Hotels in Brainerd

Discover Brainerd: Where Cascading Waters Meet Lakeside Dreams

Nestled in the heart of Minnesota, Brainerd is a charming lakeside destination that beckons nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Known for its stunning Brainerd Lakes, this vibrant city offers a plethora of outdoor activities, from boating on crystal-clear waters to hiking scenic trails. Downtown Brainerd boasts quaint shops and delightful eateries, while the nearby waterpark promises fun for families. Discover the serenity of cascading waterfalls and the thrill of fishing in pristine rivers. With its unique blend of relaxation and recreation, Brainerd is the perfect escape for those seeking both adventure and tranquillity.

Discover great hotels in Brainerd

Brainerd, Minnesota offers a variety of hotel accommodations, from cosy lodges to comfortable suites, catering to diverse preferences. You'll find quality inns and welcoming hotels near local attractions, perfect for a relaxing stay amidst the scenic beauty of the Brainerd Lakes area. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Brainerd:

1. AmericInn by Wyndham Baxter BrainerdOpens in a new window: This 2.5-star hotel is an ideal retreat for leisure travellers seeking a thrilling city-themed vacation experience. Located in the heart of the city, it offers convenient access to ski shuttles and lifts, enhancing your winter adventure. The hotel features comfortable lodging designed for relaxation after a day of skiing. Frequent visitors appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, making it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy both the city and outdoor activities.
2. Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Baxter Brainerd AreaOpens in a new window: Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Baxter Brainerd Area, a charming 2.5-star hotel, caters to family-oriented travellers with a delightful range of amenities designed for children. Featuring a welcoming environment, it creates memorable experiences for families looking to explore the area together. The hotel’s thoughtful services ensure a stress-free stay, allowing you to focus on quality time with loved ones. Frequent travellers commend the hotel for its inviting ambience and attention to detail, contributing to a fulfilling family getaway.
3. Super 8 by Wyndham Baxter/Brainerd AreaOpens in a new window: Super 8 by Wyndham Baxter/Brainerd Area is a 2.0-star motel that appeals to adventure seekers looking for a pet-friendly escape. With an array of thrilling activities available onsite and nearby, including skiing, snowboarding, and sailing, this property offers a dynamic experience for those eager to explore the outdoors. Its welcoming atmosphere and pet amenities create a unique setting for travellers who wish to share their adventures with their furry companions. Enthusiastic visitors rave about the adventurous spirit of the motel, making it a favourite choice for active travellers.

Top locations to stay in Brainerd

Some of the best areas to stay in when visiting Brainerd, Minnesota, are Nisswa, Baxter, and Merrifield. Nisswa is perfect for family-friendly activities and beautiful lakeside views. Baxter offers convenient access to shopping and dining, while Merrifield boasts unique local attractions. For first-time visitors, Nisswa is the ideal choice, combining charm and recreational opportunities.

1. NisswaOpens in a new window: Nisswa is a charming destination perfect for families seeking a wholesome getaway. Nestled among the picturesque lakes of the Brainerd area, it's well-known for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor activities. You can explore the scenic Nisswa Lake, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the quaint downtown with its unique shops and delightful local boutiques, or visit the nearby Paul Bunyan State Forest for hiking and nature trails. With its community events and festivals, Nisswa offers a warm, welcoming vibe that makes it ideal for travellers looking to relax and connect with nature.
2. BaxterOpens in a new window: Baxter is a vibrant community that caters to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With a variety of parks and recreational facilities, it's a great place to enjoy the outdoors. You can dive into local shopping experiences, where you’ll find everything from charming boutiques to larger retail stores. Baxter is also home to several cultural attractions, offering events and activities that showcase the local arts scene. The area's accessibility to nearby lakes and trails makes it a fantastic choice for exploring the natural beauty of Minnesota.
3. MerrifieldOpens in a new window: Merrifield is a small yet delightful spot that embodies the peaceful charm of rural Minnesota. It’s surrounded by beautiful nature, making it a great base for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and biking on scenic trails. While it may be quieter than its neighbours, Merrifield boasts unique local shops that provide a truly authentic shopping experience. The close-knit community often hosts seasonal events, allowing visitors to enjoy local culture and connect with friendly residents.

Things to do in Brainerd

Brainerd is a delightful escape for nature lovers, boasting stunning lakes and lush forests perfect for fishing or boating. Adventure awaits with exhilarating snowmobile rides in winter, scenic trails for hiking, and serene spots for picnicking. Whether you're seeking relaxation or outdoor thrills, Brainerd has something for everyone.

• Beauty LakeOpens in a new window – Dive into the serene waters of Beauty Lake, a perfect escape for those seeking tranquillity. Whether you're fishing, kayaking, or simply lounging by the shore, the calm surroundings offer a delightful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
• Northland ArboretumOpens in a new window – Wander through the beautiful pathways of Northland Arboretum, where a diverse collection of plants and trees awaits. This lovely space invites you to explore its trails, enjoy a picnic, or participate in seasonal events that celebrate the beauty of nature.
• Buffalo Hills ParkOpens in a new window – Discover the sprawling landscapes of Buffalo Hills Park, an urban oasis ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, play a game of frisbee, or take the kids to the playground. The park's recreational facilities make it a fantastic spot for family fun.
• Lake OssawinnamakeeOpens in a new window – Experience the charm of Lake Ossawinnamakee, a stunning body of water perfect for boating and swimming. Spend a sunny afternoon on the lake, soaking up the sun or exploring its scenic shoreline filled with wildlife.
• Horseshoe LakeOpens in a new window – Unwind at Horseshoe Lake, known for its unique shape and picturesque setting. This tranquil spot is great for a peaceful day of fishing or enjoying a picnic with family and friends, surrounded by the natural beauty of Minnesota.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Brainerd

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Brainerd is during April, November, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For those looking to explore the area's key landmarks, cultural sites, and natural wonders, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. During your visit, you can enjoy a range of budget-friendly attractions, including picturesque lakes for fishing, scenic golf courses, a fun waterpark, and opportunities for recreation along the river and at nearby waterfalls. Additionally, there are charming cafes perfect for families and snowmobile riding, making it a great value for money experience.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Brainerd, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates close to your travel date. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay updated on flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you could seize opportunities to save. The Smart Shopping feature in the app acts as a comparison tool, allowing you to weigh hotel prices and amenities, so you're more likely to see the best options. This way, if prices drop or rooms become available, you'll be among the first to know.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to various factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so having some flexibility with your travel dates might help you save on your stay in a Brainerd hotel. If you're in search of a distinctive experience, boutique hotels can provide a more personalised touch and, at times, better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price leans towards the higher end, we may suggest more economical dates to enhance your chances of securing a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Brainerd's superb public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Brainerd

Brainerd experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 11.7°F (-11.3°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 70.5°F (21.4°C). June is usually the wettest month. June to August are the peak travel months in Brainerd, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. On the other hand, January, February, and November tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.