In the morning, start your day with a refreshing hike or bike ride on the Paul Bunyan State Trail. The trail spans over 120 miles with stunning views of forests, lakes, and wildlife. After lunch, head to the Northland Arboretum for a peaceful afternoon walk among the gardens and nature trails. End your day by visiting the Crow Wing State Park for a relaxing evening picnic by the Mississippi River.
Start your day early with a scenic drive to the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area. Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. This state park is also home to several mine lakes, which offer crystal clear waters for swimming and fishing. After a fun-filled day, head back to Brainerd for a relaxing evening stroll at Lum Park.
Spend your final day in Brainerd at Safari North Wildlife Park, a family-friendly attraction with over 50 different species of animals. Take a guided tour to learn about the park's conservation efforts and get up close with exotic animals like tigers, zebras, and giraffes. After lunch, head back to Brainerd and visit the Mount Ski Gull Recreation Area for some adrenaline-pumping activities like zip-lining and tubing. End your day with a relaxing evening by the scenic Gull Lake.
If you're interested in history, check out the Historic Log Village and the Crow Wing County Historical Society Museum. For more outdoor adventure, consider a side trip to the Mille Lacs Kathio State Park, which offers hiking trails, fishing, and camping. To maximize your fun, plan your trip during the annual Lakes Jam Music Festival or the Brainerd International Raceway's racing events. Don't forget to stop by some of Brainerd's local restaurants for some delicious comfort food, such as the Prairie Bay Grill and Catering or the Sage on Laurel.
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