Pequot Lakes Area Visitor Guide

Cover Photo By BlazeAir

EXPLORE PEQUOT LAKES • VISITORS GUIDE 2020 – 2021

Pequot Lakes A Place to call home.

Sweet

Confections: Curing Your

Sweet Tooth One Treat at a Time PEQUOTLAKES.COM

PequotLakes.com

Meet Me at the Lake A TIMELESS TRADITION

THE CREDITS BRAINERD LAKES CHAMBER PRESIDENT Matt Kilian BRAINERD LAKES CHAMBER STAFF Nicole Converse, Paula Davis, Colleen Dols, Sue Galligan, Mary Gottsch, Maddie Heino, Jenna Hollingsworth, Donna Houchin, Melanie Knosalla, Brian Lehman, Cindy Myogeto, Trisha Reilley, Jess Vogt, Katie Wasserman EDITORIAL CONTENT Trisha Reilley Tourism Marketing Manager GRAPHIC ARTS Donna Houchin 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, Big Axe Brewery, BlazeAir, Brainerd International Raceway, Brainerd Zip Line Tour, Garret Christopherson, Comfort Suites, Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake, Crossing Arts Alliance, Cuyuna.com, Grand View Lodge & Resort, Jack Pine Brewery, Jim Bergquist, Lakes Area Music Festival, Lakes Jam, Anne Lenzini, Luminous Prints Photography, Madden’s Resort on Gull Lake, Matthew R. Perrine, Matt Kennedy, Nelson Photo Company, Tricia Plaetzer, Quinn and Kevin Stull, Roundhouse Brewery, Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge, Angel Talmantes, Wes Hanson Builders, Widseth Smith Nolting PEQUOT LAKES COVER PHOTO BY BLAZEAIR BlazeAir | BlazeAirMN.com

A Premier Aerial Production Company in the Brainerd Lakes Area.

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

Let us help you plan your next vacation. We'll have you exploring like a local.

Stay Connected

EMAIL: Info@ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

FACEBOOK: Explore Brainerd Lakes

INSTAGRAM: @BrainerdLakes

TWITTER: @BrainerdLakes

Win

Big!

Follow Explore Brainerd Lakes on Facebook for the chance to win vacation swag throughout the year.

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. ©2020 Brainerd Lakes Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved.

Pequot Lakes Welcome Center 31095 Government Drive Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 (218) 568-8911 | (800) 950-0291 PequotLakes.com

Crosslake Welcome Center County Road 3 and Route 66 Crosslake, MN 56442 (218) 692-4027 Crosslake.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.

Immerse Yourself in Lake Culture

Read the Local Newspaper

o t n I e v i D ! e r u t l u C e k a L Pick up the local newspaper www.BrainerdDispatch.com

5518 Lakers Lane, Nisswa

Acupuncture

Functional Chiropractic Neurologists

Massage

Drs. Sara & TJ Graber

Danette Vanderbeek, Acupuncturist

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

6 | ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

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.

• Successfully treated Advanced Neurological Conditions: Traumatic Brain Injuries (Concussions), Seizures, Migraines, POTS, Strokes, children body/behavior dyregulation.

• Board Certified Functional Chiropractic Neurologist • Certifications in Pediatrics Over 20 years combined experience

218-232-3178 northernhopefnc@gmail.com

Cassandra Holtz

• Certified Massage Therapist • Certified Cupping Technician

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 minute 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

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

GOLF

NISSWA MINNESOTA

SPA

FAMILY FUN

RESTAURANTS

POOL

BEACH

GRANDVIEWLODGE.COM

10

Our Communities

14

12

Photo By Matthew R. Perrine

Lodging

Meet Me at the Lake, 14 Lodging Directory, 26

30

Family Activities

Get Your Adrenaline Revving, 30

34

40

45

42

50

53

Photo By Tricia Pleatzer

72 79

Food & Drink

Sweet Confections, 52 Sip Like a Local, 56 Food & Drink Directory, 58

Art, Culture & Music

Shopping & Retail

68

Home & Cabin

8 Things to Consider When Buying a Lake Home, 68

Relocation

Photo By Rob Fitzsimmons, The Crossing Arts Alliance

Outdoor Adventures

Off the Beaten Path, 46 Your Outdoor Adventure Awaits in Cuyuna, Pg 48

64

Get Your Paddle On, 40 Answering the Call of the Loon, 42

Golf Directory, 51

52 64 66

On the Water

Golf

Local Events

Lakes Jam, 35 Signature Events, 36 Event Directory, 38

A Place to Call Home: Relocating to the Brainerd Lakes, 72

Business Directory

It’s a pleasure to come to work and know you’re at an organization that values professionalism.

— Jackie Bruns, 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

BRAINERD / BAXTER

Welcome to the

Brainerd Lakes Area We’re a region made up of several communities: Brainerd/Baxter, Crosslake, Cuyuna Lakes, Pequot Lakes, and Nisswa. Each its own character and charm.

Yet we’re connected by abundant resources, strong businesses, and the spirit of our people.

COME EXPLORE WITH US

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 over 65 years.

• Brainerd Zip Line Tour

Add adventure to your vacation by trying the 7-line Brainerd Zip Line Tour and 50 foot free fall experience. It’s the best bird’s eye view of the Brainerd Lakes and Gull Lake.

• Downtown Brainerd

Walk downtown Brainerd to find specialty shops and restaurants. Look for the YOU BETCHA mural by the Crossing Arts Alliance and pose for a fun selfie.

• Safari North Zoo

Photo Courtesy Cragun's Resort on Gull Lake

Families will love seeing the variety of animals and interactive experiences Safari North offers. Feed a giraffe, ride a camel, and check out the parakeet landing exhibit.

Enjoy the playground and barn yard petting area.

hang out in the clouds, Brainerd zip Line Tour Photo Courtesy Brainerd Zip Line Tour

O U R CO M M U NIT IES

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.

• Trailside Park

Trails • Skiing • Nature • Weddings • Fun! northlandarb.org | 14250 Conservation Drive, Brainerd, MN | 218-829-8770

Spend some time at Trailside Park, in the heart of downtown and connected right to the Paul Bunyan Trail. Enjoy walking paths, the Pequot Lakes Chamber Welcome Center, the Adams family playground, and the serene Dru Sjodin Memorial Garden.

• Bobber Park

Visit the Cole Memorial building and museum, which was part of President Roosevelt’s New Deal and registered on the National Registry of Historic Places; take a picture next to Paul Bunyan’s oversized log chair; and see the iconic bobber water tower.

Did you know?

Built in 1960, the Pequot Lakes Bobber Water Tower stands 106 feet tall!

Since 1951, Hilltop Camper and RV has offered the Highest Quality RVs on the Market BRANDS WE CARRY:

HilltopCamper.com

Hwy 371 Brainerd/Baxter • 218-829-3695 ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 11

O UR COMMUNI TI E S

CROSSLAKE

CUYUNA LAKES

NISSWA

Spend the day boating on 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 f ind one-of-a-kind clothing and home décor.

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 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.

• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Campground

Get an up-close look at a historical engineering marvel at the Pine River dam near the entrance of the campground. Visit the Linda Ulland Memorial Garden and Learning Center adjacent to the campground’s ranger station.

• Crosslake Town Square

Walk the Crosslake Town Square and find shops, restaurants, and free music concerts every Saturday night during the summer.

• Croft Mine Historical Park

Explore a guided simulated underground mining tour of the Cuyuna Iron Range mining days.

• SOO Line Depot Museum

Visit the historic Soo Line Depot with artifacts, photos, and documents depicting life on the Cuyuna Iron Range in the early 1900s.

• Memorial Park

Spend the day at Memorial Park near downtown Crosby on Serpent Lake and enjoy camping, a swimming beach, and a large playground.

• Historic Log Village

See how pioneers lived at the turn of the century at the Crosslake Historical Society’s pioneer village just across the street from the campground.

Cuyuna Mine Lake Photo By Matthew R. Perrine

With easy access to golf, the Gull Chain of Lakes, skiing, snowmobiling, and shopping, you’ll find something to do in all four seasons.

• Nisswa Turtle Races

Every Wednesday from June 3 to August 19, hundreds of people gather in downtown Nisswa at the turtle track to race turtles. Races are a 57year tradition in Nisswa and something your family won’t forget.

• Nisswa Area Historical Society

Enjoy a self-guided tour of a pioneer village and get a glimpse of life in the early 1900s.

• Mount Ski Gull

Don’t hibernate when the snow flies. Fly down the longest tubing hill in Minnesota, jump some rails on the terrain park, and shred the powder on of the ski runs.

O U R CO M M U NIT IES

Holistic Pet Care We Compliment Your Current Veterinary Care

Babe the Blue Ox loves exploring almost as much as he loves our visitors. Stop in to our Welcome Center (7393 State Highway 371), buy a Babe plush, and include him in some of your vacation photos. Tag Explore Brainerd Lakes on social media (facebook and Instagram) to be featured, and for a chance to win prizes.

Animal Chiropractic

Veterinary Acupuncture & Herbal Therapy

Add a holistic approach to your pet’s health with an assessment

by Dr. Sara Graber, Certified Animal Chiropractor specializing in Neurology.

A skilled veterinarian, certified in acupuncture and herbal medicine, specializing in treating chronic conditions, osteoarthritis, pain, geriatric and many other medical conditions.

DR. SARA GRABER

320-290-6768 (DIRECT)

Appointments: 218-454-0835

8301 Industrial Park Rd. S., Baxter

DR. SARA HOOGE

218-821-5835 (DIRECT)

Both located inside Ask about additional locations.

x O e u l B e h t e b Ba INSTAGRAM @Brainerd Lakes

FACEBOOK @Explore Brainerd Lakes ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 13

Photo Courtesy Anne Lenzini, Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge

me at the

Lake

A Timeless Tradition

For many of us, heading Up North is a way of life—a tradition carried down from generation to generation. Families from all over travel to their favorite vacation place year-after-year to make memories. It’s so engrained in us that Up North is more than a direction; it’s a state of mind. These summer vacations shape who we are, and for some, it changes their lives. We have a rich history as a vacation destination; you’ll find hundreds of stories of families making timeless memories at the lake.

75 years

& counting

Monica Bieter is the longest returning guest—75 years and counting—at Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge.

121% WE GIVE

DELIVERING

A B OV E & B E YO N D C21’s LOCALLY-OWNED real estate roots go back to 1946 in the Lakes Area. That means committment. Our agents are dedicated, hard-working and knowledgeable. When buying or selling in the Lakes Area, look to

the RealtorsÂŽ who give 121% and believe in going above & beyond.

C21Brainerd.com

%UDLQHUG 5HDOW\ ,QF Recurrent Winner of the Quality Service Award

Each office is independently owned and operated.

218.829.2222

BAXTER 14391 Edgewood Dr PILLAGER 649 Pillsbury St N

LODG IN G

BAY VIEW LODGE: QUINN CARLSON AND KEVIN STULL It was 1975 when Quinn Carlson and Kevin Stull met. Not that they remember; they were just infants. Their parents Larry and Linda Stull and Dave and Jill Carlson had already been coming to Bay View Lodge the same week (on Rush Lake, which is part of the Whitefish Chain of Lakes in Crosslake, MN) for decades and were friends. “Bay View provided the opportunity for us to grow up together, if only for a week a year,” Kevin affectionately said.

Photo Courtesy Quinn & Kevin Stull, Bay View Lodge

Each year when Quinn and Kevin saw each other, it was like no time had passed. They picked up where the previous year left off and enjoyed the resort camaraderie: volleyball games, swimming, tubing, campfires, and potlucks.

Kids and adults of all ages would hang out at the campfire, sometimes until the sun came up.

As Quinn and Kevin got a little older, they became each other’s summer crush. “She was the only girl my age who wasn’t family, and she made me nervous. She was beautiful and intimidating. We

It started off for the week we were at Bay View and grew from there. would play volleyball after dinner, and she was really good,” Kevin amuses. “Kevin is a good storyteller and has the type of personality that attracts people to him. I had a crush on him when I was 15 and he was 16,” Quinn remembers. “It started off for the week we were at Bay View and grew from there.”

Knowing each other’s families and growing up together made it feel natural.

Overlooking rush Lake

The years passed and Kevin and Quinn went off to college. They stayed in touch through their Bay View connection. It was after one of their phone calls that Quinn decided to move back to Minnesota to be closer to Kevin. Quinn graduated college December [right before Christmas], and their first date was Christmas Day (night) in 1998. Quinn and Kevin were engaged in 2001 and married in 2003. Now, they continue their tradition of spending a week at Bay View Resort with their two children and their extended families.

BREEZY POINT RESORT: MAREN SYVERSON BARONE AND FAMILY When Maren Syverson Barone was a kid, she vacationed with her parents and siblings near her mother’s hometown of Detroit Lakes. But as Kenneth and Ingeborg’s 6 children grew into adulthood, they moved the family vacations around the

Photo Courtesy Quinn & Kevin Stull, Bay View Lodge

Midwest as some of Maren’s siblings moved out-of-state—trying to find somewhere halfway for everyone.

Eventually all of Maren’s siblings moved back to their Minnesota roots. It was time to bring the family vacations back to Minnesota, too.

They chose Breezy Point Resort for the easy drive north and its amenities. Breezy Point made a lasting impression because that first visit was 29 years ago. They’ve been coming back the same week in July ever since.

When the Syverson family first came to Breezy Point, they rented 6 rooms.

Maren recalls how all the young kids loved it. “My dad would spend hours hooking worms and unhooking sunnies [for his grandkids]”, she recalls. The Lodge Apartments gave them direct access to Pelican Lake, plus a grassy area between the rentals and the beach to play yard games. “We always have a come and go breakfast starting at 7:00 a.m. in my room that often lasts until lunch. It’s a great time to catch

Breezy Point Resort

Photo By BlazeAir, Breezy Point Resort

Photo By BlazeAir, Breezy Point Resort

LODG IN G

up with everyone’s daily activities [of which there are many],” said Maren.

“There’s shopping in Nisswa, Pequot Lakes, Crosslake, and Brainerd/ Baxter. There’s Pirate’s Cove & Billy Bones Raceway. And there’s a lot of golf. We rent bicycles and bike the Paul Bunyan Trail. On rainy days, we take in a movie or the waterpark at the Three Bear Waterpark at the Holiday Inn Express.”

Maren and her siblings carry on the tradition that their parents started. And their family continues to grow. This year there will be 17 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren and even one greatgreat grandchild (on the way). In July, they’ll fill 19 rooms and have a total of 65 people counting spouses.

Family comes from Minnesota, Texas, Iowa, Pennsylvania, and Ontario, Canada. For the Syverson family, Breezy Point Resort provides the perfect backdrop to come together and celebrate family.

RUTTGER’S BAY LAKE LODGE: MONICA BIETER AND FAMILY Monica Bieter knows tradition.

She has been coming to Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge for 75 years consecutively. She’s their longest returning guest. Though how her family first discovered Ruttger’s was a coincidence and a bit out of desperation.

In 1944, Cy and Ann Michael loaded their two daughters, Monica and Nancy, in the car for an Up North vacation. Back then, it was a 4-hour drive from St. Paul on one lane roads—some of which were dirt.

The cabin was in disrepair, and the lake was full of weeds. Not wanting to stay in this crummy cabin, they drove around to see if they could find something else. They pulled into Ruttger’s and thought, “hey, this looks nice.” Monica’s dad headed into the main lodge to see about renting a cabin. Everyone was eager about the prospect of staying there instead. “My dad could always make everything work; he could always fix everything. I was shocked—shocked—when he couldn’t get us in! [But] He made a reservation for us the next year [1945],” Monica remembers. “And then we came forever.”

Monica’s aunts and uncles were soon joining her family on these summer vacations. She remembers her dad and uncles loved golf. “They would play 9 [holes] in the morning, have lunch, then play 9 again in the afternoon,” Monica reminisces.

They also celebrated a lot of momentous occasions at the resort. When Monica married Dr. Thomas Bieter, they honeymooned at Ruttger’s. Her sister did, too, which happened to overlap with the week that

Monica always vacationed there with her 4 children. Monica recalls how the dining room hostess, Lucia, said, “Well I’ve seen honeymoons where the mother-inlaw shows up, but I’ve never seen a honeymoon here where the sister and all her kids were there.”

Monica’s kids fondly remember spending two weeks every summer at the lake in the 70s and all the activities the resort offered: the talent show, horseback riding, square dancing, and bingo. Jack Ruttger (whose grandparents started Ruttger’s) would emcee a waterski show. And it was common for guests to dress up for dinner each night.

In July 2015 for Monica’s 75th birthday, the whole family (her children, grandchildren, and great granddaughter) celebrated at the resort with a 70s themed party. They gathered around a tree planted in Monica’s honor outside of cabin 625 (formerly cabin 25) that she and her family rented year-after-year. A plaque commemorates Monica as the longest returning guest.

She already has her reservation booked for 2020.

He made a reservation for us the next year... And then we came forever.

Photo Courtesy Anne Lenzini, Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge

Did you

know?

Monica Bieter and Family, 2015

Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge is the oldest single family owned resort in the state of Minnesota.

LO D GING

ONLY AT MADDEN’S

NEW in 2020 ‘The Pavilion’ Event Center • New Guest Rooms • Tennis & Croquet Club • Multi-Bedroom Houses • Kids Camp and More!

• 6 Restaurants • 63 Holes of Award-Winning Golf • Lakeside Spa • Three Sand Beaches/Four Pools M I N N E S OTA’ S

C L A S S I C

R E SO RT

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

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.

800.432.3777

breez ypointresor t.com ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 19

Photo by Nelson Photo Company, Comfort Suites

Stay and play at one of the 3 indoor waterpark hotels: Arrowwood Lodge, Comfort Suites/Rapid River Lodge & Water Park, and Holiday Inn Express and Three Bear Waterpark.

Zip down slides, float down lazy rivers, and soak in warm hot tub.

Photo by Nelson Photo Company, Comfort Suites

Four seasons of fun: It’s always warm

Photo by Nelson Photo Company, Comfort Suites

inside one of our indoor waterparks!

Comfort Inn & Suites, Brainerd Photo by Nelson Photo Company, Comfort Suites

LO D GING

We’re So Much More Than Cabin Country.

Brainerd and Baxter are the epicenter of the Lakes Area. We’re nationally-known hotels.

We’re family fun & water parks. We’re great shopping, dining & craft beer.

We’re whatever adventure you choose.

VISITBRAINERD VisitBrainerd.com • #LoveBrainerd

Lum Park Campground

BrainerdLakesChamber_VisitorsGuide2020_VisitBrainerd_191118.indd 1

11/18/2019 3:19:30 PM

TAKE A VACATION FROM YOUR VACATION. GET AWAY TO IT ALL.

Come have a different kind of fun! You’ll find 24/7 gaming, plus burgers, buffets, bars, and big acts you can see live. We can’t wait to see you!

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 21

LODG IN G SPOTLIGHT B US I N ES S ES

Agate Lake Resort

Bay View Lodge

Campfire Bay Resort

Arrowwood Lodge at Brainerd Lakes

Boyd Lodge

Cragun's Resort

Auger's Pine View Resort

Camp Knutson

Crow Wing Lake Campground

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

(218) 822-5634 | arrowwoodbrainerd.com Arrowwood Lodge is the perfect location! Full service hotel with 102 spacious rooms. Baxter's Bar & Grill. Free breakfast buffet.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 | augerspineview.com Located on pristine Lake Shamineau with clean and comfortable 2-4 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!

