Cheap Hotels in Brainerd, MN from $74

Check availability on Brainerd Cheap Hotels

Our top choices for Brainerd cheap hotels

Indoor spa tub

Grand Casino Mille Lacs

Grand Casino Mille Lacs
3.0 star property
Onamia
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,380 reviews)
"Staff was great, clean updated hotel rooms were nice."
United States
James
$89 nightly
The price is $98
Apr 12 - Apr 13
Total with taxes and fees
Grand Casino Mille Lacs
Desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes, soundproofing

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Baxter Brainerd Area

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Baxter Brainerd Area
2.5 star property
Baxter
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
"The staff was excellent! The property has had aesthetic upgrades. It is a good clean stay with basic amenities and a decent breakfast."
United States
Natasha
$69 nightly
The price is $76
Apr 12 - Apr 13
Total with taxes and fees
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Baxter Brainerd Area
Indoor pool

Baymont by Wyndham Baxter/Brainerd Area

Baymont by Wyndham Baxter/Brainerd Area
2.5 star property
Baxter
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (827 reviews)
"Staff were so friendly and helpful"
United States
Marie
$90 nightly
The price is $100
Apr 16 - Apr 17
Total with taxes and fees
Baymont by Wyndham Baxter/Brainerd Area
Private beach, sun loungers, beach volleyball

Good Ol' Days Resort

Good Ol' Days Resort
3.5 star property
Nisswa
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (686 reviews)
"The parking was great, staff was very helpful, view from balcony was exactly as expected. We had a great time staying here and will be back."
United States
Sheri
$72 nightly
The price is $77
Apr 23 - Apr 24
Total with taxes and fees
Good Ol' Days Resort
Suite, 1 King Bed (Whirlpool) | Down comforters, desk, blackout drapes, soundproofing

Nisswa Hotel and Suites

Nisswa Hotel and Suites
2.0 star property
Nisswa
7.8 out of 10, Good, (22 reviews)
"The room was very clean, and the price was better than the others in the area."
United States
jeff
$72 nightly
The price is $77
Apr 22 - Apr 23
Total with taxes and fees
Nisswa Hotel and Suites
Indoor pool

AmericInn by Wyndham Little Falls

AmericInn by Wyndham Little Falls
2.5 star property
Little Falls
7.4 out of 10, Good, (372 reviews)
"The staff was friendly and the bed comfortable. "
United States
Bethany
$80 nightly
The price is $88
Apr 12 - Apr 13
Total with taxes and fees
AmericInn by Wyndham Little Falls
Property grounds

Ruttger's Bay Lake Resort

Ruttger's Bay Lake Resort
3.0 star property
Deerwood
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (352 reviews)
"Spacious room, clean, great heating. Nice setup. Friendly staff."
United States
Michele
$101 nightly
The price is $109
May 8 - May 9
Total with taxes and fees
Ruttger's Bay Lake Resort
Lobby

Super 8 by Wyndham Baxter/Brainerd Area

Super 8 by Wyndham Baxter/Brainerd Area
2.0 star property
Baxter
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (815 reviews)
"Good room at a reasonable price."
United States
Douglas
$66 nightly
The price is $74
Apr 16 - Apr 17
Total with taxes and fees
Super 8 by Wyndham Baxter/Brainerd Area
Property grounds

Grand View Lodge

Grand View Lodge
3.5 star property
Nisswa
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (919 reviews)
"Beautiful resort with great amenities and activities! "
United States
Jess
$120 nightly
The price is $129
Apr 12 - Apr 13
Total with taxes and fees
Grand View Lodge
Water park

The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes, Trademark Collection by Wyndham

The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
3.0 star property
Brainerd
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (1,002 reviews)
"Great place to stay"
United States
Theresa
$116 nightly
The price is $128
Apr 12 - Apr 13
Total with taxes and fees
The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
View all properties

