2022 Explore Crosslake Visitor Guide by Brainerd Lakes Chamber

,/ 2011 \1 , TRAVELERS',

,�,, -= � I

�

CHOICE:

tripadvisor·

Wildlife zoo fun for all agesl HOURS: 9-& Daily

GIRAFFE F'EEI >�G - PEI"IING ZC>C> P.AR..AKEET LAND�G - CAJVIEL R.IDFS �ACK_ �CK_ - PICNIC AREA - KIDS PLAY AREA

OPEN MAY 7

'W"W"W'.Sa-fariNorth.com

OCTOBER 2

2'1 ■ -•s•.'1&&2

EST. 1992

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

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

The Credits

BRAINERD LAKES CHAMBER PRESIDENT Matt Kilian BRAINERD LAKES CHAMBER STAFF Paula Chapulis, Nicole Converse, Paula Davis, Colleen Dols, Sue Galligan, Nichole Heinen, Donna Houchin, Brian Lehman, Kathy Moore, Cindy Myogeto, Trisha Reilley, Jess Vogt

Stay Connected @BrainerdLakes

@ExploreBrainerdLakes

EDITORIAL CONTENT Trisha Reilley, Tourism Marketing Manager GRAPHIC ARTS Donna Houchin, Marketing & Communications Manager

@BrainerdLakes

ADVERTISING SALES Susie Alters, Sue Galligan, Brian Lehman

Info@Explore BrainerdLakes.com

PUBLISHER Brainerd Dispatch, Pine and Lakes Echo Journal PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHAMBER BUSINESSES AND INDIVIDUALS 14 Lakes Brewery, 5 Rocks Distilling Co., Backyard Reflections, Big Axe Brewery, BlazeAir, Brainerd Dispatch, Brainerd International Raceway, Brainerd Ski Loons, Brainerd Zip Line Tour, Breezy Belle, Breezy Point Resort, Buffalo Media Group, Circle W Ranch Interiors, Clamshell Beach Resort, Comfort Inn & Suites Rapid River Lodge, Copper Creek Garden Center and Landscapes, Cragun’s Resort, Cuyuna.com, Dock 77 at Quarterdeck Resort, Eagles Nest, Grand View Lodge, Gull Lake Cruises, Isaac Johnson, Jack Pine Brewery, Jenny VanOrsdel, Kate Adornetto, Kavanaugh’s Sylvan Lake Resort, Lakes Jam, Madden’s Resort on Gull Lake, Mike’s Tree Service, Minnesota Trails Magazine, MN Traders Co., Morey’s Seafood Markets, Nichole Heinen, Nor-Son Custom Builders, Notch 8 Chowhouse and Drinkery, Outdoor Living Landscapes, Paul Bunyan Land, Pit Happens Catering, Quarterdeck Resort, Rafferty’s Pizza in Nisswa, Red Rider Resort, Rob Fitzsimmons - The Crossing Arts Alliance, Roundhouse Brewery, Safari North Wildlife Park, Snarky Loon Brewing Co., Sunshine’s Summerhouse, The GetAway, Whitefish Area Lodging Association, Wilderness Point Resort, Wildflower Chocolate, Woods To Water Real Estate, Ya-Sure Kombucha CROSSLAKE COVER PHOTO BY BUFFALO MEDIA GROUP, COURTESY OF WHITEFISH AREA LODGING ASSOCIATION @BuffaloMedia182 | BuffaloMediaGroupMN.com A full service multi-media production company PEQUOT LAKES COVER PHOTO BY BLAZEAIR @BlazeAirMN | BlazeAirMN.com The Premier Production Company of the Brainerd Lakes Area

Scan Me!

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

BRING THIS ISSUE TO LIFE!

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Get lost in the

ADVENTURE!

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

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

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

The Brainerd Lakes Chamber would like to thank all the individuals and Chamber businesses who submitted photos and content to feature in the Explore Brainerd Lakes Visitors Guide. ©2022 Brainerd Lakes Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

SPECIALIZING IN LAKESHORE

Central Minnesota’s Finest Lakeshore Properties Since 1964

(218) 963-7333

23590 Smiley Road • Box 779 • Nisswa MN

“Home Grown Local Radio”

Serving the communities throughout the lakes area

CARE

rjbroadcasting.com For local radio marketing, contact the Brainerd ofﬁce at 218-828-9994 or Aitkin at 218-927-2100. #RADIOWORKS

EssentiaHealth.org/Schedule

ea!

ar s e k la e th in d e m Stay infor

tch a p is D d r e in a r B e Follow th nline. o d n a t n i in pr

218-829-4705 www.brainerddispatch.com 6

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

(218) 656-6965

info@GullLakeBeachResorts.com

10 12 24

38 40 46 51

58 62 64

TABLE OF

OUR COMMUNITIES RELOCATION

A Place to Call Home, 12 Keeping You Well Connected, 21

LODGING

Find Your Perfect Place to Stay, 24 5 Tips on Booking Lodging, 31 Lodging Directory, 34

PETS

Four-Legged Friendly, 38

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

Amp Up the Fun, 41 Take a Walk on the Wild Side at Safari North, 42

LOCAL EVENTS

Signature Events, 47

ON THE WATER

Fishing Memories Are Made Here, 51 Lake Cruisin’, 52 Answering the Call of the Loon, 54

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Traveling Around the Brainerd Lakes, 58 A Nature Lover’s Paradise, 61

GOLF

4 Reasons Why We’re Minnesota’s Top Golf Destination, 62 Golf Directory, 63

FOOD & DRINK

Ways to Enjoy the Local Food Scene, 64 Sip the Local Goodness, 68 Channel Your Inner Lumberjack, 71

ART, CULTURE & MUSIC

SHOPPING

80 88

Art Comes to Life in Nisswa, 74

Be Lakes Proud & Shop Local

HOME & CABIN

Create Your Backyard Oasis, 80 Spring Cleaning Tips for Your Home or Cabin, 85

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Proud to call Staples home

Growing a professional workforce focused on service to schools and government. Find your next opportunity at sourcewell-mn.gov/careers.

RELOCATION

Welcome

Photo by Buffalo Media Group, Courtesy of Whitefish Area Lodging Association

to the

BRAINERD Lakes Area

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

Come explore with us.

Crosslake Photo Courtesy Minnesota Trails Magazine

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

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

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

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

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Photo Courtesy Crossing Arts Alliance

RELOCATION

Home A

PL ACE

CA LL

If you’re thinking of relocating, the Brainerd Lakes has much to offer. The beautiful natural resources, connected communities, and strong businesses make this area an ideal place to live and play. But don’t just take our word for it. Two families share why our community is the perfect place for them.

The people we have met along the way have been kind, generous and most welcoming. It feels like home.

It could be home for you, too!

EMMA AND NOELLE LEAD THE WAY AS THE FAMILY OF 4 EXPLORE THE NORTHL AND ARBORETUM IN BRAINERD

RELOCATION Summer camping trip on the Mississippi River

What interested you about living in the Brainerd Lakes? Well, we had never been to the Brainerd Lakes Area so, I jumped online and started searching news articles, events, and local organizations, such as the Brainerd Lakes Chamber. Not only was I intrigued about living in a seasonal climate, but the activities that go along with it. You could get a real sense of community just from searching online, and I knew I wanted to be a part of it.

Tom and Kate, daughters Emma (6) & Noelle (2) Where did you move from? Our family moved from St. Augustine, Florida in October 2020.

Why did you move here? When a position opened at Central Lakes College in Brainerd, I was excited to think about the opportunity to join their team. My passion for education has always favored community colleges, it’s where I got my start, and it plays a vital role in the lives of so many individuals. I would be remiss if I didn’t admit that I have family here and that too supported our decision. Needless to say, a great job opportunity in a small town full of new adventures was appealing to our family, especially as we experienced so many unknowns during the pandemic. We thought it is now or never!

What do you like about living here? Honestly, there is a real quality of life; I know that can be hard to imagine, but the real-time we spend with friends and family, not in a hurry, but really enjoying the moment has changed since being here. There’s something to be said about the pace of a small town, where everything from buying groceries to drinking coffee, and exploring new places has become much more enjoyable as a family. We have fully embraced the beauty within our community. We find ourselves saying yes to anything new, from winter activities, such as ice fishing and ice skating, to summer activities, such as sunset pontoon rides, swimming in the lakes and camping along the Mississippi River. The people we have met along the way have been kind, generous and most welcoming. It feels like home.

Ice fishing at Cragun's Resort, Brainerd, MN

From St. Augustine, Florida to Brainerd, Minnesota! Kayaking at Serpent Lake, Crosby, MN

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

RELOCATION

Cory & Nichole, daughter Amelia (1) Where did you live before relocating to the Brainerd Lakes Area?

we knew we wanted to move back to our hometown because we wanted our children to attend school at Pequot Lakes. Boating with friends on Pelican Lake near Breezy Point

We lived in Savage for about 8 years and before that we were in the northern Twin Cities suburbs. We really loved our neighbors there, but we missed the small town feel of ‘Up North’. We moved back about a year-and-a-half ago, and we haven’t looked back.

Why did you move here? I actually grew up in Pequot Lakes and my husband grew up in Nisswa. We moved to the Twin Cities after college, but our families still lived here. We came up to visit almost every weekend. We decided after 17 years of living in The Cities that we wanted to be closer to family and the lakes!

From the Twin Cities to Pequot Lakes, Minnesota!

RELOCATION

CORY & NICHOLE LOVE SPENDING TIME WITH EXTENDED FAMILY IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS

What do you love about living in the Brainerd Lakes? There is so much to do! We really like the outdoors. Boating, fishing, hunting, hiking, and snowmobiling. We now can do all of this after work on weeknights instead of driving a few hours on weekends.

What are you most looking forward to about living here? My husband and I adopted our daughter in April 2021. Before adopting, we knew that we wanted to move back to our hometown because we wanted our children to attend school at Pequot Lakes and show them the importance of being close to family. I enjoyed my schooling here so much that I wanted to share that experience with my kids. We also wanted to raise our children to know the importance of the resources (lakes and land) and to grow up in a very supportive community.

What would you tell other people considering moving to the Brainerd Lakes Area? Do it! This area has a great community that offers continued support and love. We not only love all of the nature and things to do around the area, but we especially love the people!

Nichole and Amelia enjoy Ice Fest at Breezy Point Resort

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

RELOCATION

PEQUOT LAKES

ADVANCED MANUFACTURING CAREERS

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.

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

We Care

You want a bank that’s in tune with the pulse of the Lakes Area—that’s us. We’re community bankers who make local business a priority because that’s our business.

Precision Machining • Fabrication

CNC MACHINISTS & FABRICATORS

Milling • Turning • Fabrication A thriving precision manufacturing company celebrating 40 years of service. Excellent compensation with full benefits in the heart of Lake country.

ISO 9001

Apply online at

www.pequottool.com

Troy Casper

President–Lakes Area tcasper@frandsenbank.com

Tim Swanson

Senior Vice President tswanson@frandsenbank.com

Dawn Hines

Personal Banking Officer dhines@frandsenbank.com

Call to find out how we can help you today! BAXTER 218.855.1320

CROSSLAKE 218.692.2455

NISSWA 218.963.3316

E-mail resume to:

lgoerges@pequottool.com

frandsenbank.com CA012722

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Member FDIC

Real people. Real results.

RELOCATION

SCAN ME

Why not work where you play? Are you looking for a more relaxed atmosphere enhanced by extraordinary natural beauty and recreational opportunities? The Brainerd Lakes Area is the perfect place to live, work and play. Visit our Job Portal TODAY to find professional positions in the Brainerd Lakes Area. FOR MORE INFORMATION Mike Bjerkness Workforce Director mike@growbrainerdlakes.org (218) 828-0096

growbrainerdlakes.org

218.825.9255 www.SilverMapleResidence.com 802 28th Street SE Brainerd, MN 56401

We are an assisted living where you receive personalized & quality care in a home-like environment.

Be Kind.

We look forward to meeting you.

COME JOIN OUR TEAM. IT IS A GREAT PLACE TO WORK!

SmilesForJake.org ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

RELOCATION

Learn in Lake Country

CLCMN.EDU

218.855.8000

EOEE/ADA Accessible

ENJOY LIVING WHERE YOU have VACATIONED for years. gracewin living COOPERATIVE OF BAXTER

Opening Spring 2023 Financial Security of Home Ownership Vibrant Community of Active Adults 55+ Secure, Maintenance-Free Living Exciting Upscale Amenities All-Inclusive Monthly Fees Spacious Floor Plans Pet Friendly

Homes are selling fast! Reserve Yours Today!

(855) 472-2396 www.gracewinliving.com 18

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Keeping Things

MOVING USE THIS CHECKLIST WHEN RELOCATING TO THE BRAINERD LAKES AREA.

Photo Courtesy Wes Hanson Builders

1. Research and find daycare

2. Enroll school-age kids in a local school district or private school

3. Change your address with USPS

4. Set up garbage and recycling

5. Get utilities secured: natural gas, electricity

6. Get TV and internet

7. Take donation items to designated organizations

8. Update driver’s license and registration

9. Find a new veterinary office

10. Find a new healthcare provider and dentist

11. Rent a moving truck

The Brainerd Lakes Area is one of the fastest growing regions in Minnesota.

RELOCATION

Happy Wi-Fi Better streaming, learning & working from home

Ultrafast Internet Digital TV Telephone Home Automation

What began as a single house phone on a party line is now multiple devices on high-speed fiber internet. Regardless of the technology, CTC has been connecting communities for seven decades. And one thing remains the same: a steadfast commitment to our members.

Internet • TV • Phone Business • IT Services Shawn

Member Services Technician

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

218-454-1234 | goctc.com

RELOCATION

Scan Me!

Work where you play in the Brainerd Lakes Area.

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

Keeping You Well

HAVE YOU THOUGHT ABOUT RELOCATING to the Brainerd Lakes Area while working remotely? Or maybe you’re looking to upgrade the technology at your cabin or lake home. The Brainerd Lakes Area’s technology and connectivity continue to expand making it easier than ever to balance where you live while also staying connected to the world. Living in a small community doesn’t mean sacrificing staying connected. Our local communications, technology, and IT companies deliver high speed services and fiber optic technology you need to get connected across the Lakes Area. We also have businesses that can manage your work stations, network servers, and home devices. Here, you can have the best

CROW WING STATE PARK, BRAINERD, MN

of both worlds.

Photo Courtesy Minnesota Trails Magazine

R E L O C A T I O N [ Spotlight Businesses ]

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

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

KEY WELLNESS (218) 692-5397 www.key-wellness.com Helping You Look, Feel and Live Your BEST Life! We believe in comprehensive approach to healthcare where there is a place for both Eastern and Western medicine to come together in a holistic way. Personalized total health and wellness services include primary care, infertility, IV therapy, aesthetics, telemedicine & more!

CAROL AMUNDSON WEICHERT REALTORS TOWER PROPERTIES (218) 656-2234 www.carolamundson.com Love where you live! Live where you love! Selling and buying real estate can be one of the biggest transactions of your life. Carol takes pride in providing exceptional service, accurate information and resources to help clients make informed decisions. Call today to sell or buy your next property!

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

NORTH STAR FAMILY MEDICINE (218) 382-2870 www.northstarfamilymedicine.org Now you have a more personal healthcare choice with a local, privately owned and operated family medical clinic. We’re here to direct you toward a healthier, more productive life in which you are involved in decisions to create the individualized healthcare plan that best suits your unique goals and needs.

CENTRACARE SPECIALTY CLINIC BAXTER (218) 454-4727 www.centracare.com The CentraCare Baxter Specialty Clinic is pleased to provide specialty care to patients in the following specialty areas: heart and vascular care to pediatric and adult patients. Nephrology, neurosurgery, perinatology, plastic surgery, rheumatology, urology and wound care. Some of our specialties offer virtual health appointments at our Baxter location.

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

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

[ Spotlight Businesses ] R E L O C A T I O N

PINE RIVER STATE BANK (218) 587-4463 www.pineriverstatebank.com Full service banking for consumers and businesses. Offering mobile banking, consumer mobile deposit, online banking, and bill pay. Our lenders listen to your needs and specialize in everything from construction, cabin, and land loans to commercial loans. Locations in Pine River, Emily, Breezy Point, Pillager, and Nowthen. Equal Housing Lender.

