Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Brainerd Attractions

Lakes Jam is just over two months away, a music event that brings even more culture and fun to the already buzzing Brainerd Lakes Area.

Referred to as Minnesota’s Playground, the area is home to unique entertainment options to suit all ages and interests.

Let’s break down some of the most popular attractions and highlight events happening during Lakes Jam.

The Brainerd International Raceway and Resort is one of the area’s entertainment hotspots. At the tail end of the Lakes Jam Music Fest, you can catch the Bracket Drag Racing Series featuring some of the best amateur drag racers in the country competing in ten different classes. Head to the tracks Saturday and Sunday as the event winners will be announced.

Also at the raceway, this year’s Harley Owners Group (H.O.G) Rally is being paired with Lakes Jam. With H.O.G activities throughout the area, and special concert offers, joining the rally is a great way to experience the music and fun. Click here to register. The raceway offers several camping options from its full-service RV site to the 200-acre open campground.


If you prefer the indoors, the Holiday Inn Express and Suites is a great option. With modern amenities, free Wi-Fi and access and the Three Bear Waterpark, the Holiday Inn has a little something for everyone. The waterpark boasts a large activity pool, adult hot tub, waterslides, lazy river and more. Wherever you decide to stay, you’ll want to make sure you get plenty of rest for the vast amount of daytime activities the area has to offer.



From hiking and biking, to horseback riding, the Brainerd Lakes Area has a variety of recreational trails. The award winning Sand Hog bike trail is just one of several mountain bike trails in the area. The Pillsbury State Forest, located just outside of Brainerd, has over 27 miles of off road cycling trails along with miles of hiking.



Numerous parks throughout the Brainerd area offer scenic hiking trails, through forests, around lakes, and along flowing rivers and streams. However if you feel like exploring the trails without putting in all the work, try a scenic horseback riding adventure. For more information or to contact a Brainerd area riding stable, click here.



After an afternoon exploring the trails, cool off at the lake. With over 450 lakes around the Brainerd area there is never a shortage of water activities.  From fishing to water skiing, tubing or kayaking, chances are there is a water activity you can enjoy. If you’re looking to stay in town, cool off at one of the Brainerd area’s three waterparks.



You can also meet one of Brainerd’s most famous residents and his blue ox, Babe, at Paul Bunyan Land. The park features rides and concessions, and is complete with unique buildings and displays so you truly feel like you are experiencing the legend of Paul Bunyan.


The Brainerd area is also a great shopping destination. Unique gift shops and boutiques are located throughout the surrounding communities. From home furnishings to homemade fudge, these shops have a little something for everyone.

Lakes Jam is the perfect way to kick off summer and experience all of what the Brainerd area has to offer. With adventures and activities for people of all ages and interests, Brainerd is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway.

For more information regarding Brainerd area attractions and activities, click here to request a visitors guide.