22 | ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

(888) 543-4182 | 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!

(800) 450-2693 | 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) 543-4232 | campknutson.org Camp Knutson's beautiful 30 acre campus is nestled between the pristine waters of Lower Whitefish and Big Trout Lakes near Crosslake, MN. Open year round our modern facilities and northwoods setting make for the perfect location for retreats, weddings, conferences, meetings, training events, or other social gatherings September through May.

(218) 575-2432 | campfirebayresort.com Located on Fish Trap Lake - the perfect place for a family getaway, fishing trip, or gals crafting retreat! Stay in our 2-4 bedroom cabins and enjoy the winter amenities of snowmobile trails, fishing, coffee and gift shop, game room, REC center with basketball, fitness center, day spa, and more!

(218) 825-2700 | 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 and outdoor pools, family centered recreation program, water sports like boating, fishing and swimming, and winter activities like snowmobiling, x-country skiing and skating.

(218) 829-6468 | crowwingcamp.com Lakeside camping at its finest! Crow Wing Lake Campground lies on 30 wooded acres of mature trees, on the shores of 400 acre Crow Wing Lake. We have 80 full hook up sites (some seasonal) and 20 electric/water sites. Store, laundry, docks, watercraft rentals and more.

LO D G IN G S POT L I GHT BUS INE S S E S

CAMPFIRE BAY RESORT

800.677.7263

EconoLodge

(218) 270-5001 | choicehotels.com/minnesota/brainerd/econo-lodge-hotels/ mn209 Enjoy a simplified, budget travel experience at the Econo Lodge® hotel in Brainerd. It is pet-friendly, easy to find, easy to book and easy on your wallet. You’ll find plenty of other local activities and attractions including Brainerd International Raceway and Crow Wing County Fair to explore near our hotel.

relax . play . fish . Gather

www.campfirebayresort.com

On Famous Gull Lake

• Cabins and Condos • Pools & Beach • Reunion Facilities • Great Fishing • Affordable Vacations

www.mnResortCabins.com

800-964-4855

Fritz's Resort and Campground

(218) 568-8988 | 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.

Gull Four Seasons Resort

(218) 963-7969 | MNResortCabins.com New cabins! Gull Lake, great fishing, 1 to 4 bedroom condo rentals, 2 to 5 bedroom cabin rentals. All units include gas grill, complete kitchen & air-conditioning.

Indoor, outdoor & kiddie pools, swimming beach. New game room, reunion facilities. Pontoons, fishing boats & boat lifts. Free paddle-boards, kayak's, canoes, tennis.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 23

LODG IN G SPOTLIGHT B US I N ES S ES

Holiday Inn Express, Three Bear Waterpark

Pampered Pets

Shing Wako Resort

(218) 824-3232 | brainerdhi.com Holiday Inn Express – a triple play of entertainment for your next vacation! Our Three Bear Waterpark provides 30,000 square feet of fun! Play laser tag for an exhilarating experience for all ages! Try out our game room, play classic and new games! An up north experience with amenities included.

(218) 454-0835 | PamperedPetsMN.com Five Star Service for you and your furry friends. Conveniently located just off 371 in the Baxter industrial park. Our 8,000 sqft facility offers 3 indoor play areas and many luxury boarding options. Our services include full service grooming, overnight boarding, daycare, on staff veterinarian, animal chiropractic and acupuncture. Come on by for a tour.

Leisure Suites of Breezy Point

Quality Inn & Suites

Woodland Beach Resort

Northland Pet Lodge

Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge

(888) 651-5300 | 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) 692-4364 | 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!

24 | ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

(218) 270-7333 choicehotels.com/minnesota/brainerd/ quality-inn-hotels/mn094 Hometown hospitality, newly renovated - great for group & extended stay travel. Free hot breakfast, WiFi, fitness room, restaurant on-site, large parking lot, meeting space and pet-friendly. Our Quality Inn & Suites® hotel in Brainerd, MN lets you relax and focus on the people and experiences you came for.

(218) 678-2885 | ruttgers.com A true Minnesota original! Ruttger's is a traditional, cozy, up north lake resort ideal for families and adventure seekers alike.

Located on Bay Lake, Ruttger's features two golf courses, a spa, three restaurants, and is the closest full-service resort to the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area mountain bike trails.

(218) 765-3226 | 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!

(218) 866-0711 woodlandbeachresort.com Newer pool and hot tub! Making vacation memories for 83 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.

I’m going to kick back, relax, and enjoy some shade. I can see the bobber tower from here!

LO D G IN G S POT L I GHT BUS INE S S E S

Your Destination AWAITS! LODGING . RESORT ACTIVITIES . GOLF . FISHING . DINING

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.

Gracious service by owners & staff

Stay a few days, a week, or more!

12038 HARBOR LANE, CROSSLAKE MN 56442

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

14 sparkling clean individual cabins on the

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

www.blackpinebeach.com

218-543-4714

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 25

BRAINERD / BAXTER

Lodging

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

Cragun's Resort on Gull Lake (866) 988-0562 | (866) 988-0562 www.craguns.com 11000 Cragun's Dr, Brainerd, MN 56401

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

Hotel / Motel Resort / Lodge Waterpark Bed & Breakfast / Historic Inn RV Park / Campground Open Year Round Handicap Accessible Pool On the Water Pet Friendly

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

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

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

Gather on 3 (218) 829-7507 www.thewoodsmn.com 19624 CR 3, Brainerd, MN 56401

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

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

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

LO D G IN G D IRECTORY

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

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

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

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

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

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

DEERWOOD / CROSBY

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

CROSSLAKE

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

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

Farm Island Lake Resort and Campground (218) 927-3841 29551 Pioneer Ave, Aitkin, MN 56431

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

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

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 27

LODG IN G DIRECTORY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

28 | ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

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

Broadwater Lodge on Woman Lake (218) 682-2552 www.broadwaterlodge.com 45588 Timber Dr NW Hackensack, MN 56655

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

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

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

LO D G IN G D IRECTORY

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

Lakeshore Properties

LOST LAKE LODGE & GOOD OL' DAYS RESORT

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

Wilderness Point Resort (218) 568-5642 | (800) 231-4050 www.wildernessresortvillas.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

resorts, cabins

& more

WILDERNESS

Visit ExploreBrainerdLakes.com for more information on our lodging options.

POINT

WWW.WILDERNESSPOINTRESORT.COM

RESORT

RESERVATIONS (218) 568-5642

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 29

Get your adrenaline

Revving

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

Photo Courtesy Brainerd International Raceway

FOR FIVE DECADES, Brainerd International Raceway has hosted some of the greatest racers in the world while offering race fans the best motorsports that Minnesota has to offer. And 2020 will be no different.

From April through October, BIR’s race schedule is packed full of drag racing, road racing, drifting, Superbike racing, autocross, cruising shows and something called watercross, where snowmobiles race on open water. It’s great family entertainment, and most weekends include two or more types of racing that take place simultaneously – all for a single ticket.

Nearly every weekend is booked with spectator events but what most people don’t know is that

BIR is also a giant playground for fans with a need for speed. There are dozens of opportunities to get behind the wheel and test your nerves and driving skills, either on the drag strip or the road course.

You can try your hand at drifting and autocross, as well. The BIR Performance Driving School and the Wednesday Night Street Drags are good places to start but most of the races at BIR have categories for novice racers who can use their street cars. It’s more affordable than you might think!

BIR’s Schedule of Events is anchored again this year by the 39th Annual Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals. Scheduled for August 13–16, the world’s best drag racers descend on BIR with the fastest dragsters on the planet for a nitrofueled display of drag racing. Top

Brainerd International Raceway

Fuel Dragsters and Funny Cars— 11,000-horsepower, fire-belching rockets-on-wheels— scream down the quarter-mile dragstrip at 330 mph. The pits are always open to fans, and drivers are accessible for autographs and photos, but BIR’s open campground, affectionately called The Zoo, is really what sets BIR apart from other tracks on the NHRA circuit. The celebration there is always in high gear.

All of BIR’s spectator events are family friendly and affordable.

Kids who are 12 years old and younger get in free to every event (including the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals) as long as they’re accompanied by an adult. And parking is free for all events except Nationals.

FA M ILY ACT IVIT IES

See You at the track!

Check out BrainerdRaceway.com for more details.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 31

FAM ILY ACTIVI TI E S SPOTL I G H T BUS I N ES S ES

Billy Bones Raceway

Holiday Inn Express, Three Bear Waterpark and Laser Tag

Mount Ski Gull

(218) 824-3232 | brainerdhi.com Offering family fun activities for all ages; waterpark, arcade, and state of the art laser tag. Lodging includes waterpark and hot breakfast. IHG Reward points offers great benefits for all travelers. Waterpark and laser tag hours may vary. Call for current availability.

(218) 963-4353 | skigull.com Mount Ski Gull operates a non-profit facility for the youth in central Minnesota.

It provides affordable outdoor programs and opportunities with an emphasis on snow sports that result in lifelong character building skills and a healthy lifestyle.

We offer skiing, snowboarding, tubing and parties for birthdays, holidays and more.

Crow Wing County Fair

Lakes Area Growers Market

Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf

FitQuest Athletic Club

Lakeshore Conservation Club

Safari North Wildlife Park

(218) 828-4245 | 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!

(218) 829-6680 crowwingcountyfair.com Mark your calendars for the Crow Wing County Fair from August 4 - 8, 2020! 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, monster truck show, tractor contest, and much more!

(218) 829-6453 | fitquestathleticclub. com Whether you like fitness classes, lifting weights, playing racquetball, pickleball, basketball or volleyball or just doing your own thing on cardio machines - FitQuest is for you. We have locker rooms with saunas and showers, and offer day, week or month passes, as well as longer term memberships.

32 | ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

(218) 352-9202 brainerdfarmersmarket.com Voted best Farmers Market in 2019 Best of Brainerd Lakes contest. We take pride in our locally gown/produced fresh fruits, vegetables, honey, baked goods, USDA approved meats, lotions & the list goes on. Stop by Tuesdays & Fridays May through October to taste & see why we were voted #1.

(218) 851-8688 | lakeshoregunclub.com Lakeshore Conservation Club, a nonprofit organization, has been promoting shooting sports since 1954. The club offers trap, skeet, 5-stand to the public, and rifle and handgun shooting to members. Facilities are available for private events.

(218) 828-9002 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 well known pirates as you test your skills on two award-winning 18-hole courses.

(218) 454-1662 | safarinorth.com A family friendly destination! Have you ever fed a giraffe, rode a camel, or even mingled with 100's of parakeets? You can even mine for gemstones! With hundreds of animals, birds, and a few reptiles, there is something for everyone! Open daily May 9 - September 27.

FA M ILY ACTIVITIE S S P OT L I GHT BUS INE S S E S

This iconic place loves Paul and me; from talking statues to rides, it’s all day fun!

UpNorth Indoor Bounce House

(218) 203-8400 | upnorthbounce.com Take the kids UpNorth where they can play indoors on giant size inflatables-bounce castles, double slides and obstacle course! There’s even a special toddler area for our little bouncers! UpNorth is also the perfect place to have your next birthday party! No matter the weather come play UpNorth!

Wildwedge Golf, Mini Golf, Maze and RV Park

(218) 568-6995 | 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.

Your Boat Club - Gull Lake & Crosslake Locations

(218) 692-3850 | yourboatclub.com Come enjoy a day/week on the beautiful Whitefish Chain. The Whitefish Chain allows you to travel through 14 lakes without setting your feet on dry land. We offer unlimited boat memberships, daily/ weekly boat rentals, slip rentals, gas, bait, tackle, and anything else you might need on the water.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 33

LO CAL EVE NTS

LAKESJAM.COM

June 25-27

Brainerd

Presented By

Premium Camping Festival

2020

ATV’s UTV’s Carts Allowed

JON PARDI

RATT Brother’s Osborne

Tracy Lawrence Matt Stell

Jackyl

Slaughter

Chris Lane Runaway June

25+ Bands...

Country & Rock (Coming Soon)

MORE than a Music Festival

BRAINERD INTERNATIONAL

RACEWAY 2020 Major Races May 22-24 June 5-7 June 12-14 July 3-5 July 11-12 Aug 7-9 Aug 13-16 Aug 28-30 Sep 4-6 Sep 18-20

Street Car Showdown Wet & Wild Weekend MAP Proving Grounds PleasureLand RV Show & Go Jed Copham Memorial Race – Trans Am Series Thunder at the Lakes – NHRA Race Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals MAP Proving Grounds 2.0 For a complete & current list of events, GSTA Muscle Car Shootout visit our website.

Wet & Wild Weekend

34 | ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

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

Lakes Jam LOCATION: BRAINERD

INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY (BIR)

The Lineup!

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

DATES: JUNE 24–27, 2020 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 4-day rock and country music festival. Over 25 bands will perform over the 4 days including headliners Ratt, Jon Pardi, and Brothers Osborne.

Tribute Wednesday is new for 2020: Starting Lakes Jam off with a bang—and maybe some pyrotechnics—is The Crown Jewels, a Tribute to Queen, and Hairball, who is headlining.

Lauren Alaina & Justin Moore, Lakes Jam 2019 Photos By Matt Kennedy, Lakes Jam

Lakes Jam gives festival goers the ultimate experience in rock and country music and adds other spectator events like watercross (snowmobile) racing, drift car demos, 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.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 35

LOCAL EVE NTS

1

Full Events

Calendar For a full list of events in the area, visit ExploreBrainerdLakes.com/Events

Photo By BlazeAir

2 Purchase a Bean Hole Days mug and head to the front of the line!

3

5

4

events

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!

36 | ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

STARS & STRIPES DAYS

WINTERFEST

Celebrate our independence at the Pequot Lakes Stars and Stripes Days in Trailside Park honoring our heritage with food vendors, music, games, parade, and fireworks.

Have cabin fever? Crosslake has the cure. Celebrate Winterfest, a threeday festival, in early February for oldfashioned 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. Saturday is a full day of activities with the ice carousel, helicopter rides (weather permitting), cross country skiing, Italian Olympics, and shopping.

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!

On July 3, try your hand at the bean bag toss 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-caneat pancakes, kids’ games, craft fair, and the Stars and Stripes Parade!

BEAN HOLE DAYS Join in the historic Bean Hole Days, which dates back to 1938.

City bankers 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.

The Burying of the Beans ceremony begins July 14 and is accompanied by a community picnic. Lines form early on July 15 for free beans.

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

CROSSLAKE DAYS 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, a bazaar and flea market, and live entertainment make this a fun familyfriendly event.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE 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.

Stretch your legs and take in some fresh air by running (or walking) the annual Clover Dash 5k, which takes place the morning of the parade. Eat pancakes made by local firefighters, ride in a hot air balloon, and buy a raffle ticket for a chance to win prizes (more than $10,000 in prizes are given away). Local shops and restaurants offer deals when you show your blinkie button. End the night dancing away at one of the area establishments with live music. Make the Crosslake St. Patrick’s Day Parade your next tradition.

1 STARS & STRIPES DAYS JULY 3–4, 2020 PEQUOT LAKES, MN

2 BEAN HOLE DAYS JULY 14–15, 2020 PEQUOT LAKES, MN

3 CROSSLAKE DAYS SEPT 24–26, 2020 CROSSLAKE, MN

4 WINTERFEST FEB 4–6, 2021 CROSSLAKE, MN

5 ST. PATRICK'S DAY PARADE MAR 13, 2021 CROSSLAKE, MN

Area

Event DIRECTORY

Visit our website, ExploreBrainerdLakes. com for a complete list of regional events.

Annual Migratory Bird Day Event

Cass County Fair

Off the Rails Market at NP Center

Summer Music Series in Town Square

May 16th | Crosslake, MN

May 22nd & 23rd | Brainerd, MN

12th Annual Street Car Showdown

June 27th | Crosslake, MN

Music in the Park

June 30th | Deerwood, MN

May 22nd-24th | Brainerd, MN May 28th | Crosby, MN

Family Sundae Funday @ Camp Knutson May 31st | Crosslake, MN

Downtown Nisswa Chocolate Walk May (TBD) | Nisswa, MN

June, 2020 Big Fun Tuesdays

Tuesdays, June - Mid August Town Square | Crosslake, MN

Polar Plunge

March 7th | Breezy Point Resort, MN

Crosslake St.Patrick's Day Parade March 14th | Crosslake, MN

Brainerd St. Patrick's Day Parade March 14th | Brainerd, MN

Wild and Scenic Film Festival March 21st | Brainerd, MN

Maple Syrup Farm Tour March 28th | Brainerd, MN

Lakes Area Music Festival Harmonious Harp March 29th | Nisswa, MN

Ski Loons on Bay Lake

July, 2020 Big Fun Tuesdays

Tuesdays, June - Mid August Town Square | Crosslake, MN

Summer Music Series in Town Square

Saturdays, July-August | Crosslake, MN

Ideal Farmer's Market

Saturdays, May-September Ideal Corners, MN

Ideal Farmer's Market

Nisswa Turtle Races

Pine River Duck Races

Pine River Duck Races

Nisswa Turtle Races

Freedom Days Festival

Saturdays, May-September Ideal Corners, MN

March, 2020

June 26th-29th | Pine River, MN

Every Friday through August Pine River, MN Every Wednesday through August 19th Nisswa, MN

Every Wednesday through August 19th Nisswa, MN Every Friday through August Pine River, MN July 3rd | Nisswa, MN

Stars & Stripes Days

Ruttger's Car Show

July 3rd & 4th | Pequot Lakes, MN

Cherry Car Show

July 4th, 11th, 18th, & 25th Pequot Lakes, MN

June 6th | Deerwood, MN June 6th | Pequot Lakes, MN

Bands in the Park-Trailside Park

Tour of Lakes Bicycle Ride

Crosslake Fireworks

Music in the Park

Grandpa’s Run for the Walleye

Crosslake Ideal Lions Fishing Tournament

Ruttger's Firework Show

June 6th | Brainerd, MN

June 11th & 25th | Crosby, MN

July 4th | Crosslake, MN July 4th | Crosslake, MN

July 4th | Deerwood, MN

June 6th | Crosslake, MN

Nisswa Firecracker Run July 4th | Nisswa, MN

Maple Experince at Ruttgers

Nisswa Stamman Scandinavian Folk Music Festival

4th of July Celebration

Kid's Annual Easter Egg Hunt

Minne Jam

Brainerd 4th of July Celebration

Lakes Area Wedding Expo

Outdoor Movie Night

Music in the Park

7th Annual Taste of the Cuyuna Lakes

Ruttger's Beer and Bacon Bonanza

Ski Loons at Lum Park

Brainerd Jaycees Run For the Lakes

Confidence Learning Center Golf and Fishing Classic

Bean Hole Days

Arbor Day Celebration

Lions Flea Market

April, 2020 April 3rd-5th | Deerwood, MN April 4th | Pine River, MN April 5th | Brainerd, MN

April 24th | Deerwood, MN April 24th & 25th | Nisswa, MN April 25th | Brainerd, MN

