GIRLFRIEND GETAWAY FUN IN THE BRAINERD LAKES AREA

Anyone who is routinely caught up the hectic pace of working 9-5 knows that there is nothing more revitalizing than a weekend of fun with the besties. For those who are more adventurous, an action-packed weekend of water sports is the perfect fit while others may crave the peace and tranquility of shopping, yoga and pampering. Whatever your style or preference, the “perfect” girlfriend getaway is one filled with laughter, fun and new experiences.

The Olde Open Window: This charming and unique retail business offers "Inspiration for Your Home, Body & Soul." The Olde Open Window features vintageinspired clothing, primitives, accessories, 1803 Soy Candles & Melts and locally handmade unique jewelry. This antiques and vintage gift shop has become a destination for visitors, and owner Lynda Mettler is proud to offer a “store within a store” with the addition of cabin décor accents from Cozy Cabin. The Olde Open Window is located at 604 Laurel Street in the heart of downtown Brainerd.

Madden's on Gull Lake: Looking for some “down time” to go along with your “fun time?” Guests to this premier lakes area resort can indulge in superb dining and wines or play some of the finest golf in Minnesota; either way a visit to Madden's is a “must do” when visiting the Brainerd Lakes Area. But this visit wouldn't be complete without a stop at The Spa at Madden's for an afternoon of relaxation and pampering. With a stunning lake view and relaxing plantation-style architecture just a few feet from Gull Lake, The Spa at Madden's is the destination spa of choice, offering the entire relaxation services guest expect from a luxury resort. Their unique menu of spa services includes massage, facial treatments, manicures and pedicures. To book your girlfriend spa getaway, go here: http://www.maddens.com/the-spa-at-maddens.html

Water Fun: The saying, “there’s something in the water” takes on a whole new meaning in the Brainerd Lakes Area. If your girlfriend getaway includes a mission to enjoy water fun and lots of sun―you are in luck. Businesses like Boats & Beyond Rentals and Lake Fun Rentals will help to make lake time even more enjoyable. If you are in the mood for something a little mellower, paddleboarding is a peaceful and tranquil water sport that is a great way to have fun and burn some calories! If a lazy day of standup paddleboarding sounds appealing, check out local businesses like MnSurf.com and PowerPaddleMn.com for everything from lessons for paddleboard yoga to gear rental.

Go Wild! If your idea of fun includes riding a camel, holding colorful parakeets and hand-feeding a charming giraffe named Puzzles, Safari North Wildlife Park needs to be added to your getaway weekend itinerary. Open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week, Safari North boasts amazing exhibits including, striped hyenas, red kangaroos, macaws, African porcupines, lynx, a black spotted leopard, coatimundi, nigali antelope, bears, zebras, water buffalo, fallow deer, rheas and much more. New to the park this year is Gator Falls; an exciting chance to see one of the largest exhibits of alligators in the Midwest. So if your getaway group is comfortable keeping company with exotic furry and feathered friends, Safari North Wildlife Park is a great place to create some memorable experiences. To learn more about this wildlife park, visit them on the web at: http://safarinorth.com/plan-a-visit.html

Whether you want to sit, relax and unwind or dive into the culture and outdoor recreation, the Brainerd Lakes Area has many opportunities for decompressing with your gal pals. [AWM]