Find out more about Brainerd

Discover cheap things to do in Brainerd

Brainerd, Minnesota, offers a range of delightful activities perfect for budget-conscious families seeking memorable experiences. Nature enthusiasts will love the breathtaking views at the Paul Bunyan State Trail, a scenic area for walking or biking with the kids while keeping costs low. For a fun-filled day, visit the Brainerd International Raceway, where you can often find free or low-cost events, especially during summer. If you're ready for some outdoor fun, head to the beautiful Gull Lake for a day of swimming, picnicking, or simply soaking in the sun without spending a dime. Families can also explore the local history at the Crow Wing County Historical Society, which often has free admission days or low-cost events. When it comes to dining, you can find affordable yet delicious options at local diners and cafes, like the popular 'The Barn' for hearty meals that won't break the bank. For accommodation, consider staying near the Brainerd Lakes area, where budget-friendly hotels are abundant and provide a cozy atmosphere after a day of exploration. Enjoy the convenience of being close to parks and recreational areas, making it easy to dive into the adventures Brainerd has to offer.

Find the best cheap hotels in Brainerd

For travelers seeking budget-friendly accommodations in Brainerd, Minnesota, these hotels offer great value without compromising comfort. Each provides essential amenities and a welcoming atmosphere for an enjoyable stay.

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Baxter, MN

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson in Baxter is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers looking for modern comforts. With a solid review rating of 9.0, this hotel offers complimentary breakfast options, including a full buffet that is served daily. Guests can also enjoy free Wi-Fi and self-parking, making their stay both convenient and economical.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features an indoor pool and a hot tub for relaxation after a day of exploring. Guests can utilize nearby ski and golf locations for outdoor activities, while onsite shopping options add to the convenience. Additional facilities include free airport transportation, a fitness center, and daily housekeeping, ensuring a comfortable and straightforward experience.
  • Nearby attractions: Mississippi River - 3.16 miles, Northland Arboretum - 2.29 miles

Econo Lodge

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Econo Lodge is a practical choice for budget travelers, featuring a review rating of 6.4. This hotel offers free breakfast daily and essential amenities like Wi-Fi and self-parking at no extra cost, making it a smart option for those looking to save.
  • Other amenities: Guests can take advantage of onsite outdoor tennis courts and nearby skiing for winter fun. The hotel also provides air conditioning, connecting rooms for families, and an arcade game room for children’s entertainment. With easy access to local attractions and an inviting atmosphere, Econo Lodge ensures a pleasant and economical stay.
  • Nearby attractions: Mississippi River - 1.06 miles, Buffalo Hills Park - 0.35 miles, Buster Dog Park - 1.23 miles

Quality Inn & Suites

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Quality Inn & Suites provides an affordable stay with a review rating of 6.0, ideal for travelers on a budget. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast options, including grab-and-go choices, along with free Wi-Fi and self-parking, ensuring a comfortable stay without breaking the bank.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features an onsite outdoor tennis court, perfect for active guests. Nearby skiing and snow tubing locations offer winter sports enthusiasts plenty of options for adventure. The hotel also includes a game room for entertainment, along with convenient amenities like early check-in, late check-out, and housekeeping services to enhance the overall experience.
  • Nearby attractions: Mississippi River - 1.1 miles, Buffalo Hills Park - 0.4 miles, Buster Dog Park - 1.28 miles

How can I get cheap hotels in Brainerd?

Best tips to find a cheap hotel in Brainerd

  1. If you're looking to travel to Brainerd on a budget, you'll be happy to know that you can find hotels for as low as $74. Of course, that price is affected by amenities, star rating, and even the time of year you visit. At most, hotel prices can be as high as $129. Staying a short amount of time in Brainerd is an effective way to reduce hotel costs.

  2. When you cut your vacation down to just a few days, you don't have to worry as much about hotel prices since you don't have that many nights to stay. For budget hotels in Brainerd, 3 to 4 days should be all the nights you need. That's generally enough to enjoy the city's top attractions, though there's certainly enough to do to warrant a week-long trip.

  3. When booking cheap hotel rooms in Brainerd, it's typically best to book about 3 weeks in advance. Book further in advance than that and you could be paying too much for your room, as hotels will often overestimate future demand. However, if you wait too long, you might find that the hotel has been completely booked.

