When to Visit Brainerd, Minnesota
Brainerd is a popular summer destination, but that doesn't mean it's the only time to visit this Minnesota town. In Brainerd, summer weather typically means highs around 80 degrees and the occasional thunderstorm. Spring and fall usually bring highs in the mid-50s to mid-60s. Late spring tends to be the rainiest time of year, while fall boasts colorful foliage. Winters can be very cold in Brainerd, with highs in the low 20s and lows below 0 degrees.
Summer is by far the priciest time to visit Brainerd, though you can typically find deals on hotels and motels if you plan in advance or seek group discounts. If you're looking for the lowest hotel rates of the year, plan your Brainerd trip in the winter off-season.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Brainerd, MN:
Brainerd, MN: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. price trends by star rating class in Brainerd, MN. Browse these illustrations to determine the cheapest time to stay in Brainerd throughout the year.
Luxury Hotels in Brainerd, Minnesota
4 Star Average Prices: $79.00
Feel like splashing out during your stay in Brainerd? Try one of the area's best upscale hotels.
Whether you're traveling on business or for vacation, the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd Baxter is a solid pick. This conveniently located hotel offers easy access to lakes, trails, golf courses, and shopping. There's plenty to do right on the property, too, including the Three Bear Lodge Water and Theme Park, which features laser tag, a video game arcade, and lots of water park fun. If you're traveling with a group, book one of the hotel's two event spaces and take advantage of the Holiday Inn Express's group discount, which averages 17 percent.
When you want to get away from it all, Madden's on Gull Lake offers cabins, upscale villas, and guest rooms with historical appeal. This resort hotel has everything you need for a lakefront getaway, including an outdoor swimming pool, five restaurants, two lounges, and entertainment every evening. This is the ideal place for a corporate or private group, as the resort offers 42,000 square feet of event space, 31 separate meeting rooms, and a banquet space that holds 700 people. After the big event, unwind in the sauna or hot tub and get a great night's sleep in your well-appointed room.
Nestled on the shores of Gull Lake, Cragun's Hotel & Resort is the ideal spot for a lakefront escape in Brainerd. This resort property is sure to impress, with its own beach and a full-service marina with boat rentals. Hiking and biking are right outside the resort's front door, and the indoor and outdoor pools are great for unwinding. Don't forget to book a tee time on one of the resort's legendary courses, either. With 63,000 square feet of event space and an 800-person banquet space, this resort is one of the most extensive venues in the Brainerd area.
Best Budget-Friendly Hotels in Brainerd, Minnesota
3 Star Average Prices: $139.73
Want to save your hard-earned dollars for experiences instead of accommodations? Stay at one of the Brainerd area's best budget-friendly hotels or motels.
Whether you're planning a summer or a winter visit, Americas Best Value Inn is an affordable place to base yourself in Brainerd. The rooms at this budget-friendly hotel are relatively basic, but you can choose from king or queen rooms, all of which include microwaves and mini fridges. Guests can take advantage of the free Wi-Fi and HBO, and you won't want to miss the complimentary breakfast each morning. With Belgian waffles, pastries, cereal, juice, and coffee, it's a great way to fuel up for the day.
Just a short drive north of Brainerd, Magnuson Hotel & Suites Nisswa is conveniently located off Minnesota Highway 371. Countless lakes and streams, golf courses, and the Paul Bunyan Trail are just minutes from the hotel. After a fun day exploring the great outdoors, head back to the hotel for a great night's sleep or a dip in the indoor pool. Wake up to a complimentary breakfast featuring bagels, donuts, cereal, and coffee. Use the hotel's free Wi-Fi to plan your itinerary or map out your day.
When you want a little extra space on a budget, set your sights on the Baymont Inn & Suites Baxter / Brainerd Area. All rooms include free Wi-Fi, and you can upgrade to a deluxe room or suite, many of which have full kitchens. Discover the best of Brainerd right outside the hotel's front door, and then unwind in the sauna or hot tub in the evening. Several fast-food and sit-down restaurants are right around the corner from the hotel, and the complimentary Baymont Breakfast Corner has breakfast covered.