Things To Do

Nisswa

Downtown Nisswa is known for its quaint shopping and charming small-town appeal. As their slogan says, they do indeed have "Pretty Good Shopping." Must do's: Rafferty's Pizza, Chocolate Ox, Zaiser's

Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf

Who doesn't like mini golf?! The bride and groom sure do! This location also offers go-kart racing. Fun Fact: Maggie used to work here in the summers

Golf

The Brainerd Lakes area has plenty of golf options...in fact, there are more golf holes around here than lakes! Feel free to explore the award-winning courses that the region has to offer (follow link for a list of courses).

Paul Bunyan Land

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.

Bar Harbor Supper Club

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!

Zorbaz on Gull Lake

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.

Ernie's on Gull

Lakeside dining with volleyball courts and an All-American menu. The view overlooking the water here is second to none.

Big Axe Brewing Company

This quaint location with indoor and outdoor seating offers several taps and solid eats (cheese curds, anyone?). Be sure to taste one of Craig's all-time favorites...the Axe Kicker Double IPA.

Roundhouse Brewery

A train-themed brewery? Now we're talking! Craft beer, seltzers, and root beer along with axe throwing and an outdoor stage for live music. Maggie and Craig are big fans of their "Lunch Bucket" peanut butter & jelly beer.

Jack Pine Brewery

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

5Rocks Distilling Co.

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."

Dennis Drummond Wine Co.

A cozy spot to sample the best offerings from Crow Wing County's first winery. Grab a bite to eat while sampling wines and admiring the decor.

Brainerd International Raceway

Cuyuna Lakes Mountain Bike Trails

One of Minnesota's best mountain biking destinations

Minnesota State Fair

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