5 Unique Places to Stay near Brainerd, MN
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AntonioCala
Nestled in the heart of Minnesota, Brainerd attracts travelers with its stunning lakes, lush forests, and charming small-town vibes. Whether you want to enjoy water sports, hike scenic trails, or just relax by the shore, there’s something here for everyone. Many different places to stay offer unique experiences that make every visit memorable.
Visitors can find everything from cozy cabins to luxurious vacation homes, each providing a unique touch. The area offers diverse accommodations tailored to various tastes and budgets, making it easy to plan the perfect getaway. With so many options, it’s no wonder that Brainerd remains a top destination for those looking to escape and explore nature.
Families, couples, or solo adventurers will appreciate the variety of lodgings available. From rustic cabins to high-end water-front homes, the choices are as diverse as the visitors themselves. No matter where you stay, you’ll be surrounded by the natural beauty and tranquility that make Brainerd a beloved spot for a relaxing vacation.
If you want to find explore more unique places to stay in Minnesota, make sure you check out the following guides:
Unique Places to Stay in Minneapolis, MN
Unique Places to Stay in Duluth, MN
Unique Places to Stay near Brainerd, MN
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Cabin, Beach and Private Dock on Lake Edna
9.8
Excellent
18 verified reviews
9.8
Excellent
18 verified reviews
This cozy cabin on Lake Edna offers a peaceful getaway near Brainerd, MN. With 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, it can comfortably sleep up to 6 guests. The cabin spans 1,300 sq ft and includes modern amenities like a washer, dryer, and air conditioning to ensure a comfortable stay.
The outdoor area is a highlight with a private beach and dock. Guests can enjoy swimming, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water. The cabin also features a barbecue grill for family cookouts and plenty of outdoor space to unwind.
Located just a short drive from local attractions, visitors can explore Nisswa City Park or have fun at the Nisswa Family Fun Center. Golf lovers can tee off at The Pines Golf Course, only six minutes away. For those flying in, St. Cloud Regional Airport is about a 79-minute drive.
Staying at this cabin not only promises a relaxing retreat but also easy access to local attractions, making it an ideal spot for a family vacation.
Life Is Good Lodge
9.5
Very Good
2 verified reviews
9.5
Very Good
2 verified reviews
Life Is Good Lodge is a cozy lakefront property in Brainerd, MN. Perfect for families and groups, this lodge offers a blend of comfort and fun. Visitors can enjoy a private beach, a spacious garden, and a cozy bar area. Located at 20970 Snowshoe Trail, the lodge is praised for its excellent location.
Guests have access to a variety of activities. The lodge features a game room with table tennis and other games. Free WiFi and private parking are included, making it convenient for extended stays.
The lodge’s design combines modern farmhouse aesthetics with lake vibes. It sits on the beautiful North Long Lake, which is known for great fishing and water activities. The main attraction is the sandy beach, perfect for relaxing or playing.
Love Lake Hacienda
9.7
Exceptional
17 verified reviews
9.7
Exceptional
17 verified reviews
Love Lake Hacienda, located at 19367 Love Lake Road in Brainerd, MN, offers a charming and cozy escape for travelers. This vacation home is ideal for family getaways, groups of friends, and work crews needing a comfortable place to stay.
The house has three bedrooms, providing plenty of space for everyone. One of the bedrooms features a twin bunk bed, making it perfect for kids or extra guests. The living room is a great place to relax after a day of exploring.
A fully equipped kitchen includes a dishwasher and oven, making meal prep easy. Free WiFi and air conditioning add to the comfort. Towels and all necessary linens are provided, so guests can pack light.
There’s also free private parking on-site and a sun terrace for outdoor enjoyment. Guests can unwind and take in the beautiful surroundings, with plenty of activities nearby including lakeside fun and local attractions.
Lakefront Cabin at Bigwater Cove
10
Exceptional
14 verified reviews
10
Exceptional
14 verified reviews
The Lakefront Cabin at Bigwater Cove is the perfect getaway spot near Brainerd, MN. Nestled by the water, this cozy log cabin offers a serene escape from city life. Guests here can enjoy peace and quiet while being surrounded by nature.
This cabin features three bedrooms, making it ideal for families or groups. It also has a private backyard and patio where you can relax or have a cookout.
For those who love outdoor activities, the cabin comes with 2 kayaks available to guests. You can paddle around the lake or explore the nearby trails by mountain bike, horseback, or snowmobile.
Each stay includes free Wi-Fi, ensuring you can stay connected as needed. The cabin also has modern amenities like a fridge, microwave, oven, and stovetop. Whether you prefer staying indoors or adventuring outside, this cabin has something for everyone.
Home on Lower South Long Lake
9.6
Exceptional
15 verified reviews
9.6
Exceptional
15 verified reviews
Nestled on the shores of Lower South Long Lake, this spacious 4-bed, 4-bath home offers an ideal getaway. Just 20 minutes from Brainerd, it combines the convenience of city amenities with the tranquility of lakeside living.
The property boasts full lakeshore views, a firepit, and an amazing deck perfect for relaxing and enjoying the scenery. Whether you’re looking to unwind or explore the nearby attractions, this home provides a comfortable and inviting retreat.
The nearby Brainerd/Nisswa area offers various activities, local shops and restaurants. It’s a blend of peaceful lake life and the excitement of a medium-sized city.
Lower South Long Lake itself is a major attraction, covering 1,295 acres with seven inlets and one outlet. It is 47 feet deep at its deepest point, offering plenty of space for boating, fishing, and other water activities.
Conclusion
The Brainerd area in Minnesota offers a wide variety of places to stay that cater to different preferences. Whether someone seeks the comfort of a historic inn, the charm of a cozy cabin, or the practicality of a vacation rental, they can find something that suits their needs.
Families might enjoy renting a cabin by the lake where kids can swim and fish. Solo travelers and couples may prefer a secluded retreat for a quiet getaway.
For those who enjoy a touch of luxury, there are upscale resorts with amenities like spa services and fine dining. Adventure seekers can find places near hiking trails and outdoor activities.
There are clearly more unique places to stay around Brainerd than we can cover. If you know a spot we didn’t mention, get in touch and let us know!
Antonio Cala
Antonio was born and raised in Southern Spain, and quit his job in 2013 to travel the world full-time with his wife Amanda for 10 years straight. Their passion for adventure took them to visit 150+ countries.
They cycled 25,000km + from California to Patagonia, sailed over 10,000NM around the Caribbean & Sea of Cortez, rode their motorbikes 30,000 kms+ across West Africa (Spain to South Africa) and visited Antarctica, among many other adventure expeditions.
Today, they’re currently working their way to visit every state and National Park in the USA traveling with an RV.
Together they run the popular newsletter Adventure Fix, the travel community Summit, the resource-based portal Adventure Travel Hub, and their latest venture, Unique Places, where they share their knowledge about the places they’ve visited and the ones still remaining on their list.
