Brainerd Lakes is the best spot for summer vacations with the kids. The lakes area offers so much fun in the sun, playing in the sand, jumping in the water, boating and eating smore’s by the bonfire. The area also offers many fun family outings for a change of pace. We’ve listed some of our favorites below!
Brainerd Lakes is the best spot for summer vacations with the kids. The lakes area offers so much fun in the sun, playing in the sand, jumping in the water, boating and eating smore’s by the bonfire. The area also offers many fun family outings for a change of pace. We’ve listed some of our favorites below!
- Zip Line
If you have kids over 10, this is your ticket for a fun day. The zip line starts at the peak of Mount Ski Gull, wth 15 mile views of the Brainerd Lakes Area. Guests experience 7 zip lines and a suspension bridge on their way down. Visit their website: www.ziplinemn.com. - Paul Bunyan Land
A tried and true family trip complete with Paul Bunyan himself. Plus, over 40 rides and attractions, this is a perfect outing for kids of all ages. Visit their website: paulbunyanland.com - Outback Ranch Horseback Riding
Experience the fun of horseback riding up north! Outback Ranch provides a Jr. Wrangler Day Camp, riding lessons birthday parties, hay rides, picnic area, campfires and overnight camping. VIsit their website here: www.outbackranch.com. - Portsmouth Mine Pit in Cuyuna Lakes State Recreation Area
This mine-turned-lake gets bragging rights as the deepest inland body of water in the state, plus the lake has amazing water quality perfect for swimming. Learn more here: www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/cuyuna_country/index.html. - Nisswa Family Fun Waterpark
It’s true Brainerd Lakes is known for its’ lakes, but why not mix it up a bit. The Nisswa Waterpark is a perfect place to hit the water with some sand-free fun. Open June 10 to September 4, the waterpark has several slides to satisfy all ages of water lovers, plus two hot tubs and a pool. Enjoy! Visit their website: www.nisswaoutdoorwaterpark.com/index. - Brainerd International Raceway
Such a fun place to bring the kids. It can get spendy, so be prepared. Drag strips and road courses, events almost every weekend. Visit their website: brainerdraceway.com. - Gull Lake Recreation Area & Beach
Highlights of this property include its dam, picnic spots, hiking trails to scenic overlooks and a swimming beach and boat ramp. Visit the website: www.recreation.gov/camping/gull-lake-recreation-area. - Safari North Wildlife Park
Meet the hundreds of mammals, birds, reptiles and primates that make their home at Safari North. A perfect day trip to give you a break from the water! Visit their website: safarinorth.com. - Pirate’s Cove Miniature Golf
The quintessential family outing: Miniature Golf! Bonus, pirate theme! All kidding aside, this place is fun, family friendly and has two 18 hole courses to choose from. Plus, what kid (and adult) doesn’t want to walk on a pirate ship?!). Visit their website: www.piratescove.net/brainerd. - Northland Arboretum
Beautiful gardens, hiking and walking trails, birding, nature exploring, animal watching and in the winter cross country skiing. Great place to get outside in the wilderness. Visit their website: northlandarb.org.