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

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

WHITEFISH AT THE LAKES SENIOR LIVING (218) 210-0770 www.whitefishatthelakes.com Whitefish at the Lakes Senior Living in Crosslake, a new distinctive senior living community offering spacious independent, assisted & memory care apartments. The conveniences of home with the comfortable luxury of lake style living. Our state-of-the-art amenities, experienced staff, & individualized services feature activities to keep life fun!

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

PUERINGER RENTAL PROPERTIES (320) 266-1197 www.Brainerdrentalproperties.com FOR RENT: houses, apartments, offices, & commercial spaces in Minnesota’s Northland. Featuring newer homes and offices to more classical homes and commercial spaces. Whether you are on a tight budget or wish to upgrade, we have a building that fits your needs. Call (218) 838-1793.

Live Here &

WORK HERE!

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Photo Courtesy Grand View Lodge

FIND YOUR PERFECT PL ACE TO

WHAT'S YOUR TRAVEL PERSONALITY?

WE HAVE A LOT OF LODGING OPTIONS, which can be overwhelming especially to the first-time traveler. Knowing what kind of amenities you want will help narrow your search and maximize the fun while you’re here. No matter what you choose, we have a place to stay that suits your personality!

LODGING Photo By BlazeAir

1 BREEZY POINT RESORT, PHOTO BY BLAZEAIR 2 WILDERNESS POINT RESORT 3 KAVANAUGH'S SYLVAN LAKE RESORT 4 COMFORT INN & SUITES RAPID RIVER LODGE

4 ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

WE HAVE OPTIONS TO FIT EVERY TRAVEL PERSONALITY.

Nostalgic You love the warm and fuzzy feelings of reminiscing of a simpler time. And you want to bring your family together to experience a vacation from your childhood. Perhaps it’s bringing your kids to Paul Bunyan Land or walking the dam at Crosslake. You hope to bring your grandkids to stay at the same resort on the same lake that you did years ago. Many resorts that you remember are still here and now offer “reunion houses”—where your whole family can stay under one roof. Photo Courtesy Good Ol' Days Family Resort

MINIMALIST You’re not looking for a vacation with a lot of hoopla. The simpler, the better. Your idea of a vacation is biking the Paul Bunyan State Trail, hiking the Crow Wing State Park, or paddling your kayak around one of the area’s quieter lakes. You’re happy with limited amenities that provide tranquil, abundant nature with easy access to trails and lakes. The Brainerd Lakes Area has lodging options that fit your low-key style. Most area resorts are family owned and still have the rustic charm that you love.

Photo Courtesy Red Rider Resort Photo Courtesy Eagles Nest

Your idea of a vacation is biking the Paul Bunyan State Trail, hiking the Crow Wing State Park, or paddling your kayak around one of the area’s quieter lakes. 26

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Photo Courtesy Madden's on Gull Lake

Glamper

You bring your lodging with you when you come Up North. Your home on wheels is equipped with modern conveniences like a microwave and shower—tenting it is taking it too far! You like RV parks or campgrounds with amenities and easy access to water (pool or lake). You want to be close to activities like nature hikes, biking, and shopping. But you love having your own personal space and the freedom that comes with it. The Brainerd Lakes Area has resorts, RV parks, and campgrounds with camper hook ups (electric, water, and sometimes sewer).

BUDGET-MINDED

Pequot Lakes Fire Tower, Photo Courtesy Clamshell Beach Resort

You’ve never met a deal you didn’t like. You want amenities, but you don’t want to spend your whole budget on them. You’d rather spend on activities and experiences. You love the thrill of looking for the family friendly eats and low-cost excursions. With parades, firework displays, outdoor movies in Crosslake’s Town Square, and turtle races in Nisswa, the Lakes Area offers a variety of free activities. And you’ll easily find hotel and resorts that will make you—and your budget happy!

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

Photo Courtesy Grand View Lodge

Luxurious

You want amenities at your fingertips: a lush spa, world-class golf, five-star dining, and endless activities for the kids (hello, waterski school)! Having reliable wi-fi to check email is a must. You don’t mind paying for wellappointed accommodations for the convenience of having everything onproperty. You don’t want to sacrifice comfort for the sake of vacation. Many area resorts offer amenities with multiple dining options, pools, beaches, and golf—so you can kick back, relax, and enjoy total pampering.

Photo by Nelson Photo Company, Comfort Suites

LODGING

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. 8 0 0 .43 2 .37 7 7

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

breez y pointres or t.co m

Photo By BlazeAir

The GetAway is a 500 acre wilderness haven and adventure resort. This resort is perfect if you’re looking for privacy and luxury. Perfect for a large group of friends, family reunions, or even a corporate retreat. Your party gets full use of the lodge and cottage, which sleeps 17. There’s also an outdoor pool, obstacle course, 22 miles of groomed trails, and a fivegreen golf course. Explore the off-road potential around the property by cruising in a SHERP all-terrain vehicle!

LODGING

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.

12038 HARBOR LANE, CROSSLAKE MN 56442

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

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

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

www.clamshellbeach.com 30

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

LODGING

TIPS ON BOOKING LODGING Scan Me!

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

One of the first things you’ll choose when planning your Brainerd Lakes vacation is where to stay. We have lodging options for every type of traveler. You’ll find resorts with full amenities, quiet resorts, hotels, and campgrounds. Certain times of the year, though, lodging properties reach near capacity. Here are some tips to make your vacation planning easier when making your lodging reservations.

1. PLAN AHEAD. While you can find openings year round—even last minute availability—making your reservation in advance gives you the best chance to get the vacation dates and the lodging property you want. Summer is the busiest season, so it’s not too early to plan—even into next year.

2. RESEARCH YOUR OPTIONS. We have a lot of lodging properties to choose from, and it can be overwhelming to decide! Knowing what amenities you’re looking for will help narrow your search. Do you want a cabin at a resort? Maybe a hotel with an indoor waterpark? Do you want to be near the action or away from it all? Knowing what style fits you best will help narrow your search.

3. LOOK TO THE OFF SEASON. The off-season is a great time to visit. You’ll find less crowds and often lower rates on lodging and activities. Think cooler temps and fall colors for golf, hiking, and biking. In the winter, you’ll find ice fishing, fat tire biking, snowmobiling, and snow tubing. Several of our hotels have indoor waterparks, which make for the perfect weekend getaway destinations.

4. BE FLEXIBLE. Staying flexible on your travel dates can help when looking to book your stay. If you’re able to travel midweek, properties tend to have more availability. Midweek is also a quieter time to visit, which is an added bonus!

5. REACH OUT FOR HELP. GRAND VIEW LODGE, NISSWA Photo Courtesy Cragun's Resort on Gull Lake

If you are wondering what's available for lodging, call our staff at 800-450-2838. With some information on what you’re looking for, we can connect you with lodging properties to help create your perfect stay!

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

L O D G I N G [ Spotlight Businesses ]

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

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

CRAGUN’S RESORT (888) 452-2178 www.craguns.com New cabins, villas, hotel rooms, reunion houses, and more! Situated on a mile-long sandy shoreline with two beaches, giant indoor pool, sports centre, award-wining golf, and rentals from pontoon boats to snowmobiles. Named “Property of the Year” by Minnesota Innkeepers and a “Top Ten Resort” by Midwest Living.

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

CAMP KNUTSON (218) 543-4232 www.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. Our modern facilities and customized meal service make for the perfect location for retreats, weddings, conferences, meetings, training events or other social gatherings September through May.

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

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

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

GULL LAKE BEACH RESORTS (218) 656-1937 www.gulllakebeachresorts.com Gull Lake Beach Resorts is a vacation rental property on the East Side of Gull Lake with units in Bay Colony, Gull Haven, and Interlachen. Our resort is a place where families come together and enjoy time together. Stay with us this summer and reserve a boat rental or lift.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

[ Spotlight Businesses ]

LODGING

Your Destination AWAITS!

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS, THREE BEAR WATERPARK (218) 824-3232 www.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.

RUTTGER'S BAY LAKE RESORT (218) 678-2885 www.ruttgers.com Looking for an outdoor adventure vacation without having to rough it? Ruttger's is a great option! Located just a short drive to great hiking and biking trails. After your adventures, relax at Ruttger's on one of the two beaches, the spa, or dine at one of our 3 restaurants.

Gracious service by owners & staff

Stay a few days, a week, or more!

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

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

14 sparkling clean individual cabins on the

Whitefish Chain of Lakes

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

BOOK ONLINE, CALL OR E-MAIL

Your family

VACATION DESTINATION!

www.blackpinebeach.com

218-543-4714

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Directory Key

Hotel / Motel

Resort / Lodge

Waterpark on Property

Bed & Breakfast / Historic Inn

RV Park / Campground

BRAINERD / BAXTER AmericInn Baxter

(218) 829-0391 | (800) 634-3444 www.americinn.com 7836 Fairview Dr, Baxter, MN 56425

Lodging 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.

AmericInn of Little Falls (320) 632-1964 | (866) 306-0944 www.wyndhamhotels.com/americinn/ little-falls-minnesota/americinn-lodge-andsuites-little-falls/overview 306 Lemieur St SE, Little Falls, MN 56345

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

QUARTERDECK RESORT, NISSWA

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) 297-4816 www.radissonhotelsamericas.com/countryinn 15058 Dellwood Dr, Baxter, MN 56425

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Open Year Round

Handicap Accessible

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

Pool on Property

On the Water

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

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

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

Super 8 - Little Falls (320) 632-2351 | (866) 306-0944 www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/littlefalls-minnesota/super-8-little-falls/overview 300 12th St NE, Little Falls, MN 56345

Pet Friendly

Directory Key

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

The Woods Inn (218) 829-7507 | www.thewoodsmn.com 19624 Co Rd 3, Brainerd, MN 56401

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

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

DEERWOOD / CROSBY Mission Beach Resort (218) 765-3447 | www.missionbeachmn.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

CROSSLAKE

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

Bay View Lodge

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

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

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

Country Inn Deerwood (218) 534-3101 | (855) 516-1092 www.countryinndeerwood.com 23884 Front St, Deerwood, MN 56444

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Directory Key

Hotel / Motel

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

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

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

Resort / Lodge

Waterpark on Property

NISSWA 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

LAKE LIVING own a little piece of paradise ruttgers.com | 612.220.9819

Bed & Breakfast / Historic Inn

RV Park / Campground

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

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

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

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

Nisswa Inn & Suites (218) 963-3500 www.nisswainnandsuites.com 24186 Smiley Rd, Nisswa, MN 56465

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

Lakeshore Properties

LOST LAKE LODGE & GOOD OL' DAYS RESORT

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

800-450-2681 | www.lostlake.com • 800-227-4501 | www.goodoldaysresort.com

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Open Year Round

Handicap Accessible

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

Pool on Property

On the Water

Roadway Pine River (218) 587-4499 | (855) 516-1092 www.pineriverinn.com 2684 MN State 371 SW, Pine River, MN 56474

AmericInn Lodge and Suites Pequot Lakes

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

Directory Key

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

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

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

Pet Friendly

The Getaway Adveture Resort (218) 820-9499 www.thegetawayadventureresort.com 8624 Co Hwy 1, Pequot Lakes, MN 56472

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

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

Bobbertown Bungalows (218) 568-5410 www.bobbertownbungalowsmn.com 31267 Rasmussen Rd, Pequot Lakes, MN 56472

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

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

Galles' Upper Cullen Resort & Campground (218) 963-2249 | matt.galles@gmail.com www.uppercullen.com 28317 Upper Cullen Rd Pequot Lakes, MN 56472

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

PETS

-LEGGE R U D O

FRIENDLY F

For many of us, our four-legged furry friends are members of our family. Bringing them with on vacation is the best of both worlds—both you and your pet can enjoy the Brainerd Lakes Area. If you’re looking for a safe place for your pup to get some exercise and socialization, you’ll find dog parks around the area.

BRAINERD BUSTER PARK

CROSSLAKERS DOG PARK

PEQUOT LAKES DOG PARK

The Buster Dog Park is an off-leash oneacre dog park with fenced areas. While exploring the Brainerd Lakes Area, let your dog run free in a safe, fenced in area. The park is located at the south end of Kiwanis Park in Brainerd.

The Crosslakers Dog Park is located on the west end of the city park and the Crosslake Community Center. The park is fenced in around a wooded area that is perfect for your dog to romp around! Open from dawn to dusk.

The Pequot Lakes Dog park is located two blocks west of Patriot Avenue on Pillsbury Street. The dog park is open from dawn to dusk. There are two fenced in areas, a small and large areas. In the summer, there’s a water station.

1101 E River Rd, Brainerd, MN 56401

14126 Daggett Pine Rd, Crosslake, MN 56442

Pillsbury Street, Pequot Lakes, MN 56472

Scan Me! Need pet boarding, grooming, vet services, or supplies? Hover your phone’s camera over this QR code to view all of our member businesses who specialize in pets!

Pampering Your Pet Perhaps having your pet with you the whole time you're vacationing isn’t feasible. Or you need a place for Fido to go while you’re outand-about during the day. You’ll find doggy daycare and boarding— making separation from your pet an easy one.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

[ Spotlight Businesses ] P E T S PAMPERED PETS (218) 454-0835 www.pamperedpetsmn.com Five star service for you and your furry friends. Conveniently located just off 371 in the Baxter industrial park. Our 8,000 sq. ft. facility offers 3 indoor play areas and many luxury boarding options. Our services include full service grooming, overnight boarding, daycare and private training. LAKELAND VETERINARY HOSPITAL (218) 829-1709 www.lakelandvet.net Lakeland Veterinary Hospital is an AAHA accredited, small animal practice. Our focus is on providing quality medicine that exceeds our clients' expectations. We also offer boarding and grooming services. AAHA holds our hospital to the highest quality medical standards. We must meet and maintain over 900 standards of accreditation.

35668 County Road 3, Crosslake, MN 56442

(218) 692-4400 • www.crosslakevet.com

NORTHERN HOPE VETERINARY CARE (218) 746-4000 www.hopevet.care The vision statement of Northern Hope Veterinary Care is to joyfully serve the residents of the Brainerd Lakes area by educating owners and providing holistic and integrative veterinary prevention and treatment therapies to improve pet health and quality of life.

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

218.568.5095 www.pequotvet.com

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

CALL TODAY FOR AN APPOINTMENT

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

GO EXPLORE 4

Get lost in the adventure

CAlling All RAce FAns! 5

FA M I LY ACT IVI T I E S

CALLING THRILL AND ADVENTURE SEEKERS… YOU’LL FIND HEART POUNDING FUN AND ACTIONPACKED ACTIVITIES FOR ALL AGES!

Brainerd Ski Loons Water Ski Show Team

Brainerd International Raceway

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

BIR’s schedule has a wide range of drag racing, road racing, watercross, drifting, autocross, live music and more. You can get behind the wheel and try your hand at racing or driving events, starting with the BIR Performance Driving School.

Lum Park Shows July 17 at 5:00 p.m. July 31 at 5:00 p.m. August 7 at 5:00 p.m. August 10 at 6:30 p.m.

Go Karts and More

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

Paul Bunyan Land

See the calendar of events and buy tickets at www.BrainerdRaceway.com.

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

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

From

The

Pa g e

1) Photo Courtesy Billy Bones Raceway; 2) Photo Courtesy Paul Bunyan Land; 3) Photo Courtesy Brainerd Ski Loons; 4) Photo Courtesy Brainerd Zip Line Tour; 5) Photo Courtesy Brian J. Nelson, Brainerd International Raceway; 6) Photo Courtesy Jenny VanOrsdel, Paul Bunyan Land; 7) Photo Courtesy Brainerd Zip Line Tour; 8) Photo Courtesy Brainerd International Raceway; 9) Photo Courtesy Brainerd Ski Loons

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Plan your trip!

SAFARI NORTH IS OPEN MAY 7 – OCTOBER 2 2022, 9:00 A.M. TO 6:00 P.M. DAILY

Safari North Take a Walk on the Wild Side at

Safari North Wildlife Park is an immersive, family friendly attraction on 43 acres with animals from several continents. You can feed giraffes, ride a camel, mine for gemstones, feed the barnyard animals, experience hundreds of parakeets in the parakeet encounter!

Snow Leopard at Safari North Wildlife Park

Scan Me!

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Safari Expedition

New for 2022

The 10-acre safari park is home to hyenas, lions, monkeys, zebras, ostrich, and wildebeest. You’ll enjoy seeing the animals from the comfort of the safari train!

