Exploring Brainerd, Minnesota

Brainerd, Minnesota is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a fun-filled vacation with plenty of outdoor activities. Located in the heart of Minnesota's lake country, Brainerd offers visitors the opportunity to explore scenic parks, hike through trails in the woods, get wet and wild at water parks, and much more. Here is a list of must-see tourist attractions for anyone planning a trip to Brainerd.

Water Parks

• Three Bear Waterpark (website): Located at 15739 Audubon Way, Three Bear Waterpark is a family-friendly water park featuring water slides, a lazy river, hot tubs, and an eatery. With something for everyone, this water park is sure to provide hours of fun for all ages.
• Paul Bunyan Water Park - Arrowhead Lodge, Baxter-Brainerd (website): Located at 6967 Lake Forest Rd, the Paul Bunyan Water Park is a large indoor aquatic amusement center featuring multiple slides and tubes, a lazy river, hot tub, arcade, and snack bar. This water park is perfect for anyone looking for a fun way to beat the Minnesota cold.

Parks and Playgrounds

• Gregory Park (website): Located at 511 N 5th St, Gregory Park is a community park featuring playgrounds and a skating rink, as well as basketball and tennis courts. This park is perfect for families looking for a fun day out.
• Kiwanis Park (website): Located at 1101 E River Rd, Kiwanis Park is a riverfront venue perfect for playing and picnicking. The park spans 37 acres between the Mississippi River and Boom Lake and features a playground, trails, and picnic pavilions.
• Northland Arboretum (website): Located at 14250 Conservation Dr, the Northland Arboretum is an outdoor garden spanning over 500 acres with over 12 miles of hiking trails, 250 plant species, and a variety of wildlife. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk through the gardens and take in the beautiful views.
• Lum Park (website): Located at 1619 NE, Washington St, Lum Park is a city park offering disc golf, volleyball, fishing, and much more. The park also features a beach and playground, making it perfect for both active and leisurely visitors.
• Buffalo Hills Park (website): Located at 2104 Graydon Ave, Buffalo Hills Park covers 19 acres and serves as a family hub for play and picnicking. The park has ballfields, picnic areas with grills, and playground equipment for visitors to enjoy.
• Gustafson Park (website): Located at 9th Ave NE & N St NE, Gustafson Park is a small community park with a playground and picnic area. The park is perfect for families with young children.

Tourist Attractions

• Brainerd Water Tower (website): Located at 624 Washington St, the Brainerd Water Tower is a local landmark and an iconic symbol of the city. Visitors can take a walk around the tower and snap some photos to remember their trip.
• Paul Bunyan Land (website): Located at 17553 MN-18, Paul Bunyan Land is an amusement park with carnival rides, concessions, a petting barn, and a historic, artifact-filled village. Visitors can take a step back in history and experience the way of life in the past.
• Pirates Cove Mini Golf (website): Located at 17992 MN-371, Pirates Cove Mini Golf is a family-friendly destination with two 18-hole courses, pirate-themed decor, and water features.
• Oscar Kristofferson Park (website): Located at 5672 Baxter Lions Rd N, Oscar Kristofferson Park is a large community park with ballfields, tennis courts, and playgrounds. The park is perfect for families looking for a fun day out.
• Explore Brainerd Lakes Welcome Center (website): Located at 7393 MN-371, Explore Brainerd Lakes Welcome Center is the perfect place to stop for information on everything the city has to offer. Visitors can find brochures on local attractions, maps, and souvenirs, making it a must-visit destination for anyone new to the city.
• Visit Brainerd (website): Located at 214 S 7th St, Visit Brainerd is a tourist information center that offers brochures, maps, and information on local attractions. The center is a great place to start for anyone looking to plan their trip to Brainerd.
• Glaze 2 Amaze - Create the Memories that Last (website): Located at 113 Washington St NE, Glaze 2 Amaze is a pottery painting studio where visitors can create their own unique ceramic pieces. The studio is perfect for artists of all ages and skill levels.
• Northland Kart Kountry (website): Located at 17568 MN-371, Northland Kart Kountry is a go-kart track with a variety of tracks and go-karts available for visitors to race.

With a variety of attractions and activities to choose from, Brainerd, Minnesota is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a fun and exciting vacation. Whether you're interested in water parks, parks and playgrounds, tourist attractions, or something else entirely, you're sure to find something to enjoy in this beautiful city.