  4. When you utilize search filters on Expedia, you'll be able to narrow down your results in a flash. These search filters cover a wide variety of factors you may be interested in when it comes to finding a cheap hotel in Brainerd, including amenities such as Free Breakfast, 2-star rating, or proximity to local attractions. You can even set filters for price limits to ensure that all the displayed results are within your budget.

Top Brainerd Hotel Reviews

The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes, Trademark Collection by Wyndham

The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes, Trademark Collection by Wyndham

10/10 Excellent
"Breakfast was awesome "
Jack 2-night trip
Posted 5 days ago
The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes, Trademark Collection by Wyndham

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Brainerd as a budget traveler?
For budget-conscious travellers in Brainerd, several hotels offer excellent value with practical amenities and positive guest feedback.

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Baxter, MN, rated 8.8, provides money-saving perks like free buffet breakfast, complimentary WiFi, and free self-parking. Guests consistently praise the spacious, clean rooms and the friendly, professional staff. It is conveniently located near the Northland Arboretum.

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG, a 3-star property with an 8.6 review score, offers free continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking. Travellers often highlight the friendly and amazing staff, as well as the comfortable, clean rooms and beds.

Cragun's Resort & Hotel, a 3-star hotel with an 8.2 rating, includes free WiFi, free toiletries, and free self-parking. Guests appreciate the spacious, clean rooms and the great customer service. This resort is situated near Bay Lake, Pine Beach, and Gull Lake.

The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes, Trademark Collection by Wyndham, a 3-star hotel rated 8.0, provides a free buffet breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking. Reviewers often mention the nice, clean rooms and the friendly, amazing staff.

Quality Inn & Suites Brainerd offers a complimentary to-go breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking, including RV, bus, and truck parking. Guests frequently praise the clean rooms and the friendly staff. It is located near Buster Dog Park, the Mississippi River, and Buffalo Hills Park.
How much does a budget hotel in Brainerd cost?
Budget hotel prices in Brainerd vary, but you can find a great deal from $74 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—off-peak and mid-week stays are typically cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which area of Brainerd is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For budget-conscious solo travellers seeking affordable lodging in Brainerd, the areas around South 6th Street and Washington Street often provide the best value. These central locations offer a range of hotels and motels that are generally more economical than properties closer to the lakeshore.

Staying along South 6th Street puts you within easy reach of local eateries and shops, and it's a convenient base for exploring the city's core without needing a car for every outing. You'll find a selection of budget-friendly motels that cater well to solo travellers looking for a comfortable yet inexpensive place to stay.

Similarly, the Washington Street corridor, particularly near the intersection with South 6th Street, offers a concentration of hotels that frequently feature competitive rates. This area is well-connected by local bus routes, making it easy to access attractions like the Northland Arboretum or the Paul Bunyan Land amusement park, which are both great for a solo day trip.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Brainerd?
For families seeking top-rated, budget-friendly hotels in Brainerd, excellent choices include Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG, The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes, Trademark Collection by Wyndham, and Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Baxter, MN.

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG is a 3-star hotel with an 8.6 rating. Families will appreciate the complimentary WiFi, free self-parking, and the convenience of free cribs. Guests frequently highlight the comfortable, clean rooms and the friendly, amazing staff, especially at the super friendly front desk. A nice free continental breakfast is also provided, ensuring a great start to your day.

The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes, Trademark Collection by Wyndham, a 3-star property with an 8.0 rating, offers several valuable amenities for families. It provides free WiFi, complimentary self-parking, and a free buffet breakfast. Reviewers often praise the clean, nice rooms and the friendly, amazing staff. The breakfast is frequently described as great and delicious, and the hot tub is noted as amazing. For added convenience, a 24-hour free airport shuttle is also available.

