The best things to do in Brainerd

“Jack's House Bowling keeps Brainerd league nights lively and casual rollouts easy with 24 lanes, a legit arcade, and Shirley’s Classic Grille feeding the crew. Add Jackpot Bowling for cash, a sand volleyball court, and a pro shop, and you’ve got a dependable weekly hang.”

From the Brainerd newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Whether you're chasing a quick solo loop or corralling a few friends, Central Lakes College Disc Golf Course is an easy, in-town option that plays well for beginners and seasoned arms alike. Low-key, convenient, and reliably fun... the kind of spot you hit when you just need to throw.”

From the Brainerd newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Feeling the itch for real horsepower, not just lake traffic bragging rights? Brainerd International Raceway keeps the throttle pinned with Street Legal Drags & Drift & Autocross, Overdrive Drift Weekends, and APEX Track Days. Pick a night this week, smell some rubber, and remember why we love loud things.”

From the Brainerd newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Cragun's Legacy Courses just poured $18 million into a Tom Lehman redesign, serving up 45 holes with the Dutch 27’s rotating nines, the 7,400-yard Lehman 18, and a fun par 3 short course. Perfect for dialing in your game this week, from practice range to leagues and simulators.”

From the Brainerd newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Craving a big-screen escape this week? Lakes 12 Theatre is running the new Spider-Man: Brand New Day alongside Studio Ghibli’s Castle in the Sky 40th anniversary showings and the House of Worship concert film, all with crisp digital picture and sound that make the couch feel jealous.”

From the Brainerd newsletter, August 28, 2026

“5-hole second course for every skill level, and an extreme lighted putting course plus bocce, clubhouse bites, and big views. This week, round up the crew and try the Brainerd Gold Rush.”

From the Brainerd newsletter, August 30, 2026

“When you need an easy win with the crew this week, Wildwedge Golf, Mini Golf & Maze delivers with a scenic par-3 that plays fast, a newly recarpeted mini golf course that keeps things fresh, and a 10,000+ square foot mystery maze that turns bragging rights into a sport.”

From the Brainerd newsletter, August 27, 2026

“This week, Paul Bunyan Land Amusement Park & Campground brings kiddo-thrilling rides, petting barns, and a 26-foot talking lumberjack who still greets visitors by name. Wander Pioneer Village’s 45-plus buildings crammed with Minnesota’s largest antique collection, then let the day mellow out at the campground.”

From the Brainerd newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Swap screen time for clue time, Copper Cat Escape Games is locally owned and runs immersive, 60 minute adventures like Deep Woods Cabin, Granny's Recipe Rescue, and Conspiracy 51. Rally your regular crew, prove you're the smart friend, then go debrief over whatever counts as victory snacks.”

From the Brainerd newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Freshen your next Nisswa run with the Samantha French Mural, a 13x25 foot collaboration by Samantha French and fellow painter Aaron Hauck at Big Axe Brewery that brings their vivid imagery to wall-size scale. Quick stop, big mood boost.”

From the Brainerd newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Top-100 public track woven through towering oaks, The Classic at Madden's is Minnesota’s signature course for a reason. Sneak in 18 this week, enjoy immaculate greens, a proper caddie experience, and a satisfyingly fair-but-tough layout, then reward yourself at The Classic Grill... a pretty perfect Brainerd day.”

From the Brainerd newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Whether you want classic 1926 vibes or to test your mettle on Minnesota’s only 618-yard Par 6, Pine Beach East delivers. The rebuilt greens, refined bunkers, and that gutsy 14-16 stretch invite locals to chase eagles, talk smack, and actually mean it.”

From the Brainerd newsletter, August 17, 2026