The walking paths throughout the zoo are now paved making them easier to walk on and easier for strollers and wheelchairs. Safari North has also added more monkeys and more amusement park rides.

FA M I LY ACT IVI T I E S

Highway 371 North • Brainerd

Family FUN for all AGES!

Lots of Chocolate

3 GO-KART TRACKS

Can Am • Bullit Indy • Jr. Karts

OFF-ROAD GO-KARTS MINI GOLF BATTING CAGES BUNGEE BOUNCE WATER WARS NASCAR SIMULATORS JUMP SHOT CLIMBING WALL 9D VIRTUAL REALITY VIDEO ARCADE SNACK SHACK SPIN ZONE

d website an Check our for hours! Follow Us! Facebook 17992 State Hwy. 371, Brainerd (Just South of The BIR) Pirate's Cove: (218) 828-9002 | PiratesCove.com

northlandkartkountry.com

218.454.1602

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

F A M I L Y A C T I V I T I E S [ Spotlight Businesses ]

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

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

SUMMERFEST (218) 534-2936 www.deerwoodsummerfest.org August 12-13, 2022 | Deerwood, MN A family friendly two-day community event designed to celebrate Deerwood with fun activities, terrific food, arts/crafts, and many activities for kids. Deerwood Summerfest is possible thanks to hard-working volunteers, along with local business sponsors, vendor participation, and more. Proceeds benefit Deerwood and surrounding communities.

CROW WING COUNTY FAIR (218) 829-6680 www.crowwingcountyfair.com Mark your calendars for the Crow Wing County Fair from August 2 - 6, 2022! The fair has entertainment for the whole family. Watch animal judging events or take a ride at the carnival! Grandstand events include an all new rodeo, demolition derby, bull riding, moto cross, tractor contest, and much more!

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

UPNORTH INDOOR BOUNCE HOUSE (218) 203-8400 www.upnorthbounce.com For all things fun, visit UpNorth indoor bounce house! Kids will have a blast playing in our six different giant size inflatables. There’s even a toddler area too. UpNorth is a clean and safe indoor playground. The perfect place to have your kid’s next birthday party. See you soon UpNorth!

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS, THREE BEAR WATERPARK AND LASER TAG (218) 824-3232 www.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.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

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

Your best

VACATION STARTS HERE!

[ Spotlight Businesses ] F A M I L Y A C T I V I T I E S

Crow Wing

AUGUST 13, 2022 BRAINERD, MN

REAL VIKINGS. NO HORNS.

C R O W W I N G V I K I N G F E S T I VA L . C O M

Visit A TRUE MISSISSIPPI RIVER TOWN

• Zoo and Interactive Museums • Lodging and Downtown Shopping & Dining • Historic Mansions

littlefallsmn.com

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

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

VISIT DURING OUR SIGNATURE

EVENTS IN THE LAKES AREA are big on FUN. Concerts, races, parades, games, and food—what's not to love?! Plan your vacation around these popular events and make them an annual family tradition!

STARS & STRIPES DAYS, PEQUOT LAKES, MN

LOCAL EVENTS

Stars & Stripes Days

July, 3–4, 2022 | Pequot Lakes, MN Celebrate our nation’s independence at the Pequot Lakes Stars and Stripes Days in Trailside Park honoring our heritage with food vendors, music, games, parade, and fireworks. On July 3, try your hand at the bean bag 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-can-eat Pequot Lakes fireman pancakes, kids’ games, craft fair, and the Stars and Stripes Parade!

Bean Hole Days

July 13, 2022 | Pequot Lakes, MN Join in the historic event Bean Hole Days, which dates back to 1938. Business owners asked local farmers to come into town for the day, and they served the farmers beans that baked overnight in the ground as part of a community event. Today, Bean Hole Days is a reminder and celebration of Pequot Lakes’ history serving over 3,000 hungry visitors. Lines form early for free beans. Purchase a 2022 Bean Hole Days mug and head to the front of the “Fast Pass for Gas” line or go through the drive thru for some rootin’ tootin’ good beans! Trailside Park in the center of town is teaming with people visiting craft vendors, playing games, and enjoying free beans.

Bobber Bocce On Ice

February 11, 2023 | Pequot Lakes, MN

Photo By BlazeAir

Get ready for the 2nd annual Bobber Bocce on Ice in Pequot Lakes. This event will have you embracing winter like a seasoned Minnesotan. Bobber Bocce on Ice is a hybrid of bocce ball and curling played on plowed lanes on the ice. Co-ed teams of 4 will work together to see if they get bragging rights as the top team. Events and activities on the ice all day for players and spectators. This will be the ‘coolest’ event you’ll ever attend! Check www.pequotlakes.com as the event gets closer for the date and more event information.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

LOCAL EVENTS

Celebrate America Crosslake July 2, 2022 | Crosslake, MN

For more than 50 years, Crosslake has celebrated America with fireworks. In recent years, the fireworks display is staged from an island on the south end of Cross Lake. Thousands of families and friends pack into boats or sit along the shores to enjoy the beautiful overhead explosions. Add this event to your bucket list and it will become an annual tradition not to be missed.

Crosslake Days

Sept. 22–24, 2022 | Crosslake, MN Visit in September and attend the annual Crosslake Days celebration. Crosslake is beautiful in the fall as the trees burst into hues of auburn and amber. The crisp air is the perfect backdrop to cool the heat of the chili cook-off contest. Taste the free samples and vote for your favorite. Local businesses compete for the coveted trophies and for bragging rights!

St. Patrick's Day Parade March 18, 2023 | Crosslake, MN

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

Lakes Jam

June 23–25, 2022 | Brainerd International Raceway, Brainerd, MN Rock and country unite for this annual music festival at Brainerd International Raceway (BIR). This 4-day event is more than just music—it’s a whole experience! On Friday and Saturday, concert goers who camp can watch Watercross (snowmobile racing on an open water oval course). Drifting, poker and bean bag tournaments, costume contest, meet and greets, and on-stage viewing are open to all attendees. Of course the music is the main attraction. Headliners include Tesla, Jon Pardi, and Cole Swindell. Wednesday, June 22 Hairball and The Crown Jewels will rock the stage— always a fan favorite! Buy tickets and learn more at: www.lakesjam.com.

Crosslake's St. Pat's

Day Parade Named Best in State by WCCO!

A missing chili pepper hunt, outdoor movies, kids’ games, shopping deals, hand crafted arts and crafts, bazaar and flea market, a Corn Hole Tournament and live entertainment make this a fun family-friendly event.

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

WinterFest

Feb. 2–4, 2023 | Crosslake, MN Have cabin fever? Crosslake has the cure. Celebrate Winterfest, a three-day festival for old-fashioned winter fun. Beginning Thursday, daily clues are released for the Lost Medallion Hunt with more than $1,000 in prizes. Friday, there’s a kick-off party at the Crosslake Community Center with fun for everyone: sledding, skating, horse-drawn wagon rides, s’mores, and a huge bonfire and fireworks! Saturday is a full day of activities with helicopter rides (weather permitting), cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and Italian Olympics. You’ll find deals and discounts all over town. With a snowmobile trail running right through town, stop in to participating businesses to warm up and get free soup as part of the annual SoupFest. Don’t forget to vote for which business has the best soup— pride and a golden ladle trophy are on the line!

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

JUSTIN MOORE, LAKES JAM 2019

Photo By Buffalo Media Group

Photo By Matt Kennedy, Lakes Jam

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

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

Photo By BlazeAir

Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals

Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza

You’ll see the world’s best drivers, the fastest cars on the fastest track, with the most insane race fans! Everyone has heard stories about BIR during the NHRA Nationals, but you need to experience it for yourself because nothing compares. Every ticket comes with a pit pass, so fans can watch their favorite teams tear down their cars and rebuild them in between races. On Nitro Alley, you’ll find interactive displays, simulated competitions, merchandise, and food. Camping is available on-site at the infamous The Zoo campground. Camping in The Zoo brings live music Thursday through Saturday, 24hour food, and shenanigans. For those who have children or want quieter evenings, the reserved and restricted family camping have early noise and traffic rules that are strictly enforced. Daytime parking is also available. Visit www.brainerdraceway.com for more information.

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

August 18–21, 2022 | | Brainerd International Raceway, Brainerd, MN

Hey, what's happening?

January 28, 2023 | Hole in the Day Bay, Gull Lake, Brainerd, MN

Scan Me!

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

www.ExploreBrainerdLakes.com/Events

LOCAL EVENTS

LAKESJAM.com

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

MORE than a Music Festival WATERCROSS DRIFTING POKER TOURNEY BEAN BAG TOURNEY LAWN MOWER RACING

BRAINERD INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY 2022 MAJOR EVENTS

Street Car Showdown May 27-29

Show & Go Presented by PleasureLand

LODRS Divisional (Thunder at the Lakes)

July 1-3

PleasureLand RV Show

MAP Proving Grounds

MotoAmerica Superbikes

June 2-4

June 10-12

July 6-9

July 28-31

Street Outlaws - No Prep Kings NHRA Nationals June 17-18

August 18-21

Lakes Jam

G.S.T.A. Muscle Car Shootout

June 22-25

September 2-4

MAP Proving Grounds September 9-11

For a complete & current list of events, visit our website.

www.BIRMN.com Local: 218-824-RACE (7223) Toll free: 866-444-4455 50

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

ON THE WATER Photo by Buffalo Media Group, Courtesy of Whitefish Area Lodging Association

Fishing

WHITEFISH CHAIN OF LAKES, CROSSLAKE, MN

Photo Courtesy Cragun's Resort on Gull Lake

MEMORIES ARE MADE HERE

THE BRAINERD LAKES is home to one of the best multispecies, freshwater fisheries in the country. You’ll find a variety of abundant species here ranging from panfish, large and small mouth bass, and muskie. The region is best known for Minnesota’s state fish—the walleye. There are diverse lakes all over the region like Gull Chain, the Whitefish Chain of Lakes, Pelican, and Mille Lacs that are fruitful and popular fishing lakes. You’ll also find quiet smaller lakes that are wellstocked with fish, too. If you don’t have access to a boat or are overwhelmed by the thought of fishing while navigating a lake on your own, hire a fishing guide!

WALLEYEDAN GUIDE SERVICE Walleyedan has been guiding for over 33 years. His guide team has a passion for fishing and will give you a great day hooking fish. All species and all seasons, just let Walleyedan’s Guide Service know what you’re looking for and they’ll customize a trip just for you!

NATE BERG FISHING GUIDE A professional and knowledgeable guide service that will get you catching fish and having a good time on the water. Whether you want to fish one species or several different types in one day, Nate Berg Fishing Guides will give you a top notch experience!

Photo Courtesy Madden’s Resort on Gull Lake

Fishing Guides Bring • • • • • •

Boat Rods and Reels Live bait and tackle Life jackets Comfortable boats Utensils to clean fish

What You Should Bring: • • • • •

MN fishing license Snacks and beverage Sunscreen Sunglasses Weather appropriate clothing

The bite is on year-round in the Brainerd Lakes! ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Lake C R U I S I N ’

When you’re here, relaxing on a boat is usually a vacation highlight. But not everyone is comfortable navigating new waters or has experience driving a boat. That doesn’t mean you’re destined to be land-locked. The Breezy Belle on Pelican Lake and Gull Lake Cruises on the Gull Chain of Lakes offers cruising options where you can kick back and enjoy a fun time on the water!

GULL LAKE, BRAINERD, MN

Photo Courtesy Gull Lake Cruises

ON THE WATER

BREEZY BELLE

GULL LAKE CRUISES

Where is the Breezy Belle located?

Where can I find Gull Lake Cruises?

The Breezy Belle is located at Breezy Point Resort and cruises Pelican Lake.

Gull Lake Cruises docks at Cragun’s Resort.

What kind of boat is the Breezy Belle? The Breezy Belle is an authentic sternwheel paddleboat similar to riverboats. It has an enclosed main deck and an open air upper deck. The main deck is handicap accessible.

Is the Breezy Belle open to the public? Yes! You can take 2-hour scheduled cruises. There’s a staffed bar serving beverages. You’re welcome to bring carryout pizzas and food from Dockside Lounge. You can book your reservation online at www.breezybelle.com.

Is Gull Lake Cruises open to the public? Yes. You do not need to be a guest of Cragun’s Resort to enjoy Gull Lake Cruises. To book a cruise or learn more about a private charter, visit www.gulllakecruises.com.

What cruise options are there? You can enjoy day and evening dining and sightseeing cruises. The themed cruises are popular, which typically feature an extended cruise time, live musical guest, buffet, and drink specials. If you’re looking to elevate your special event, charter a private cruise—perfect for a wedding, corporate outing, or just a simple gathering with family and friends.

Can I reserve the Breezy Belle for a private party?

Can you tell me about the boat?

The Breezy Belle is the perfect venue for a private party. The Belle has been the backdrop for all kinds of celebratory occasions and can accommodate up to 100 people. Staff will work with you to plan your memorable event including your food options. To book your event, call 800-432-3777.

The North Star, is Gull Lake Cruises’ luxury yacht. It boasts two bars and two levels. The observation deck allows guests to take in the landscape while the interior gives you shelter from the sun or rain. The interior main salon also has air conditioning and heat, as needed, and large bathrooms with one wheelchair accessible.

“Guests love the two-hour cruise around Gooseberry Island, home of a huge seagull rookery. The soft splashing of the paddlewheels is so relaxing and peaceful!” Bonnie S., Breezy Point Resort

Photo Courtesy Breezy Belle

Photo Courtesy Gull Lake Cruises

“Thank you so much for a lovely rehearsal dinner cruise. Our family and friends commented on how wonderful it was to be out on the water and how lovely the evening was.” Stephanie and Sam J., private cruise guests

Photo Courtesy Breezy Belle

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

ANSWERING THE CALL OF THE

1. What is the NLC? 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.

What progress has been made on the NLC’s facility?

The NLC is making progress on its world-class facility that will open in 2024. Site enhancements are currently taking place at the Cross Lake Recreation Area—a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers day use area in Crosslake, MN. At this site, a shoreline restoration project was completed to improve water quality and wildlife habitats along Cross Lake. Floating docks are also in place to protect the shoreline and provide safe lake access to the public.

What can I look forward to in the summer of 2022? The NLC plans to run daily floating classroom education programs. These programs are open to the public and private groups.

4. How can I show my support? We invite folks to wear NLC logo with pride and spread the word about loon conservation! Significant funds are still needed to complete the building of our world-class facility by 2024. You can answer the call of the loon and support the NLC’s mission by making a tax-deductible donation today. Please visit www.nationallooncenter.org for more information.

One of the most iconic and beloved summer sounds is the ethereal call of the loon echoing across our northern lakes. Its haunting yet peaceful wail, piercing red eyes, and contrasting colors make the common loon unlike any other bird. Minnesota is proud to be home to an abundant loon population. The National Loon Center (NLC), located in the heart of our lake country, will be a leader in significant loon and freshwater research and education. We are answering their call to preserve our love of lake life and this symbol of northern wildness.

National Loon Center Rendering by Widseth

ON THE WATER

What do the Loon Calls Mean? Loons are one of the most vocal of all water birds. While they can be heard during the day, they’re most known for their haunting calls at night. Each of the four loon calls has a different meaning. Yodel (long, rising call with repetitive notes) Male loons yodel when declaring or defending its territory. Tremolo (crazy laugh) This aggressive, distressed call is given when a loon is alarmed or disturbed. Loons also use this sound to defend their territory. Wail (similar to a wolf’s howl) This is the most haunting and eerie sound of all the loon calls. Mated pairs often use this call to communicate long distance. Hoot (short low note) This soft, short call is used between adults and their chicks in close proximity.

Did you

know?

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

O N T H E W A T E R [ Spotlight Businesses ]

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

WHITEFISH CHAIN YACHT CLUB (612) 940-3407 www.wcyc.info The WCYC is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting boating and water safety on the Whitefish Chain of Lakes since 1952. WCYC conducts three important programs: navigation buoys in partnership with the Crow Wing County Sheriff's Department, boating safety instruction and swimming lessons. Visit wcyc.info to learn more and join.

GULL LAKE CRUISES (888) 452-2178 www.GullLakeCruises.com Voted one of the top things to do in Brainerd! Experience Gull Lake like never before. Two levels, outdoor observation deck, climatecontrolled indoor salon, two bars, and unmatched views! Dinner • Lunch • Happy Hour • Sightseeing • Live Music Cruises. Book today!

