Find hotels in Brainerd, MN from $66

These Brainerd insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 15, 2026.

Top reasons to visit Brainerd

• Outdoor Adventures: Brainerd offers stunning lakes and a range of recreational activities, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Family Fun: The Three Bear Waterpark provides exciting water attractions, making it a great destination for families.
• Scenic Beauty: Enjoy picturesque lakes and vibrant urban parks that create a serene atmosphere for relaxation.
• Year-Round Activities: Experience seasonal activities like fishing, skiing, and golfing, catering to diverse interests.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from cozy hotels to luxurious resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler.

Find great hotels in and around Brainerd

Explore a variety of hotel accommodations in Brainerd, Minnesota, tailored for families, business travelers, and adventure seekers alike. From cozy hotels to luxurious resorts, you'll find diverse options that cater to your needs. Discover the ideal spot for your memorable getaway in this charming region, ensuring a comfortable stay while you enjoy all that Brainerd has to offer.

• Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Baxter Brainerd Area: This budget-friendly hotel is perfect for families and business travelers alike, offering a comfortable stay with a guest rating of 8.8. Located just 2 miles from Brainerd, it combines convenience with affordability. The amenities cater specifically to families, ensuring a relaxing experience for all ages. Guests appreciate the attentive service and clean accommodations, making it an ideal choice for those looking to explore the Brainerd area without breaking the bank.
• The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes, Trademark Collection by Wyndham: With a cozy lodge vibe, this 3-star hotel boasts a guest rating of 8.0. Situated in Brainerd, The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes is designed for families and business travelers seeking a homey atmosphere. The property features a variety of family-friendly amenities, including an arcade game room and a water park (for a fee). Guests love the rustic charm and the multitude of activities available nearby, making it a great destination for both relaxation and adventure.
• Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG: Rated at 8.6, this 3-star hotel is situated in Brainerd and is ideal for families and business travelers. The Holiday Inn Express offers a range of family-friendly facilities, including a free water park, children’s pool, and arcade game room. Guests enjoy the modern accommodations and complimentary breakfast, further enhancing the overall value of their stay. Its convenient location and excellent amenities make it a top choice for visitors seeking comfort and convenience while exploring the area.

Where to stay in and around Brainerd

Brainerd, Minnesota, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, offering stunning lakes and a variety of recreational activities. Whether you're seeking adventure or a romantic getaway, the area's serene atmosphere and beautiful scenery provide the perfect backdrop for memorable vacations. Explore nearby towns for family-friendly excursions and budget-friendly options, ensuring a fulfilling travel experience in this charming region of Minnesota.

• Nisswa: Located 12 miles from Brainerd, Nisswa is a charming city that attracts visitors year-round, with peak traffic from June to August. Known for its stunning outdoor scenery, it’s the perfect destination for those seeking a romantic getaway or a family adventure. Enjoy recreational spaces, lush golf courses, and beautiful lakes that offer a peaceful retreat. Don’t miss the local parks and event venues, which host various activities throughout the year. Nisswa’s friendly atmosphere makes it a delightful stop on your Minnesota journey.
• Baxter: Just 4 miles from Brainerd, Baxter is a bustling city that boasts a mix of outdoor activities and urban amenities. While visitor numbers peak in March and during the summer months, there’s plenty to see and do year-round. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore lakes and parks, while thrill-seekers can visit the local racetrack. With shopping centers and recreational areas, Baxter offers a well-rounded experience for tourists looking for both relaxation and excitement. It’s an ideal base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty.
• East Gull Lake: Nestled in the Brainerd area, East Gull Lake is a picturesque village that sees moderate tourist traffic, especially from June to August. This quaint destination is perfect for outdoor lovers and couples seeking a romantic retreat. With access to beautiful recreational areas and golf courses, East Gull Lake is a haven for those looking to unwind. Nearby lakes and parks provide ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation, making it a charming spot to include in your vacation itinerary.

Things to do in Brainerd

Brainerd, Minnesota, is perfect for outdoor and romantic getaways, featuring stunning scenery and a variety of activities. Visitors can enjoy live music, fishing trips, and skiing opportunities, as well as some of the best golfing around. Don’t miss the Three Bear Waterpark for family fun, making Brainerd a delightful destination for adventure and relaxation alike.

Shopping

In Brainerd, you can shop at the Brainerd Mall for various stores, including clothing and gifts. If you're up for a drive, head to Crossroads Center in nearby St. Cloud, where you'll find a larger selection of shops and dining options for your souvenir hunting.

Recreation

In Brainerd, the Breezy Point Resort offers a relaxing spa with various treatments, perfect for rejuvenation. The nearby Nisswa Wellness Center features yoga classes and holistic therapies, providing a peaceful environment for mindfulness and relaxation, all set against the beautiful Minnesota landscape.

Adventure

Experience thrilling outdoor adventures at Brainerd's Paul Bunyan State Trail, perfect for biking and hiking through scenic forests. Head to the Brainerd Zip Line Tour for an exhilarating ride through the treetops, or enjoy water sports on the beautiful Gull Lake for a fun-filled day on the water.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at the Grandview Lodge, offering a relaxed atmosphere with outdoor bonfires. Visit the Roundhouse Brewery for craft brews and live music, or enjoy dancing at the Brainerd Eagles Club, where the local crowd gathers for fun and entertainment.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Brainerd

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Brainerd are January, April and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Brainerd is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Brainerd is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to tailor your options based on your budget, preferred location, and ideal hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will show you sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel in Brainerd with your flights and activities.

Find the best attractions in and around Brainerd

Brainerd, Minnesota, is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking romantic getaways, offering stunning scenery and beach experiences. Visitors can explore picturesque lakes, vibrant urban parks, and thrilling amusement parks. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or embark on an adventure, Brainerd's attractions provide a perfect blend of nature and fun for every traveler.

• Paul Bunyan Land: Dive into fun at this whimsical amusement park themed around the legendary giant. Enjoy thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and family-friendly attractions set in a vibrant outdoor environment, making it perfect for adventure seekers and families alike.
• Horseshoe Lake: Experience the serene beauty of Horseshoe Lake, ideal for relaxation and romance. Enjoy sandy beaches, scenic views, and various outdoor activities like swimming or picnicking, all surrounded by lush nature.
• Northland Arboretum: Just a mile from Brainerd, this beautiful arboretum offers a peaceful escape. Stroll through diverse plant collections, walking trails, and educational exhibits, perfect for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

Best time to go to Brainerd

The best time to visit Brainerd can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Brainerd falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Brainerd falls in January, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	11.7°F (-11.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	13.1°F (-10.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	28.4°F (-2.0°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	40.1°F (4.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
May	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	68.5°F (20.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	60.6°F (15.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	45.3°F (7.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	31.3°F (-0.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
December	18.3°F (-7.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Brainerd

When planning your trip to Brainerd, Minnesota, you can fly into three major airports. Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport (BRD) is the closest, located 4 miles from the city, with nearby accommodations like the 3.5-star Grand View Lodge and the 3-star Lodge at Brainerd Lakes, offering 24-hour shuttle services. Duluth International Airport (DLH) is 102 miles away, with hotel options such as the 4-star Fitger's Inn, which provides free airport transportation. Bemidji Regional Airport (BJI), located 87 miles from Brainerd, offers stays at places like Kohl's Resort, 9 miles away. Enjoy your visit with convenient access to accommodations and transportation.