, MN 56342 Family RV camping with amenities for all ages! 9 hole golf course, bar & restaurant, swimming pool, hot tub, etc. Come enjoy the great outdoors!

Fritz's Resort & Campground (218) 568-8988 www.fritzsresort.com 26483 State Highway 371 Nisswa, MN 56468 On Lake Edna across from the Paul Bunyan Trail. Clean, modern cabins, nicely wooded campsites, picnic table, fire rings & a sandy beach for swimming.

Grand View Lodge (218) 963-2234 www.grandviewlodge.com 23521 Nokomis Ave Nisswa, MN 56468 It is our mission to continue the legacy of a high standard of service and unique atmosphere that has been upheld for over 100 years.

Gull Four Seasons Resort (218) 963-7969 www.MNResortCabins.com 4132 St Columbo Rd Brainerd, MN 56401 New cabins! Affordable family resort. Gull Lake, great fishing, boat and pontoon rentals, indoor and outdoor pools, beach, reunion facilities, 1-5 bedroom condos and cabins.

Gull Lake Beach Resorts (218) 656-6965 www.gulllakebeachresorts.com 21831 Gull Lake Dr Nisswa, MN 56468 Nestled along Gull Lake’s shoreline, our cozy cabins make the perfect backdrop for four-season fun. We have everything you need for enjoying lake life!

Kavanaugh's Sylvan Lake Resort (800) 562-7061 www.kavanaughs.com 1685 Kavanaugh Dr East Gull Lake, MN 56401 50 deluxe units on beautiful Sylvan Lake in the heart of the Brainerd Lakes Area. Family owned and operated since 1969. Open year round.

North at Grand View Lodge (218) 963-2234 | www.grandviewlodge.com/stay/north 3480 Garden Cottage Dr Nisswa, MN 56468 North, Grand View's 60-room boutique hotel, features the latest in energy efficiency, guest comfort systems with adjustable lighting throughout, and modern furnishings.

Leisure Suites of Breezy Point (888) 651-5300 www.leisuresuites.com 30199 County Rd 4 Breezy Point, MN 56472 Leisure Suites, near Pelican Lake, offers everything from deluxe condos on the lake to motel rooms and suites nearby, in price ranges for everyone.

Pine Peaks Lodge and Suites (218) 692-7829 www.pinepeakscrosslake.com 14047 Swann Dr Crosslake, MN 56442 Located in the very heart of Minnesota's vacationland. Pine Peaks Lodge offers our guests superior lodging, with access to unlimited outdoor activities and recreational areas.

Madden's on Gull Lake (218) 829-2811 www.maddens.com 11266 Pine Beach Peninsula Brainerd, MN 56401 A favorite destination for family vacations, reunions, golf and spa getaways, corporate outings for 91 years. Madden's occupies 1,000 acres, miles of Gull Lake shoreline.

Shing Wako Resort (218) 765-3226 www.shingwako.com 24713 Co Rd 3 Merrifield, MN 56465 A fun and relaxing resort on Lake Edward. Relax, swim, fish, and play on our eleven acres. There is something for everyone!

Mission Beach Resort & Campground (218) 765-3447 www.missionbeachresort-camp. com 26847 County Rd 19 Merrifield, MN 56465 Relax & enjoy life's simpler pleasures in our campground, RV park or clean, rustic style cabins where you will find serenity in the north woods.

Niemeyer's Rugged River Resort (218) 829-4587 www.ruggedriverresort.com 12241 Stallman Rd Brainerd, MN 56401 A 100 acres resort nestled on the banks of the beautiful Mississippi River near Brainerd. Come and relax in the woods and on the water.

Woodland Beach Resort (218) 866-0771 www.woodlandbeachresort.com 15596 Woodland Beach Lane Deerwood, MN 56444 Two new cabins for 2021! Woodland Beach Resort is a family resort with 20 1-4 bedroom cabins located on Bay Lake, a 2,392 acre lake.

MEETING FACILITIES

Arrowwood Lodge at Brainerd Lakes (218) 822-5634 www.arrowwoodbrainerd.com 6967 Lake Forest Rd Baxter, MN 56472 Full-service hotel with 7,500 square feet of flexible spaces to accommodate groups up to 300 people. Award-winning staff to provide food & beverage needs.


Business Directory NONPROFITS

102.7 the Word & 104.3 the Pulse (218) 568-4422 www.theword.mn www.thepulse.mn PO Box 409 Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 102.7 The Word shares God's Word through teaching & talk programs along with Biblically based music. 104.3 The Pulse plays contemporary Christian music 24/7.

