Struggling to find things to do in Brainerd?
Local news, events, and recommendations delivered free every morning.
Get your free newsletter →See latest newsletter →This week in Brainerd
Beer & Bacon
Over three days at Alec's 9 Golf Course @ Ruttger's Bay Lake Resort, craft beer and savory bacon share the spotlight with family friendly activities. Outdoor games and pontoon cruises round out the fun, creating a festive experience for all ages.
Alec's 9 Golf Course @ Ruttger's Bay Lake ResortFather's Night
Notch 8 sets the stage for a dad-focused celebration with hearty, handcrafted dishes built around premium cuts and fresh seafood. Every entree comes with a generously loaded baked potato and grilled asparagus. Highlights include local Angie’s Acres beef tenderloin presented with a personal hot stone so guests can sear seasoned slices at the table, a king cut of rotisserie smoked prime rib prepared in house, and an Angie’s Acres butter broiled Denver steak topped with wild mushroom cream. Seafood choices feature beer battered halibut served with spicy remoulade, Gruyère fondue, garlic fingerling chips, and bacon wrapped asparagus, along with grilled Ora King salmon paired with hunter’s sauce, parsnip whipped potatoes, and bacon braised Brussels sprouts. Reservations are recommended at 218-454-6688.
Notch 8 Restaurant & CateringCragun's BBQ Dinner Cruise
Experience a popular summer evening on the water with Cragun’s BBQ Dinner Cruise, where smoky barbecue pairs with sweeping views of Gull Lake. Savor a hearty spread that includes Carolina-style pulled pork, roasted smokehouse sausages, campfire beans, southern-style coleslaw, creamy baked macaroni and cheese, and classic Martin’s potato rolls, followed by chocolate and marshmallow s’more bars that capture the flavor of a lakeside campfire. Enjoy the scenery from the open-air upper deck or relax in the comfortable main cabin. Two fully stocked bars offer local beers on tap, craft cocktails, and a curated selection of wines to complement the meal and the sunset across the lake. Beverages are purchased separately from the ticket.
Gull Lake CruisesFourteen Stories
A decades-spanning selection of acoustic favorites, from the 1950s to the present day, featuring familiar classics alongside contemporary tunes in an acoustic style. Take a musical journey through songs you know and love across generations.
Ernies On GullYour morning shortcut
One email with the news, events, and things to do that actually matter in Brainerd.
Curated for you
We sort through the noise so you only see what's worth your time.
Free forever
No subscription fees. No paywalls. Just a useful email every morning.