June 12th & 13th | Nisswa, MN June 13th | Brainerd, MN June 19th | Crosslake, MN

June 19th & 20th | Deerwood, MN

June 19th & 20th | Nisswa, MN June 20th | Crosslake, MN

July 4th | Crosby, MN

July 4th | Brainerd, MN

July 9th & 23rd | Crosby, MN July 12th & 26th | Brainerd, MN July 14th & 15th | Pequot Lakes, MN

Lions Flea Market

July 18th | Crosslake, MN

Summer Solstice & Art Festival

Night Under the Stars @ Camp Knutson

Bands in the Park-Trailside Park

Pine River Summerfest

Whitefish Chain Boat Show

Lil' Rubber Duckie Race

Fishing Opener Block Party

Pink Party Guided Pink Lady Slipper Tour

Outdoor Movie Night

Lakes Area Music Festival Bohemian Spring

Lakes Jam

May, 2020 Ideal Farmer's Market

Saturdays, May-September Ideal Corners, MN

Breezy Point Aviation Days May 3rd | Breezy Point, MN

May 9th | Pequot Lakes, MN

May 10th | Nisswa, MN

38 | ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

June 20th | Brainerd, MN

June 20th & 27th | Pequot Lakes, MN June 20th | Crosslake, MN

June 23rd | Brainerd, MN

June 25th-27th | Brainerd, MN

July 18th | Crosslake, MN

July 22nd-26th | Pine River, MN July 24th | Brainerd, MN

July 24th | Crosslake, MN

Street Fest on 5th

July 24th & 25th | Brainerd, MN

Power Boat Races

July 25th & 26th | Crosby, MN

LO CA L EVE N TS D IRECTORY

Lakes Area Music Festival Opening Gala July 31st | Brainerd, MN

Crazy Days in Pequot Lakes July 31st | Pequot Lakes, MN

Power Cruise-BIR

July 31st- Aug 2nd | Brainerd, MN

August, 2020 Big Fun Tuesdays

Tuesdays, June - Mid August Town Square | Crosslake, MN

Summer Music Series in Town Square Saturdays, July-August Crosslake, MN

Ideal Farmer's Market

Saturdays, May-September Ideal Corners, MN

Nisswa Turtle Races

Every Wednesday through August 19th Nisswa, MN

Log Roll at Jack Pine

Jacktoberfest

Paul Bunyan Land Pioneer Days August 8th & 9th | Brainerd, MN

Historic Log Village Candlelight & Cider Tour

Lakes Area Music Festival Music+Dance

Pine River Heratige Days

August 8th | Baxter, MN

August 8th & 9th | Brainerd, MN

Ideal Beef Feed

August 12th | Ideal Corners, MN

Lakes Area Music Festival Chamber Music

August 12th | Location TBD, MN

September 26th | Baxter, MN

September 26th | Crosslake, MN September (TBD) | Pine River, MN

October, 2020 Gull Lake Octoberfest & Pub Crawl October 3rd | Nisswa, MN

Music in the Park

Oktoberfest- Greater Pequot Lakes Community Foundation

Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals

Northland Arboretum Haunted Trail

Lakes Area Music Festival Opera

Paul Bunyan Haunted Hallows

August 13th & 27th | Crosby, MN August 13th-16th | Brainerd, MN August 14th | Brainerd, MN

Lions Flea Market

August 15th | Crosslake, MN

Cuyuna Lakes Crusher

October 10th | Pequot Lakes, MN

October 15th - 17th | Brainerd, MN Fridays & Saturdays in October, 16th-31st, Brainerd, MN

November, 2020 Deer Hunting Opener Block Party

Pine River Duck Races

August 15th & 16th | Cuyuna, MN

Chokecherry Festival

August 16th | Crosslake, MN

Kids’ Fishing Derby

August 16th | Brainerd, MN

Sertoma Winter Wonderland

Street Dance in Downtown Pequot Lakes

Mackenzie Tour – PGA TOUR Canada’s CRMC Championship at Cragun’s Resort

Nisswa City of Lights Festival

Lakes Area Music Festival Symphony 101: Debussy's LA Mer

Lakes Area Music Festival Chamber Orchestra

Lakes Area Music Festival Concert For KIds

Lakes Area Music Festival Symphony Orchestra

Ski Loons on Bay Lake

Crosslake Home Tour

CWC Fair

Lakes Blugrass Festival

August 4th-8th | Brainerd, MN

August 26th-30th | Pine River, MN

Lakes Area Music Festival Chamber Music

Outdoor Movie Night

August 29th | Crosslake, MN

Crosslake Art Show & Sale

August 29th | Brainerd, MN

Lakes Area Music Festival Cabaret

August (TBD) | Bar Harbor, MN

Antique Snowmobile Rendezvous

September, 2020

Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza

Every Friday in August | Pine River, MN August 1st | Pequot Lakes, MN August 1st | Crosslake, MN

August 1st | Pequot Lakes, MN

August 1st | Brainerd, MN

August 2nd | Brainerd , MN

August 4th, 16th & 19th | Deerwood, MN

August 5th | Brainerd, MN

August 6th-8th | Crosslake, MN August 7th | Brainerd, MN

Thunder at the Lakes- BIR

August 7th- Aug 9th | Brainerd, MN

Historic Log Village Artisan Fair Lakes Area Festival Opera

August 17th-23rd | Brainerd, MN

August 19th | Brainerd, MN

August 22nd-23rd | Brainerd, MN August 23rd-24th | Crosslake, MN

Viking Festival

Gull Lake Classic Boat Show

Ideal Farmer's Market

November 7th | Pequot Lakes, MN

Taste of the Lakes

November 13th | Nisswa, MN November 26th-28th | Brainerd, MN November 27th | Nisswa, MN

Light the Night in Pequot Lakes November 30th | Pequot Lakes, MN

December, 2020 Sertoma Winter Wonderland

December 2nd-5th, 9th-12th, 16th-19th, 23rd-31st | Brainerd, MN

Santa's Bobbin' Into Town

December 12th | Pequot Lakes, MN

Holiday at the Dam

December (TBD) | Crosslake, MN

January, 2021 Ice Fest on Pelican Lake

January TBD | Breezy Point, MN January TBD | Pequot Lakes, MN

January TBD | Gull Lake, MN

34th Annual Quilt Auction @ Camp Knutson

Saturdays, May-September Ideal Corners, MN

Dru Sjodin 5K & 10K Races

September 4th-6th | Brainerd, MN

Crosslake WinterFest

Firefighters’ Pig Roast

Nisswa Fall Festival and Smokin' Hot BBQ Challenge

Serpent Lake Ice Fishing Contest

September 19th | Nisswa, MN

February TDB | Crosby, MN

Bands in the Park-Trailside Park

Nisswa Fire Department Pancake Breakfast

45NRTH Whiteout Race February TDB | Ironton, MN

Blues and BBQ Bash at Ruttger's

Crosslake Days

February TDB | Nisswa, MN

Cardboard Boat Races

Outdoor Movie Night

August 8th | Crosslake, MN August 8th | Crosslake, MN August 8th | Crosslake, MN

August 8th, 15th, 22nd, & 29th Pequot Lakes, MN August 8th | Deerwood, MN August 8th | Crosslake, MN

Muscle Car Shoot Out- BIR

September 19th | Nisswa, MN September 24th-26th | Crosslake, MN September 25th | Crosslake, MN

February, 2021 February 4th-6th | Crosslake, MN

Nisswa Winter Jubilee Gull Lake Frozen Fore

February TDB | Gull Lake, MN

Ice Tee Open

February TDB | Crosslake, MN ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 39

find a new way to explore

Photo Courtesy Jim Bergquist, Wind, Water, and Wheels

Paddle on We’re well-known for our boating culture, so paddling a kayak might not be top-ofmind. Kayaking is growing in popularity with people who want to slow down and really connect with nature. We caught up with Jim Bergquist from Wind, Water, and Wheels in Crosslake and Randy Ruprecht from Cycle Path & Paddle in Crosby to learn more about paddling around the Lakes Area.

Did You Know?

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

O N T HE WAT ER

Q&A WITH WIND, WATER, AND WHEELS • Is kayaking for all ages?

Absolutely! I’ve seen kids as young as 3 or 4 years old catch on quite naturally.

I also have personally witnessed people much older. Most of the kayaks we sell are to people over age 60. Our most senior member of our paddling club is 91 years old!

• What do people love about kayaking?

You get to experience everything from the lowest possible viewpoint other than swimming. You also have access to areas that other watercraft simply cannot reach.

• How are the area rivers for kayaking?

Most of the rivers in our area are gentle. You are not going to find any rivers in our immediate area that contain anything except level 1 or 2 rapids. The most extreme rapid conditions are considered a level 6.

• Are there a lot of places to kayak in the area?

This is the best kept secret.

YES. The Pine River is a state recreational trail and runs right through the middle of our county. It offers over 60 miles of paddling! The only reason we have the Whitefish Chain of Lakes is the Pine River Dam in Crosslake. The Pine River is a tame river that anyone can enjoy. We also have a nice section of the mighty Mississippi that makes its way through Crow Wing County. Other rivers close by are the Gull, Daggett Brook, Crooked Creek, and the Little Pine.

• Do you offer guided tours?

At Wind, Water & Wheels we have regularly scheduled kayak tours. These can be guided, or we can provide shuttle service to any lake or stream in the area. We can put together a trip to fit into any schedule or situation.

• Do you rent kayaks?

We rent kayaks by the hour, day, multiple days or week. You can take them with you to your favorite spot or we have access on Crosslake that you can use.

We can shuttle to any other destination, too.

• Can you recommend day trips?

We have trips we can suggest from 2 hours to an all-day paddle. We have 13 trips on the Pine River and 10 others close by. We can suggest an overnight trip with camp sites either on nearby lakes or rivers.

For more info, visit windwaterandwheels.com or call 218-692-1200.

Q&A WITH CYCLE PATH & PADDLE • What kayaking opportunities are in the Cuyuna area?

We get a lot of people that kayak in the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area. The old mine pits have been repurposed into some of the deepest and clearest lakes in the area. We also have customers who rent kayaks and paddleboards and bring them to enjoy while at their cabins. If you would like to do a short paddle, we can easily get boats over to Serpent Lake. With a few weeks’ notice, we can drop off and

pick up kayaks and canoes for a paddle trip on the Pine River.

• What makes kayaking so special?

What’s so great about kayaking is it’s for all ages and all skill level. Whether you’re a beginner or want to take lessons to become an expert, anyone can kayak.

Kayaking is something that you can do in a group or by yourself. It’s relaxing, easy, and you can go at your own pace. There’s something special about an early morning kayak with the fog on top of the water—so peaceful to see nature in a whole new way.

• Can you fish from a kayak?

Yes! Kayaks are very stable and are stealthy. If you’ve never fished from a kayak before, find a club or a guide who can help you with things like rigging, paddling, and safety.

• What kind of rental options do you offer?

We offer kayak, canoe, and paddle board rentals. You can purchase equipment here, too. Another popular option is if you have a hitch on your vehicle, you can rent a trailer to haul your rental.

And, if our schedule allows, we may be able to drop-off and pick up your rented boats and boards.

For more info, visit www.cyclepathpaddle.com or call 218-545-4545.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 41

Rendering by Widseth Smith Nolting

One of the most iconic and beloved summer sounds is hearing a loon’s call echo across one of our many lakes. With its haunting yet peaceful wail, piercing red eyes, and contrasting black-and-white markings, no other bird is like the common loon. Minnesota, especially Up North, is known for its abundant loon population.

But we can’t take for granted that loons will grace our lakes forever.

We need to take steps today to protect our lakes and wildlife for future generations.

Did you

know?

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

Rendering by Widseth Smith Nolting

O N T HE WAT ER

Rendering by Widseth Smith Nolting

WHAT IS THE NATIONAL LOON CENTER?

Loons need clean, fresh water to thrive. We all do. The National Loon Center is dedicated to protecting the common loon through education, citizen science, conservation, habitat restoration, and freshwater preservation.

2.

WHERE WILL THE NATIONAL LOON CENTER BE LOCATED?

The National Loon Center will be located at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers campground and day park on the shores of Cross Lake (part of the Whitefish Chain of Lakes) in Crosslake, MN, in the heart of the Brainerd Lakes Area.

3.

WHEN WILL THE NATIONAL LOON CENTER OPEN?

The first phase of the National Loon Center project will start summer 2020 with a massive 1,000 feet of shoreline restoration on Cross Lake. This will help improve water quality and wildlife habitats while also offering a boardwalk and boat mooring for easy lake access to the public The second phase of the project is projected to build the National Loon Center and open as soon as 2022.

4.

HOW WILL THE NATIONAL LOON CENTER HELP WITH CONSERVATION AND PRESERVATION?

The National Loon Center is working with the University of Minnesota to create educational experiences and research opportunities through the Scientific Loon Council and the National Freshwater Institute.

Visitors and nature enthusiasts will get an in-depth, intimate look at not only loons, but also freshwater ecosystems through hands-on learning. There will be interactive displays like a floating classroom, freshwater testing, and areas to enjoy local ecosystems.

The University of Minnesota through the Fresh Water Institute and Scientific Loon Council will bring researchers and scientists to the National Loon Center to gather data and gain insights on threats to freshwater and loon habitats.

5.

HOW CAN I HELP ANSWER THE CALL OF THE LOON? Fundraising is ongoing and necessary to help make the National Loon Center a reality.

For more info, visit www.nationallooncenter.org.

PHOTOS: CAMERON & TIA PHOTOGRAPHY

1.

PUBLIC CRUISES

Gull Lake 833-232-0317 GullLakeCruises.com

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 43

O N TH E WATE R SPOTLI G H T BUS I N ES S ES

Bay View Lodge

Nisswa Marine

Wind Water & Wheels

Boats and Beyond Rentals

Nor-Son Custom Builders

Your Boat Club - Gull Lake & Crosslake Locations

(888) 543-4182 | 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 and much more!

(218) 963-7700 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!

Gull Lake Cruises

(218) 825-2700 | 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.

44 | ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

(218) 963-2292 | 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.

(218) 828-1722 | Nor-SonResidential.com Nor-Son Custom Builders specializes in custom lake homes and renovations that afford you the space, comfort and quality to create lifelong memories. Working with our architects, our craftsmen combine building science with skilled artistry to transform every design detail into a stunning, one-of-a-kind home you can hand down for generations.

(218) 581-2144 windwaterandwheels.com We are the "go to people" for everything paddling. We are the home of Crow Wing Kayaks. We are an outfitter that can provide guided trips and shuttle service on local lakes and rivers. We know the area and local conditions to make your trip the very best.

(218) 963-1010 | yourboatclub.com We’re a full-service marina offering unlimited boating memberships and daily/ weekly boat rentals on Gull Lake. Let our certified technicians help you get back on the water or our rental team get you out on the chain. Offering service, parts, gas, bait, tackle, storage, and anything else for the lake life.

BRAINERD

NISSWA

• Northland Arboretum

• Fritz Loven State Park

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.

Beaten

Path

• Crow Wing State Park

The Crow Wing State Park also has over 18 miles of hiking trails within the park, 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

Photo Courtesy Grand View Lodge

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.

Grand View Lodge, Nisswa

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 Rd 78, and then right on Ridge Rd.

• Paul Bunyan Trail

Nisswa is located along the 120-mile Paul Bunyan Trail offering hikers and cyclists a place to stop for shopping and dining.

PEQUOT LAKES • 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.

• Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway

The Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway is 54 miles of connected paved, wideshouldered roads allowing for safer traveling for cyclists. Walking trails, route markers, and signs, and local businesses are found along the route.

O UTD O O R A DVE N TU R E S S P OT L I GHT BUS INE S S E S

Easy Riders Bicycle & Sport Shop Brainerd Zipline Tour

(218) 316-6741 | zipbrainerd.com The thrilling Brainerd Zip Line Tour is the perfect outdoor adventure to add excitement to any Brainerd Lakes vacation. Experience 15-mile views on 7 zip lines, an adrenaline-pumping suspension bridge, and an exhilarating 50’ free-fall experience! Reservations required. Special group pricing.

Central MN Council, Boy Scouts of America

(320) 251-3930 | bsacmc.org The Boy Scouts of America is one of the nation's largest and most prominent youth development organizations. We offer character and leadership development programs for youth ages 6-20. For over a century, the BSA has helped build future leaders by combining educational activities and lifelong values with fun.

(218) 829-5516 | easyridersbikes.com 48 years serving the Brainerd Lakes Area.

America’s Best Bike Shops 15/16/17/18/19.

World class products, Trek certified service center, professional staff. Offering all things bikes, e-bikes, snow sports service, mobile service, winter & summer rentals, canoes, kayaks, scooters, skate boards, fitness, XC-skis, alpine & snowboards, archery & more. #BestRideBestGlide

Brothers Motorsports

(218) 829-6656 | brothersmotorsports.com Brothers Motorsports is the area's largest recreational product dealer, carrying Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Arctic Cat, KTM, Sea-Doo, and Ski-Doo. Brothers Motorsports carries a wide variety of inventory including motorcycles, snowmobiles, all terrain vehicles (ATVs) and personal watercraft. Voted #1 Best Motorsports Dealer in the Brainerd Lakes Area.

This winding red dirt offers some of the best trails in the state!

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 47

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 Cuyuna.com

Photo Courtesy Cuyuna.com

O UTD O O R ADVENTU RES

Babe loves spending time in Cuyuna!

Photo Courtesy Cuyuna.com

Tall Green Trees.

Deep Blue Lakes.

Red Dirt Trails.

Pack your bikes and load up your paddleboards for a fresh-air family vacation to a destination deemed to be one of the “26 Best Trips to Take Right Now”

by Outside magazine. Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area (CCSRA) is an unforgettable outdoor playground offering budget-friendly family fun.

Ready to hit the red dirt?

ONE TRAIL SYSTEM FOR MULTIPLE SKILL LEVELS. CCSRA—a former iron ore mining hub—is home to Minnesota’s famous red dirt mountain bike trails. Clearly marked, one-way trails safely take your family on a journey of breathtaking overlooks as you wind through aspen forests, natural shorelines, and crystalclear waters. Designed for everyone to enjoy, newbies, casual cyclists, and experts can all ride trails that match their individual comfort and skill levels. And with more than 30 miles to explore, you’ll likely see more wildlife than fellow cyclists.

Don’t own mountain bikes? No problem. You can rent bikes and helmets from the bike shops in Crosby.

MINNESOTA’S PADDLEBOARDING MECCA. Mine lakes nestled deep in the hills and sheltered by tall green trees offer calm waters ideal for paddleboarding. These deep blue lakes boast 50 feet of clarity and stunning views of Cuyuna’s rainbow and lake trout, submerged trees, abandoned mining implements— even a mine shaft. Paddleboard rentals are also available in Crosby.

UNIQUE LODGING EXPERIENCES. CCSRA is open 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.—but that isn’t nearly enough time to explore the rec area and surrounding communities. So, take a few nights to relax at a lakeside resort, go minimalist at a campground, or stay at a fullservice campground with full amentities.

See our full lodging directory on pages 26 - 29

Visit Cuyuna.com/adventure ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 49

Golfing Lakes is a

Hole in one

Photo Courtesy Grand View Lodge

the brainerd

Photo Courtesy Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge

We hate to brag, but our golf courses are just too good not to.

And we’re not the only ones who think so. We consistently receive statewide and national accolades as a top golf destination.

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.