YOUR BOAT CLUB (218) 692-3850 Crosslake (218) 963-1010 Gull Lake www.yourboatclub.com Located at Cross, Gull, North Long Lake and other amazing locations in MN, WI, IL, and FL, Your Boat Club is the Smartest Way to Boat! We offer Annual Boating Memberships, Daily/ Multi-Day Rentals, Storage, Slips, Service and more. At YBC, it's Our Boats, Your Fun!

discover new

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com 56

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Shop the Nation’s

LARGEST $ SELECTION only OF RVS from

PER DAY*

14275 Edgewood Dr. North #100 in BAXTER, MN | 844.384.2978 | CampingWorld.com *(STK # 1849442) Exclusive of tax, title, license, finance and other fees required or allowed by applicable law; freight and prep, which vary by state, may also be added (except in AR, CA, CO, FL, GA, LA, MS, OH, OK, OR, TX, TN, WA, or UT). Monthly payment of $120.23/mo based on 15% down, 6.74% APR & 180 Months. Daily value is calculated by monthly payment $112.75 multiplied by 12 months divided by 365 days to equal $3.95/ day. Available to qualified buyers based on lender credit qualifications. Advertised inventory available at time of production. Offers may not be combined with any other offer and not applicable to prior sales. Valid only at participating CAMPING WORLD affiliated dealerships; See dealer for details; Void where BMN19129-1221 prohibited; © 2022 FreedomRoads, LLC. Unauthorized use of any of CWI, Inc.’s trademarks is expressly prohibited; All rights reserved; Offers expire 03/31/22.

MOONLITE BAY, CROSSLAKE, MN

TRAVELING AROUND THE BRAINERD

EXPLORING THE BRAINERD LAKES is easy no matter what mode of transportation you choose!

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

1. Plane Photo Courtesy Josh Marquart, CFI at NorthPoint Aviation

Take to the sky for a birds’ eye view of the landscape. NorthPoint Aviation, based out of the Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport, offers scenic flights of the Brainerd Lakes Area. An experienced pilot will fly you over beautiful terrain. You can see lakes, the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area (including bike trails and mine pit lakes), and depending on the time of year, fall colors. Flight tours are 30-or 60-minutes.

2. Car

We’re a destination that’s easy to navigate and travel by car. Drive the Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway, and make stops along the way in Jenkins, Pequot Lakes, and Crosslake. You’ll also traverse along some scenic nature spots with stops where you can get out and learn about the area at interpretive kiosks. You can drive around the popular Gull Lake for an afternoon cruise. County Road 77 winds around Gull Lake starting north of Baxter and finishes up by Lake Shore (or start in reverse). This route is particularly beautiful in the fall when the colors pop. While driving the County Road 77 route, there are several restaurants to stop and grab a bite to eat. All of the major resorts (Cragun’s, Madden’s on Gull Lake, and Grand View) have dining options. Reservations recommended. • • • • •

Sunshine Summerhouse Dock 77 Bar Harbor Zorbaz on Gull Lake Lost Lake Lodge

3. Boat

When you’re in Lake Country, it’s hard to beat spending the day on the water. You can chill and float, dial it up by pulling the kids tubing or waterskiing, or rip around on a jet ski. Whether you want to cruise the Gull Chain or Whitefish Chain of Lakes or prefer a quieter lake, you’ll find a body of water that fits your style. Don’t have a boat or jet ski? No problem! If you’re staying at a resort, many offer boat rentals. You can also check out these places that offer rentals. • Bertha Boatworks • Boats and Beyond • Brothers Motorsports • Lake Fun Rentals • The Power Lodge • Your Boat Club Photo by Buffalo Media Group, Courtesy of Whitefish Area Lodging Association

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

4. Kayak

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

5. ATV/UTV

We have an expansive ATV/UTV trail system covering hundreds of miles all around the area—Brainerd, Cuyuna Lakes, Emily and Outing, and Pine River. The Spider Lake Trails, located in the Foot Hills State Forest near Pine River, is one of the most popular trail systems in Minnesota. You’ll travel 29 miles on diverse terrain. From smooth and sandy to rough and rocky, it’s exciting, challenging, and a great place to improve your riding ability. While riding the trails, you’ll also see lakes, ponds, and climb hills and slopes around the forest. If you’re looking to rent UTVs, check out Seaberg Motor Sports or The Power Lodge.

You’ll travel 29 miles on diverse terrain. From smooth and sandy to rough and rocky, it’s exciting, challenging, and a great place to improve your riding ability. 6. Snowmobile

Cruising trails through the woods and across frozen lakes is a fun way to spend a winter’s day. Ride for a few hours and stop to grab a bite to eat before heading back to your resort or hotel. You don’t need your own snowmobile to enjoy the hundreds of miles of trails. Businesses that rent snowmobiles: • • • •

Boats and Beyond Brothers Motorsports Central Lakes Motorsports Cragun’s Resort on Gull • The Power Lodge • Seaberg Motorsports

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

7. Ski and Snowshoe

The Brainerd Lakes Area makes it easy for you to enjoy the woods. Trails are groomed regularly during winter months. You can check trail conditions at www.crowwing.us. The Northland Arboretum, which is within the Brainerd/Baxter city limits, has 12 miles of trails with nearly 5 km lighted for evening skiing. The Nordic Ridge trail system is also popular with outdoor enthusiasts with over 14 miles of multiuse trails.

The Crow Wing State Park would be a great place to snowshoe, especially the beautiful trails that follow the Mississippi River. You can snowshoe on the trails around the Paul Thiede Fire Tower Park just outside of Pequot Lakes. Easy Riders in Brainerd rents snowshoes and cross country skis. The Crosslake Community Center also rents snowshoes.

8. Bike

If you love biking, you’ve come to the right place. You and your family can enjoy miles of biking along the backdrop of the Northwoods. The area’s renowned Paul Bunyan State Trail is 115 miles long. The trail winds through the Crow Wing State Park south of Brainerd/Baxter and heads north through Nisswa, Pequot Lakes, and Pine River. Trailside Park in downtown Pequot Lakes is the perfect spot to rest right off the trail. Visit the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area (CCSRA) for an adrenaline rush. Cuyuna’s 5,000 acres are mostly undeveloped offering a rugged landscape perfect for the outdoor enthusiast. CCSRA has 55 miles of singletrack trails at a variety of difficulties, so if you’re a newbie or avid biker there’s a trail for you.

Biking in Cuyuna isn’t just for summer months. Fat tire biking in the winter brings a new dimension to biking.

1) PHOTO BY BUFFALO MEDIA GROUP, COURTESY OF WHITEFISH AREA LODGING ASSOCIATION 2) PHOTO BY ISAAC JOHNSON, COURTESY CRAGUN'S RESORT ON GULL LAKE 3) PHOTO BY BLAZEAIR 4) PHOTO BY BUFFALO MEDIA GROUP

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

A NATURE LOVER’S

PARADISE BRAINERD Northland Arboretum: Nearly 12 miles of trails for hiking and cross-country skiing. Snowshoeing trails are available, too. Trails accommodate all ages and skill levels and are some of the best trails in Minnesota—within the Brainerd city limits.

PAUL M THIEDE FIRE TOWER PARK, PEQUOT LAKES

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: 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.

Photo By BlazeAir

NORTHLAND ARBORETUM (218) 454-8773 www.northlandarb.org 500 acres of stunning nature reserve hosting a year-round 12-mile trail system, educational programming, and beautiful backdrops for weddings and events. Enjoy our beautiful groomed and lit cross-country and snowshoe trails. Snowshoe rentals available.

OUTDOOR & GUN SHOW (218) 534-2936 www.deerwoodoutdoorshow.org March 5-6, 2022 | Deerwood, MN An outdoor-focused two-day event with something for every “Up-North” enthusiast. Vendors and activities for all! Deerwood Outdoor & Gun Show is supported by local business sponsors, vendors and as well as community and outdoor organizations. Proceeds benefit Deerwood and surrounding communities.

NISSWA

PEQUOT LAKES AREA

Fritz Loven State Park: A beautiful 80-acre park with a playground, picnic shelters, hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing trails. Come see this beautiful nature sanctuary with wildlife, towering pines, and a stony brook. Go West on County Road 77 (off Hwy. 371 North), take a right on County Road 78, and then right on Ridge Rd.

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.

Nisswa Lake Park: On the shores of Gull Lake, this park is perfect access for boaters looking to reach downtown Nisswa. You’ll find docks with boat slips, walking loop, picnic areas with tables, BBQ pits, and a pavilion. Make the quick walk under the 371 bridge into downtown Nisswa for dining and shopping.

Paul M Thiede Fire Tower Park: The historic fire tower and park is a must see when in the Pequot Lakes Area. The tower sits 100 feet high and offers panoramic 20-mile view. Hike the trails, check out the interpretive signs along the trails, and have a picnic lunch at the pavilion.

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Golf

Photo Courtesy Madden's on Gull Lake

Photo Courtesy Grand View Lodge

4 REASONS WHY WE’RE MINNESOTA’S TOP

DESTINATION

OUR AREA OFFERS THE PERFECT BACKDROP FOR CHAMPIONSHIP AND RESORT-STYLE COURSES. LOAD UP YOUR CLUBS AND COME SEE FOR YOURSELF THE REASONS THE BRAINERD LAKES IS MINNESOTA’S GOLF MECCA! 1. Accessibility

4. Accolades

We’re home to over 400 golf holes within about a 45-minute drive. The sheer number of golf courses that you can play—all are open to the public—makes the Brainerd Lakes a golf lover’s dream destination.

Our championship golf courses have attracted national attention with many major resort courses earning recognition from Golf Digest. Renowned industry professionals, including Arnold Palmer and Tom Lehman have designed and put their trademark on resort courses.

2. Playability Whether you’re a beginner or avid golfer, you’ll find a course that suits your style and pace-of-play. We have championship courses, par 3 courses, and several fun resort-style courses. And because of the close proximity of courses, you can play several courses over your stay—even if you’re here for just a few days.

3. Affordability Photo Courtesy Cragun's Resort on Gull Lake

Other golf destinations have limited courses and the courses are very expensive or members only. Our resort style courses have family friendly green fees. Even our premier championship courses are affordable given their quality and caliber. Resort courses also offer golf and lodging packages and deals for corporate rates.

Coming in 2023: Cragun’s Legacy Courses has partnered with Minnesota’s most decorated PGA Tour professional and golf designer Tom Lehman in a $10 million renovation and expansion of its signature courses. Look for the project to be done spring 2023.

Places to Mini Golf Challenge your family to some friendly competition. Who will get a hole-in-one? Who can best handle the hazards? Pirate ships, meandering streams, rolling greens, boulders, and waterfalls are just some of the things you’ll encounter. Check out Pirate’s Cove, Kart Kountry, Wildwedge Mini Golf, and Whistling Wolf for your next mini golf adventures.

Did you

know?

The Brainerd Lakes Area has more golf holes than lakes.

[ Spotlight Businesses ] G O L F

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

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

Scan Me!

Hover your phone's camera over this QR code for more information on golfing in the Brainerd Lakes Area.

pros play

play where the

Be the first to play the new Tom Lehman golf course on “Minnesota’s PREMIER GOLF FACILITY”!

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

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 Crosswoods Golf Course Sunrise, High Noon, Sunset (218) 692-4653 | www.crosslakegolf.com 35878 Co Rd 3, Crosslake, MN Emily Greens Golf Course 18 Hole Course (218) 763-2169 | www.emilygreens.com 39966 Refuge Rd, Emily, MN Golden Eagle Golf Club

18 Hole Course (218) 763-4653 | (866) 316-4653 www.golfgoldeneagle.com 16146 W Eagle Lake Rd, Fifty Lakes, MN Grand View Lodge The Pines, The Preserve (218) 963-2234 | (866) 801-2951 www.grandviewlodge.com 23521 Nokomis Ave, Nisswa, MN 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 Northland Kart Country Mini-Golf | (218) 454-1602 www.northlandkartkountry.com 17568 State Hwy 371, Brainerd, MN Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf Mini-Golf (218) 828-9002 | www.piratescove.net 17992 State Hwy 371 North, Brainerd, MN Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge Jack's 18, Alec's 9 (218) 678-4646 | www.ruttgers.com 25039 Tame Fish Lake Rd, Deerwood, MN Whistling Wolf Mini Golf and Gifts Mini-Golf (218) 692-7888 | www.crosslakegolf.com 36006 Co Rd 66, Crosslake, MN Whitefish Golf Club 18 Hole Course | (218) 543-4900 www.whitefishgolf.com 7883 Co Rd 16, Pequot Lakes, MN

PRESENTED BY

AUG 22-28, 2022

218-825-2789  CRAGUNS.com/golf

Wildwedge Golf, Mini Golf and Maze 9 Hole Par 3 Golf, Mini-Golf (218) 568-6995 | www.wildwedge.com 32792 Paul Bunyan Trail Dr Pequot Lakes, MN

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

WAYS TO ENJOY THE LOCAL

WE HAVE L O T S O F C H O I C E S H E R E AND WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK IS NO

EXCEPTION. FINE DINING, GOURMET COFFEE, DOCKSIDE DINING, GRABN- GO, AND SWEET TREATS . IF YOU’RE NOT IN THE MOOD TO L E AVE T H E L A K E , N O PROBLEM. TAKE OUT OR CATERING OPTIONS MEAN YOU DON’ T H AVE TO !

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

-ELOTE-

Photo Courtesy Sunshine's Summerhouse

FOOD & DRINK Photo Courtesy Dock 77 at Quarterdeck Resort

If you’re looking for authentic Italian, check out Maucieri’s in Crosslake. A true family restaurant. The sauce, or gravy as they like to call it, is a family secret recipe passed down from Italy. Norway Ridge Supper Club has 73 years of family traditions. Many of the original recipes are still used today. Bar Harbor Supper Club’s history dates back to 1937 when it started as a liquor and gambling nightspot. A rebuild and a few remodels later, this iconic hot spot features high quality food on the shores of Gull Lake!

io c

Bar Harbor Supper Club’s history dates back to 1937 when it started as a liquor and gambling nightspot.

Photo Courtesy Pit Happens Catering

t a

Many of our local establishments have chefs that are consistently creating new and flavorful dishes. You’ll find unique twists on old favorites or contemporary plates that haven’t been seen before. Looking for something to try? Pan fried, blackened, or on a sandwich, walleye is a classic Minnesota dish! During the busy summer and fall seasons reservations are strongly recommended.

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

Fine Dining

Quick Bites

i st

Vacation coffee just tastes better. There’s no to-do list following your morning cup. Instead, you can take your time sipping, relaxing, and enjoying the start to your day. Or if you need to get a little work done, bring your laptop to a coffee shop and take advantage of fast wi-fi. You’ll find iced coffees, espressos, cappuccinos, and even teas at local coffee shops around Brainerd, Nisswa, Pequot, and Crosslake!

W et yo u r w h

Craft Coffee

Photo Courtesy Rafferty's Pizza - Nisswa

Photo Courtesy MN Traders Co.

l b . ry ar o r br ew e

t Hap p e ns Cat er i ng | Pi . h

FOOD & DRINK Photo Courtesy Notch 8 Chowhouse and Drinkery

Did you

know?

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

k ed At l a nt i c

l Sa

Vacations are supposed to be low stress. We have catering businesses that will you work with you to create and deliver the perfect meal for a special occasion or a low-key extended family gathering. Giving you more time to enjoy time at the lake.

Sm o

Catering

m o

Sweet Treats

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

Photo Courtesy Wildflower Chocolate

y's

Se a food M

k ar

s et

The Quirky Meat Raffle

It’s a Minnesota thing. You’ll find meat raffles at bars and fraternal clubs from Brainerd, Pequot Lakes, and Crosslake. What is a meat raffle? Well, it’s charitable gambling (proceeds go to any number of organizations) with a side of meat. Head to a local watering hole, buy raffle tickets, and wait to hear if your number is called. There are usually several rounds and chances to win various meats and sometimes seafood!

Scan Me!

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

FOOD & DRINK

smokers, grills, pellets, charcoal, seasonings, sauces, and so much more.