BLAEDC (218) 828-0096 www.growbrainerdlakes.org 224 West Washington St Brainerd, MN 56401 BLAEDC is a private non-profit organization with a mission is to expand business, build community, & grow jobs in Crow Wing County.

CBMC Northland- Brainerd Lakes Area (612) 816-1541 www.northland.cbmc.com 5116 W 96th St Bloomington, MN 55437 What: CBMC develops businessmen to be ambassadors for Christ and spiritual reproducers. How: Businessmen meeting in small peer advisory groups.

Central Minnesota Council, Boy Scouts of America (320) 251-3930 www.bsacmc.org 1191 Scout Dr Sartell, MN 56377 Scouting prepares youth ages 6 to 17 for successful futures through an exciting outdoor program that builds leadership skills, positive values and healthy habits.

Brainerd Community Action (218) 829-5278 | www.brainerdcommunity-action.org 321 S. 7th St, Suite 105 Brainerd, MN 56401 We partner with other organizations to build community, empower people to overcome adversity & promote self-sufficiency. We offer fiscal agency & provide community betterment services.

Deerwood Civic & Commerce (218) 534-2936 www.DeerwoodCommerce.org PO Box 422 Deerwood, MN 56444 Deerwood Civic and Commerce exists to meet the diverse and ever-changing needs of its membership and to promote growth/economic prosperity of greater Deerwood area.

Brainerd Elks Lodge #615 (218) 829-2643 www.brainerdelks.org 215 South 9th St Brainerd, MN 56401 Fraternal Order supporting local area for 118 years; charitable giving of $3.75 million to youth, veterans, community. Where members & guests gather socially. Membership 218-829-8538.

Initiative Foundation (877) 632-9255 | www.ifound.org 405 First St SE Little Falls, MN 56345 The Initiative Foundation builds stronger communities within the 14 counties of Central Minnesota by offering business loans, nonprofit grants, donor services and leadership training.

Bridges of Hope (218) 825-7682 www.bridgesofhopemn.org 2011 S. 6th St Brainerd, MN 56401 Faith-based 501c3 organization that serves as a safety-net in Crow Wing County & bordering communities by linking families & individuals to community supports & resources.

Interfaith Volunteers (218) 820-7454 www.interfaithvolunteers.org PO Box 2855, Baxter, MN 56425 We provide transportation and home modification services to senior citizens and people with disabilities, helping them to remain living safely and independently at home.

The Salvation Army (218) 232-2198 | www.SalvationArmyNorth.org/Brainerd 208 S 5th St, Brainerd, MN 56401 The Brainerd Salvation Army is a lifeline for thousands of people in Crow Wing County, providing food, clothing, shelter, youth programs, and other vital services.

OUTDOOR RECREATION

Boats & Beyond Rentals (218) 963-7700 | www.boatsandbeyondrentals.com Gull/Love Lake Marina; 19571 Love Lake Rd, Brainerd; Winter Office: 4758 County Rd. 77 Nisswa, MN 56468 All season rentals: pontoons, tritoons, ski boats, jet skis, fishing boats, snowmobiles and fishhouses. Private marina on Gull Lake or delivered to your lake!

Easy Riders Bicycle & Sport Shop (218) 829-5516 www.easyridersbikes.com 415 Washington St. Brainerd, MN 56401 Trek Specialized & BMX Bikes. Rossignol XC/Alpine skis. Burton snowboards. Skateboards & scooters. Certified service center. Moon_Tuned #BestRideBestGlide

Gull Lake Cruises (218) 825-2700 www.gulllakecruises.com 11000 Cragun's Dr Brainerd, MN 56401 Escape on the majestic waters of Gull Lake with Gull Lake Cruises. Day and evening, dining and sightseeing cruises, private charters for any occasion.

Hilmerson RV (320) 632-4065 www.hilmersonrv.com 14884 113th St Little Falls, MN 56345 Hilmerson RV is one of Minnesota's premier 5-Star consumer rated RV Dealerships. Sales department, parts & accessories store, service center, RV rentals, & storage center.

Lake Fun Rentals (218) 961-0000 www.LakeFunRentals.com 7993 Interlachen Rd Nisswa, MN 56468 Boat, pontoon and tritoon rentals. Brand new, top-notch equipment. Family owned/operated. Rent on Gull Lake or delivered throughout the Brainerd Lakes Area.

