More about Brainerd

More Minnesota Destinations:

Alexandria
Baudette
Bemidji
Brainerd
Cook
Crane Lake
Detroit Lakes
Ely
Grand Marais
International Falls
Kabetogama
Orr
Otter Tail
Park Rapids
Stillwater
Tower
Walker

Located in a hilly terminal moraine area just a bit north of the geographical center of the state is the county seat of Crow Wing County, Brainerd Minnesota.  Straddling the Mississippi River at this point, Brainerd - Originally Ojibwe territory - was named after Anne Eliza Brainerd Smith, wife of Northern Pacific railroad president John Gregory Smith.  Lumber, paper and agriculture were important early industries, but the railroad remained the single most significant aspect of the city throughout the early 1900's... until tourism began to exhibit a substantial growth spurt.

Today, with 465 lakes in the immediate area - which also includes towns such as Baxter, Nisswa, Breezy Point, Pequot Lakes and Crosslake - Brainerd and surrounding communities offer four seasons of activities and something special for everyone - fishing, boating, swimming, water skiing, hunting, hiking, biking, snowmobiling, snow skiing and more!  There are both coniferous and deciduous forests, fields, meadows and wetlands for those wishing to enjoy a wide variety of wildlife - also in all four seasons - including a multitude of breeding bird species. Meticulously manicured golf courses offer 520 exciting and challenging holes for all levels of ability.  Enjoy the solitude of a hike or bike ride along 70 paved miles of the Paul Bunyan Trail.  And there are always plenty of art galleries, musical and theatrical performances and other festivals.  Of course the opportunities for shopping and dining are virtually endless.
 

So... come to the Brainerd Lakes Area and experience the beauty of the lakes, the people and the history that extend beyond the borders of a single town or even a single county. The area is as fun as it is unique. Come to the home of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox... where everyone is a kid at heart. We know that your first trip won't be your last.