We create

Backyard

Legends BRAINERD | CROSSLAKE

· · · ·

thesmokestackmn.com

Indoor/Outdoor Dining Chef-Inspired Menu Fresh, Local Ingredients Group Space Available

· Historical 1800s Railroad Atmosphere · Indoor/Outdoor Dining · Unique Appetizers · Pizzas, Burgers and More

@Thesmokestack

· · · ·

Indoor/Outdoor Dining Fresh, Local Ingredients Unique, Diverse Menu Open Year-Round

prairiebay.3cheersmn.com

notch8brainerd.com

ironrange.3cheersmn.com

15115 EDGEWOOD DRIVE BAXTER · 218-824-6444

1551 NORTHERN PACIFIC ROAD BRAINERD · 218-454-6688

6 WEST MAIN STREET CROSBY · 218-545-5444

USDA Choice Cuts of Beef and Pork Chicken | Seafood Award Winning Smoked Meats Hand Crafted Sausages

FREE ES L SAMP

Family owned and operated 14043 Swann Drive · Crosslake, MN 218-692-MEAT (6382)

www.gcmeats.com

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

THE LOCAL GOODNESS WE HAVE LOTS of local establishments that have mastered the art of creating seriously good craft brews and drinks. Don’t take our word for it; sip the goodness for yourself!

JACK PINE BREWERY, BAXTER, MN

FOOD & DRINK

Jack Pine Brewery BAXTER, MN

Jack Pine Brewery’s taproom offers as laidback, family friendly atmosphere that focuses on great beer and good conversation. On warm days, the taproom’s large industrial door opens, and the crowd effortlessly spills out on to the patio tucked in a grove of pine trees. Tasty Brew: Blood Orange Cream Ale

5Rocks Distilling Co. BRAINERD, MN

5Rocks uses locally sourced ingredients to make small batch spirits. You’ll find Cold North Vodka, Lizzy’s Gin, Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and Double Barreled Bourbon (limited edition). Sample spirits, or try mules, an old-fashioned, specialty and dessert cocktails! Bring a cocktail kits (or two) home as a souvenir! Tasty Cocktail: Cucumber Basil Gin Smash

Scan Me!

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

Ya-Sure Kombucha

BRAINERD, MN

If you’re into the health benefits of kombucha—a bubbly, probiotic-rich fermented tea—check out Ya-Sure Kombucha! Whether you’re new to the world of kombucha or you like more Hopped flavors, you’ll find a healthy kombucha you love. Try it: Aronia Berry

14 Lakes Brewery CROSSLAKE, MN

14 Lakes Craft Brewing Company offers an intimate setting for friends and family to enjoy quality beer and good company. 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.

Tasty Brew: Pig Lake Peanut Butter Porter

Photo Courtesy Brainerd Dispatch

1) JACK PINE BREWERY 2) 5ROCKS DISTILLING CO., PHOTO BY CUYUNA.COM 3) YA-SURE KOMBUCHA 4) 14 LAKES BREWERY

4 ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

RAISE A GLASS AND CHEERS TO G O O D T I M E S WI T H FA M I LY AND FRIENDS.

Roundhouse Brewery NISSWA , MN

Roundhouse offers classic and seasonal brews, plus nonalcoholic beverages. Roundhouse has expanded its taproom, along with a private event space. You’ll also find an outdoor patio with a firepit. It’s the perfect place to unwind on a summer’s evening! Tasty Brew: Crow Wing Cream Ale Photo Courtesy Woods To Water Real Estate, Roundhouse Brewery

Big Axe Brewery

NISSWA , MN

Big Axe is serious about brewing good beer and providing a oneof-a-kind atmosphere. Kids and nonbeer drinkers will love the homemade cream soda and root beer. Big Axe also has a full-service menu that pairs nicely with their craft beers. The patio is the perfect place to enjoy the summer sunshine, drink a cold one, and relax after shopping downtown Nisswa. Tasty Brew: Axe Kicker Double IPA

Photo Courtesy Big Axe Brewery Photo Courtesy Woods To Water Real Estate, Snarky Loon Brewing Co.

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

Snarky Loon Brewing Co. JENKINS, MN

Veteran owned, Snarky Loon brews delicious beer and brings people together. Snarky Loon’s beer is German and Belgian inspired along with a variety of seasonal taps. Large open doors with a live music patio make it easy to move freely from inside to enjoy the outdoors. Military, law enforcement, fire, medical, and first responders can get 25% off beer and 10% off of merchandise with proper ID. Tasty Brew: Snarky Loon Kolsch

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Channel Your Inner Lumberjack LOGGERS AND LUMBERJACKS are a part of our local history with a big nod to the legend Paul Bunyan. Now you can channel your inner lumberjack and see what it’s like to throw axes for sport! Roundhouse Brewery in Nisswa opened the Wreck Room for competition, camaraderie, and craft beer!

FOOD & DRINK

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

WRECK ROOM, ROUNDHOUSE BREWERY, NISSWA, MN

Your best

Photo Courtesy Roundhouse Brewery

VACATION STARTS HERE!

At the Wreck Room, a coach will teach you the rules and how to safely throw the axe. You and your crew will be throwing axes in no time! Gather your friends and be ready for a good time.

SHOP ONLINE

SAVE TIME

To reserve your time and learn more, visit www.roundhousebrewery.com.

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

Always HOMEMADE. SAVE HOP TIME S Always DELICIOUS.

ONLINE

CHOICE THE BEST NIENT E FOR CONV HOPPING S E E R HASSLE-F 707 Laurel Street | Downtown Brainerd knottypinebakery.com | 218-454-2470

YOU ORDER

WE SHOP

YOU PICK-UP

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

F O O D & D R I N K [ Spotlight Businesses ]

B*MERRI GASTROPUB AT THE WOODS (218) 829-7507 www.thewoodsmn.com Our chef-driven menu ranges from savory steaks & seafood features, to BBQ, sushi, and flavorful pasta dishes. Offering a full-service bar with a self-serve beer wall, live music, outdoor seating, event center for weddings and business meetings, on-site accommodations with hotel & rental homes, and private catering & seasonal classes.

DOUGH BROS WOODFIRE KITCHEN (218) 454-4900 www.Doughbroswoodfire.com Dough Bros is located next to Cub Foods in Baxter and offers delicious wood fired pizzas, smoked wings, unique appetizers, 20 tap beers, wine and cocktails! Enjoy patio seating in the summer months along with our fun 90’s themed inside décor!

JACK PINE BREWERY (218) 270-8072 www.jackpinebrewery.com Serving fresh, local craft beer to the Brainerd Lakes Area since 2013. Enjoy a beverage while you enjoy music, games or trivia. Now offering rentals for our Pioneer Room, Production Space, or rent out the entire taproom for an exclusive, private event.

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

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

LEGACY GRILLE (888) 452-2178 www.craguns.com/dining Experience dining with breathtaking golf course views. The Legacy Grille serves casual American cuisine from classic wings to savory steaks. Grab a drink in the sports bar and watch the game or enjoy a glass of wine outside on the terrace overlooking the beautifully manicured grounds. Now open year-round!

COMMANDER RESTAURANT & BAR AND JJ'S PUB (218) 562-4198 www.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.

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

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

[ Spotlight Businesses ] F O O D & D R I N K

MN TRADERS CO. (218) 568-1071 www.mntradersco.com Craft coffee, wine and beer bar focused on intentional, curated experiences - located steps from the Paul Bunyan Trail. Coffee-tococktails menu, charcuterie, shareables and curated home goods. Let us host your next event: family gatherings, corporate events, birthday parties and showers.

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

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

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

Visit Our Mobile Galley • Nationwide Shipping • Fresh Fish Delivered Daily • Smoked Fish • Fresh & Frozen Walleye • Gourment Cheese and Grocery PIT HAPPENS CATERING (218) 851-0003 www.pithappenscatering.com Pit Happens Catering brings award winning barbecue experience in creating specialty smoked dishes. We provide catering, food trucks, vending, and pop ups for any special event.

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

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

Open 7 days a week • www.moreysmarkets.com

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

ART, CULTURE & MUSIC

COMES TO LIFE IN NISSWA

A LOVE OF ART

Aaron Hauck & Samantha French As you wander around downtown Nisswa, you’ll be drawn to the beautiful mural on the building that extends to Big Axe Brewery. The mural is breathtaking and mesmerizing with the reflections, ripples, and bubbles. With its depth, dimension, and color, the mural looks like it could come to life. Behind the beauty, nostalgia, and warmth of this mural are two talented artists with a hometown connection. 74

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Brainerd native Samantha French has always been creative, but she became more interested in drawing and painting while in high school. Her father remembers how as young girl she loved everything with color. At school conferences, art teachers were always complimenting her artistic work. “One day she brought home a freehand drawing from a photograph of my great-grandfather…and I saw that… and it was so good…it was better than the photograph. I realized then that there was some real talent there,” said her dad. After high school, Samantha attended Minneapolis College of Art and Design. “It was then I realized that being a fulltime artist was actually an option,” said Samantha. She considers herself a realistic figurative painter whose art is inspired by her childhood memories of swimming in area lakes—the feeling of the sun on her skin,

and floating, sinking, still, and peaceful. “My current body of work is focused on swimmers underwater and above. These paintings are a link to my home and continual search for the feeling of the sun on my face and warm summer days at the lake.”

It was then I realized that being a full-time artist was actually an option

Photo Courtesy Brainerd Dispatch

BIG AXE BREWERY, DOWNTOWN NISSWA, MN

FROM IDEA TO CREATION Samantha’s parents, Mike and Julie French, own Stonehouse Coffee in Nisswa. When Mike and Julie purchased an additional building in Nisswa that connects to Big Axe Brewery, they could picture the blank exterior wall being covered in a beautiful mural. They reached out to Samantha and her partner Aaron, who is also a Brainerd and Minneapolis College of Art graduate.

The exterior wall of the building was a blank canvas. This isn’t the first mural the couple has painted together. But this mural means a lot because it gives people the opportunity to interact with their art outside of galleries and museums. Samantha and Aaron were already planning a visit back to the Nisswa area from New York for Mike’s (her dad’s) 70th birthday so the timing was perfect for the mural to come to life. Mike did a lot of measurements on the exterior wall to prep for the mural. “Samantha and Aaron sectioned off in grids and changed one of her paintings so they knew where all of the features would go on the mural. “It’s really interesting because you have to be part architect,” said Mike. There’s

actually a method and then layers with base grids and then ended with the finer details.” Samantha and Aaron worked 12 to 14 hour days in the July heat for about 10 days straight drawing then painting the mural.

THE ART & COFFEE CONNECTION Stand on the corner by Big Axe Brewery and you’ll be in awe of the mural’s realism. Interested in seeing more or even purchasing an art piece? Samantha’s art decorates all three of her parent’s Stonehouse Coffee locations: Nisswa Square (downtown Nisswa), Inside the County Road 77 American National Bank location, and inside Riverwood Bank in Baxter. Another perk, grab a delicious cup of coffee and a scone.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Photo By Rob Fitzsimmons, The Crossing Arts Alliance

ART, CULTURE & MUSIC Crossing Arts Alliance Location: 711 Laurel St., Brainerd

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

Lakes Area Music Festival

KICKS THE ART PLACE (218) 692-5425 www.kicks66crosslake.com Life is ART, live yours in color! Kicks… The Art Place has been part of the fabric of the Crosslake community for seven years. We offer painting classes, art supplies, workshops of various kinds, painted furniture, and an Art Gallery. We create art and weave it into an experience. Schedule your party with us! Gift certificates available!

Location: Gichi-ziibi Center for the Arts, 602 S 5th St, Brainerd

The Lakes Area Music Festival (LAMF) connects nationally acclaimed artists with audiences right here in Brainerd. Each summer, LAMF offers a packed 3-week calendar of chamber music, orchestra, and opera performances, featuring an elite roster of 200 artists from top orchestras and opera companies worldwide. Most concerts are offered with donation-based admission to ensure that world-class performances continue to be available to anyone interested. More information on the concerts, musicians, ticketing, and other activities is available at: www.lakesareamusic.org.

LAKES AREA MUSIC FESTIVAL (218) 275-5263 www.lakesareamusic.org Central Minnesota is home to one of the nation's premier classical music festivals! Each August the Lakes Area Music Festival features 200 all-star musicians from the top orchestras and opera companies in the world. Over 3 weeks, audiences enjoy performances of chamber music, orchestra, and opera, at the brand new Gichi-ziibi Center for the Arts.

Stage North

Stage North is a community theater that hosts productions in the historic Franklin Arts Center Theatre. If you love musicals and plays, consider watching a Stage North production! The Crucible, a dramatized and partially fictionalized story of the Salem witch trials, will run Oct. 21–22 and 28–29. Annie is one of the most beloved musicals that all ages enjoy. Stage North’s adaptation will run Dec. 14–18.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

HEARTLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA (800) 826-1997 www.HeartlandSymphony.com A 50-piece community orchestra that performs fall, winter, and spring concerts in both Brainerd & Little Falls. Performing "Youthful Classics" at the new Gichi-ziibi Center for the Arts in Brainerd on April 3. This concert will also be performed April 1 in Pequot Lakes and April 2 in Little Falls.

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

SHOPPING

BE LAKES PROUD & SHOP

LAKES PROUD IS A MOVEMENT THAT PROMOTES SHOPPING, BUYING AND SUPPORTING BUSINESSES THROUGHOUT THE BRAINERD LAKES REGION. Lakes Proud is more than a mantra. It’s part of our community and culture. When here, you will see some businesses showing off Lakes Proud swag in their storefronts. Know that when you shop at our small businesses and our boutiques, you’re helping build and support our economy and our community spirit. Plus, you’ll find one-of-a-kind goods that will remind you of your vacation here!

MN TRADERS CO., DOWNTOWN PEQUOT LAKES, MN

BRAINERD/BAXTER From downtown Brainerd to shops in Baxter, you’ll find a mix of shops, furniture and home décor, bakeries, and restaurants. Check out our Explore Brainerd Lakes Welcome Center on Hwy 371. Get current maps and travel info on the area plus Brainerd Lakes apparel, souvenirs, and the popular Paul Bunyan and Babe stuffed plushes. There’s plenty of green space outside to walk your dog (on a leash), have a picnic lunch, and take a selfie with Paul Bunyan!

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

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

PEQUOT LAKES

Photo Courtesy Minnesota Makerspace

You’ll find an abundance of shopping in Pequot Lakes. Whether you’re stocking up on groceries during your stay or out for a leisurely walk through the many specialty shops in downtown, you’ll find it in Pequot Lakes! Get lake country sweatshirts for the whole family, explore Up North furniture, slip into comfy shoes for your adventures, or try on some new clothing to bring home. Our businesses are ready to welcome you to Pequot Lakes and will help you find what just you’re looking for!

NISSWA

Photo Courtesy Minnesota Makerspace

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

S H O P P I N G [ Spotlight Businesses ]

OWN BRA I

N E

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

TUE

371 FURNITURE & MATTRESS (218) 828-3020 www.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 & bedding. The only authorized retailer of Flexsteel in the area. Open Monday - Saturday 9AM-6PM, Sunday 11AM-4PM.

MARKET MARKET

Here for Good

ARTISAN GOODS DIY & DEMOS FRESH PRODUCE LIVE MUSIC Tuesdays June 7-August 30 3pm-7pm

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

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

COMMON GOODS (218) 824-0923 Baxter (218) 772-2999 Crosby (218) 692-7682 Crosslake www.commongoodsmn.org Common Goods is a trendy thrift store with locations in Baxter, Crosby and Crosslake. Proceeds support Bridges of Hope, a nonprofit that serves local families in need. Offering quality goods including clothing, accessories, sporting goods and home furnishings.

SCHAEFER'S FOODS (218) 963-2265 www.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 in-house including our made-from-scratch Grandma Bettie Jane’s Pies. Our friendly staff, carry-out service and great selection make us a local favorite!

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

South Seventh Street Downtown Brainerd

SHOPPING

Craft coffee, wine & beer bar focused on intentional, curated experiences; Coffee-to-cocktails menu and curated home goods.

MNTRADERSCO.COM

31038 GOVERNMENT DR | PEQUOT LAKES, MN

AN ALL-ENCOMPASING REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE FOCUSED ON THE UP NORTH EXPERIENCE. Buy/Sell + Vacation Rentals + Property Management

woodstowatermn.com | 218-961-1005 | @woodstowatermn ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

MINNESOTANS ARE SERIOUS about

taking advantage of being outside when the weather is nice. Having a functional and relaxing outdoor space at your home or cabin can help you maximize quality time with family and friends

have to go it alone. We have several landscaping experts who can help you get started. while enjoying the outdoors. Creating your own personal oasis also adds curb appeal and value to your home. Landscape projects can be daunting. Luckily you don’t

Copper Creek Garden Center and Landscapes of Nisswa, MN gave these insights and tips to consider.