Lakes Country Triathlon www.lakescountrytriathlon.com P.O. Box 2711 Baxter, MN 56425 Join us for a race August 29, 2021 through the lakes and woods of Baxter! 1/4 mile swim, 14 mile bike, 3.2 mile run. The Lakes Country Triathlon is a great local race!

MN Backyard Birds (218) 838-4784 www.birdminnesota.com PO Box 765, Brainerd, MN 56401 Birdscaping and bird watching tours in the area. Attract and enjoy colorful songbirds to your backyard or take a tour to see unique birds.

Mount Ski Gull (218) 963-4353 www.mountskigull.com 9898 Cty Rd 77 SW Nisswa, MN 56468 Mount Ski Gull operates a non-profit facility to provide affordable outdoor programs and opportunities for families. Winter fun includes: skiing, snowboarding, and tubing!

Northland Arboretum (218) 829-8770 www.northlandarb.org 14250 Conservation Dr Brainerd, MN 56401 Nearly 500 acres of stunning nature reserve hosting a yearround 12-mile trail system, educational programming, and beautiful backdrops for weddings and events.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

87


Business Directory

S & W Bait (218) 829-7010 www.sandwbait.com 18900 S Highway 371 N. Brainerd, MN 56401 We offer a large variety of bait and tackle, fishing and fish house licenses. Everything needed for your fishing experience in the Brainerd Lakes Area.

PETS

Brainerd Animal Hospital (218) 829-5118 www.BrainerdAnimalHospital-PC.com 2720 Oak St Brainerd, MN 56401 Small animal medicine, surgery, and dentistry from experienced and caring staff. Grooming services available by appointment. After hours emergency care available

Cozy Home Pet Care (218) 828-2062 www.cozyhomepetcare.com 6036 Hay Creek Rd Fort Ripley, MN 56449 We are a professional dog and cat boarding daycare facility, owned by a vet technician. We have in our home options, luxury suites and traditional.

Crosslake Veterinary Hospital (218) 692-4400 www.crosslakevet.com 35668 Country Rd 3 Crosslake, MN 56442 Crosslake Veterinary Hospital is a full service hospital providing the highest level of veterinary medicine along with friendly and compassionate service. Emergency services available.

Lakeland Veterinary Hospital (218) 829-1709 www.lakelandvet.net 7372 Woida Rd Baxter, MN 56425 Lakeland Veterinary Hospital is an AAHA accredited, small animal practice that offers boarding and grooming services. AAHA holds us to the highest quality medical standards.

88

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Northern Hope Veterinary Care Dr. Sara Hooge, DVM, CVA, CVH (218) 746-4000 | www.hopevet.care 775 Buckskin Ave W, Suite 2 Pillager, MN 56473 Individualized veterinary services specifically for your pet's needs, including surgery, dental, sick/ annual exams, titers, vaccination, acupuncture, holistic therapies, and preventative care.

Edina Realty (218) 828-7000 www.EdinaRealty.com/office/ brainerdbaxter#1 15354 Dellwood Dr, Brainerd, MN 56401 Minnesota & the Brainerd Lakes Area #1 real estate company. Featuring all real estate services including sales, rentals, mortgages, title & insurance. Working for you!

Northland Pet Lodge (218) 692-4364 www.northlandpetlodge.com 34420 County Rd 3 Crosslake, MN 56642 The Brainerd Lakes Area premier pet resort providing cat and dog boarding, doggy daycare, obedience training, grooming, pet food/supplies and professionally installed underground fencing.

Ethan Lehman - Weichert, Realtors (218) 232-8763 www.ELehmanSells.com 17122 MN-371 N. Brainerd, MN 56401 List With Lehman. Your Brainerd Lakes Area Realtor. My team makes the home selling process feel easy, because we put in the hard work.

Pampered Pets Boarding and Daycare (218) 454-0835 www.pamperedpetsmn.com 8301 Industrial Park Rd Baxter, MN 56425 Boarding should be a vacation for your pet. Luxury kennels, supervised play with included daycare and friendly staff, ensure a happy well cared for pet.

Greater Lakes Association of Realtors (GLAR) (218) 828-4567 www.greaterlakesrealtors.com 15344 Pearl Dr Baxter, MN 56425 Local knowledge. Expert advice. Trusted professional with strict code of ethics. That’s what you get when you work with a REALTOR®. That’s Who We R.