Ruttger's Bay Lake 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, Crosslake, Emily, and Breezy Point, no matter where you stay you can easily play multiple courses while you're here.

Load up the clubs for a golf weekend with friends or bring the whole family. There’s something here for everyone.

Golf

Directory 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 56472 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 56401 Crosswoods Golf Course

G O L F S POT L I GHT BUS INE S S E S Grand View Lodge

The Pines, The Preserve (218) 963-2234 | (866) 801-2951 www.grandviewlodge.com 23521 Nokomis Ave, Nisswa, MN 56468 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 56401 Northland Kart Country

Mini-Golf | (218) 454-1602 www.northlandkartkountry.com 17568 State Hwy 371 Brainerd, MN 56401 Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf

Mini-Golf (218) 828-9002 www.piratescove.net 17992 State Hwy 371, North Brainerd, MN 56401

Sunrise, High Noon, Sunset (218) 692-4653 www.crosslakegolf.com 35878 County Rd 3 Crosslake, MN 56442

Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge

Cuyuna Rolling Hills Golf

Whistling Wolf Mini Golf and Gifts

Emily Greens Golf Course

Whitefish Golf Club

18 Hole Course | (218) 534-3489 www.cuyunarollinghillsgolf.com 24410 State Hwy 210 Deerwood, MN 56444 18 Hole Course (218) 763-2169 | www.emilygreens.com 39966 Refuge Rd, Emily, MN 56447 Golden Eagle Golf Club

18 Hole Course (218) 763-4653 | (866) 316-4653 www.golfgoldeneagle.com 16146 W Eagle Lake Rd Fifty Lakes, MN 56448

PGA comes to the

Cuyuna Rolling Hills Golf Course

(218) 534-3489 | 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.

Jack's 18, Alec's 9 (218) 678-4646 | www.ruttgers.com 25039 Tame Fish Lake Rd Deerwood, MN 56444 Mini-Golf | (218) 692-7888 www.crosslakegolf.com 36006 County Rd 66 Crosslake, MN 56442

18 Hole Course | (218) 543-4900 www.whitefishgolf.com 7883 County Rd 16 Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 Wildwedge Golf, Mini Golf and Maze

Mini-Golf (218) 568-6995 www.wildwedge.com 32792 Paul Bunyan Trail Dr Pequot Lakes, MN 56472

New for 2020!

Emily Greens Golf Course

(218) 763-2169 | 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!

THE MACKENZIE TOUR – PGA TOUR CANADA IS COMING TO BRAINERD!

Brainerd

August 17–23 Cragun’s Legacy Courses will host the inaugural Cuyuna Regional Medical Center (CRMC) Championship as part of the Mackenzie Tour – PGA Tour Canada.

It’s the first time the Mackenzie Tour will play in the U.S. ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 51

Did you

know?

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

1

SAVORING EVERY LAST LICK AT THE CHOCOLATE OX

2

BABE ENJOYING A TREAT FROM LAKE COUNTRY CRAFTS AND CONES

3

MARIE'S FAMOUS PIES FROM KNOTTY PINE BAKERY

Ahhh…Summer. It’s the time of year when coming Up North brings a sense of nostalgia and togetherness. And one of the most time-honored traditions for families is to enjoy a sweet treat—it’s the perfect way to end a summer’s day or celebrate a fun milestone. Our local artisans have a passion for brightening your vacation. From homemade baked goods, oodles of ice cream flavors, and fun, eclectic candy, you’ll feel like a kid all over again.

FO O D & D RINK

1

2

Photo By Tricia Pleatzer

Photo By Luminous Prints Photography

3

FANCY PANTS CHOCOLATES Fancy Pants Chocolates is a chocolate lover’s paradise and is a must-stop when in Brainerd. When you walk in, you’ll see cases full of chocolates. Truffles. Marshmallow chocolates. Sea salt caramels.

Turtles. Chocolate covered cherries.

Peanut butter cups. Is your mouth watering yet?! These are just a few of the confections on-hand. All the chocolates are made in-house from scratch with either premium milk chocolate from Belgium or dark chocolate from Columbia.

When you crave chocolate but are out of the Brainerd Lakes Area, Fancy Pants Chocolates will ship you a care package.

If you (or your kids) prefer cold treats, Fancy Pants Chocolates also serves 20 flavors of Kemps ice cream. Cool down with a cone, sundae, or old-fashioned malt after you enjoy the shops of Downtown Brainerd.

• Location

704 Laurel St, Downtown Brainerd

• Fan Favorite

Sea salt caramels.

Homemade caramel wrapped in rich dark or milk chocolate with flecks of sea salt.

KNOTTY PINE BAKERY Knotty Pine Bakery looks like it’s right out of a Hallmark movie with its soft teal walls and understated farmhouse style. The sweet confections are as tasty as the bakery is cute. Knotty Pine Bakery is known for its artisan pies. Marie, owner and lead baker, honed her craft at the famous Betty’s Pies in Two Harbors, MN. Knotty Pine Bakery believes in using quality, locally sourced ingredients and real butter. The menu changes frequently with what fruits are in season. On any given day, you’ll find pie pops (pie on a stick— can you think of anything more Minnesotan?!), tartlets and mini pies, whoopie pies, cookies, and

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 53

FO OD & DRI NK

cupcakes. Knotty Pine Bakery will do custom orders for your events big or small.

Knotty Pine Bakery also offers classes in its baking classroom.

You can book private classes and parties, too. Check Knotty Pine Bakery’s Facebook page for events offered.

• Location

707 Laurel St, Downtown Brainerd

• Fan Favorite

Strawberry rhubarb pie.

A seasonal favorite. The sweetness of locally sourced strawberries and the tartness of fresh rhubarb is an irresistible combination.

LAKE COUNTRY CRAFTS AND CONES

Photo By Angel Talmantes

If you’ve ever vacationed in Crosslake or on the Whitefish Chain, you’ve likely visited Lake Country Crafts and Cones. It’s been an iconic landmark for nearly 40 years. It’s a Crosslake staple that you can count on. Like finding a jelly bean in your waffle cone, which is a longstanding tradition. With 44 flavors of Kemps ice cream (36 of them on display), Lake Country

Crafts and Cones sells more Kemps ice cream than any other ice cream shop in Minnesota. Can you handle the Doozie—three giant scoops in a waffle cone equaling about one quart of ice cream?! Order one and you’re automatically in the Doozie Club.

Lake Country Crafts and Cones offers more than just ice cream.

You’ll find a full line of Stonehouse coffee and a variety of espresso drinks, breakfast and lunch sandwiches, and locally made crafts featuring 120 crafters.

• Location

36084 Co Rd 66, Crosslake

• Fan Favorite

Peppermint Bon Bon is a Midwestern name for what the rest of the country calls mint chocolate chip and is a top seller year-after-year.

• Dragon Fruit Swirl

Dragon fruit flavored ice cream with mango sherbet

• Pub Crawl

Salted chocolate and coffee ice cream swirled with a rich chocolate stout revel and chocolate coated peanuts

THE CANDY DEN Similar to the Chocolate Ox at Grand View and in Nisswa, The Candy Den (inside the Whistling Wolf mini golf) specializes in the nostalgic candy from yesteryear.

The Candy Den boasts 10 to 12 varieties of malted milk balls: mint chocolate chip cookie, peanut butter, malted milk, cotton candy, and ice cream sundae to name a few. You’ll also find a large display of Jelly Belly jelly beans and salt water taffy.

Stop in and try these Kemps flavors new for 2020!

• Location

• Bananas Foster

• Fan Favorite

Rum caramel and banana ice cream swirled with vanilla caramel and short bread cookie

The Chocolate Ox, Nisswa

36006 Co Rd 66, Crosslake, MN Visitors are giddy for Taffy Town salt water taffy—a handmade batch process with a whipped nougat style taffy. It’s so soft and light, it just melts in your mouth. Try all the flavors!

FO O D & D RINK

THE CHOCOLATE OX If you’re looking for a sweet spot to savor ice cream or find your favorite candy from when you were a kid, The Chocolate Ox is the perfect spot. The Chocolate Ox has nostalgic, vintage candy for parents and grandparents and all the sour and gummy candy that kids love to pucker up for. The Chocolate Ox is also filled with bulk candy, salt water taffy, truffles, and homemade fudge. People go crazy over the Nisswa turtle fudge.

Rich chocolate with a layer of nuts, smothered in caramel, drizzled with chocolate, and topped with pecans.

If you’re looking to beat the heat, 32 ice cream flavors should do the trick.

BRAINERD DESTINATION

DOWNTOWN

2018 WINNER

SCRATCH-MADE, SMALL-BATCH BAKE SHOP IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN BRAINERD

Pies, cakes, and pastries prepared with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

• Location

Grand View Lodge and 25452 Main St, Nisswa

707 Laurel Street, Brainerd, MN • 218.454.2470 knottypinebakery.com

• Fan Favorite

Yippee Skippee ice cream— peanut butter ice cream with salted caramel, brownie chunks, and pieces of chocolate covered pretzels.

Where every aisl Wevery here ere every aisle W here aisleev is a candy aisle.

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is a cand a candy aisle. is a candy aisle. is a candy aisle.

Main Street Nisswa (218) 963-4443

28 Ice Cream Flavors • Homemade Fudge Grand View Lodge 28 Ice Cream Flavors • Homemade Fudge Gull Lake Nostalgic Candy & much more!

(218) 967-8800 Nostalgic Candy & much more!

Main Street Nisswa (218) 963-4443

Gra

(2

Main Street Grand View Lodge Main Street Grand V 28 Ice Cream Flavor 28 Ice Cream Flavors • Homemade Fudge Nisswa Flavors • Homemade Gull Lake Fudge 28 Ice Cream Nisswa Gul 963-4443 (218) 967-8800 Nostalgic Candy & much more!(218) (218) 963-4443 (218) Nostalgic Candy & much more!Nostalgic Cand

Photo Courtesy Grand View Lodge

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 55

Photo Courtesy Jack Pine Brewery

like a local The Brainerd Lakes

Area is becoming a well-known hub of tap rooms. While each of these places have their own vibe and specialty, they all share in the inspiring art of infusing chemistry, ingenuity, and creativity to produce some serious brews. Don’t just take our word for it— taste for yourself!

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. You’ll forget that you’re within the Baxter city limits.

• Location

15593 Edgewood Dr. Baxter

• Number of brews on tap* 22

• Gotta try brew

Vengeance. An award-winning ale infused with fresh-cut jalapeno peppers with just enough heat to keep things interesting and leave you craving more.

• Is food available?

Food trucks are often on-site, or you can order food to be delivered to the taproom.

• Where to buy

Available on tap at many Lakes Area restaurants, and in cans at liquor stores in the Brainerd Lakes Area, St. Cloud, and across the Twin Cities. Visit jackpinebrewery.com for more information.

Photo Courtesy Roundhouse Brewery

ROUNDHOUSE BREWERY Roundhouse offers not only a variety of classic and seasonal brews, but also kombucha, cold press coffee (made in-house with local beans from Reality Roasters), lemonade, and root beer. Whether you’re looking for a fun space to meet up and hang out, host a meeting, or enjoy an activity and entertainment, Roundhouse has something for you.

• Location

1551 Northern Pacific Road (just past the clock tower), Brainerd

• Number of brews on tap* 16

• Gotta try brew

Boom Lake Lager. Uses pilsner malt produced in Minnesota, balanced by American and German Northern Brew hops.

Crisp, light-bodied with a mild malt flavor and aroma.

• Where to find

Available on tap at your favorite local restaurants and bars and in liquor stores throughout the Brainerd Lakes Area.

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

Photo Courtesy 14 Lakes Brewery

Photo Courtesy Big Axe Brewery

board games and cards. On warm summer evenings, you can play a game of cornhole (bags) on the patio or 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 in this friendly, low-key taproom.

Big Axe also has a full-service menu that pairs nicely with their craft beers. From hand-pattied juicy burgers to homemade beer cheese soup, Big Axe offers a unified beer and food experience.

The patio is the perfect place to enjoy the summer sunshine, drink a cold one, and relax after shopping downtown Nisswa.

• Location

• Location

36846 County Road 66, Crosslake

• Number of brews on tap* 7–10

• Gotta try brew

Blond Rush Ale. A clean, crisp, and refreshing ale with a slight citrus taste and mild bitterness.

• Gotta try food

Order a Kettle River pizza or enjoy snacks sticks from Von Hanson’s Meats.

• Where to buy

14 Lakes Craft Brewing Company is just starting to distribute its beer to liquor stores within a 30-mile radius of Crosslake.

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.

Mainstreet, Downtown Nisswa

• Number of brews on tap* 12

• Gotta try brew

Agropelter Mosaic. Lightbodied single hop pale ale. Packed full of aroma with notes of grapefruit, tropical fruits, and a touch of blueberry.

• Gotta try food

Homemade beer-battered cheese curds

• Where to buy

Available on tap at many Lakes Area restaurants, and in cans at liquor stores in the Brainerd Lakes Area, St. Cloud, and across the Twin Cities.

Visit bigaxe.com for more information on where to find Big Axe beer.

*The number and types of beers vary depending on season.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 57

Food &

Drink

Buffalo Wild Wings Grill & Bar

Mister Lemondae

Burger King

Northern Cowboy Flame N' Brew

(218) 828-8900 | www.buffalowildwings.com 14643 Edgewood Dr, Baxter, MN (773) 294-5344 | www.bk.com 808 W Washington St, Brainerd, MN

Cabana Café at Craguns

(612) 363-4781 | www.misterlemonade.com 191 Oak Ave, Big Lake, MN 55309 (218) 829-9872 www.thenortherncowboy.com 19090 State Hwy 371, Brainerd, MN

(866) 988-0562 | (866) 988-0562 www.craguns.com 11000 Cragun's Dr, Brainerd, MN

Northwind Grille

DIRECTORY

Chef Mike's Catering

Papa Murphy's Take 'N Bake Pizza

Visit our website, ExploreBrainerdLakes.com for a complete list local dining options.

Christmas Point Café

Parfecto Pizza at Madden's

(218) 232-3734 9364 Wild Rice Rd, Brainerd, MN (218) 828-0543 | www.christmaspoint.com 14803 Edgewood Dr, Baxter, MN

Fairway's at Madden's

(218) 829-2811 | (800) 642-5363 www.maddens.com 11266 Pine Beach Peninsula, Brainerd, MN

Fancy Pants Chocolates

Brainerd/Baxter 19th Hole Pool & Deck

(218) 829-2811 | www.craguns.com 11000 Cragun's Dr, Brainerd, MN

5Rocks Distilling Co.

(218) 820-3044 | www.5rocksdistilling.com 25 Washington St NE, Brainerd, MN

American Legion Brainerd, Post 255

(218) 829-2249 | www.brainerdlegion255.org 708 Front St, Brainerd, MN

Applebee's

(218) 833-1400 | www.applebees.com 15240 Dellwood Dr, Baxter, MN

Baxter Cafe' & Catering

(218) 829-1739 www.baxtercountrykitchen.com 7788 Fairview Rd, Baxter, MN

(218) 829-1551 | www.northwindgrille.com 603 Laurel St, Brainerd, MN (218) 825-0838 | www.papamurphys.com 7822 Fairview Rd N, Baxter, MN (218)-855-5942 | (800) 642-5363 www.maddens.com 11266 Pine Beach Peninsula, Brainerd, MN

Pit Happens Catering

(218) 851-0003 www.facebook.com/PitHappensCateringMN Brainerd, MN

(218) 828-7844 www.fancypantschocolates.com 704 Laurel St, Brainerd, MN

Pizza Hut

Firehouse Subs

Pizza Ranch

(218) 828-0629 www.firehousesubs.com/locations/mn/ northwoods-crossing 15094 Dellwood Dr, Baxter, MN

Food Dudes Delivery

(320) 251-1888 | www.fooddudesdelivery.com Brainerd, MN

Grizzly's Woodfired Grill & Steaks

(218) 828-1424 | www.pizzahut.com 8330 Hwy 210, Baxter, MN (218) 454-3290 | www.pizzaranch.com 14643 Edgewood Dr Ste 110, Baxter, MN

Poncho and Lefty's

(218) 829-0489 www.ponchoandleftysbaxter.com 14151 Edgewood Dr, Baxter, MN

Prairie Bay Grill & Catering

(218) 822-3877 | www.grizzlysgrill.com 15159 Edgewood Dr, Baxter, MN

(218) 824-6444 www.prairiebay.3cheersmn.com 15115 Edgewood Dr, Baxter, MN

Irma's Kitchen

Rafferty's Pizza - Baxter

(866) 988-0562 | (866) 988-0562 www.craguns.com 11000 Cragun's Dr, Brainerd, MN

Jack Pine Brewery

(218) 829-5804 | www.raffertyspizza.com 14136 Baxter Dr, Ste 81, Baxter, MN

Roundhouse Brewery

(218) 270-8072 | www.jackpinebrewery.com 15593 Edgewood Dr, Baxter, MN

(218)-454-BREW www.roundhousebrew.com 1551 Northern Pacific Rd, Brainerd, MN

Knotty Pine Bakery

Sage on Laurel

Bear Trap Lounge at Cragun's

Lakeside Dining Room at Cragun's

Sawmill Inn

Black Bear Lodge and Saloon

Last Turn Saloon & Eatery

Stonehouse Coffee and Roastery

b*Merri

Legacy Bar and Grille

Baxter Grill at Arrowwood Lodge (218) 822-5634 | (877) OUR-LODGE www.arrowwoodbrainerd.com 6967 Lake Forest Rd, Baxter, MN (866) 988-0562 | (866) 988-0562 www.craguns.com 11000 Cragun's Dr, Brainerd, MN (218) 828-8400 www.blackbearlodgemn.com 14819 Edgewood Dr, Baxter, MN

(218) 829-7507 | www.thewoodsmn.com 19654 County Rd 3, Brainerd, MN

Boulder Tap House

(218) 454-1844 | www.bouldertaphouse.com 15674 Edgewood Dr, Baxter, MN

Brainerd Elks Lodge #615

(218) 829-2643 | www.brainerdelks.org 215 S 9th St, Brainerd, MN

Brainerd Family Restaurant

(218) 454-4704 | www.brainerd-familyrestaurant.business.site 2115 S 6th St, Brianerd, MN

Brainerd VFW Post 1647

(218) 829-6393 | www.brainerdvfw.org 309 S 6th St, Brainerd, MN

Brick House Pizza Bread 'n' Bagel

(218) 825-9000 www.brickhousepizzabreadandbagel.com 302 Washington St, Brainerd, MN

58 | ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

(218) 454-2470 | www.knottypinebakery.com 707 Laurel St, Brainerd, MN (866) 988-0562 | (866) 988-0562 www.craguns.com 11000 Cragun's Dr, Brainerd, MN

(218) 829-4856 www.facebook.com/lastturnsaloon 214 S 8th St, Brainerd, MN (866) 988-0562 | (866) 988-0562 www.craguns.com 11000 Cragun's Dr, Brainerd, MN

M & K's Wings Cafe

(218) 828-0206 | www.brainerdairport.com 16384 Airport Rd, Ste 7 Brainerd, MN

McDonald's - East Brainerd

(218) 829-6925 505 Washington St, NE Brainerd, MN

McDonald's - West Brainerd

(218) 829-5201 | www.facebook.com/ McDonalds521WWashingtonSt 521 W Washington St, Brainerd, MN