HOME & CABIN

Find a Team you Trust

When looking to hire a landscape company, pick a team that has the experience that you feel comfortable with and is relatable. Open communication is also key. You’re essentially joining the team, and it’s important to look at the process of picking a team that you are going to be working with in the long run.

Get Help with Design

Working with a landscape company gives you the advantage to have an expert help map out and plan your design. Whether it’s laying out your annual beds, designing a complete outdoor living space, or even an addition to your house, companies like Copper Creek Garden Center and Landscape can help. They do project sketches all the way up to a 3-D virtual rendering of your entire property. This is a great visual tool. You are able to see your project as a whole and be able to take it on in stages or however you see fit.

Plan, Save, and Maintain

Photo Courtesy Copper Creek Garden Center and Landscapes

Poor planning can result in way more money going into a project than anticipated. Sometimes it can make sense to plan another year or two and save to get exactly what you desire. In the meantime, the biggest bang for your buck is maintaining what you currently have. Fertilizing your lawn and plants, weeding, pruning, trimming, and cleaning up leaves and debris make a huge difference to your property. These small steps not only will help make your natural landscape beautiful, but it can also give you a clearer visual of what you would want down the road. The best money you can spend on landscaping is to maintain it.

1 ) B AC KYA R D R E F L E CT I O N S 2) OUTDOOR LIVING LANDSCAPES 3) MIKE'S TREE COMPANY 4 ) B AC KYA R D R E F L E CT I O N S

4 ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

HOME & CABIN

Know the Rules

As a homeowner, you are responsible for taking the first steps in working with local government for permits and approval. Depending on the scope of the project, you may have to contract with a survey or engineer company. At the end of the day, homeowners are always responsible for the permits and the work that will take place on their property. Most landscape contractors will help by providing designs, drawings, and detailed information that may be needed for a permit. Homeowners need to be actively involved and are best suited to answer questions about their properties.

Understand Lakeshore Rules

Photo Courtesy Mike's Tree Company

When you’re planning a landscape project around lakeshore, know the rules can vary—even on the same lake. What you are allowed to do varies drastically depending on where you are located. These limitations, constrictions, and regulations all depend on your local governing agency. The best thing to do would be to check with these agencies along with your planning and zoning department at your city township ahead of time to see what you are allowed to do with your lake shore property.

Photo Courtesy Copper Creek Garden Center and Landscapes

THE PAVILION AT MADDEN'S ON GULL LAKE

Photo Courtesy Copper Creek Garden Center and Landscapes

Consider Trends

In 2021, outdoor living spaces were very popular—kitchens, fireplace lounge areas, or just bigger patios that allow more space for people to gather. 2022 likely will focus on bigger living spaces in the fresh open air. Trends are gravitating toward clean lines with a more modern, simplistic look.

2022 likely will focus on bigger living spaces in the fresh open air.

CHRDEDER' �APPLIANCE CENTER____.... Your hometown experts for appliance sales and repairs.

16603 State Hwy 371 North

(Just North of the Pine Beach Rd) Brainerd/Baxter

Featuring appll that work for families

218-829-3624

HOME & CABIN

218-821-3971

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

Photo Courtesy Copper Creek Garden Center and Landscapes

TIPS FOR YOUR HOME OR CABIN AFTER A LONG , COLD WINTER

2. Yard Work

SPRING IS A WELCOME SIGN.

After winter’s slumber, your yard will need some attention to get summer ready. Aerating, removing excess thatch, and fertilizing will make a huge difference in the health of your grass. Having an irrigation system also helps for watering consistently. Hiring a lawn service company can help maintain your yard and keep it in peak condition during the hot summer months.

SPRING IS ALSO A GOOD TIME TO DO SOME CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE SO YOUR HOME AND CABIN IS READY TO GO ALL SUMMER LONG .

1. Mechanical Maintenance Spring cleaning and servicing your air conditioner unit will help ensure that it works when you turn it on for those hot and humid days. Plus, a well-tuned AC unit will run more efficiently. Hire a service tech to check things like the air filter, wash the evaporator coil and condensing unit, and check refrigerant charge. In the hot summer months, repair contractors tend to be inundated with calls so getting your routine maintenance done in the spring will keep you cool.

3. Dock Service One of the best feelings of spring is getting those docks in after months of frozen lakes. It’s a welcome milestone in the changing of seasons. Dock and boat lift companies will be busy when the ice goes out. Follow up with the dock company you purchased your dock and lift to see when you can get on the schedule. Some installation companies schedule certain lakes on specific days for install efficiency.

5. Gutters Most professionals recommend you clean your gutters twice a year: once in the spring and once in the fall. Twigs, leaves, and other debris can clog your gutters, and make them a home for pests and rodents. Also, gutters that are clogged can cause water damage to your roof and/or your foundation. Save on costly repairs and have a professional clean your gutters so they’re working for spring and summer rains.

6. Boat and Jet Ski Service Make sure your boat or jet ski is lake ready after months in storage can mean the difference of cruising the lake or sitting on shore waiting on repairs. Bring your boat in to have hose lines checked for cracks, have fluids and engine oils checked and topped off. You’ll also want your boat batteries checked, too, after sitting dormant all winter.

4. Pest Control

Scan Me!

Need help? Find local businesses ready to work on your home or cabin by hovering your phone's camera over this QR code.

While spring and summer bring a welcome return to warmer temps, the pests that come with it are a nuisance. Mosquitoes, summer pests, ticks, weeds, wasps, and rodents can cause damage and be a pain. Have a pest control company come and do preventive or treatment services so you’re home or cabin is protected. Photo Courtesy Nor-Son Custom Builders

H O M E & C A B I N [ Spotlight Businesses ]

AMY PRICE, REALTOR® - REALTY GROUP (218) 821-6760 www.amypriceisright.com The dream of buying or selling your home starts with the right PRICE. Expect above & beyond, professional service at a better PRICE. I’m a lifelong Brainerd area resident & full-time REALTOR® who works hard for you. Call me for a no-obligation discussion regarding your real estate needs.

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

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

BATHTUB REFINISHING USA (218) 828-8600 www.BathtubRefinishingUSA.com Recoating, color changes and repair specialists of bathtubs, clawfoots, showers, countertops, fiberglass, tile, porcelain, and cast iron. Saves time, money and can be completed in one day!

FINNEGAN & ASSOCIATES, INC. AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE (218) 829-3040 Call (218) 829-3040 today to see how I can help protect what matters most.

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

COMPLETE CLEANING SOLUTIONS (218) 821-6005 We are a dedicated team of professionals who strive to serve the Brainerd Lakes area by providing quality residential, commercial & janitorial. Our mission is to provide a superior cleaning service & maintain a high standard. We achieve this by providing our customers with a reliable & professional cleaning service.

HY-TEC CONSTRUCTION (218) 829-8529 www.hytecconstruction.com Voted “Best Home Builder of the Brainerd Lakes area”, Hy-Tec Construction is a fullservice design/ build firm, specializing in commercial and residential construction. As our name implies, we rely on the latest technology and building methods to provide exceptional craftsmanship to the highest standard.

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

[ Spotlight Businesses ] H O M E & C A B I N

LONESOME COTTAGE FURNITURE CO. (218) 568-8223 www.lonesomecottage.com Looking to decorate your lake home? Lonesome Cottage Furniture & Design Center 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. Handcrafted furniture, flooring, countertops, cabinets, mantels, custom barn doors, design consultation, and more!

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

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

SCHROEDER'S APPLIANCE CENTER (218) 829-3624 www.schroedersappliance.com Schroeder's Appliance Center is a locally owned appliance store in Brainerd. We offer a wide selection of laundry and kitchen appliances from Whirlpool, Maytag, Kitchen Aid, Amana, Jenn Air, Frigidaire, GE, Café, Beko, Wolf, Sub-Zero. Serving the Brainerd Lakes Area for over 60 years with personal customer service and competitive pricing.

WOODS TO WATER REAL ESTATE (218) 961-1005 www.woodstowatermn.com A boutique real estate company, serving the BLA, built on a passion for true northern Minnesota living. We strive to be immersed in our local communities and embrace the beautiful lifestyle this area offers. A catered approach to buying, selling, renting and property management in the Lakes Area.

COMMERCIAL | RESIDENTIAL | ARCHITECTURE

(218) 829-8529 hytecconstruction.com PEAK SPRAY FOAM INSULATION (218) 454-1799 www.peaksprayfoamllc.com A full-service insulation contractor providing spray foam insulation, fiberglass batt and loose fill insulation, waterproofing, and above grade weather barriers. Wayne Dearing has been providing insulation services to the Minnesota area since 2009. We're here for all your residential and commercial insulation needs and look forward to working with you!

SUE LEHMAN, REALTOR® WEICHERT REALTORS (218) 838-4159 www.suelehmansells.com "Hometown Service with Results!" A hardworking, 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!

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

ARTS & CULTURE

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

KELLI ENGSTROM PHOTOGRAPHY (218) 232-0333 www.kelliengstrom.com PO Box 1014 Crosslake, MN 56442 A lakes area family photographer for more than 20 years.

KICKS THE ART PLACE (218) 692-5425 www.kickscrosslake.com 36066 County Rd 66 Crosslake, MN 56442 Services and products offered: Painting classes, repurposed furniture, Paint Couture and Dixie Belle Retailer, gifts, art gallery, painting supplies. Host your party with us!

Scan Me!

View 1,000+ local businesses by hovering your phone's camera over this QR code.

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

THE CROSSING ARTS ALLIANCE (218) 833-0419 www.crossingarts.org 711 Laurel St Brainerd, MN 56401 Visit our shop in downtown Brainerd for the finest selection of arts supplies & locally made pottery, paintings, jewelry, books, & gifts in the area.

BREWERIES

BIG AXE BREWING CO. (612) 239-8541 www.bigaxebrewing.com 25435 Main St Nisswa, MN 56468 Big taste from a little brewery in downtown Nisswa. Fantastic food & brew made onsite. Family owned with a great dog-friendly patio & weekly events.

JACK PINE BREWERY (218) 270-8072 www.jackpinebrewery.com 15593 Edgewood Dr Baxter, MN 56425 Serving fresh, local, craft beer to the Brainerd Lakes Area since 2013.

ROUNDHOUSE BREWERY (218) 963-2739 www.roundhousebrew.com 23836 Smiley Rd Nisswa, MN 56468 Enjoy craft beer & hard seltzers in a family-friendly setting. Featuring an outdoor patio, music venue, & our new Wreck Room for coachfacilitated axe-throwing.

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

BUSINESS SERVICES

AUTOMOTIVE

BOYD LODGE, CROSSLAKE, MN Photo By Buffalo Media Group

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

ATEK ACCESS TECHNOLOGIES (218) 829-4719 www.AtekAccessTechnologies.com 210 10th Ave NE Brainerd, MN 56401 ATEK uses injection molding to create reprogrammable memory keys & tokens, to create durable mats, automated sensors, pushplates & more. Building wireless tank monitors.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

BETH BURNARD - CARROUSEL TRAVEL ASSOCIATE (218) 821-6533 Full-service Travel Consultant with 35 years of service in the Brainerd Lakes Area. Brainerd based associate of Carrousel Travel in Minneapolis.

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

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

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

CTC (218) 454-1234 www.goctc.com 14385 Edgewood Drive Baxter, MN 56425 CTC is a technology advisor & full service telecommunications provider offering telephone, highspeed internet, digital television, & IT services to businesses & individuals throughout Minnesota.

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

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

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

NORTH COUNTRY JANITORIAL & SUPPLY (218) 828-4188 northcountryjanitorial@gmail.com 7485 Co Rd 9, Brainerd, MN 56401 A one stop shop for all of your building janitorial needs. Big city service with small city quality.

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

PEQUOT MANUFACTURING (218) 568-8069 www.pequottool.com 3457 Veterans St Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 Pequot Manufacturing, Inc. is a thriving, family owned, qualitydriven, precision machining & fabrication leader in the lakes area with 200+ employees!

CONSTRUCTION

HY-TEC CONSTRUCTION (218) 829-8529 www.hytecconstruction.com 11360 Business 371 Brainerd, MN 56401 A full-service design / build firm in the Brainerd Lakes area, specializing in commercial & residential construction. We provide exceptional craftsmanship to the highest standard.

BERCHER DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION (218) 829-1381 | www.bercher.com 7676 Design Rd Ste 100 Baxter, MN 56425 Lakes Area’s full-service residential & commercial design/build firm for 45+ years. Visit www.Bercher. com or give us a call. Considerate people, considerate service, consider it done.

LAKE SHORE HEATING & COOLING (218) 656-0177 www.lakeshoreheatingandcooling. com PO Box 431 Nisswa, MN 56468-0431 We are a local, family-owned business with 17 years of experience in residential & commercial HVAC. We can help you with all your HVAC needs.

YDES MAJOR APPLIANCE (218) 829-5292 www.ydesappliance.com 1220 Oak St, Brainerd, MN 56401 We are your one stop shop for appliances, appliance parts, & service. We have 75+ years combined service experience.

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

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

HOLDEN ELECTRIC CO. (218) 829-4759 www.holdenelectric.com 7669 College Rd, PO Box 2688 Baxter, MN 56425 Our work includes residential service, new homes, & additions. Installation & maintenance of commercial & industrial businesses, institutional & health-care facilities, airports, & street lighting.

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

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

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

WINDOW GALAXY OF MINNESOTA (218) 821-0041 www.WindowGalaxyofMN.com Brainerd, MN 56401-6874 35+ years residential window replacement & siding installation. Certified Contractor for Pella, Andersen & more. We have the knowledge & experience for your home projects.

CARIBOU COFFEE - GRIZZLEY'S (218) 833-8099 www.cariboucoffee.com 15175 Edgewood Dr Baxter, MN 56425 We're a MN coffee company with the best beans, real chocolate mochas, seasonal drinks & yummy eats. Order ahead, dine in or curbside pickup! #lifeisshortstayawakeforit

DOUGH BROS WOODFIRE KITCHEN (218) 454-4900 www.Doughbroswoodfire.com 14039 Edgewood Dr Baxter, MN 56425 Dough Bros offers delicious wood fired pizzas, smoked wings, unique appetizers, 20 tap beers, wine & cocktails! Enjoy patio seating in the summer months!

CHEF MIKE'S CATERING (218) 232-3734 www.facebook.com/ lakesareacatering 9364 Wild Rice Rd Brainerd, MN 56401 Fabulous custom catering services, our place or yours. No group too big or small. It is our pleasure to cater to you & your needs!

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

DINING

B*MERRI GASTROPUB AT THE WOODS (218) 829-7507 www.thewoodsmn.com 19624 County Rd 3 Brainerd, MN 56401 Chef driven menu, full service bar with a self-serve beer wall, live music, outdoor patio, event center, hotel & rental homes, catering & classes.

CARIBOU COFFEE (218) 203-8788 www.cariboucoffee.com 520 W Washington Brainerd, MN 56401 We are a MN coffee company with the best beans, real chocolate mochas, seasonal drinks, yummy eats. Order ahead app, patio, walk-up/drive-thru only! #lifeisshortstayawakeforit

CARIBOU COFFEE (218) 833-8001 www.cariboucoffee.com 425 8th Ave NE Brainerd, MN 56401 We are a MN coffee company with the best beans, real chocolate mochas, seasonal drinks, yummy eats. Order ahead app, dine-in, curbside, patio. #lifeisshortstayawakeforit

CARIBOU COFFEE (218) 297-4185 www.cariboucoffee.com 14199 Edgewood Dr Baxter, MN 56425 We're a MN coffee company with the best beans, real chocolate mochas, seasonal drinks & yummy eats. Order ahead app, dine in/patio or drive-thru! #lifeisshortstayawakeforit

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

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

CROSSLAKE COFFEE (218) 692-3994 www.crosslakecoffee.com 35522 County Rd 66 Crosslake, MN 56442 Quaint, friendly & cozy! We offer specialty coffees, iced lattes, smoothies & more. We have fresh baked goods & breakfast sandwiches.