The Animal House (218) 961-7387 www.nisswapets.com 24463 Hazelwood Dr Nisswa, MN 56468 Your pet deserves only the best for their food, supplies and wellness products. We have everything you need to give your pet a happy life.

Jacob Hanson | Edina Realty (218) 821-1135 | www.jacobhanson.edinarealty.com 15354 Dellwood Dr, STE 100 Baxter, MN 56425 Lakes, land, or a new home, the Brainerd Lakes Area is the best place to be. We call it home and hope you do too!

REAL ESTATE

Amy Price, Realtor® Realty Group (218) 821-6760 www.amypriceisright.com 13794 Bluestem Ct. Baxter, MN 56425 Get the right PRICE with an experienced, honest, homegrown Realtor. Providing above-and-beyond service, whether you're selling/buying a lot or a lake home!

Kurilla Real Estate Ltd. Nisswa (218) 963-7333 www.kurilla.com 23590 Smiley Rd Nisswa, MN 56468 Specializing in lake shore properties throughout the beautiful Brainerd Lakes Area.

LakePlace.com (218) 692-6003 www.lakeplace.com 36820 CR 66 Crosslake, MN 56442 Expert professionals in the Lake Shore market. This is where dreams come true and lifelong friends are made. Buying or selling, let us help!

Lakes Area Surveying (218) 961-0090 www.lakesareasurveying.com 24314 Smiley Rd, Suite C Nisswa, MN 56468 Lakes Area Surveying. Your land surveying experts that specialize in residential and commercial land surveys.

Lakes Area Title Services (218) 692-1473 www.lakesareatitle.com 35756 Allen Ave Crosslake, MN 56442 A locally owned & operated full service title company serving the entire Brainerd lakes area. Located in Crosslake Town Square.

Positive Realty and Inv Inc (218) 829-1777 www.PositiveRealty.com 15244 State Hwy 371 Baxter, MN 56425 Positive Realty is locally owned and operated with offices in Brainerd/Baxter and Nisswa. "Serving the Lakes Area with Integrity since 1979".

Pueringer Investments (320) 266-1197 www.BrainerdRentalProperties.com 616 1/2 Front St Brainerd, MN 56401 The #1 source for commercial, residential & office space in the Brainerd Lakes Area. Call us for all your rental property needs.


Business Directory

Real Property Management Deluxe (218) 454-RENT www.rpmdeluxe.com 7153 Forthun Rd, Suite 140 Baxter, MN 56425 Real Property Management Deluxe provides professional property management services including communication, marketing, advertising, full-service leasing, thorough tenant screening, maintenance, comprehensive accounting. We protect your investment.

Sue Lehman, Realtor® Weichert Realtors, Tower Properties (218) 838-4159 www.SueLehmanSells.com 17122 Hwy 371 N Brainerd, MN 56401 "Hometown service with results!" Sue is a full-time agent with experience & knowledge paired with great service & attention to detail!

Woods to Water Real Estate (218) 656-2787 www.woodstowatermn.com 25496 Murray Rd Nisswa, MN 56468 MN Real Estate, vacation rentals & property management. Founded on passion for true Northern Minnesota living. Wherever your “Up North” is, we’ve got you covered.

RETAIL & SHOPPING

Associates in Eyecare (218) 829-1789 www.associatesineyecaremn.com 14453 Edgewood Dr Baxter, MN 56425 We have been providing quality eyecare in the Brainerd Lakes area for over 25 years. Stop by to see our great selection of designer eyewear.

Bargains on Seventh (218) 829-8822 | www.facebook. com/pages/Bargains-On7th/166214196737440 211 S 7th St, Brainerd, MN 56401 The number one consignment shop for name brand clothing. Surrounded by antiques, furniture, glassware, and decorative items for house or cabin. M-F 9:30-5:30 Sat 9:30-5:00

Christmas Point (218) 828-0603 www.christmaspoint.com 14803 Edgewood Dr. Baxter, MN 56425 Christmas Point is locally owned and family operated. With 26,000 square feet we provide our customers with a one of a kind shopping experience.