Mickey's Pizza and Subs

(218) 829-5588 | www.mickeyspizza.com 417 S 5th St, Brainerd, MN

Mission Point at Madden's

(218) 829-2811 | (800) 642-5363 www.maddens.com 11266 Pine Beach Peninsula, Brainerd, MN

(218)-454-7243 | www.sageonlaurel.com 606 Laurel St, Brainerd, MN (218) 829-5444 www.sawmillinnbrainerd.com 601 Washington St, Brainerd, MN (218) 961-2326 | www.stonehousecoffee.com 14540 Dellwood Dr, Ste 100, Baxter, MN

The 612 Station

(218) 454-1995 | www.612station.com 612 Front St, Brainerd, MN

The Classic Grill

(218) 829-2811 | (800) 642-5363 www.maddens.com 11672 County Rd 18 SW, Brainerd, MN

The O'Madden Pub

(218) 829-2811 | (800) 642-5363 www.maddens.com 11266 Pine Beach Peninsula, Brainerd, MN

Crosby 1991 Kitchen

(800) 626-5825 | www.grandcasinomn.com 777 Grand Ave, Onamia, MN

Auntie M's

(218) 678-2885 | (800) 450-4547 www.ruttgers.com 25041 Tame Fish Lake Rd, Deerwood, MN

FO O D & D R IN K D IRECTORY Brand Burger Bar

(800) 626-5825 www.grandcasinomn.com 777 Grand Ave, Onamia, MN

Iron Range Eatery

(218) 545-5444 www.ironrange.3cheersmn.com 6 W Main St, Crosby, MN

K&D Kettle Corn

(763) 438-6274 19574 Linberg Rd, Deerwood, MN

Plums

(800) 626-5825 | www.grandcasinomn.com 777 Grand Ave, Onamia, MN

Ruby's Dinning Room

(218) 678-2885 | (800) 450-4545 www.ruttgers.com 25039 Tame Fish Lake Rd, Deerwood, MN

Ruttger's Bear Pine Bar and Grill

(218) 678-2885 | (800) 450-4546 www.ruttgers.com 25040 Tame Fish Lake Rd, Deerwood, MN

The Buffet

(800) 626-5825 www.grandcasinomn.com 777 Grand Ave, Onamia, MN

Rafferty's Pizza - Crosslake

Northwoods Pub

Riverside Saloon & Eatery

On the Rocks

Subway - Crosslake

Preserve Pub

The Bourbon Room Saloon & Eatery

Rafferty's Pizza - Nisswa

The Cedar Chest

Sherwood Forest

The Wharf

Tanque Verde Cantina

(218) 692-5505 | www.raffertyspizza.com 14281 Gould St, Crosslake, MN (218) 692-3848 | www.riversidecrosslake.com 35322 County Rd 3, Crosslake, MN (218) 692-3039 | www.local.subway.com 37733 County Rd 66, Crosslake, MN (218) 692-3423 | www.bourbonroommn.com 38136 County Rd 66, Crosslake, MN (218) 692-2657 www.cedarchestcrosslake.com 33350 County Rd 3, Crosslake, MN (218) 692-3454 www.thewharfcrosslake.com 12986 County Rd 16, Crosslake, MN

Zorbaz on Crozz Lake

(218) 692-4567 | www.zorbaz.com 36215 County Rd 66, Crosslake, MN

Nisswa

(218) 963-8756 | www.grandviewlodge.com 23521 Nokomis Ave, Nisswa, MN (218) 963-8756 | www.grandviewlodge.com 23521 Nokomis Ave, Nisswa, MN (218) 963-8756 | www.grandviewlodge.com 23521 Nokomis Ave, Nisswa, MN (218) 963-3023 | www.raffertyspizza.com 25457 Main St, Nisswa, MN (218) 963-6261 www.sherwoodforestmnlodge.com 8789 Interlachen Rd, Nisswa, MN (218) 963-8756 | www.grandviewlodge.com 23521 Nokomis Ave, Nisswa, MN

Zorbaz on Gull Lake

(218) 963-4790 | www.zorbaz.com 8105 Lost Lake Rd, Lake Shore, MN

Pequot Lakes Antler's

Up North Bar

Adirondack Coffee

(800) 626-5825 | www.grandcasinomn.com 777 Grand Ave, Onamia, MN

(218) 967-0111 | www.lovemymug.com 25469 Main St, Nisswa, MN

(218)-562-7162 | (800) 432-3777 www.breezypointresort.com 7891 County Rd 11, Breezy Point, MN

Zig's Restaraunt and Bar

Bar Harbor

Chubbeez

(218) 678-2885 | (800) 450-4548 www.ruttgers.com 25042 Tame Fish Lake, Rd, Deerwood, MN

Crosslake 14 Lakes Craft Brewing Company (218) 232-2178 | www.14lakes.com 36846 County Rd 66, Crosslake, MN

2 One 8

(218) 936-6723 | (800) 453-STAR www.starcasino.com 777 Casino Rd, Mahnomen, MN

Andy's Bar & Grill and Wine & Spirits

(218) 692-3722 | www.andyscrosslake.com 35453 County Rd 3, Crosslake, MN

Crosslake Coffee

(218) 692-3994 | www.crosslakecoffee.com 35522 County Rd 66, Crosslake, MN

Crosslake Fifty Lakes American Legion (218) 692-2555 | www.post500.com 35112 County Rd 3, Crosslake, MN

Dairy Queen - Crosslake

(218) 692-4443 | www.dairyqueen.com 36404 County Rd 66, Crosslake, MN

Jitterz

(218) 692-5210 | www.sweetjitterz.com 35752 Allen Ave, Crosslake, MN

Lake Country Crafts and Cones

(218) 692-4411 | www.lakecountrycrafts.com 36084 County Rd 66, Crosslake, MN

Manhattan's

(218) 692-3381 | www.mblodge.com 39051 County Rd 66, Manhattan Beach, MN

Maucieri's

(218) 692-4800 www.maucieris.dropzite.com 34650 County Rd 3, Crosslake, MN

Moonlite Bay Family Restaurant & Bar (218) 692-3575 | www.moonlitebay.com 37627 County Rd 66, Crosslake, MN

Pine Peaks Restaurant

(218) 692-4100 | www.pinepeaksgifts.com 35654 County Rd 66, Crosslake, MN

(218) 963-2568 www.barharborsupperclub.com 8164 Interlachen Rd, Lake Shore, MN

Big Axe Brewing Co.

(218) 961-2337 | www.bigaxebrewing.com 25435 Main St, Nisswa, MN

Big Bob's Backyard BBQ

(218) 537-0346 www.qingforcommunities.com 5616 Maggie Ln, Nisswa, MN

CHAR

(218) 963-8756 | www.grandviewlodge.com 23521 Nokomis Ave, Nisswa, MN

Cru

(218) 831-4363

Commander Restaurant & Bar and JJ's Pub

(218) 562-4198 | www.commanderbar.com 30279 Airport Rd, Breezy Point, MN

Dairy Queen - Pequot Lakes

(218) 568-5440 | www.dairyqueen.com 30799 Patriot Ave, Pequot Lakes, MN

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

Latte' Da Coffee & Gifts

(218) 963-8756 | www.grandviewlodge.com 23521 Nokomis Ave, Nisswa, MN

(218) 568-5550 www.lattedacoffeeandgifts.com 31038 Gov. Dr, Pequot Lakes, MN

Crust Pizza

Marina II at Breezy Point Resort

Dock 77

Mino Wiisini

(218) 963-8795 | (218) 820-4256 www.grandviewlodge.com 23521 Nokomis Ave, Nisswa, MN (218) 961-1177 | www.quarterdeckresort.com 9820 Birch Bay Dr SW, Nisswa MN

Ernie's on Gull Lake

(218) 829-3918 | www.erniesongull.com 10424 Squaw Point Rd, East Gull Lake, MN

Freddy's Sports Grill

(218) 963-8756 | www.grandviewlodge.com 23521 Nokomis Ave, Nisswa, MN

Grand Breakfast

(218)963-8756 | www.grandviewlodge.com 23521 Nokomis Ave, Nisswa, MN

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

Main Street Ale House

(218) 961-6724 | www.mainstreetnisswa.com 25559 Main St, Nisswa, MN

Nisswa American Legion

(218) 963-9946 | www.nisswalegion.com 25807 Main St, Nisswa, MN

(218) 562-7811 | (800) 432-3777 www.breezypointresort.com= 9252 Breezy Point Dr, Breezy Point, MN (218) 936-6723 | (800) 453-STAR www.starcasino.com 777 Casino Rd, Mahnomen, MN

Norway Ridge Supper Club

(218) 543-6136 | (877) 878-7945 www.norwayridge.com 34757 County Rd 39, Pequot Lakes, MN

Smoke BBQ & Brew

(218) 936-6723 | (800) 453-STAR www.starcasino.com 777 Casino Rd, Mahnomen, MN

The Yard Sports Complex and Grounds Crew Coffee

(218) 568-8080 | 28795 Peterson Path Pequot Lakes, MN

Traditions

(218) 936-6723 | (800) 453-STAR www.starcasino.com 777 Casino Rd, Mahnomen MN

Trapper's Landing Lodge

(218) 836-2500 www.trapperslandinglodge.com 1812 Merit Rd, Walker, MN

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 59

FO OD & DRI NK SPOTLI G H T BUS I N ES S ES

Applebee's Grill & Bar

Brainerd Family Restaurant

Ernie's on Gull

Baxter's Bar & Grill

Commander Restaurant & Bar and JJ's Pub

Grand Champion Meats - Crosslake

Cragun's Legacy Bar & Grille

Irma's Kitchen

(218) 833-1400 | applebees.com Join us at your favorite neighborhood bar & grill for a perfect margarita paired with our fan-favorite loaded fajitas, or a platinum Long Island tea and a new sizzling skillet entrée. We feature two happy hours daily from 3pm-6pm and 9pm-12am. See you soon!

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

Black Bear Lodge & Saloon

(218) 828-8400 | 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.

60 | ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

(218) 454-4704 brainerd-family-restaurant.business.site/ Great family restaurant located just South of downtown Brainerd. Open 7am to 3pm Sunday through Thursday and 7am to 7pm Friday through Saturday. Enjoy great food, friendly staff and fair prices.

(218) 562-4198 | commanderbar.com Open daily for breakfast, lunch specials, great burgers, pizza, ribs and 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.

(218) 825-2725 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 and rolling fairways of Cragun's Legacy Golf Courses. Signature walleye sandwich and great happy hour at the Sports Bar.

(218) 829-3918 | 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 grandchampionmeats.com 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) 825-2700 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.

Iron Range Eatery

Nisswa American Legion

Jack Pine Brewery

Northern Cowboy Flame N' Brew

(218) 545-5444 ironrange.3cheersmn.com This unique venue is a must experience when in the Cuyuna area. The Iron Range offers an appetizing Chef inspired menu using local ingredients whenever possible. Offering indoor and outdoor patio seating (including fire pit and water wall), a full bar and friendly staff, we look forward to serving you.

(218) 270-8072 | 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.

Main Street Ale House

(218) 961-6724 | 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) 963-9946 | nisswalegion.com The Nisswa American Legion is the Get-together place! Enjoy some of the best home cooked food around or just stop by for a cold drink. Lunch and nightly specials, full bar. Bar bingo is played on Sundays and Wednesdays. Pull tabs and electronic games, affordable hall rental and catering.

Am I loving all these vibrant colors?! You betcha! Shades of blue are my favorite.

(218) 829-8972 thenortherncowboy.com Come for the food, stay for the view. Located on North Long Lake. Enjoy 16 tap beers and full menu. From land to sea we have something for everyone. Try one of our up-north favorites and see what all the Flame N' Brew is about. Event space and catering available.

Norway Ridge Supper Club

(218) 543-6136 | norwayridge.com An old-world supper club serving handcut 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.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 61

FO OD & DRI NK SPOTLI G H T BUS I N ES S ES

Pequot Lakes Supervalu

Sage on Laurel

The 612 Station

Pit Happens Catering

Señor Patrón

The Last Turn Saloon & Eatery

Prairie Bay Grill and Catering

Sherwood Forest

(218) 568-5001 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.

(218) 851-0003 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) 824-6444 prairiebay.3cheersmn.com Prairie Bay offers a delicious variety of chef inspired dishes using local ingredients whenever possible. Featuring a diverse menu of sandwiches, pastas, salads, seafood and more, we have something for every palate. Come in and taste why we are the answer to the question, "Where should we eat?"

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(218) 454-7243 | sageonlaurel.com At Sage on Laurel, enjoy amazing food in a fun, eclectic atmosphere in historic downtown Brainerd. Globally inspired flavors meet comfort classics with homemade soups, breads, and desserts. We feature: from-scratch kitchen, full bar, and outdoor dining. Sage is a local favorite with great reviews, come see why!

(218) 454-7762 facebook.com/senorpatronmexican Señor Patrón offers the finest, genuine Mexican cuisine in the Brainerd Lakes Area; including nachos supreme, fajita taco salad, enchiladas, quesadillas, burritos - the works! Groups welcome. Located in historic downtown Brainerd. Open Monday-Friday 11:00 am - 9:00 pm, Saturday 11:00 am - 1:00 am.

(218) 963-6261 sherwoodforest.3cheersmn.com As listed by the Historical Society, this 1920s lodge restaurant is a must experience. Featuring a full bar, mouth watering menu, rustic atmosphere, indoor and outdoor fireplaces and a 3 season patio that can hold 100 people; make Sherwood Forest a must stop while dining in the Lakes area.

(218) 454-1995 | 612station.com Located in the heart of historic downtown Brainerd. Provide customers with a warm, friendly experience while enjoying great food and cold beer. Full bar, 2 daily lunch specials and light catering. Meat raffles, live music, and trip giveaways! Rustic place to gather with old friends or make new ones.

(218) 829-4856 facebook.com/lastturnsaloon Visit the Last Turn Saloon & Eatery for a step back in time. Historic building with a Cheers-type atmosphere. Meeting & event space for up to 100 people. Catered meals as well as casual dining in a unique setting.

I just love being on the water and this chain of lakes is always hoppin’.

The food options are tasty, too.

FO O D & D R IN K S POT L I GHT BUS INE S S E S

Family owned and operated USDA Choice Cuts of Beef and Pork

Award Winning Smoked Meats

Chicken

Hand Crafted Sausages

Seafood

FREE SAMPLES

14043 Swann Drive Crosslake, MN

218-692-ME EAT (6 6328)

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Photo By Rob Fitzsimmons, The Crossing Arts Alliance

Ballet, Lakes Area Music Festival

CROSSING ARTS ALLIANCE

LAKES AREA MUSIC FESTIVAL

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 Lakes Area Music Festival connects nationally acclaimed and world renowned musicians and performers with audiences right here in Brainerd.

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.

• Location

711 Laurel St., Brainerd For more info on the art happenings, visit www.crossingarts.org.

The Lakes Area Music Festival features more than 200 musicians from around the world, and they come to Brainerd to collaborate on chamber music, orchestral repertoire, opera, and ballet.

All seating is general admission.

Concerts are free, but donationbased admissions helps to ensure that these world-class performances continue to be available to audiences in Brainerd.

• Location

Tornstrom Auditorium 804 Oak St., Brainerd

Find more info on the musicians, events, and concerts at: www.lakesareamusic.org.

Snap a pic in Downtown Brainerd at The Crossing Arts' You Betcha mural.

A RT, CU LTU R E & M U S IC S P OT L I GHT BUS INE S S E S

THE REAL VIKINGS ARE COMING! Real Vikings - No Horns

Authentic Viking Age costumes, weapons, crafts, music, & games!

Crow Wing

An affordable family event with special activities for kids!

Onsite food including lefse-wrapped hot dogs!

CROWWINGVIKINGFESTIVAL.COM

Saturday, August 29th

Crow Wing County Fairgrounds - Brainerd, MN

Heartland Symphony Orchestra

(800) 826-1997 HeartlandSymphony.com Now in its 43rd season, Heartland Symphony Orchestra will perform its spring 2020 concert series on April 2 in Crosslake, April 4 in Little Falls and April 5 in Brainerd. The program will include music of Beethoven plus an original piece by this year's winner of the National Composer's Competition.

Hubbard Radio Brainerd

(218) 828-1244 | brainerdradio.net Enjoy listening to our stations anywhere with our new mobile apps for 106.7 WJJY, B93.3, The Power Loon and Cool 103.5 by searching for our stations in the App Store or Google Play!

Lisa Cassman, Author

(218) 252-0233 | lisacassman.com Personal Growth Discovery, allow yourself to grow. Self help books for your marriage, your self worth and spiritual well being.

Kicks on Route 66...

The ART Place

Stage North Theatre Company

Lakes Area Music Festival

The Crossing Arts Alliance

(218) 692-5425 | kicks66crosslake.com PAINT, CREATE, INSPIRE!!!

• Adult & children painting classes • Artistic furniture restoration • Creative DIY painting technique/ classes • Creation station • Exclusive Mark J Harlow award-winning photo gallery • Unique gifts • We will host your party Art & soul of Crosslake!

Art & soul of Crosslake!

(218) 275-5263 | 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.

(218) 232-6810 | stagenorththeater.com Stage North Theatre puts the Community in Community Theatre! We are a non-profit (501.C3) organization. Our primary space is the Franklin Arts Center Theatre. This beautiful, historic, 478 seat theatre is a wonderful place to experience our full production of musicals and plays.

Visit our website for complete season information.

(218) 833-0416 | crossingarts.org We share the "WOW". WORKSHOPS and exhibits from artists around the globe, brought to our community. OBJECTS of beauty created by local artists, made available to our community through our gift shop and gallery. WONDER and excitement in children's eyes as they are inspired to create their own artistic visions.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 65

Don't

forget!

Stop by our Welcome Center Gift Shop just south of Brainerd on Hwy. 371 for your Up North souvenirs!

and Retail You’ll find distinctive shops all around the Lakes Area—from downtown Brainerd and Baxter, up to Nisswa, Crosslake, and Pequot Lakes.

Many of the shops feature merchandise with an Up North or Minnesota flair that offer goods by local artists or designers. Other shops have trendy clothing, jewelry, furniture, and décor in a boutique setting. You can find recreational gear for your outdoor adventures at specialty retail stores.

And don’t forget the antiques! The shops along Crosby’s main street are known as the “Antique Capital of the Lakes Area”.

Enjoy the shopping throughout the Lakes Area with one-of-a-kind items and great customer service.

Don’t forget to stop by our Explore Brainerd Lakes Welcome Center Gift Shop just South on Hwy. 371.

371 Furniture & Mattress

(218) 828-3020 | 371furniture.com Everything you need for inside your home or cabin! 371 Furniture is a family-owned business providing furniture, mattresses, dining room tables, log furniture, pillows and 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.

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S H O PPIN G & R E TA IL S POT L I GHT BUS INE S S E S

Christmas Point

Its a WING DING Thing

Open City Thrift

Common Goods

Lakes Area Cosmetic Bar

Q Squares

Design Consign

North Country Floral

The Olde Open Window

(218) 828-0603 | 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 services gourmet salads and sandwiches.

(218) 824-0923, Baxter (218) 692-7682, Crosslake commongoodsmn.org Common Goods is a trendy thrift store with locations in Brainerd and Crosslake.