CROW WING FOOD CO-OP (218) 828-4600 www.crowwingfoodcoop.com 624 Laurel St Brainerd, MN 56401 Member-owned grocery store specializing in local, organic, natural, & allergen-friendly foods. High-quality, delicious, healthy food. Bulk foods, weekday deli, & smoothie bar. All are welcome!

KNOTTY PINE BAKERY (218) 454-2470 www.knottypinebakery.com 707 Laurel St, Brainerd, MN 56401 A locally owned bakery & café in the heart of Downtown Brainerd specializing in made-from-scratch pies, cookies, pastries, bread, & custom cakes/desserts.

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

NISSWA AMERICAN LEGION POST 627 (218) 963-9946 www.nisswalegion.com 25807 Main St, Nisswa, MN 56468 Full bar, dining, entertainment, pull tabs, bingo, & meat raffle. Gambling license. Meal specials. Event venue. Open to the public. Service club for military personnel.

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

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

SKOL FOOD (218) 316-2378 www.skolfood.com 3341 Veterans St, Jenkins, MN 56472 Local food truck + kitchen at the Jenkins VFW serving hearty food to the people of the North. Elevate your event with our catering options.

LEGACY BAR & GRILLE (888) 452-2178 www.craguns.com/dining 11496 E Gull Lake Dr Brainerd, MN 56401 Casual dining overlooking the emerald greens, ponds, & rolling fairways of Cragun’s Legacy Courses.

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

MAIN STREET ALE HOUSE (218) 961-6724 25559 Main St, Suite 1 Nisswa, MN 56468 Unique menu, 30 tap beers, extensive wine & liquor lists all in modern lodge setting makes Main Street a must stop in the Lakes Area.

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

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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

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

ICONIC FEST (218) 764-2151 www.iconicfest.com 9033 Raddatz Rd Brainerd, MN 56401 July 8-9th with pre-party on July 7th. Blackhawk, Phil Vassar, Night Moves- Tribute to Bob Seger, Doug Stone & more! 2-Day outdoor concert w/camping available.

LAKES JAM (218) 251-5243 www.LakesJam.com PO Box 2856 Baxter, MN 56425 Lakes Jam is a multi-day country & rock festival at the end of June, inside Brainerd International Raceway. Great camping is available.

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

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

EDUCATION

STEPPING STONES CHILDCARE LEARNING CENTER (218) 270-3100 www.steppingstonesmn.com 810 NW 7th St Brainerd, MN 56401 Our professional staff provide quality childcare & early childhood education to children, starting at age six weeks, in Brainerd, Baxter, Pequot Lakes & surrounding community.

ENTERTAINMENT

HEARTLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA (800) 826-1997 www.HeartlandSymphony.com PO Box 241 Little Falls, MN 56345 Heartland Symphony Orchestra will perform its spring 2022 concert series on April 1st in Pequot Lakes, April 2nd in Little Falls, & April 3rd in Brainerd.

LAKES RODEO (218) 764-2151 www.lakesrodeo.com 2000 SE 13th St. Brainerd, MN 56401 September 10th. Professional Bulls & Barrels, Crow Wing County Fairgounds. Great family event, kids activities, free concert after rodeo, concessions & beverages, including full bar.

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

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

BIG JAY'S PIZZA ARCADE (218) 270-3519 www.bigjayspizzaarcade.com 217 South 7th St Brainerd, MN 56401 A social destination for all ages! Big Jay's is proud to serve up scratchmade pizza, frosty beer on tap, & old school entertainment!

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS HOTEL & SUITES - BAXTER (218) 824-3232 www.brainerdhi.com 15739 Audubon Way Baxter, MN 56425 Holiday Inn Express, Brainerd/ Baxter features a triple play of entertainment for your next stay in the Brainerd Lakes Area!

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

NORTHERN MINNESOTA RAILROAD HERITAGE ASSOCIATION (218) 692-1900 www.northerntrackersrrclub.com 36184 County Rd 66 (across from Zorbaz Restaurant) Crosslake, MN 56442 Model trains, planes & automobiles, fun for the entire family. Educational non-profit invites new family memberships. Join today! Kids get free train magazines.

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

UPNORTH INDOOR BOUNCE HOUSE (218) 203-8400 www.upnorthbounce.com 15840 Audubon Way Baxter, MN 56425 Indoor playground for kids to jump off some energy with six giant size inflatables, a toddler area and a private birthday party room too!

FINANCE

DIANE K DUBEJ CPA (651) 485-9161 www.linkedin.com/in/ diane-dubej-6b684799 6290 Highland Scenic Rd Baxter, MN 56425 I am a full service CPA licensed in MN. I offer a broad range of services for business owners & individuals. I am Cryptocurrency certified.

FIRST NATIONAL BANK (218) 822-4480 www.fnbnorth.com 14521 Edgewood Drive Baxter, MN 56425 Full-service bank. Experts in business & construction loans, 24 hour ATM & insurance services. Member FDIC. Personal, business, loans, investments, warranties & online services.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

FIRST WESTERN BANK & TRUST - BRAINERD/BAXTER (218) 829-8712 www.firstwestern.bank 14084 Baxter Drive Suite 16 Baxter, MN 56425 We operate as a full-service financial center providing traditional banking products as well as trust services, all lines of insurance, leasing, & much more!

PINE RIVER STATE BANK (218) 587-4463 www.pineriverstatebank.com 103 Mill St Pine River, MN 56474 As your ''Community Partner'', we provide personal service for all of your consumer & business banking needs. Visit us today at pineriverstatebank.com! Member FDIC.

PRIMERICA FINANCIAL SERVICES (218) 454-3660 www.primerica.com/rjaney 1014 Laurel St, Suite 102 Brainerd, MN 56401 Primerica has been committed to helping Main St families save & invest for their future since 1977. Helping you achieve your financial goals.

GOLF

CRAGUN'S LEGACY COURSES (888) 452-2178 www.craguns.com/golf 11000 Craguns Dr, 11496 E Gull Lake Dr Brainerd, MN 56401 New Tom Lehman designed courses, par 3, driving range, practice area.

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

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

RUTTGER'S BAY LAKE RESORT (218) 678-2885 www.ruttgers.com 25039 Tame Fish Lake Rd Deerwood, MN 56444 Home to Jack's 18, a picturesque 18-hole championship course. Opening in 2023 is the new Alec's Original 9 hole executive course.

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

WHITEFISH GOLF CLUB (218) 543-4900 www.whitefishgolf.com 7883 Co Rd 16 Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 An 18-hole public golf course with a full bar & grill & practice range.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

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

BIRCH LAKE COUNSELING (218) 675-5101 www.birchlakecounseling.com 34076 County Rd 3, 34076 Co Rd 3 Crosslake, MN 56442 Providing hope & healing for individuals, couples & families. We also have locations in Wadena, Hackensack, Remer & Bemidji.

BRIGHTER HORIZONS ADULT DAY CENTER (218) 829-0636 www.brighter-horizons-brainerd. weebly.com 307 1/2 NW 8th St Brainerd, MN 56401 BHADC serves adults with developmental & physical disabilities. We provide structured activities, nurturing relationships, professional care, encouragement & support in a safe environment!

CENTRACARE BAXTER SPECIALTY CLINIC (218) 454-4725 www.centracare.com 7418 Forthun Rd Baxter, MN 56425 CentraCare Baxter Specialty Clinic offers care to patients with heart & vascular (pediatric & adult), nephrology, neurosurgery, plastic surgery, perinatology, urology, rheumatology, & wound care.

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

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

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

KEY WELLNESS (218) 692-5397 www.key-wellness.com 35752 Allen Ave, Crosslake, MN 56442 Helping You Look, Feel & Live Your BEST Life! Personalized total health & wellness services include primary care, infertility, IV therapy, aesthetics, telemedicine & more!

LAKES AREA EYECARE (218) 829-2929 www.lakesareaeyecare.com 7734 Excelsior Rd N Baxter, MN 56425 We strive to help our patients “enjoy their view” of the world by providing them with an experience that encourages them to value their vision.

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

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

MIDWEST FAMILY EYE CENTER (218) 828-9545 www.midwestfamilyeyecenters.com 7870 Excelsior Rd, Baxter, MN 56425 Optometrist & optician. Comprehensive eye exams, treatment of eye infections & glaucoma & cataract consultations. Outstanding customer service & satisfaction.

NORTH STAR FAMILY MEDICINE (218) 382-2870 www.northstarfamilymedicine.org 4682 Wilderness Ct. Suite 102 Brainerd, MN 56401 Guiding You to Health. We provide comprehensive, outpatient medical care which empowers you to improve your health based on a strong patient-physician relationship.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

HOME & CABIN NORTHERN PSYCHIATRIC ASSOCIATES (218) 454-0090 | www.npamn.com 7115 Forthun Rd, Suite 105 Baxter, MN 56425 Northern Psychiatric Associates is a full-service, private mental health clinic providing psychiatric & psychological services to all ages since 2007. Offering telehealth & in-person services.

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

SILVER MAPLE RESIDENCE (218) 822-3067 www.silvermapleresidence.com 710 28th St SE, Brainerd, MN 56401 Silver Maple Residence is a caring & compassionate assisted living. Serving the residents of Crow Wing County in the Brainerd Lakes area.

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

WHITEFISH AT THE LAKES SENIOR LIVING (218) 210-0770 www.whitefishatthelakes.com 35625 Ostlund Ave Crosslake, MN 56442 Whitefish at the Lakes, a new senior living community in Crosslake offering upscale, spacious, independent, assisted & memory care apartments. Love where you live!

371 FURNITURE & MATTRESS (218) 828-3020 www.371furniture.com 16413 State Highway 371 Brainerd, MN 56401 371 Furniture, a Flexsteel authorized retailer, is a family-owned business providing stylish living room, dining room, bedroom furniture, mattresses, and rustic or log options.

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

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

BATHTUB REFINISHING USA (218) 828-8600 www.BathtubRefinishingUSA.com PO Box 828, Nisswa, MN 56468 Recoating, color changes, repair specialists of bathtubs, clawfoots, showers, countertops, fiberglass, tile, porcelain, cast iron. Saves time, money & can be completed in 1 day!

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

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

JAG INTERIOR SOLUTIONS & ARLEAN’S DRAPERY & WINDOW TREATMENTS (218) 692-4521 www.jaginteriorsolutions.net 35762 Co Rd 3, Crosslake, MN 56442 Interior design to help pull out your design to make your home comfortable & inviting to you & your guests. Showroom, flooring, window treatments, more.

LAKELIFE HOMES (218) 821-3971 www.lakeliferestoration.com 35272 Co Rd 3, Crosslake, MN 56442 The area's premier painting & remodeling company. Specializing in custom built decks, log & maintenance free railing & full exterior log & cedar home staining.

LONESOME COTTAGE FURNITURE CO. (218) 568-8223 www.lonesomecottage.com 30773 Patriot Ave Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 Lonesome Cottage is the factory direct showroom for the nation's largest rustic furniture manufacturer. Reclaimed barnwood, log furniture, home décor, custom furniture design, & more!

MINNESOTA CLEANING SOLUTIONS (218) 829-9141

www.minnesotacleaningsolutions.com

411 W Washington St Brainerd, MN 56401 We provide exceptional cleaning services to the Brainerd Lakes Area & beyond. Homes, cabins, offices or construction, call us for all your cleaning needs.

OPTIMUM CLEANING (218) 568-8338 www.optimumcleaning.net PO Box 725, Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 Over 8 years in the Lakes Area, we offer a high standard of cleanliness, honest & reliable service. We are proud to offer senior discounts!

PEAK SPRAY FOAM INSULATION (218) 454-1799 www.peaksprayfoamllc.com A full-service residential & commercial insulation contractor providing spray foam insulation, fiberglass batt & loose fill insulation, waterproofing, & above grade weather barriers.

PRIMERICA FINANCIAL SERVICES (218) 454-3660 www.primerica.com/rjaney 1014 Laurel St, Suite 102 Brainerd, MN 56401 At Primerica, we show families how they can achieve a better financial future & meet their goals. No client is too big or too small.

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

SCHROEDER'S APPLIANCE CENTER (218) 829-3624 www.schroedersappliance.com 16603 State Hwy. 371 N. Brainerd, MN 56401 Locally-owned appliance store offering a wide selection of appliances from Whirlpool, Maytag, Kitchen Aid, Amana, Jenn Air, Frigidaire, GE, Café, Beko, Wolf, Sub-Zero.

TEK OUTDOORS (218) 282-6971 https://tek-outdoors-llc.business.site/ Brainerd, Baxter & Surrounding Areas Lawn mowing, stump grinding, snow plowing, & much more! We provide a variety of lawn care & landscape maintenance services. Enjoy! Email us at: tekoutdoors18@gmail.com.

THELEN HEATING & ROOFING (218) 829-1491 www.ThelenHeating.com 1717 13th St SE, Brainerd, MN 56401 Since 1958, Thelen is the premier provider of heating, cooling, roofing & ventilation systems for residential customers. Customers stay with us because they trust us.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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

HARLAN V JOHNSON AGENCY (218) 568-4900 31113 Front St, PO Box 373 Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 We understand that insurance can be tricky & confusing. Let the professional independent insurance agents at the Harlan V. Johnson Agency handle your insurance needs.

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

INTEGRATED INSURANCE AGENCY (320) 232-9132 www.integratedinsuranceinc.com Little Falls, MN 56345 Independent Insurance Brokers offering Medicare Plans, Individual & Family Health Insurance, Dental, Vision, Long Term Care, Final Expense & Life Insurance. Retiring soon? Call today.

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

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

INSURANCE

ABBIE HOELSCHER AGENCY INC. - AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE (218) 568-8200 https://agent.amfam.com/abbiehoelscher/mn/pequot-lakes/31079front-st/ 31079 Front St Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 We offer knowledge & experience when it comes to insuring your dreams. An American Star Certified Agency for 10+ years.

FARMERS INSURANCE - TYLER MONDA AGENCY (218) 828-4488 www.agents.farmers.com/mn 510 Laurel St Brainerd, MN 56401 Local agency providing insurance education & solutions for your personal & professional needs.

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

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

LODGING AMERICINN OF LITTLE FALLS (320) 632-1964 www.wyndhamhotels.com/ americinn/little-falls-minnesota/ americinn-lodge-&-suites-littlefalls/overview 306 Lemieur St SE Little Falls, MN 56345 Stay with us & enjoy all Little Falls has to offer; MN Fishing Museum, Pine Grove Zoo, Lindbergh State Park, MN Military Museum, & more!

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

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

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

BREEZY POINT RESORT (800) 432-3777 www.breezypointresort.com 9252 Breezy Point Drive Breezy Point, MN 56472 Breezy Point Resort offers hotel, condominiums & vacation homes with 2 to 11 bedrooms. 4 restaurants & lounges, 3 golf courses including the Arnold Palmer signature course Deacons Lodge.

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

CAMPFIRE BAY RESORT (218) 575-2432 www.campfirebayresort.com 31504 Azure Rd, Cushing, MN 56443 Relaxing, fun, family/fishing resort on Fish Trap Lake. Sandy beach, organized activities, charming lake level, 1-4 br units. Retreats & weddings.

GULL FOUR SEASONS RESORT (218) 963-7969 www.mnresortcabins.com 4132 St Columbo Rd Brainerd, MN 56401 New cabins! Affordable family resort. Gull Lake, great fishing, boat & pontoon rentals, indoor & outdoor pools, beach, reunion facilities, 1-5 bedroom condos & cabins.

COUNTRY INN DEERWOOD (218) 534-3101 www.countryinndeerwood.com 23884 Front St Deerwood, MN 56444 Conveniently located within 10 minutes of Cuyuna State Recreational Area, Croft Mine Historical Park, & State of Art Mountain Bike trails. 25 minutes from Brainerd.

GULL LAKE BEACH RESORT (218) 656-6965 www.gulllakebeachresorts.com 21831 Gull Lake Dr Nisswa, MN 56468 Nestled along Gull Lake's shoreline, our cozy cabins make the perfect backdrop for four-season fun. We have everything you need for enjoying the lakes!

CRAGUN'S RESORT ON GULL LAKE (888) 452-2178 www.Craguns.com 11000 Craguns Dr Brainerd, MN 56401

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS HOTEL & SUITES - BAXTER (218) 824-3232 | www.brainerdhi.com 15739 Audubon Way Baxter, MN 56425 Our hotel provides an up north experience with all the amenities you deserve when staying in the Brainerd Lakes Area.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

KAVANAUGH'S SYLVAN LAKE RESORT (800) 562-7061 www.kavanaughs.com 1685 Kavanaugh Drive East Gull Lake, MN 56401 Fifty deluxe units on beautiful Sylvan Lake in the heart of the Brainerd Lakes Area. Family owned & operated since 1969. Open year round.