College Square (218) 454-1642 www.qsquares.com 8218 Highland Scenic Rd Baxter, MN 56425 College Square is located near CLC. Amenities include gasoline, gourmet coffee, fresh foods, and car wash. Find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Common Goods Thrift Store (218) 824-0923 Baxter, (218) 692-7682 Crosslake www.commongoodsmn.org 16227 State Highway 371 Brainerd, MN 56401 A high-end thrift store with locations in Baxter and Crosslake. Open Monday-Saturday 9:00am - 5:00pm

Cub Foods (218) 828-4601 www.cub.com 14133 Edgewood Dr Baxter, MN 56425 Locally owned and newly remodeled full-service grocery store with complete deli, bakery, and pharmacy. Numerous items available for catered events: cake, flowers, food and more!

Curated Closet (320) 309-8071 www.curatedclosetco.com Baxter, MN Your complete wardrobe resource specializing in custom menswear & a unique collection of women & children’s styles. Services include closet edits, 1:1 consultations & custom fittings.

Design Consign (218) 824-0712 www.DesignConsignMN.com 201 S 6th St Brainerd, MN 56401 We offer an ever-changing variety of high quality consignment furnishings, antiques & much more! New inventory daily! We make selling simple, consignments always welcome.

Dragon Forge Games (218) 454-3866 www.dragonforgegames.net 217 S 8th St Brainerd, MN 56401 Tabletop games, accessories and tournaments.

Emily's Books (218) 825-0495 | www.facebook. com/emilysusedbooks 18318 State Hwy. 371 Brainerd, MN 56401 'We are bigger than we look!'' A total of six rooms and a loft with over 100,000 well organized books and a nice friendly staff!

Loco Espress Coffee House and Boutique (218) 330-4335 www.locoespress@hotmail.com 1521 Northern Pacific Rd Brainerd, MN 56401 Loco Espress is a coffee and tea house/boutique, located in the historical Northern Pacific RailRd Center, which offers a unique experience all around.

Morey's Seafood Markets (218) 829-8248 www.moreysmarkets.com 15811 Audubon Way Baxter, MN 56425 Two retail locations! Baxter and Motley. Gourmet grocery, fish, seafood, gifts and more! Ready to eat snacks! Famous smoked fish! Baxter summer lunch.

Music General (218) 829-0076 www.musicgeneral.com 416 S 7th St Brainerd, MN 56401 Music General offers audio/visual/lighting sales, service and installation. Our award-winning dance studio offers education in all genres of dance.

Nitro Square (218) 454-1642 www.qsquares.com 18198 State Hwy 371 Brainerd, MN 56401 Nitro Square sits at the entrance of BIR. Amenities include premium gasoline, alcohol, and fresh foods. Before race day, call to pre-order your racing fuels.

North Country Floral (218) 825-0522 www.northcountryfloralmn.com 307 NW 6th St Brainerd, MN 56401 We are your locally owned floral shop. For 25 years, we've provided arrangements for birthdays, funerals, weddings, anniversaries, holidays, special occasions, and more.

Open City Thrift (218) 454-1665 www.facebook.com/opencitythrift 214 S 7th St Brainerd, MN 56401 Open City Thrift is a fiercely local resale store in Downtown Brainerd. We offer pre-loved clothing, accessories, shoes, and vinyl records. Come thrift with us!

Party Time Rental (218) 829-6300 www.partytimerentalmn.com 4750 White Gables Rd Brainerd, MN 56401 Party Time Rental is BLA's resource for canopies, tents, tables/chairs and more for every occasion big or small. Providing quality product and excellent service!

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

89


Business Directory

Party World (218) 828-2127 www.PartyWorldBrainerd.com 15867 Edgewood Dr Baxter, MN 56425 Tents and tables, costumes and balloons - it's not a party without Party World!! For all your special event's needs!

Pine Square (218) 454-1642 www.qsquares.com 3325 Oak St Brainerd, MN 56401 Pine Square is located on the corner of Highway 18 and Oak St. Amenities include gasoline, alcohol, hunting/fishing licenses, live bait/tackle, car wash, and refreshments.

Supervalu (218) 568-5001 www.pequotlakessupervalu.com 30581 Patriot Ave Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 We offer a full service deli with seating area & WiFi, groceries, fresh produce, prime cuts of meat, & gas station for a onestop shop.

Nisswa Marine (218) 963-2292 www.nisswamarine.com 24238 Smiley Rd Nisswa, MN 56468 We are your full-service dealer, including sales, service, storage, and rentals. Offering quality boat lines and superior service.

The Chocolate Ox (218) 963-4443 | (218) 967-8800 www.thechocolateox.com 25452 Main St & Grand View Lodge, Nisswa, MN 56468 Where every aisle is a candy aisle. 28 ice cream flavors, lots of chocolate, nostalgic candies, & much more!