Proceeds from the stores support Bridges of Hope, a nonprofit that serves local families in need. Common Goods offers high-quality goods at reasonable prices, including clothing, accessories, sporting goods and home furnishings.

(218) 824-0712 | DesignConsignMN.com Located in a historic venue built in 1876, we professionally showcase quality consignments from around the world. We offer a unique showroom that specializes in a selection of quality antiques, new fine furnishings and more! With over 3000 past and present consignors, you never know what you will find next!

(218) 232-4379 facebook.com/itsawingdingthing A fun event to Make Your Own Wine for wedding receptions, customer appreciation gifts, bachelorette/shower parties, dinner parties, housewarming gifts, girl’s weekend get-a-way, couples date night,or stock up your personal wine collection! *Gift certificates available for those hard to buy people in your life.

(218) 341-0037 lakesareacosmeticbar.com Located downtown Brainerd. Medical spa providing Botox, dermal filler, lip enhancement, chemical peels. Now offering Cryo T-Shock therapy, affordable body slimming, fat freezing, contouring, tightens, & tones skin. Reduces the appearance of cellulite. This can be done almost anywhere on the body! Free consults!

(218) 825-0522 northcountryfloralmn.com We are your locally owned Floral Shop offering stunning arrangements & caring service. For 24 years, we've provided beautiful flowers for all your special events: birthdays, funerals, weddings, anniversaries, holidays, special occasions, & more.

We offer same-day delivery & 10% discount to any military, police, fire, & EMS.

(218) 454-1665 | opencitythrift.com Open City Thrift is a fiercely local resale clothing store with a passion for style and reducing environmental waste. We pay cash for quality pre-loved clothing and accessories and are always accepting donations. Stop in and sell your pre-loved threads, buy some fresh gear, and reduce your footprint!

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

(218) 454-3338 | Find us on Facebook Step into our cozy and relaxing atmosphere. Downtown Brainerd’s largest gift shoppe and boutique. Featuring clothing, jewelry, and accessories to complete your look. Locally handmade Items for you and your home. Plenty of nooks and crannies to explore at The Olde Open Window. Inspiration for your Home, Body, and Soul.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 67

Photo Courtesy Madden’s Resort on Gull Lake

Things to Consider When Buying a

Lake Home After vacationing

in the beautiful Brainerd Lakes, you’re finally ready to realize

the Minnesota dream of owning a cabin here. Buying a lake cabin can be a lengthy process.

And there’s a lot to consider before you’re sitting on your new lakeside deck watching the sunset and listening to the loons.

68 | ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

1.

CONSIDER TRAVEL TIME

Consider the time it takes for you to travel from your main home to your cabin. Minnesota summers are notoriously short.

You’ll want to maximize your time at the lake. Finding a lake home that has an easy drive likely increases the chances you can use the property not only on long holiday weekends, but also quick overnights, too. Luckily the Brainerd Lakes Area is an easy 2-hour drive from Minneapolis/St. Paul, Duluth, and Fargo, making it an ideal lake home destination.

2.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT LAKE

What do you want out of your lake property? Do you love boating?

Access to restaurants? Do you prefer a quieter lake for kayaking and paddlleboarding? Are you dreaming of a sandy lake bottom for swimming? Do you want solitude, or do you like being close to town and amenities?

If you choose a small lake, is there a chance you’ll outgrow its recreational opportunities? Do you plan to use the property year-round or just in the summer months?

H OM E & CABIN

Deciding what is most important to you and how you will use the property will help narrow your search. We’re lucky that the Brainerd Lakes Area offers something for everyone. Chains of lakes that are interconnected offering endless recreation opportunities. Or intimate lakes with minimal activity.

3.

TEST THE WATER

Once you’ve narrowed down your search, spend some time on the water. It will give you a different perspective and valuable insight.

You may see a beautiful property in May only to find in Mid-July the lake is covered with lily pads. Or a visit after heavy rains or melting snow may show how water levels fluctuate. If the property is lowlying, you may need to find out about potential flooding.

4.

WORK WITH AN AGENT

Finding a real estate agent who knows the ins and outs of the area and the lakeshore market is an invaluable resource. Agents can help you steer clear of a potential money pit or alternatively help look past easy cosmetic changes.

Agents will guide you through the whole buying process—some of which will be unique to waterfront property.

5.

PLAN FOR MAINTENANCE

The thought of maintaining two homes with two lawns—one of which is two hours away—is overwhelming. Besides, who comes to the lake to sweat over yard work?! Hiring a lawn care service can ease the burden of outdoor work. You’ll also want to think about winterizing and snow removal, too.

Or maybe you’d like to do a small remodel project or some landscaping. Finding builders, landscapers, and cabin care companies can help with your goals and even save you money on repairs in the long-run.

6.

CREATE A BUDGET

When searching online listings it’s easy to get overwhelmed, discouraged or even set unrealistic expectations. Work with your bank and your agent to help set a realistic budget. Looking at homes that are within your price point will help you feel confident as you purchase your lake home.

7.

UNDERSTAND THE LOCAL ORDINANCES AND RESTRICTIONS

some case can be more restrictive than the statewide minimum standards. Questions to think about as you look at a property: Can I clear trees or vegetation for a better view or access? Can I build a second structure? What are the setback standards? You’ll want to understand these rules before you buy to know what you can and can’t do on your property.

8.

TALK TO THE NEIGHBORS

A great way to get an idea of what life will be like at your new cabin is to talk to the neighbors. They might be apprehensive to see old friends and neighbors go, just like you may be wondering how friendly your potential neighbors will be. Break the ice and make new connections. Soon you’ll be waving and making the famous Minnesota Goodbye—until next weekend!

Ready To Buy?

See a full list of our local realtors at: ExploreBrainerd Lakes.com/RealEstate

Shoreline development and restoration can vary by city, county, and township, and in

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 69

H OME & CABI N SPOTLI G H T BUS I N ES S ES

Backyard Reflections, Inc.

Edina Realty

Hy-Tec Construction

BlackRidgeBank

Frandsen Bank and Trust

LakePlace.com

Builders FirstSource

Greater Lakes Association of Realtors (GLAR)

Lands End Development

(218) 454-1065 | backyardmn.com Founded in 2000, Backyard Reflections, Inc. is a full-service landscape design/ build company with locations in Annandale and Nisswa, Minnesota. 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) 829-8712 | blackridgebank.com For everyday life, Go with a pro–BlackRidgeBANK! From home loans to personal and business banking, we have the Brainerd Lakes area covered with four convenient locations. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

(218) 829-2891 | bldr.com Builders FirstSource, with locations in Brainerd and Pequot Lakes, is the nation's largest supplier of building products, value-added components and services to professional contractors as well as homeowners. With our local touch we understand the needs and wants in the area.

For store information visit www.bldr.com.

70 | ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

(218) 828-7000 EdinaRealty.com/office/brainerdbaxter#1 Minnesota and the Brainerd Lakes #1 Real Estate Company. Featuring all real estate services including sales, rentals, mortgages, title, insurance, and warranty. One stop shopping for all your real estate needs!

Edina Realty - working for you!

(218) 855-1320 | frandsenbank.com Frandsen Bank & Trust is a full-service community banking, trust and investment services organization with offices located throughout Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota. All products and services are provided in a true community banking environment where the customer is cared for in a way that nurtures a long-term relationship.

(218) 828-4567 | greaterlakesrealtors.com Local knowledge. Expert advice. Trusted professionals with a strict code of ethics That’s what you get when you work with a REALTOR®, That’s Who We .

(218) 829-8529 | 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) 692-6003 | lakeplace.com LakePlace.com isn't just the largest and most visited lake property website in the Midwest, we are also a full-service real estate firm with fantastic agents and "brickn-mortar" offices throughout Minnesota & Wisconsin. Whether buying or selling, let us help make your dreams come true!

(218) 692-5263 | 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.

H O M E & CA B IN S POT L I GHT BUS INE S S E S

SueLehmanSells.com

EXPERT CARE 7 days a week

Sue Lehman

“Hometown Service with Results!”

218.838.4159

Convenient Care Baxter Cub Foods

Lonesome Cottage Furniture Co.

(218) 568-8223 | 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!

St. Joseph’s Medical Center Emergency Convenient Care Brainerd Cub Foods

N

Sue Lehman, Realtor®

W

(218) 838-4159 | 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!

E S

Baxter Clinic & Urgent Care

CONVENIENT CARE

Baxter Cub Foods 14133 Edgewood Drive, Baxter Brainerd Cub Foods 417 8th Avenue NE, Brainerd

URGENT CARE

Baxter Clinic 13060 Isle Drive, Baxter

EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT St. Joseph’s Medical Center 523 N 3rd St, Brainerd

ONLINE E-VISIT

Visit EssentiaHealth.org and click on “Online E-Visit”

Minnesota Cleaning Solutions

(218) 692-4400

(218) 821-9141 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 218-821-9141.

35668 County Road 3

www.crosslakevet.com VOTED #1 BEST PHARMACY TWO YEARS IN A ROW!

Coming to Pine River-Spring 2020!

Rahn's Oil and Propane

(320) 256-3680 | rahnfuels.com Building a new home and looking for heating options? Look to Rahn's Oil and 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.

At GuidePoint Pharmacy, our experienced pharmacists are here to help guide you towards better health. Our pharmacies provide services that go beyond those typically seen in a community pharmacy, including: Free Delivery of Prescriptions • Free Mailing of Prescriptions Convenient Pill Packaging • Immunization Services Diabetes Prevention & Education Classes • Medication Management Services

AITKIN

BRAINERD

BREEZY POINT

CROSBY

LONGVILLE

NISSWA

226 Minnesota Ave N 218.670.7120

108 S 6th St 218.829.0347

Across from Ice Arena 218.562.4000

20 W Main St 218.546.5411

1472 Cty Rd 5 218.363.2640

In Schaefer’s Foods 218.963.7525

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 71

R ELOCAT I ON

Photo By Garret Christopherson

People move here for the quality of life and slower pace.

A Place to Call

Photo Courtesy Madden’s Resort on Gull Lake

Relocating to the Brainerd Lakes The Brainerd Lakes Area is more than just a vacation destination; it’s a great place to plant roots and call home. The beautiful natural resources, connected communities, and strong businesses make the area an ideal place to live and play.

1.

VARIETY OF COMMUNITIES

Celebrating family time at Madden’s on Gull Lake

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. Each has charm and a strong sense of community. And each is a great place to raise a family or enjoy retirement at a slower pace.

Photo Courtesy Grand View Lodge

2.

GREAT OUTDOORS

We have four seasons of recreation fun. World class golf. The Paul Bunyan bike trail. Mountain biking in the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area. Hiking wooded trails. Snowmobiling. Downhill and cross country skiing. You’ll find something to love in each season.

3.

LIFE ON THE WATER

We have some of the best lakes in the state for fishing (ice fishing and summer angling) 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.

4.

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.

7.

8.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

There’s something to be said about living where people choose to vacation. You and your family can make connections through community events, professional networking groups, and social clubs. Events like The Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza, Chamber events, and the Brainerd Newcomers Club make settling in to a new community easy.

TOP SCHOOLS

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 to find out which district, community, or private school fits your family.

DIVERSE JOBS

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 that easily balances quality of life and work.

5.

6.

Photo Courtesy Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge

LOCALLY OWNED BUSINESSES

We have locally owned shops, restaurants, and breweries that help make our towns vibrant with distinctive products and services.

It’s easy to support local here.

Local

Events

See pages 36-39 for a list of local community events held throughout the year.

MMFCU provides

smart financial services

to fit your needs.

• HOME LOANS • REWARDS CHECKING ACCOUNTS WITH ATM FEES REFUNDED • REMOTE DEPOSIT • AUTO, BOAT AND RECREATIONAL LOANS

mmfcu.org (218) 829-0371

Loans subject to credit approval. Certain restrictions apply.

Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Lender.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 73

R ELOCAT I ON SPOTLIGH T BUS I N ES S ES

Abbie Hoelscher Agency Inc.

Finnegan & Associates, Inc.

Landis+Gyr

CentraCare Baxter Specialty Clinic

First National Bank

Minneapolis Heart Institute

Cub Foods

Lakewood Church

Penmac Staffing

(218) 568-8200 abbiehoelscheragency.com Specializing in creating a great customer experience. We offer policies in auto, home, life, business & recreational vehicle insurance with the knowledge and expertise when it comes to insuring your dreams. We look forward to building a long lasting relationship with you.

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

(218) 828-4601 | 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.

74 | ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

(218) 829-3040 agent.amfam.com/shannon-finnegan/ mn/brainerd/406-w-washington-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 | 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) 829-7251 | lakewoodfc.com Lakewood Evangelical Free Church is committed to reproducing faithful followers of Christ. We do this through solid Bible teaching, caring for our community, and always sharing the hope that Jesus brings. Our Sunday services are at 9:00 AM and 10:45 AM. Wednesday Family Nights at 6:30 PM (Sep-May).

(218) 562-4877 | Landisgyr.com Landis+Gyr is the leading global provider of energy management solutions for the utility sector. The company delivers smart grid, including smart metering, distribution network sensing & automation tools, load control and analytics. The Pequot Lakes location supports product development & delivery for both hardware & software, testing & technical support.

(218) 855-5280 | allinahealth.org/Minneapolis-Heart-Institute/Locations/Baxter/ Minneapolis Heart Institute, part of Abbott Northwestern Hospital/Allina Health, addresses a full range of heart and vascular needs. In a commitment to improving cardiovascular care throughout the region, our team of highly skilled & local cardiologists see patients at clinics in Brainerd, Baxter, Crosby, Aitkin & Little Falls.

(218) 824-9675 | 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"

© 2020 Nor-Son, Inc. All rights reserved. MN Lic.#BC001969

R E LO CATIO N S POT L I GHT BUS INE S S E S

Schaefer's Foods

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

Thank you for voting us Best Home Builder in the Brainerd Lakes Area!

Voted BEST HOME BUILDER in the Brainerd Lakes Area!

See more award-winning homes at Nor-SonResidential.com

Start to Finish Builders and Remodelers

(218) 828-0585 | starttofinishbuilders.com The Lakes Area's quality builder for over 20 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.

PEQUOT LAKES PUBLIC SCHOOLS Big district opportunities, small town community!

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.

Whitefish at the Lakes

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

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 75

R E LOCATI ON SPOTLIGHT BUS I N ES S ES

ADVANCED MANUFACTURING CAREERS

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

Live Here, Work Here

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

Apply online at

www.pequottool.com E-mail resume to:

LStromberg@PequotTool.com 76 | ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Brainerd Lakes Area ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Corporation

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

R E LO CAT IO N S POT L I GHT BUS INE S S E S

Welcome Center

We specialize in the manufacturing of custom printed labels, inserts, printed film, specialty coupons and booklets.

Quality printing for all your labeling needs!

•LOCAL SOUVENIRS• •FRIENDLY STAFF• •AREA MAPS & GUIDES• •PHOTO OP WITH PAUL BUNYAN• •CLEAN RESTROOMS• Located South on Hwy 371 7393 State Hwy 371, Brainerd, MN 56401 218-829-2838 | 800-450-2838 www.explorebrainerdlakes.com

Communications for your Northwoods Neighborhood: High-Speed Internet, Digital TV, Telephone & Home Monitoring

• Marketing & Advertising • Small Business Strategic Planning & Development

www.crosslake.net | 800.992.8220

• Public Relations • Meeting Facilitation • Executive Coaching BRIAN LEHMAN (218) 838.4158 lehmanconsulting2@nisswa.net

l ehman & a

ssoCiates Consulting, inC. Keeping Your Business Healthy

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com | 77

R E LOCATI ON SPOTLIGH T BUS I N ES S ES

• Residential • Commercial • Post-Construction • Bio-Hazard Servicing Brainerd, Nisswa, Crosslake, Little Falls & Garrison

218-821-6005

ary@starcleanmn.com

COMMERCIAL / RESIDENTIAL / ARCHITECTURE

(218) 829-8529 hytecconstruction.com BRAINERD, MN

Learn

in Lake Country CLCMN.EDU

218.855.8000

EOEE/ADA Accessible

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B U S IN E S S D IRECTO RY

Business

Directory Visit our website, ExploreBrainerdLakes.com for a complete list of local businesses.

Arts and Culture ____________________

Greater Lakes Area Preforming Arts (218) 568-9200 | glapa.org 30805 Olson St Pequot Lakes, MN Greater Lakes Area Performing Arts (Pequot Lakes) provides quality entertainment featuring Pequot Lakes Community Theatre productions and guest artists/performers.

Visit www.glapa.org or call 218.568.9200.

Kelli Engstrom Photography (218) 232-0333 kelliengstrom.com PO Box 1014, Crosslake, MN I am a creative wedding and portrait photographer with more than 20 years of photographing experience.

Kicks on Route 66...

The ART Place (218) 692-5425 kicks66crosslake.com 36066 Co Rd 66, Crosslake, MN An eclectic mix of art classes, exclusive Mark J Harlow's award-winning nature photography, unique gifts, party hosting.. Fun for all! Art & soul of Crosslake.

Lakes Area Music Festival (218) 275-5263 lakesareamusic.org 715 Laurel St, Brainerd, MN 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!

Lisa Cassman, Author (218) 252-0233 lisacassman.com Books available Online Finding the Beautiful You Self help books on Personal Growth Discovery. Allow yourself to grow, your future self is waiting.

Luminous Prints Photography (218) 330-7846 luminousprints.com 14302 Cottage Grove Dr Baxter, MN Your Brainerd lakes area photographer! "I'll meet you at the place that makes you feel like you are at your best!" Email/Call Trina today!

Stage North Theatre Company (218) 232-6810 stagenorththeater.com 1001 Kingwood St, Suite B-50 Brainerd, MN Stage North Theatre puts the Community in Community Theatre! We are a non-profit (501.C3) organization located Brainerd, Minnesota. Visit our website for complete season information.

The Crossing Arts Alliance (218) 833-0416 | crossingarts.org 711 Laurel St, Brainerd, MN 400 members comprised of artists, art enthusiasts, and community members hoping to inspire and enrich our community for those who create and appreciate the arts.

Automotive _____________________

Business Services ____________________

Brainerd Truck and Trailer (218) 454-2868 brainerdtruck.com 16707 Highway 371 North Brainerd, MN Service & repair for heavy duty trucks, construction equipment and all types of trailers. Mobile service truck and gated contract parking available.

Borden, Steinbauer, Krueger and Knudson, P.A. (218) 829-1451 brainerdlaw.com 302 South Sixth St Brainerd, MN 56041 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.

Greenheck Auto Glass (218) 824-6065 greenheckautoglass.com 118 Washington St Brainerd, MN 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.

Royal Tire (218) 829-8769 | royaltire.com 615 Washington St Brainerd, MN We're your local retail and commercial tire and complete auto care store. Nobody, but nobody sells for less!

Breweries ____________________

Brainerd Dispatch (218) 829-4705 brainerddispatch.com 506 James St, Brainerd, MN The Brainerd Dispatch provides lakes area news coverage through its daily newspaper (Dispatch) and weekly newspaper (Echo Journal) & on the brainerddispatch.com & pineandlakes.com websites

Brenny Family Funeral Chapel (218) 828-5051 | Brenny.com 7348 Excelsior Rd, Baxter, MN Brenny listens to each individual to ensure that we are able to create a meaningful celebration that best captures a unique life story.