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

MADDEN'S ON GULL LAKE (218) 829-2811 | www.maddens.com 11266 Pine Beach Peninsula Brainerd, MN 56401 Experience the #1 Resort in the Midwest (Conde Nast)! Home to 3 sand beaches, 4 golf courses, recreation center, world-class dining, The Spa, & more!

MISSION BEACH RESORT (218) 765-3447 www.missionbeachmn.com 26847 County Rd 19 Merrifield, MN 56465 A family friendly lake resort with 9 comfortable cabins on beautiful Upper Mission Lake, offering daily & weekly cabin rentals May through September.

NIEMEYER'S RUGGED RIVER RESORT (218) 829-4587 www.ruggedriverresort.com 12241 Stallman Rd Brainerd, MN 56401 A 100 acres resort nestled on the banks of the beautiful Mississippi River near Brainerd. Come & relax in the woods & on the water.

NISSWA INN & SUITES (218) 963-3500 www.nisswainnandsuites.com 24186 Smiley Rd ,Nisswa, MN 5648 Conveniently located close to many amenities; fishing, boating, Paul Bunyan Trail, shopping in downtown Nisswa, & more! Stay with us as you enjoy your vacation!

ROADWAY PINE RIVER (218) 587-4499 www.Roadwaypineriver.com 2684 MN State 371 SW Pine River, MN 56474 Stay with us in one of our 30 guest rooms featuring LED TVs, wireless internet, cable TV, clean rooms, queen-size rooms, & laundry. Pets allowed!

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

SUPER 8 - LITTLE FALLS (320) 632-2351 www.wyndham hotels.-.com/ super-8/little-falls-minnesota/ super-8-little-falls/overview 300 12th St NE Little Falls, MN 56345 Located close to great shopping, the MN Fishing Museum, Pine Grove Zoo, Lindbergh State Park, & the MN Military Museum! Clean & comfortable rooms available.

THE GETAWAY ADVENTURE RESORT (218) 746-2211

www.thegetawayadventureresort.com

8624 County Hwy 1 Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 The GetAway is Brainerd's newest luxury retreat. Located on 500 untouched acres. Enjoy the property's amenities: hot tub, obstacle course, Sherp ATV, golf, & more!

THE WOODS INN (218) 829-7507 www.thewoodsmn.com 19624 Co Rd 3, Brainerd, MN 56401 Quaint, cozy hotel only miles from downtown Brainerd, the Gull Lake area or Crosslake. 12 well appointed hotel rooms with an up north, woodsy feel.

MEETING FACILITIES

CAMP KNUTSON (218) 543-4232 www.campknutson.org 11148 Manhattan Pt Blvd Crosslake, MN 56442 Camp Knutson hosts retreats, meetings, & social gatherings September through May, & provides camps for children & families with identified needs during the summer.

GATHER ON 3 (218) 829-7507 www.thewoodsmn.com 19624 Co Rd 3, Brainerd, MN 56401 Banquet facility accommodating up to 300. Buffet & plated meals at affordable prices. Full service bar & patio. We offer a beautiful ceremony site. Catering available.

NONPROFITS

BRAINERD COMMUNITY ACTION (218) 829-5278 www.brainerdcommunityaction.org 321 S. 7th St, Suite 105 Brainerd, MN 56401 We partner with other organizations to build community, empower people to overcome adversity & promote selfsufficiency. We offer fiscal agency & provide community betterment services.

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

BRAINERD LAKES AREA NEWCOMERS CLUB (507) 236-8848 www.brainerd.com/newcomers-club We are a club whose purpose is to help new Brainerd Lakes Area residents feel more welcome & at home in their environment.

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

CBMC NORTHLAND (612) 298-7858 www.northland.cbmc.com 16809 49th Place North Plymouth, MN 55446 What: CBMC develops businessmen to be ambassadors for Christ & spiritual reproducers. How: Businessmen meeting in small peer advisory groups.

CENTRAL MN COUNCIL, BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA (320) 251-3930 | www.bsacmc.org 1191 Scout Dr, Sartell, MN 56377 Scouting prepares youth ages 6 to 17 for successful futures through an exciting outdoor program that builds leadership skills, positive values & healthy habits.

DEERWOOD CIVIC & COMMERCE (218) 534-2936 www.DeerwoodCommerce.org PO Box 422, Deerwood, MN 56444 Deerwood Civic and Commerce exists to meet the diverse and everchanging needs of its membership and to promote growth/economic prosperity of greater Deerwood area. Join Us At: Outdoor & Gun Show: March 5-6, 2022 & Summerfest: August 12-13, 2022.

INITIATIVE FOUNDATION (320) 247-7132 | www.ifound.org 405 First St SE, Little Falls, MN 56345 The Initiative Foundation builds stronger communities within the 14 counties of Central Minnesota by offering business loans, nonprofit grants, donor services & leadership training.

LAKES AREA FOOD SHELF (218) 839-0048 www.lafshometour.com PO Box 724, Nisswa, MN 56468 Tour homes elaborately decorated for the holidays by Nisswa merchants. Shuttle service provided. A 31-year tradition that benefits Lakes Area Food Shelf. October 20, 21, 22.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

MID-MINNESOTA WOMEN'S CENTER (218) 828-1216 www.midminwomenscenter. blogspot.com 1414 Maple St, Brainerd, MN 56401 The 24-hour shelter & 365-day child safety center are programs of MMWC, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to keep families safe from abuse.

BRAINERD LAKES ROWING CLUB (218) 330-8695 www.brainerdlakesrowing.org 11266 Pine Beach Peninsula Brainerd, MN 56401 Offering individual & group lessons. Great for ages 14+, no experience necessary! Based at Madden's Resort on Gull Lake. Visit website or call for rates/dates.

THE PULSE 104.3 FM (218) 568-4422 www.thepulse.mn 31287 Brunes St, PO Box 409 Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 The Pulse plays contemporary Christian music & shares daily hope & encouragement.

EASY RIDERS BICYCLE & SPORT SHOP (218) 829-5516 www.easyridersbikes.com 415 Washington St Brainerd, MN 56401 It’s 50 years in bikes this year! Trek, Specialized & BMX bikes. Rossignol XC skis. Snowboards. Skateboards, longboards & scooters. Certified service center. Moon_Tuned #BestRideBestGlide

THE SALVATION ARMY (218) 232-2198 www.salvation-armynorth.org/ Brainerd 208 S 5th St, Brainerd, MN 56401 The Brainerd Salvation Army is a lifeline for thousands of people in Crow Wing County. Providing food, clothing, shelter, youth programs, & other vital services.

THE WORD 102.7 FM (218) 568-4422 www.theword.mn 31287 Brunes St, PO Box 409 Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 Start the day with our encouraging & fun morning show, Kvamme & Co., & stay for Biblical teaching, music, & talk throughout the day.

OUTDOOR RECREATION

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

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

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

NORTHLAND ARBORETUM (218) 454-8773 www.northlandarb.org 14250 Conservation Drive Brainerd, MN 56401 500 acres of stunning nature reserve hosting a year-round 12-mile trail system, educational programming, & beautiful backdrops for weddings/events. Enjoy our cross-country & snowshoe trails.

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

UP NORTH BIKE RENTALS (218) 821-5399 www.upnorthbikerentals.com 5476 City Hall St Nisswa, MN 56468 Explore lake country with the whole family! Conveniently located just off of the Paul Bunyan State Trail. Online booking. Authorized Electric Bike Co. dealer.

PETS MN BACKYARD BIRDS (218) 838-4784 www.birdminnesota.com Birdscaping & bird watching tours in the area. Attract & enjoy colorful songbirds to your backyard or take a tour to see unique birds.

MOUNT SKI GULL (218) 963-4353 www.mountskigull.com 9898 Cty Rd 77 SW Nisswa, MN 56468 Mount Ski Gull operates a nonprofit facility to provide affordable outdoor programs & opportunities for families. Activities include: skiing, snowboarding, tubing, hiking, & youth programs!

BRAINERD ANIMAL HOSPITAL (218) 829-5118 www.brainerdanimalhospitalpc.com 2720 Oak St Brainerd, MN 56401 Small animal medicine, surgery, & dentistry from experienced & caring staff. Grooming services available by appointment. After hours emergency care available.

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

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

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

NORTHERN HOPE VETERINARY CARE (218) 746-4000 www.hopevet.care 775 Buckskin Ave West, Suite 2 Pillager, MN 56473 Providing holistic & traditional veterinary medicine to the Brainerd Lakes Area.

NORTHLAND PET LODGE (218) 692-4364 www.northlandpetlodge.com 34420 County Rd 3 Crosslake, MN 56442 The Brainerd Lakes Area premier pet resort providing cat & dog boarding, doggy daycare, obedience training, grooming, pet food/supplies & professionally installed underground fencing.

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

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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

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

REAL ESTATE

AMY PRICE, REALTOR® REALTY GROUP (218) 821-6760 www.amypriceisright.com 13794 Bluestem Ct. Baxter, MN 56425 Get the right PRICE with an experienced, honest, homegrown realtor. Providing above-&-beyond service, whether you're selling/ buying a lot or a lake home!

EDINA REALTY (218) 828-7000 15354 Dellwood Drive Brainerd, MN 56401 Minnesota & the Brainerd Lakes #1 real estate company. Offering Residential, Lake Shore, Land, & Commercial real estate services. Including Mortgage, Title, Insurance & Warranty.

GRACEWIN LIVING COOPERATIVES (855) 472-2396 www.gracewinliving.com 7084 Glory Rd Baxter, MN 56425 Coming Spring 2023, Gracewin Living is a cooperative community in the heart of Baxter for ages 55+ offering maintenance-free ownership living with upscale amenities.

JACOB HANSON, REALTOR - EDINA REALTY (218) 821-1135 www.edinarealty.com 15354 Dellwood Dr, Ste 100 Baxter, MN 56425 Lakes, land, or a new home, the Brainerd Lakes Area is the best place to be. We call it home & hope you do too!

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

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

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

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

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

REAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT DELUXE (218) 454-7368 www.rpmdeluxe.com 7153 Forthun Rd, Suite 140 Baxter, MN 56425 Real Property Management Deluxe provides professional property management services including communication, marketing, advertising, full-service leasing, thorough tenant screening, maintenance, comprehensive accounting. We protect your investment.

SUE LEHMAN, REALTOR WEICHERT REALTY (218) 838-4159 www.suelehmansells.com 17122 Hwy 371 N Brainerd, MN 56401 "Hometown service with results!" Sue is a full-time agent with experience & knowledge paired with great service & attention to detail!

WOODS TO WATER REAL ESTATE (218) 961-1005 www.woodstowatermn.com 25496 Murray Rd Nisswa, MN 56468 A boutique real estate company with a catered approach to buying, selling, renting & property management in the Brainerd Lakes Area.

RETAIL & SHOPPING

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

BARGAINS ON SEVENTH (218) 829-8821 www.facebook.com/pages/ Bargains-On-7th/166214196737440 211 S 7th St Brainerd, MN 56401 The number one consignment shop for name brand clothing. Surrounded by antiques, furniture, glassware, & decorative items for house or cabin. M-F 9:30-5:30 Sat 9:30-5:00

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

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

COMMON GOODS (218) 824-0923 www.commongoodsmn.org 16227 State Highway 371 Brainerd, MN 56401 A trendy thrift store that supports local non-profit Bridges of Hope, with locations in Baxter (218)8240923, Crosby (218)772-2999 & Crosslake (218)692-7682. Find us on Facebook.

COPPER CREEK GARDEN CENTER & LANDSCAPES (218) 961-1294 www.coppercreeklandscapes.com 24735 Hwy. 371 Nisswa, MN 56468 Come see us at our Market & Garden Center – find all your plants & garden essentials. Join us for seasonal shopping, events, workshops, & more.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

SPAS & SALONS CUB FOODS (218) 828-4601 | www.cub.com 14133 Edgewood Drive Baxter, MN 56425 Locally owned & newly remodeled full-service grocery store with complete deli, bakery, & pharmacy. Numerous items available for catered events: cake, flowers, food & more!

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

LOIDE' OILS & VINEGARS LTD (218) 454-3285 www.loideoilsandvinegars.com 617 Laurel St, Brainerd, MN 56401 Loide’ Oils & Vinegars offers ultra premium olive oil & aged balsamic vinegar plus a large selection of gluten-free products, YL essential oils, & gifts.

LOIDE' OILS & VINEGARS LTD (218) 454-3285 www.loideoilsandvinegars.com 617 Laurel St Brainerd, MN 56401 Luxury Appliances by Loide’ sells professional appliances Viking, AGA, Marvel, Miele Coffee Systems & Laundry. Outdoor kitchen & grilling solutions with Lynx & Evo.

MN TRADERS CO. (218) 568-1071 www.mntradersco.com 31038 Government Drive Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 Craft coffee, wine & beer bar with local, curated home goods; steps from the Paul Bunyan Trail. Coffeeto-cocktails menu, charcuterie, shareables.

MOREY'S SEAFOOD MARKETS (218) 829-8248 www.moreysmarkets.com 15811 Audubon Way Baxter, MN 56425 Two retail locations, Baxter & Motley. Gourmet grocery, fish, seafood, gifts & more! Ready to eat snacks. Famous smoked fish. Baxter summer lunch.

ExploreBrainerdLakes.com

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

NORTH COUNTRY FLORAL (218) 825-0522 www.northcountryfloralmn.com 307 NW 6th St, Brainerd, MN 56401 We are your locally owned floral shop. For 26 years, we've provided arrangements for birthdays, funerals, weddings, anniversaries, holidays, special occasions, & more.

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

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

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

THE CHOCOLATE OX (218) 963-4443 www.thechocolateox.com Grand View Lodge & 25452 Main St Nisswa, MN 56468 Where every aisle is a candy aisle. 28 ice cream flavors, homemade fudge, nostalgic candies, & much more!

BEYOND BELLA AESTHETICS (218) 208-3400 www.BeautifybyBella.com 303 North 4th St, Suite B Brainerd, MN 56401 We are a med spa offering a range of services; anti-wrinkle injections (aka Botox), chemical peels, dermaplaning, dermal fillers, microneedeling with PRP (platelet rich plasma).

WATER SPORTS

CUSTOM BOAT LIFT VINYL (218) 562-5330 www.customboatliftvinyl.com 31329 Cherokee Trail Breezy Point, MN 56472 Custom vinyl tops for all makes & models of boat lifts. Variety of materials & colors.

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

WHITEFISH CHAIN YACHT CLUB (612) 940-3407 | www.wcyc.info PO Box 377, Crosslake, MN 56442 WCYC promotes boating & water safety for lake residents & visitors on the beautiful Whitefish Chain. Visit www.wcyc.info to learn more & join our organization.

YOUR BOAT CLUB (612) 208-1800 www.yourboatclub.com 10 S 5th St, Ste 110 Minneapolis, MN 55402 The Smartest Way to Boat! Located at 30 Great Locations in MN, WI, IL, and FL including at Cross, Gull, and North Long Lake.

WORSHIP & FAITH

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

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

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

LAKEWOOD EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH (218) 829-5271 www.LakewoodFC.com 6284 Fairview Rd Baxter, MN 56425 Conveniently located just off Highway 210, one mile west of 371. Sunday services are 9:00 & 10:45 AM. Our 10:45 service is Live Streamed.

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

creating a lifetime of memories The historic Grand View Lodge on Gull Lake has been providing our guests with memorable vacations since 1916. Explore a variety of activities, two championship golf courses, the rejuvenating Glacial Waters Spa, a collection of distinctive dining venues and some of the best accommodations in the state.

GRANDVIEWLODGE.COM

2022 Explore Crosslake Visitor Guide

Articles inside

Your Home or Cabin

Create Your Backyard Oasis Spring Cleaning Tips for

Ways to Enjoy the Local Food Scene

A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Golf Directory

Top Golf Destination

Traveling Around the Brainerd Lakes

Answering the Call of the Loon

Lake Cruisin’

Amp Up the Fun Take a Walk on the Wild Side

Fishing Memories Are Made Here

Keeping You Well Connected

Four-Legged Friendly

Find Your Perfect Place to Stay

Signature Events