Whitefish Chain Yacht Club (612) 518-3935 www.wcyc.info PO Box 377 Crosslake, MN 56442 WCYC promotes boating and water safety for lake residents and visitors on the beautiful Whitefish Chain. Visit www. wcyc.info to learn more and join our organization.

TRANSPORTATION

Purple Fern Bath Company (218) 454-1699 www.purplefernbath.com 719 Laurel St Brainerd, MN 56401 Bath boutique featuring handmade bath and body goods. Curated selection of unique gifts, soaps, lotions, candles and more.

Raceway Square (218) 454-1642 www.qsquares.com 17977 MN-371 and Gull Dam Rd Brainerd, MN 56401 Raceway Square is located on southbound 371. Amenities include gasoline, alcohol, gourmet coffee, live bait/tackle, & fresh foods. Find us on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram.

Schaefer's Foods (218) 963-2265 www.SchaefersFoods.com Highway 371, 23962 Smiley Rd Nisswa, MN 56468 Schaefer’s Foods offers top-quality meats, bakery, produce and groceries and a home-style deli. Our friendly staff, carry-out and great selection make us a local favorite!

90

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

D.V. Aviation Inc. dba "NorthPoint Aviation" (218) 829-3398 www.northpointaviation.net 16384 Airport Rd, Suite #8 Brainerd, MN 56401 NorthPoint Aviation, a full service Fixed Base Operation (FBO) providing professional flight training, aircraft sales and acquisition services, aircraft management, aircraft maintenance and avionics services.

Your Boat Club (612) 208-1800 www.yourboatclub.com 8089 Lost Lake Rd Lake Shore, MN 56468 36624 Co Rd 66 Crosslake, MN 56442 The smartest way to boat! Located on Gull Lake & Crosslake.

WORSHIP & FAITH

WATER SPORTS

Custom Boat Lift Vinyl (218) 562-5330 www.customboatliftvinyl.com 31329 Cherokee Trail Breezy Point, MN 56472 Custom vinyl tops for all makes and models of boat lifts. Variety of materials and colors.

Gull Lake Sailing School (612) 750-7003 | www.glyc.com 19696 Love Lake Rd Brainerd, MN 56401 We teach youth sailing, boat safety & expand their enjoyment of being on the water. Founded in 1947 & home to the BHS sailing team.

Christ Lutheran Church and Little Lambs Preschool (218) 829-4105 www.christbaxter.com 13815 Cherrywood Dr. Baxter, MN 56425 Christ Lutheran (WELS) & Little Lambs Preschool in Baxter invites you to worship each Sunday at 9:00am either in-person or online at www.christbaxter.com.

Crosslake Presbyterian Church (218) 692-4769 www.crosslakepres.org 14444 Daggett Pine Rd Crosslake, MN 56442 An ecumenical congregation who welcomes you to worship with us in person or online on Sunday mornings. Please visit our website for up-to-date details.

Heritage Church (218) 829-3209 www.iamheritage.org 13242 Berrywood Dr Baxter, MN 56425 Heritage Church. Loving one more to Jesus & encouraging one another to grow! Gatherings: Wednesday, 6:30PM; Sundays: 9am & 10:45am. Youth & children! Coffee bar!

Lakewood Evangelical Free Church (218) 829-5271 www.lakewoodfc.com 6284 Fairview Rd Baxter, MN 56425 Conveniently located just off Highway 210, one mile west of 371. Sunday services are at 9:00 and 10:30 AM. Our 10:30 service is Live Streamed.

Pequot Lakes Baptist Church (218) 568-4794 www.plbconline.com 30050 Rasmussen Rd Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 We are a community of believers in Jesus Christ. Please join us for Sunday worship at 9:30 am -- children's church and nursery are available.

The Log Church (218) 692-4141 www.crosslakeefc.org 37218 County Rd 66 Crosslake, MN 56442 Sunday Worship Service (Summer Hours) 9:00 and 10:30 am in person or on-line. We are a safe place to know, love and follow Jesus.

Zion Lutheran Church (218) 829-4317 www.zionbrainerd.org 220 North 8th St Brainerd, MN 56401 We believe and teach that the Bible is the true and unerring Word of God. We strive to live lives of love for Jesus' sake.


Work where you play. Start your career today! Now Hiring

clowstamping.com • (218) 765-3111



Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.