Big Axe Brewing Company (218) 961-2337 bigaxebrewing.com 25435 Main St, Nisswa, MN 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.

Coffee News - Brainerd Lakes (218) 831-0898 CoffeeNewsBrainerdLakes.com PO Box 196 Pine River, MN 56474 A fun, weekly publication offered free to customers at restaurants, coffee shops, and other area establishments.

Exclusive advertising for local businesses at an affordable rate.

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

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

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B USIN ES S DI RECTORY

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

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

Grace Built Co. (507) 450-6341 gracebuiltco.com 7706 Winter Trl Breezy Point, MN Focus on running your business while we focus on crafting your brand. Clear, captivating and tailored to you, we create work that drives results.

Gullview Technologies (218) 454-7711 gullviewtech.com 7651 Universal Rd, Baxter, MN We provide high capability software development services.

Our services include application development, maintenance, QA, DevOps, staff augmentation and technical help desk services.

Hubbard Radio Brainerd (218) 828-1244 brainerdradio.net 13225 Dogwood Dr South Baxter, MN Serving the Brainerd Lakes Area with great radio stations including: 106.7 WJJY, The Power Loon, B93.3, Cool 103.5, 1380AM KLIZ The Fan & KVBR 1340AM. 80 | ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Construction ____________________

Indigo Signworks (320) 846-9698 indigosignworks.com 4133 Iowa St, Suite 100 Alexandria, MN 56308 Indigo Signworks is a complete full-service sign company that designs, sells, fabricates, installs and services signs of any scale.

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

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

Quality Equipment Sales and Service (218) 297-0991 qualityequipmentmn.com 5140 Landmark Dr Brainerd, MN Quality Equipment is a full line Kubota dealership that offers sales, service, parts and rentals.

Service and parts for many makes and models of equipment.

LINDAR Corporation (218) 829-3457 | lindarcorp.com 7789 Hastings Rd, Baxter, MN LINDAR Corporation- plastics thermoforming company specializing in concept design, prototyping, production of food packaging, paint products, and custom plastic products for customers around the globe

Red Ribbon Consulting, LLC (218) 820-2268 Facebook@redribbonconsulting 5646 Rush Lake Ct, Baxter, MN Growth consultant, business model strategist, real consensus facilitator, executive mentor connecting financial sensibility with the strategic desires of organizations and individuals.

More than a coach!

Hy-Tec Construction (218) 829-8529 hytecconstruction.com 11360 Business 371, PO Box 621 Brainerd, MN 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.

Rook Technology Services (218) 821-4793 rooktechservices.com We provide enterprise-class IT support tailored to your business's needs and budget.

Call today to see how we can help you.

Lands End Development (218) 692-2563 landsenddev.com 13817 Co Rd 36, Crosslake, MN 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.

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

Penmac Staffing, Inc. (218) 824-9675 | penmac.com 607 Washington St Brainerd, MN 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!

Star Cleaning (218) 821-6005 StarCleaningMN.com 722 west College Dr Brainerd, MN Our professionals are trained to organize your residential or commercial space. Our services are available in a range of options to fit your budget.

Bercher Design & Construction (218) 829-1381 | bercher.com 7676 Design Rd Ste 100 Baxter, MN Lakes Area’s full-service residential and commercial design/ build firm for 40+ years. Visit Bercher.com or give us a call.

"Considerate people, considerate service, consider it done."

Electric Etc Inc (218) 829-4112 | electricetc.com 1014 Laurel St, Suite 100 Brainerd, MN Providing first class electrical services in the Brainerd Lakes Area for over 25 years.

Neumann Construction Inc (218) 270-0009 brainerdroofing.com 3552 44th St SW 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.

B U S IN E S S D IRECTO RY

Nor-Son Custom Builders (218) 828-1722 Nor-SonResidential.com 7900 Hastings Rd, Baxter, MN Established in 1978, Nor-Son is design/build company that specializes in custom lake homes and extensive renovations of distinctive quality‌on time and on budget.

Start to Finish Builders and Remodelers (218) 828-0585 starttofinishbuilders.com 17025 Commercial Park Rd, Suite 4, Brainerd, MN The Lakes Area's quality builder and remodeler for over 20 years!

At Start To Finish, our quality craftsmanship and attention to detail are unsurpassed.

Swenson Electric, LLC (218) 821-2857 swensonelectricmn.com 16212 Miles Cir, Brainerd, MN Proudly serving the Lakes Area.

Work includes residential and commercial businesses.

Swenson Electric takes great pride in communication and making sure customer satisfaction is met.

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

Dining ____________________

Applebee's Grill & Bar (218) 833-1400 | applebees.com 15240 Dellwood Dr, Baxter, MN Stop in to your favorite local grill & bar for our ever-famous Perfect Margarita with your favorite pasta or burger. See you soon!

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

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

Brainerd Family Restaurant (218) 454-4704 brainerd-family-restaurant. business.site/ 2115 S 6th St, Brainerd, MN Family dining for breakfast & lunch. Great food, friendly staff and fair prices. Open 7am- 3pm Sunday through Thursday and 7am- 7pm Friday through Saturday.

Irma's Kitchen (218) 825-2700 craguns.com/dining/irmas-kitchen Cragun's Resort, 1100 Cragun's Dr, Brainerd, MN 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.

Chef Mike's Catering (218) 232-3734 facebook.com/ lakesareacatering 9364 Wild Rice Rd Brainerd, MN 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!

Lake Country Crafts and Cones (218) 692-4411 lakecountrycrafts.com 36084 Co Rd 66, Crosslake, MN 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.

Commander Restaurant & Bar and JJ's Pub (218) 562-4198 commanderbar.com 30279 Airport Rd Breezy Point, MN Home of the famous Commander Garbage Pizza! Full-service restaurant & bar with live weekend entertainment. Open daily for breakfast at 6:30am.

JJ's Pub downstairs.

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

Last Turn Saloon (218) 330-8210 facebook.com/lastturnsaloon/?ref=bookmarks 214 / 216 8th St South Brainerd, MN Historic Saloon with great food, meeting space, and ambiance.

Legacy Bar & Grille (218) 825-2725 craguns.com/dining/ legacy-bar-grille Cragun's Resort, 1100 Cragun's Dr, Brainerd, MN A casual menu served during the golf season overlooking the emerald greens, ponds and rolling fairways of Cragun's Legacy Golf Courses.

Madden's on Gull Lake (218) 829-2811 maddens.com 11266 Pine Beach Peninsula Brainerd, MN 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 Street Ale House (218) 961-6724 mainstreetnisswa.com 25559 Main St, Suite 1 Nisswa, MN Unique menu, 30 tap beers, extensive wine and liquor lists, all in modern lodge setting makes Main Street a must stop in the Lakes Area.

Moonlite Bay (218) 692-3575 moonlitebay.com 37627 Co Rd 66, Crosslake, MN Lakeside casual dining with a large patio on Crosslake of the Whitefish Chain. DJs and dancing every Fri/Sat night. The place to be since 1933!

Northern Cowboy Flame N' Brew (218) 829-9872 thenortherncowboy.com 19090 State Hwy 371 Brainerd, MN What's all the Flame N' Brew about? 16 tap beers, full menu and fantastic view of North Long Lake. Event space and catering available.

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

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B USIN ES S DI RECTORY

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

Roundhouse Brewery (218) 454-2739 roundhousebrew.com 1551 Northern Pacific Rd Brainerd, MN Roundhouse is located in historic downtown Brainerd.

Amazing craft brews & a large taproom. Family friendly, live entertainment, fun events, games, & various food offerings.

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

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

Heartland Symphony Orchestra (800) 826 1997 HeartlandSymphony.com PO Box 241, Little Falls, MN Heartland Symphony Orchestra will perform its spring 2020 concert series on April 2 in Crosslake, April 4 in Little Falls and April 5 in Brainerd.

Iconic Fest (218) 764-2151 iconicfest.com 9033 Raddatz Rd, Brainerd, MN July 10-11 w/FREE pre-party on July 9th. Diamond Rio, Exile, John Conlee, Atlanta Rhythm Section & more! 2-Day outdoor concert w/camping available.

Stonehouse Coffee & Roastery (218) 454-2835 stonehousecoffee.com 14540 Dellwood Dr. N, STE 100 Baxter, MN 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.

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

Wings Airport Cafe (218) 828-0206 wingsairportcafe.com 16384 Airport Rd, Ste 7 Brainerd, MN Serving breakfast and lunch with homemade soups and great old fashioned hamburgers. Daily lunch and breakfast specials. Open to the public.

Lakes Rodeo (218) 764-2151 | lakesrodeo.com 9033 Raddatz Rd, Brainerd, MN September 12th. Professional Bulls & Barrels, Crow Wing County Fairgounds. Great family event, kids activities, free concert after rodeo, concessions and beverages, including full bar.

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Summer Lantern Bash (218) 764-2151 huff-entertainment.com/summer-bash.html 9033 Raddatz Rd, Brainerd, MN August 28-29. 2-day outdoor concert w/camping. Bed of Roses (Bon Jovi Tribute), Shania Twin (Shania Twain Tribute), Renegade (Styx Tribute), Tall Gunners & Stone Daisy.

Safari North Wildlife Park (218) 454-1662 | safarinorth.com 8493 State Hwy 371 Brainerd, MN Wildlife park featuring animals and birds from around the world! New exhibits added every year. Special events and group/school visits, snack shack & gift shop.

Family Activities ____________________

Boys-N-Berries (218) 839-9918 facebook.com/boysnberries/ 9925 St Mathias Rd Brainerd, MN For the last eight years, BoysN-Berries has been selling produce in the Brainerd/Baxter area. We take pride in providing local, quality produce.

Crow Wing County Fair (218) 829-6680 crowwingcountyfair.com 2000 SE 13th St, Brainerd, MN 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!

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites - Baxter (218) 824-3232 | brainerdhi.com 15739 Audubon Way Baxter, MN Holiday Inn Express, Brainerd/ Baxter features a triple play of entertainment for your next stay in the Brainerd Lakes Area!

Lakes Area Growers Market (218) 352-9202 brainerdfarmersmarket.com 1001 Kingwood St, Brainerd, MN Come to the local Farmers Markets. 8:00 am-12:30 pm at 1001 Kingwood St. Brainerd on Tuesdays or Harley Davidson 7915 Hwy. 210 Baxter on Fridays.

UpNorth Indoor Bounce House (218) 203-8400 upnorthbounce.com 15840 Audubon Way Baxter, MN Take the kids UpNorth where they can play indoors on giant size inflatables-bounce castles, double slides and obstacle course! Toddler play area available too!

VR Odyssey (218) 454-8787 vrodysseybaxter.com 14039 Edgewood Dr N Baxter, MN Experience the thrill of virtual reality as a family. Play together in immersive experiences through head-mounted displays. A wide range of experiences, something for everyone!

We Rock The Spectrum Kid's Gym For All Kids ~ Brainerd Lakes (218) 454-0631 werockthespectrumbrainerdlakes.com 13495 Elder Dr Ste 160 Baxter, MN 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 | wildwedge.com 32792 Paul Bunyan Trail Drive Pequot Lakes, MN Minnesota's best mini golf, scenic par 3 golf course, and 10,000 sq ft treasure hunt maze.

Driving range. RV Park. Lodge rooms.

B U S IN E S S D IRECTO RY

Finance ____________________

BlackRidgeBank (218) 829-8712 BlackRidgeBANK.com 14084 Baxter Dr, Suite 16 Baxter, MN BlackRidgeBANK is a community bank with a focus on superior customer service. We have the Brainerd Lakes Area covered with four convenient office locations.

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

Golf Related ____________________

bremer.com Member FDIC

Bremer Bank (218) 829-8781 | bremer.com 321 S 7th St, Brainerd, MN A wide variety of banking, investment, trust, and insurance products and services.

Locations in Brainerd, Baxter and Aitkin.

First National Bank (218) 822-4480 | fnbnorth.com 14521 Edgewood Dr, Baxter, MN 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.

Frandsen Bank and Trust (218) 855-1320 frandsenbank.com 7429 Excelsior Rd, Baxter, MN Frandsen Bank & Trust is a high-quality community bank and provides a wide array of banking products and services to their customers and communities.

Pine River State Bank (218) 587-4463 pineriverstatebank.com 103 Miss St S, PO BOX 67 Pine River, MN 56474 Your community partner offering deposit and loan products like mobile banking, P2P, mobile deposit, home mortgages, construction, commercial, cabin, and land loans. Equal Housing Lender.

Whistling Wolf Mini Golf and Gifts (218) 692-7888 Crosslakegolf.com 36006 County Rd 66 Crosslake, MN Two courses to choose from; the Dark Moon Mega Mini Golf and Original Whistling Wolf.

One of most unique mini golf complexes in the country.

Crosswoods Golf Course (218) 692-4653 crosslakegolf.com 35878 County Rd 3 Crosslake, MN 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!

Cuyuna Rolling Hills Golf Course (218) 534-3489 www.cuyunarollinghills.com 24410 State Hwy 210 Deerwood, MN 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 | 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 | maddens.com 11266 Pine Beach Peninsula Brainerd, MN 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.

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

Health and Wellness ____________________

Birch Lake Counseling (218) 692-5101 birchlakecounseling.com 14295 Gould St, Crosslake, MN 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 | centracare.com 7418 Forthun Rd, Baxter, MN CentraCare Baxter Specialty Clinic offers care to patients with heart and vascular (pediatric & adult), nephrology, neurosurgery, plastic surgery, perinatology, urology, rheumatology, and wound care.

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

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

Essentia Health - St. Joseph's Medical Center and Clinics (218) 828-7100 EssentiaHealth.org 523 N 3rd St, Brainerd, MN Essentia Health-St. Joseph's Medical Center is a nonprofit community hospital with 13 Clinics throughout the lakes area, including 3 walk-in care options.

Visit EssentiaHealth.org.

FitQuest Athletic Club (218) 829-6453 fitquestathleticclub.com 15840 Audubon Way Baxter, MN FitQuest has free weights, cardio machines, fitness classes, locker rooms with saunas/showers, racquetball, basketball, pickleball, and more. Open 7 days a week!

Golden Horizons Assisted Living and Memory Care (218) 692-6650 goldenhorizons.org 13631 East Shore Rd Crosslake, MN 22 assisted living apartments where residents receive home cooked meals, continental breakfast, laundry, housecleaning services, & more. They also have a locked, secured specialty/memory facility.

GuidePoint Pharmacy (218) 829-0347 guidepointpharmacy.com 108 S 6th St, Brainerd, MN A convenient GuidePoint Pharmacy is nearby: Brainerd, Crosby, Aitkin, Nisswa, Breezy Point, Longville, & (Spring 2020) Pine River! We specialize in Med-Sync & Convenience Packaging.

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B USIN ES S DI RECTORY

Karma Race Management (218) 330-6151 | karmaraces.com 402 Buffalo Hills Lane West Brainerd, MN A professional event management & timing company. We have numerous technologies that will distinguish your event and have participants coming back year after year.

Lakes Area Eyecare (218) 829-2929 lakesareaeyecare.com 7734 Excelsior Rd N Baxter, MN 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 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 Inc. (218) 454-0766 | maxbotix.com 13860 Shawkia Dr Brainerd, MN 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 midwestfamilyeyecenter.com 7870 Excelsior Rd, Baxter, MN Optometrist and optician.

Comprehensive eye exams, treatment of eye infections and glaucoma and cataract consultations. Outstanding customer service and satisfaction.

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Northern Hope Functional Neurology & Chiropractic (218) 232-3178 northernhopefnc.com 25503 Main St, Nisswa, MN We use our expertise to examine and find the areas of concern physically, neurologically and metabolically in order to treat the entire person.

Northern Psychiatric Associates (218) 454-0090 | npamn.com 7115 Forthun Rd, Suite 105 Baxter, MN 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 northernTMS.com 7115 Forthun Rd, Suite 105 Baxter, MN Northern TMS provides Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, an effective and non-invasive outpatient procedure that is used to treat Major Depressive Disorder.

Whitefish at the Lakes (218) 210-0770 whitefishatthelakes.com 35625 Ostlund Ave Crosslake, MN Whitefish at the Lakes, a distinctive senior living community offering spacious Independent Plus, Assisted & Memory Care in beautiful Crosslake, MN. Love where you live!

Home and Cabin ____________________

371 Furniture & Mattress (218) 828-3020 | 371furniture.com 16413 Highway 371, Brainerd, MN 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 | awlab.com 16326 Airport Rd | Brainerd, MN 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.

Copper Creek Landscaping (218) 961-1294 coppercreeklandscapes.com 24730 Hazelwood Dr Nisswa, MN From outdoor kitchens and living spaces to retaining walls and patios, we enjoy creating your unique customized landscape environment.

Crosslake Communications (218) 692-2777 | crosslake.net PO Box 70, 35910 Co Rd 66 Crosslake, MN 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) 454-1149 | (218) 454-1149 goctc.com 14385 Edgewood Dr, Baxter, MN 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.

Enagic (218) 289-6726 mykangenwaterfactory.com 17021 Commercial Pk Rd, Ste 7 Brainerd, MN For over four decades, Enagic International has been the leading manufacturer of alkaline ionizers and water filtration machines in the world.

Holden Electric Co., Inc. (218) 829-4759 holdenelectric.com 7669 College Rd, Baxter, MN Our work includes installation and maintenance of commercial and industrial businesses, institutional and health care facilities, airports, traffic signals, and street lighting.

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

LakePlace.com (218) 692-6003 | lakeplace.com 36820 CR 66, Crosslake, MN 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 lakesareasurveying.com 24314 Smiley Rd, Suite C Nisswa, MN Lakes Area Surveying. Your land surveying experts that specialize in residential and commercial land surveys.

Landis+Gyr (218) 562-4877 | landisgyr.com 6436 County Rd 11 Pequot Lakes, MN Landis+Gyr is the leading global provider of energy management solutions for the utility sector. The company delivers solutions that make the distribution grid smarter.

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Insurance ____________________ Lonesome Cottage Furniture (218) 568-8223 lonesomecottage.com 30773 Patriot Ave Pequot Lakes, MN 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 minnesotacleaningsolutions.com 411 W Washington St Brainerd, MN We provide exceptional cleaning services to the Brainerd Lakes area and beyond. Homes, cabins, offices or construction, call us for all your cleaning needs.

Outdoor Living Landscapes (218) 839-5097 outdoorlivinglandscapes.com 1387 River Bend Dr SW Brainerd, MN 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 and Propane (320) 256-3680 | rahnfuels.com 1220 East Main St Melrose, MN 56352 Home! Cabin! Farm! Business! We are the answer for your heating oil, propane and transportation fuel needs. Local, family-owned business, fuel with muscle!

Schroeder's Appliance Center (218) 829-3624 schroedersappliance.com 16603 State Hwy 371 North Brainerd, MN Wide selection of appliances including Whirlpool, Maytag, Kitchen-Aid, Amana, Jenn-Air. Competitive pricing. Personal customer service. Serving the Brainerd Lakes Area for over 55 years.

Abbie Hoelscher Agency Inc (218) 568-8200 abbiehoelscheragency.com 31079 Front St Pequot Lakes, MN We offer knowledge and expertise when it comes to insuring your dreams. An American Star Certified Agency for 5+ years.

