Paul Bunyan and his companion Babe, the blue ox, are said to have carved out the more than 10,000 lakes of Minnesota with their giant footprints. A 26-foot tall talking statue of the legendary lumberjack has called Brainerd home since the 1950's and you can visit it here. Also: amusement rides, a Pioneer Village, and Paul's Petting Barn.
This Brainerd lakes area mainstay (in various forms since 1938) offers a more upscale dining option on Gull Lake. The steak and seafood are always solid options...be sure to try the walleye!
The hot-spot on the lake where every menu item turns an 's' into a 'z.' Fresh homemade pizza and Mexican food with an outdoor patio overlooking the water.
Lakeside dining with volleyball courts and an All-American menu. The view overlooking the water here is second to none.
This local craft brewery--the first in Brainerd--offers a sprawling outdoor lawn to enjoy your beer in style. A very diverse tap list will provide something for all palates. Maggie loves their sour beer series while Craig is a fan of the Lone Wolf IPA
Stop on by this family-owned micro-distillery. If you're looking for a creative cocktail, then this is the place to go! Maggie enjoys their gin. If you go, be sure to try a "Sweet Tart," "Purple Rain," or "Straight Cash Homie."
The "Great Minnesota Get-Together" is the 2nd largest State Fair in the US. This quintessential MN experience runs from Aug. 25 thru Sep. 5 in St. Paul. Food (on a stick, of course), concerts, butter carvings, rides, animals, shopping, and more food are among the many highlights. Must eats: Sweet Martha's Cookies, Mouth Trap cheese curds, sweet corn ice cream