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.
There's no need to pay full price on your Brainerd accommodations. Be sure to look around for the best group discounts and deals when you book your hotel room. AAA members get discounts at the Baymont Inn & Suites Baxter / Brainerd Area and at the Comfort Suites / Rapid River Lodge & Water Park. AARP members and senior travelers can save at the Americas Best Value Inn and at the AmericInn Baxter. Government employees and members of the military get low rates at Super 8 and other hotels in the area.
Don't want to compromise when it comes to amenities or price? Take a closer look at Brainerd's best value hotels.
Located in the heart of the Brainerd area, AmericInn Baxter offers simple yet spacious rooms just minutes from the area's best indoor and outdoor attractions. Get a great night's sleep in your queen or king room, use the free Wi-Fi to keep everyone updated on your trip, and take advantage of the in-room mini fridge and microwave to keep your favorite snacks and drinks at your fingertips. Fuel up for an active day with the AmericInn's free breakfast, which includes freshly baked waffles, eggs, pastries, fruit, and coffee.
Just down the road, Super 8 offers comfortable queen and king rooms with mini fridges, microwaves, and coffee makers. If you need more than just a cup of coffee to get your day started, be sure to spin by the hotel's complimentary breakfast, which features waffles, fruit, cereal, and more. Get a restful night's sleep on the plush-top beds, use the guest laundry facilities to freshen up, and take advantage of the many outdoor recreation, shopping, and dining options within a few minutes' drive.
If you want tons of fun built into your accommodations, the Comfort Suites / Rapid River Lodge & Water Park is the perfect place to stay. This hotel boasts rustic decor, large suites, and pillow-top beds. However, the main draw here is the water park, which includes massive waterslides, a lazy river with waterfalls and rapids, and a kiddie pool for the littlest swimmers. You can also take a dip in the hot tub or sweat it out in the sauna, no matter the season. This family-friendly property also boasts a video game arcade, a fitness room, and free breakfast.
Ready to get out and explore Minnesota's Playground? With over 450 lakes in the vicinity, Brainerd is ideal for all kinds of water sports and outdoor activities. From boating and fishing to swimming and skiing to kayaking and canoeing, the Brainerd area has it all. You'll find that Gull Lake and other major waterways are especially busy during the summer months.
If you'd rather stay on dry land, though, you'll still find plenty to do. Rent a bike and hit the trails, go hiking or horseback riding, or try your luck with bird-watching. You can even spot wildlife at the Safari North Wildlife Park, an especially fun attraction for kids. Golf enthusiasts will want to schedule a tee time at one of the area's top courses, such as the Legacy Courses at Cragun's, Madden's Golf Course, or The Pines Golf Course.
Planning a winter visit? Be sure to bundle up before heading out to enjoy this winter wonderland. In the Brainerd area, you can explore over 1,000 miles of snowmobiling trails, challenge yourself to your choice of cross-country skiing trails, or go snowshoeing. Be sure to book a hotel with a sauna, as you'll want to warm up at the end of an adventure-packed winter day.
No matter the time of year, you'll want to cap off your visit with a stop at one of the area's best microbreweries. Sip an amber or cream ale at Roundhouse Brewery, try an oatmeal stout or a jalapeño cream ale at Jack Pine Brewery, or down a pilsner or a scotch ale at Gull Dam Brewing.
You'll find several other microbreweries in the area, so you can pick a favorite or design your own tasting tour.
With so much to do in Brainerd, why wait another minute to plan your trip? Find the ideal hotel and start planning a memorable trip to explore the great outdoors.
Below are reviews of the city of Brainerd, MN from an actual visitor's perspective.
Nice town to visit
Super we went to concert at the Gichi-Zion center for the arts
Lots of restaurants and gas stations.
Lots of restaurants and gas stations.
The people were very friendly and polite. Went to several downtown businesses. The Sage restaurant has very good Walleye, and the staff made us feel special. Visit the Historical Society. Very good museum on city history. A couple great parks for a long walk.
Brainerd was a lovely town! I bet the Summer and Fall are gorgeous.
I've always loved Brainerd. I was here for a wedding at Cragans Resort and that place is beautiful.
I've always loved Brainerd. I was here for a wedding at Cragans Resort and that place is beautiful.
I've always loved Brainerd. I was here for a wedding at Cragans Resort and that place is beautiful.
I was in town for a figure skating competition.