Minnesota dubs itself the Land of 10,000 Lakes, and in the Brainerd area alone you'll find close to 450 of them. That helps explain why this area 2.5 hours from the Twin Cities has been a vacation hotspot for more than a century.
Visitors can find indoor water parks, go-carts and mini-golf, trendy restaurants, bike trails, mountain biking, and even a nationally renowned racetrack. Most, though -- especially kids -- tend to crave the most old-fashioned kind of fun.
Jump off floating trampolines. Paddle alongside loons. Bike past pines and shimmering lakes. Reel in sunfish from the dock or follow a guide to find a prized walleye. It's all about the water during Minnesota's summer months.
There are close to 100 resorts and hotels in the area, mostly clustered around Gull Lake north of Brainerd and along the Whitefish Chain of Lakes near Pequot Lakes and Crosslake. The variety of lodging makes it easy to find the right fit, from cozy classic beachfront cabins to historic lodges, spacious condos, and luxury homes.
Have the kids watch for tall-tale heroes Paul Bunyan and Babe his Big Blue Ox. Their legend looms large in these pine forests. Pose in Paul's lap and pick up brochures and maps at the Visitor's Center south of Brainerd on Highway 371. Then keep your eyes open as you cross the Mississippi River and explore lake country's small towns. (Hint: Look for Paul's giant bobber in Pequot Lakes and his face on a totem pole in Nisswa.)
An even better surprise: Let a 42-foot tall Paul Bunyan greet kids by name at nostalgic Paul Bunyan Land.
There is plenty to do throughout the region. Just leave time to cannonball into a lake, dig in the sand and drop a line at sunset as loon calls ripple across the water.
Brainerd Lakes, Minn. Family Vacations
Brainerd Lakes, Minn. Family Vacations
Families will love:
- An easy drive from the Twin Cities for a rustic getaway
- Close to 450 lakes to explore, with close to 100 resorts in which to stay
- Old-fashioned, outdoor fun where families can bond
Written by Lisa Meyers McClintick
Read more about Brainerd Lakes, Minn. Attractions
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