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Baxter, MN, rated 8.8 by our travellers, is another fantastic option. This hotel offers free WiFi, free self-parking, and a complimentary full buffet breakfast. Families will find free cribs available and can enjoy amenities like bicycles. Reviews consistently mention the spacious, clean rooms, the great breakfast, and the friendly, professional staff. Its convenient location is known for easy access, and it is near the Northland Arboretum.

Cragun's Resort & Hotel, a 3-star establishment with an 8.2 rating, offers free WiFi and free self-parking. This resort is particularly appealing for families interested in golf, with an onsite golf course, golf lessons, and a golf clubhouse. Guests appreciate the spacious, clean rooms, great customer service, and good food. It is conveniently located near Bay Lake, Pine Beach, and Gull Lake.

Quality Inn & Suites Brainerd provides free WiFi, free self-parking, and free cribs, making it a practical choice for families. A complimentary to-go breakfast is offered, and guests frequently mention the clean, great rooms and good breakfast. The staff is consistently described as friendly.
What cheap hotels in Brainerd offer complimentary breakfast?
Several budget-friendly hotels in Brainerd offer complimentary breakfast, ensuring a great start to your day without extra cost.

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Baxter, MN, rated 8.8, provides a free buffet breakfast. Guests frequently praise the great breakfast, spacious and clean rooms, and friendly staff. It is conveniently located near the Northland Arboretum.

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG, a 3-star hotel with an 8.6 rating, offers a complimentary continental breakfast. Reviewers often highlight the amazing and friendly staff, as well as the comfortable and clean rooms.

The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes, Trademark Collection by Wyndham, a 3-star property rated 8.0, includes a free buffet breakfast. Visitors consistently mention the delicious breakfast, nice rooms, and friendly staff.

Quality Inn & Suites Brainerd provides a free breakfast, including a convenient to-go option. Customers appreciate the clean rooms, comfortable beds, and friendly staff. It is located close to Buster Dog Park, the Mississippi River, and Buffalo Hills Park.
When is the most affordable time to visit Brainerd?
The most affordable time to visit Brainerd is generally during the shoulder seasons of late spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October), as well as the winter months (November-March), excluding major holidays. During these periods, the peak summer crowds have dispersed or have yet to arrive, leading to lower prices on accommodations and fewer demands on popular attractions.

For families, visiting in early fall offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities without the summer price tags. Many resorts and cabins offer reduced rates in September and October, and the vibrant autumn foliage provides a beautiful backdrop for hiking or exploring the many lakes. You can enjoy activities like apple picking or visiting local pumpkin patches, which are often free or low-cost.

Solo travellers or couples might find winter to be surprisingly budget-friendly, especially if they enjoy cold-weather activities. While some attractions might have limited hours, opportunities for ice fishing, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing are plentiful and often require minimal equipment rental. Many local restaurants also offer specials during the slower winter months, providing a chance to experience local cuisine at a reduced cost.
What are the best cheap hotels in Brainerd with a pool?
For budget-friendly hotels in Brainerd that offer a pool, consider the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Baxter, MN, the 3-star Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG, and the 3-star Cragun's Resort & Hotel.

The Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Baxter, MN, with an excellent 8.8 rating, provides an indoor pool and a host of valuable amenities such as free WiFi, complimentary breakfast, and free self-parking. Guests often highlight the spacious and clean rooms, the great breakfast, and the friendly, professional staff. It's also conveniently located near the Northland Arboretum.

The 3-star Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG, rated 8.6, features both an indoor pool and a children's pool, making it ideal for families. Travellers appreciate the free continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free cribs. Reviewers frequently praise the amazing and friendly staff, the comfortable and clean rooms, and the nice breakfast.

The 3-star Cragun's Resort & Hotel, holding an 8.2 rating, offers a variety of pool options, including indoor, outdoor, and children's pools. This hotel also provides free WiFi and free self-parking. Guests consistently mention the spacious and clean rooms, great customer service, and delicious food.
Is Brainerd a budget-friendly destination?
Yes, Brainerd, Minnesota, offers a budget-friendly escape, especially for those seeking an outdoor-focused vacation. Its appeal lies in its natural attractions and diverse lodging options, making it an excellent choice for families and couples looking to save.