Aflac (320) 293-0028 | aflac.com 1895 52nd St SW Pequot Lakes, MN Supplemental benefits available to both businesses and individuals. Paying ca$h to our policyholders in a time of need to help cover the non-medical costs.

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

Hanneken Insurance Agency (218) 829-3251 hannekeninsurance.com 1306 S 6th St, Brainerd, MN 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 | 320-267-4348 integratedinsuranceinc.com Little Falls, MN Independent insurance brokers offering Medicare, group, individual & family health insurance, dental, vision, long term care, final expense and life insurance.

Lodging ____________________

Agate Lake Resort (218) 963-2224 agatelakeresort.com 9326 Agate Lake Rd Lake Shore, MN z 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.

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

Bay View Lodge (888) 543-4182 bayviewcrosslake.com 12038 Harbor LN, Crosslake, MN 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 birchbayrvresort.net 1497 Sandy Point Road SW Nisswa, MN 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 blackpinebeach.com 10732 County Rd 16 Pequot Lakes, MN Your destination awaits, book your stay today at Black Pine Beach Resort! Located on the Whitefish Chain, small to large groups are welcome.

Boyd Lodge (800) 450-2693 boydlodge.com 36539 Silver Peak Rd Crosslake, MN 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.

Breezy Point Resort (800) 432-3777 breezypointresort.com 9252 Breezy Point Dr Breezy Point, MN 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 campfirebayresort.com 31504 Azure Rd, Cushing, MN Relaxing, fun, family/fishing resort on Fish Trap Lake. Sandy beach, organized activities.

Charming lake level, 1-4br units.

Retreats and weddings.

Country Inn & Suites

by Radisson (218) 828-2161 countryinn.com/baxtermn 15058 Dellwood Dr, Baxter, MN We provide excellent service and many amenities for you to enjoy during your stay, including a hot breakfast, bikes, evening snacks, and a meeting room.

Cragun's Resort (218) 825-2854 | craguns.com Cragun's Resort, 1100 Cragun's Dr, Brainerd, MN Minnesota's favorite four-season resort with 47,000 square feet of meeting facilities, trained coordinators, planned activities and a safe and friendly environment.

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

EconoLodge (218) 270-5001 choicehotels.com/minnesota/ brainerd/econo-lodge-hotels/ mn209 2115 South 6th St, Building B Brainerd, MN Enjoy a simplified travel experience at the Econo LodgeÂŽ hotel in Brainerd. It is construction and pet-friendly, easy to book and easy on your wallet.

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

Grand Casino Mille Lacs (800) 626-5825 grandcasinomn.com 777 Grand Ave Onamia, MN 56359 Whether you want a luxury room in the heart of gaming action or a lake-front cabin at Eddy’s, Grand Casino Mille Lacs has you covered.

Grand View Lodge (218) 963-2234 grandviewlodge.com 23521 Nokomis Ave, Nisswa, MN 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.

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Gull Four Seasons Resort (218) 963-7969 mnresortcabins.com 4132 St. Columbo Rd Brainerd, MN Located on the shores of Gull Lake, we are the resort you have been looking for. Variety of unit types, pools, beach, and boat rentals.

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites - Baxter (218) 824-3232 brainerdhi.com 15739 Audubon Way, Baxter, MN Our hotel provides an up north experience with all the amenities you deserve when staying in the Brainerd Lakes Area.

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

Open year round.

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

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

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

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

Pine Peaks Lodge And Suites (218) 692-7829 pinepeakscrosslake.com 14047 Swann Dr, Crosslake, MN 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.

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

Woodland Beach Resort (218) 866-0771 woodlandbeachresort.com 15596 Woodland Beach Lane Deerwood, MN Newer pool and hot tub!

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 arrowwoodbrainerd.com 6967 Lake Forest Rd Baxter, MN Full-service hotel with 7,500 square feet of flexible spaces to accommodate groups up to 300 people. Award-winning staff to provide food and beverage needs.

Nonprofits ____________________ Quality Inn & Suites (218) 270-7333 choicehotels.com/minnesota/ brainerd/quality-inn-hotels/ mn094 2115 South 6th St, Building A Brainerd, MN Hometown Hospitality, Newly Renovated - Great for group & extended stay travel. Free Hht breakfast, WiFi, fitness room, restaurant on-site, meeting space and pet-friendly.

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

Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge (218) 678-2885 | ruttgers.com 25039 Tame Fish Lake Rd Deerwood, MN Opened in 1898, this historic, traditional, up north lake resort is charming and rustic. Features two golf courses, three restaurants, and loads of lake fun.

American Cancer Society (218) 847-0408 | cancer.org 1139 Franklin Ave, Suite 5 Sauk Rapids, MN Our mission is to save lives, celebrate lives, lead the fight for a world without cancer. Information, Answers, Hope available every minute of every day!

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

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

Camp Knutson (218) 543-4232 campknutson.org 11148 Manhattan Pt Blvd Crosslake, MN Camp Knutson partners with other organizations to provide retreat/meeting services AND camps for youth and adults with disabilities, medical conditions, or other identified needs.

CBMC Northland Brainerd Lakes Area (612) 816-1541 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.

The Legacy Chorale of Greater Minnesota (218) 270-8212 legacychorale.org PO Box 2751, Baxter, MN Non-profit community chorale in the Brainerd Lakes area. Our mission is to provide a legacy of excellence in choral music in the greater Minnesota area.

The Salvation Army (218) 232-2198 SalvationArmyNorth.org/ Brainerd 208 South 5th St, Brainerd, MN 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 ____________________________ Brainerd Lakes Area Economic Development Corp.

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

Central Minnesota Council, Boy Scouts of America (320) 251-3930 | 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 Lakes Area Newcomers Club (507) 329-0750 brainerd.com/newcomers 321 South 7th St, Brainerd, MN We help new Brainerd Lakes Area residents feel more welcome and at home in their environment. We provide programs and social events to our members.

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

Bridges of Hope (218) 825-7682 bridgesofhopemn.org PO Box 742, Brainerd, MN Faith-based 501c3 organization that serves as a safety-net in Crow Wing County & bordering communities by linking families and individuals to community supports & resources.

Mid-Minnesota Women's Center Inc. (218) 828-1216 midminwomenscenter. blogspot.com 1414 Maple St, Brainerd, MN The 24-hour shelter and 365day child safety center are programs of MMWC, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to keep families safe from abuse.

Boats and Beyond Rentals (218) 963-7700 boatsandbeyondrentals.com Gull/Love Lake Marina 19571 Love Lake Rd Winter Office: 4758 Co Rd 77, Nisswa, MN All Season Rentals: Pontoons, Tritoons, Ski Boats, Jet Skis, Fishing Boats, Snowmobiles and Fishhouses. Private marina on Gull Lake or delivered to your lake!

Brainerd Zip Line Tour (218) 316-6741 | zipbrainerd.com 9898 County Rd 77 SW Nisswa, MN The Brainerd Zip Line Tour is a thrilling outdoor adventure!

Experience 15-mile views on 7-ziplines, an adrenaline-pumping suspension bridge, and an exhilarating 50’ free-fall experience!

Brothers Motorsports (218) 829-6656 brothersmotorsports.com 8194 Fairview Rd, Baxter, MN Looking for an adventure in the Brainerd Lakes Area? Brothers Motorsports has all you need in watercraft, motorcycles, and ATVs. Rentals available too.

Cycle Path & Paddle (218) 545-4545 cyclepathpaddle.com 115 3rd Ave SW Crosby, MN 56441 Year round sales and rentals - bikes of all types, kayaks, canoes, SUPs, and snowshoes.

Bike repair/maintenance, parts, accessories and clothing. For outdoor fun!

Easy Riders Bicycle & Sport Shop (218) 829-5516 easyridersbikes.com 415 Washington St Brainerd, MN 48 years pedaling the best cycling products on the planet.

All season rental & recreation consultants for your outdoor adventures. Trek certified service center. #BestRideBestGlide

Gander Outdoors & RV (218) 203-6062 ganderoutdoors.com 14725 Edgewood Dr North #100 Baxter, MN We provide RVers and outdoor enthusiasts with regionally and seasonally-relevant products priced competitively to fit their family’s needs. We'll ensure you Have a Good Trip.

Gull Lake Cruises (218) 825-2700 gulllakecruises.com Cragun's Resort, 1100 Cragun's Dr, Brainerd, MN Escape on the majestic waters of Gull Lake with Gull Lake Cruises. Day and evening, dining and sightseeing cruises, private charters for any occasion.

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Hilltop Camper & RV (218) 829-3695 HilltopCamper.com 7324 Novotny Rd, Brainerd, MN Family owned and operated since 1951, Hilltop Camper & RV prides themselves by offering the highest quality RVs on the market today.

Hunts Point Gun Club (218) 232-7062 huntspointgunclub.com 2142 76th St SW Pequot Lakes, MN Year-round shotgun shooting sports. Sporting clays, trap, upland bird hunting & shooting events. Clubhouse/ banquet center rental. Food & drink. Public & memberships welcome.

Lake Fun Rentals (218) 961-0000 LakeFunRentals.com 7993 Interlachen Rd Nisswa, MN 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 (218) 820-9000 lakescountrytriathlon.com PO Box 2711, Baxter, MN Join us for a race through the lakes and woods of Baxter!

1/4-mile swim, 14-mile bike, 3.2-mile run. The Lakes Country Triathlon's a great race.

Northland Arboretum (218) 829-8770 northlandarb.org 14250 Conservation Dr Brainerd, MN Over five hundred acres of plants and wildlife, 12 miles of hiking and lighted cross-country ski trails, environmental education, outdoor events, garden areas, visitor center.

Cozy Home Pet Care (218) 828-2062 www.cozyhomepetcare.com 6036 Hay Creek Rd Fort Ripley, MN 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.

Power Lodge (218) 822-3500 | powerlodge.com 17821 Hwy 371 N, Brainerd, MN Lakes area Polaris, Lund, Lowe & Ranger Boat dealer. Also featuring Mercury, Evinrude, Club Car, Roxor, Aluma Trailers, Argo, Polaris Rentals (Off-Road, Slingshots, Snowmobiles), and Rental Pontoons

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

Emergency services available.

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

SPR Motorsports LLC (218) 568-4853 sprmotorsports.com 29276 Patriot Ave Pequot Lakes, MN We are a family run business since 1998. We sell Manitou, Qwest, Forester pontoons, Evinrude, Honda, Suzuki outboards.

Service, maintenance, storage.

Snowmobile rentals come winter.

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

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Brainerd Animal Hospital (218) 829-5118 BrainerdAnimalHospitalPC.com 2720 Oak St, Brainerd, MN Small animal medicine, surgery, and dentistry from experienced and caring staff. Grooming services available by appointment.

After hours emergency care available.

Northland Pet Lodge (218) 692-4364 northlandpetlodge.com 34420 County Rd 3 Crosslake, MN 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.

Arnold S. Johnson Properties (218) 824-6100 ajohnsonproperties.com 14275 Golf Course Dr. #120 Baxter, MN Johnson Properties owns & manages high quality office space, the Johnson Centre. The company also invests in commercial & residential property for development or sale.

Edina Realty (218) 828-7000 Edinarealty.com/office/ brainerdbaxter#1 15354 Dellwood Dr, Baxter, MN Minnesota and the Brainerd Lakes Area #1 Real Estate Company. Featuring all real estate services including sales, rentals, mortgages, title & insurance.

Working for you!

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

Real Estate ____________________

Amy Price, Realtor® - Realty Group (218) 821-6760 amypriceisright.com 13782 Bluestem Ct, Ste 100 Baxter, MN I'm a lifelong Brainerd/Baxter resident, providing aboveand-beyond service to clients.

Honest, caring & knowledgeable real estate help is only a call away.

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

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

B U S IN E S S D IRECTO RY

Retail & Shopping ____________________ Nelson Torfin Real Estate Group (218) 270-4032 | lakehome.com 15244 State Hwy 371, Baxter, MN Nelson Torfin Real Estate Group offers over 80 years of combined experience in residential, lakeshore, and commercial real estate.

Positive Realty & Inv Inc (218) 829-1777 PositiveRealty.com 15244 State Hwy 371, Baxter, MN 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 BrainerdRentalProperties.com 616 1/2 Front St, Brainerd, MN The #1 source for commercial, residential and office space in the Brainerd Lakes Area. Call us for all your rental property needs.

Kelly Woodman, Agent RE/MAX Lakes Area Realty (218) 851-4425 www.lakesarealiving.com 24090 Smiley Rd, Nisswa, MN Kelly@lakesarealiving.com Dedicated to providing a professional and enjoyable experience to buyers and sellers in the Lakes Area while servicing all of their real estate needs.

SueLehmanSells.com

Associates in Eyecare (218) 829-1789 associatesineyecaremn.com 14453 Edgewood Dr, Baxter, MN 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.

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

Christmas Point (218) 828-0603 christmaspoint.com 14803 Edgewood Dr, Baxter, MN 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 | qsquares.com 8218 Highland Scenic Rd Baxter, MN College Square is located near CLC. Amenities at College Square include gasoline, gourmet coffee, fresh foods, and car wash. Find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Cub Foods (218) 828-4601 | cub.com 14133 Edgewood Dr, Baxter, MN 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!

Emily's Books (218) 825-0495 18318 State Hwy 371 Brainerd, MN '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!

Honeyed Boutique (612) 212-3375 honeyedboutique.com 14303 Gould St, Crosslake, MN Honeyed Boutique is a MN family owned retail store that offers women's clothing that focus on day to night transition.

Its a WING DING Thing (218) 232-4379 facebook.com/ itsawingdingthing 31078 Government Dr Pequot Lakes, MN Shop, Mix, Bottle, Enjoy!

Come visit us in downtown Pequot Lakes. Choose your favorite wine from our shelves of kits. Red, white, sweet to dry.

Nitro Square (218) 454-1642 | qsquares.com 18198 State Hwy 371 Brainerd, MN Nitro Square sits at the entrance of BIR, the amenities include premium gasoline, liquor, wine, beer, and fresh foods. When planning your trip to the track, call us to pre-order your racing fuels.

North Country Floral (218) 825-0522 northcountryfloralmn.com 307 NW 6th St, Brainerd, MN We are your locally owned Floral Shop. For 24 years, we've provided arrangements for birthdays, funerals, weddings, anniversaries, holidays, special occasions, and more.

Open City Thrift (218) 454-1665 opencitythrift.com 214 S 7th St, Brainerd, MN Open City Thrift is a resale clothing store that pays cash for gently used apparel. Sell your pre-loved threads, buy fresh gear, reduce your footprint.

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

Sue Lehman

“Hometown Service with Results!”

218.838.4159

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

Common Goods Thrift Store (218) 824-0923, Baxter (218) 692-7682, Crosslake commongoodsmn.org 16227 State Highway 371 Brainerd, MN A trendy thrift store with locations in Baxter & Crosslake.

Open Monday-Saturday from 10:00 am - 6:00 pm & Noon 5:00 pm on Sundays, Memorial Day to Labor Day.

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

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

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Pine Square (218) 454-1642 | qsquares.com 3325 Oak St, Brainerd, MN Pine Square is located on the corner of Highway 18 and Oak Street, amenities include gasoline, liquor, wine, beer, gourmet coffee, hunting/fishing licenses, live bait/tackle, car wash, and fresh foods.

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

The Olde Open Window (218) 454-3338 Find Us on Facebook 604 Laurel St, Brainerd, MN Come experience our cozy and relaxing atmosphere. Brainerd’s Downtown Destination. Featuring boutique clothing, jewelry, and locally handmade items.

Inspiration for your Home, Body, and Soul.

Treasured Haven UpNorth (218) 692-3581 treasuredhavenupnorth.com 35170 Co Rd 3, Crosslake, MN Unique gift shop plus custom created signs, hats, shirts, frames, albums, journals, awards, ornaments, totes, more.

Engraving, garment printing onsite. Home, cabin, mancave decor, treasures.

Schaefer's Foods (218) 963-2265 SchaefersFoods.com Highway 371, 23962 Smiley Rd Nisswa, MN 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!

Spas & Salons ____________________

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

Water Sports ____________________

The Chocolate Ox (218) 963-4443 thechocolateox.com 25452 Main St, Nisswa, MN This candy and ice cream store is filled with chocolates, homemade fudge, bulk and nostalgic candies, saltwater taffy, 28 flavors of ice cream and more!

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Lakes Area Cosmetic Bar (218) 341-0037 lakesareacosmeticbar.com 324 South 5th St, Brainerd, MN Medical spa providing Botox, dermal filler, chemical peels, body contouring, fat reduction and facials. Best prices in town!

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

Nisswa Marine (218) 963-2292 nisswamarine.com 24238 Smiley Rd, Nisswa, MN They are your full-service dealer, including sales, service, storage, and rentals. They provide you with quality boat lines and superior service.

Whitefish Chain Yacht Club (612) 508-0220 | wcyc.info PO Box 377, Crosslake, MN WCYC conducts three important programs: navigation buoys, boating safety instruction and free swimming lessons. To see the 2020 schedule of events & join, visit WCYC.info.

Wind Water & Wheels (218) 581-2144 windwaterandwheels.com 37322 Co Rd 66, Crosslake, MN Local manufacturer of Crow Wing Kayaks. We rent and sell kayaks, paddle boards, foam lake pads, and rent bikes. We provide shuttle service and tours

Worship & Faith ____________________

Crosslake Presbyterian Church (218) 692-4769 CrosslakePres.org 14444 Daggett Pine Rd Crosslake, MN Sunday Worship services are held at 10:00 am with communion on the first Sunday of each month. We are ecumenical, everyone is welcome!

Zion Lutheran Church (218) 829-4317 | zionbrainerd.org 220 North 8th St, Brainerd, MN 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.

STRONG BUSINESSES = STRONG COMMUNITIES Learn more about our Chamber community at: BrainerdLakesChamber.com

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

Pequot Lakes Baptist Church (218) 568-4794 | plbconline.com 30050 Rasmussen Rd Pequot Lakes, MN 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.

This lake is one of the deepest in MN at 258 ft. The water is crystal clear and cold. I stuck my hoof in, and my tail turned blue!

© Kelli Engstrom Photography 2018

© Kelli Engstrom Photography 2018

© Kelli Engstrom Photography 2018

Pine Peaks is a unique Destination Wedding Resort of magnificent surroundings in the middle of the Brainerd Lakes area. We provide an easy and relaxing experience for you, and offer exceptional service for a stress free, perfect three to four day experience. Our on-site Retreat Lodge will house your entire Wedding Party or families. Our Event Center has everything you will need for your wedding. One visit to our gorgeous facility and we know you’ll fall in love.

PINE PEAKS EVENT CENTER

39957 Swanburg Road South | Crosslake, MN 56442 612 986-6800 | www.PinePeaksEventCenter.com

We have partnered with Pine Peaks Lodge and Suites, a boutique Hotel just six miles away in beautiful downtown Crosslake for your out of town wedding guests.

© Kelli Engstrom Photography 2018

© Kelli Engstrom Photography 2018

WHILE OTHER WEDDING VENUES ARE COLLECTING DUST…..

WE ARE COLLECTING AWARDS. 2019

PICK

2019