Families will find that many of Brainerd's best activities are either free or low-cost. The region boasts numerous lakes and parks, great for swimming, hiking, and picnicking. Exploring areas like Crow Wing State Park or Pillsbury State Forest provides opportunities for outdoor adventure without a hefty price tag. For couples, a leisurely stroll along the Paul Bunyan State Trail or a quiet afternoon fishing on one of the many lakes offers a relaxing and affordable experience.

Accommodation can be found at various price points, from campgrounds and cabin rentals to more modest motels, especially if you book outside of peak summer weekends. Dining out can also be kept affordable by opting for local diners and cafes, or by utilizing self-catering options if staying in a cabin or rental property.
Which cheap hotels in Brainerd have good reviews for customer service?
For budget-friendly hotels in Brainerd with excellent customer service, consider Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Baxter, MN, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG, Cragun's Resort & Hotel, The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes, Trademark Collection by Wyndham, and Quality Inn & Suites Brainerd.

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Baxter, MN, with an 8.8 review rating, offers a variety of complimentary perks, including free WiFi, free airport transportation, and free self-parking. Guests consistently highlight the friendly and professional staff. You can also enjoy a free full buffet breakfast and free toiletries, and the hotel provides free cribs. It is conveniently located near the Northland Arboretum.

The 3-star Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG, boasting an 8.6 review rating, is praised for its friendly and amazing staff. It provides free internet, free self-parking, and free cribs, making it a practical choice for families. Guests can also enjoy free continental breakfast and complimentary toiletries.

Cragun's Resort & Hotel, a 3-star property with an 8.2 review rating, is known for its great customer service. This hotel offers free WiFi and free toiletries. For golf enthusiasts, there's an onsite golf course with lessons, a pro shop, and a driving range. It's situated near beautiful points of interest like Bay Lake, Pine Beach, and Gull Lake.

The 3-star Lodge at Brainerd Lakes, Trademark Collection by Wyndham, rated 8.0, is recognized for its good service and friendly, amazing staff. Travellers can benefit from free WiFi, free buffet breakfast, and free 24-hour airport shuttle service. Free self-parking and complimentary toiletries are also provided.

Quality Inn & Suites Brainerd offers free WiFi, free cribs, and free toiletries. Guests frequently praise its friendly staff. The hotel also provides free breakfast, including a to-go option, and free self-parking with additional space for RVs, buses, and trucks.
Are there any cheap hotels in Brainerd that allow for late check-out or early check-in?
Quality Inn & Suites Brainerd is a great option for travellers needing flexible check-in or check-out times, as it offers both early check-in and late check-out.

This hotel provides excellent value with a range of complimentary amenities, including free WiFi, free toiletries, and a free breakfast, which can be taken to-go for added convenience. Guests frequently praise the hotel for its clean rooms, good breakfast, and comfortable beds and pillows. The staff also receives praise for being friendly and helpful. For those traveling with a vehicle, free self-parking, as well as RV, bus, and truck parking, are available.
How can I save on a budget hotel in Brainerd with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Brainerd. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards program, to unlock discounted Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel booking. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
What free activities should we do in Brainerd?
For solo travellers visiting Brainerd, Minnesota, there are several engaging free activities to enjoy that won't strain your budget. The area is rich in natural beauty and offers various outdoor pursuits.

You can start by exploring the Paul Bunyan Land amusement park grounds; while rides cost money, wandering the grounds and seeing the iconic Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statues is completely free. It's a fun photo opportunity and a classic Brainerd experience.

Another excellent option is to spend time at one of the many beautiful lakes, such as Gull Lake. While boat rentals come with a fee, you can enjoy swimming at designated public beaches like those at Gull Lake Recreation Area or simply relax by the shore, read a book, or enjoy the scenic views. For active solo travellers, the Paul Bunyan State Trail offers miles of paved path great for walking, running, or biking (if you bring your own bike).
Is it cheaper to book a Brainerd hotel and flight package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect vacation package.
Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in Brainerd for you.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia