Vacation rentals in Brainerd

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Quick stats about vacation rentals in Brainerd

  • Nightly prices starting at

    Brainerd vacation rentals start at ﺩ.ﺇ 367 per night before taxes and fees

  • Verified guest reviews

    Over 590 verified reviews to help you choose

  • Popular amenities for guests

    Guests love Gym, BBQ grill, and Laptop-friendly workspace across Brainerd rentals

  • 4.9 Average rating

    Brainerd stays are highly rated by guests—averaging 4.9 out of 5!

Top-rated vacation rentals in Brainerd

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

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Top guest favorite
A stone fireplace is featured prominently, with a warm glow emanating from the flames. Soft textures are added by a knitted throw draped over a woven basket positioned nearby. A decorative sign rests against the wall, inviting a sense of comfort.
Cabin in Fifty Lakes
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 151 reviews

Cozy two bedroom cottage with indoor fireplace.

Come get away to our peaceful home centrally located in Crosslake MN. It is a perfect location to enjoy all that Crosslake has to offer. This home features two king size beds. The cottage includes wifi and a 55" smart tv. There is a full kitchen with stainless steel appliances. The property is surrounded by large pine trees and lots of privacy. This property is located on Ox Lake which is private. The property has 16 acres. It is a short six block walk to Manhattan Beach Lodge for dining.

Guest favorite
An A-frame cabin is framed by tall trees, featuring a black metal exterior. A circular patio is surrounded by wooden posts and includes a fire pit, outdoor seating, and a propane grill. Snow covers the ground, indicating a peaceful winter setting.
Tiny home in Brainerd
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 108 reviews

A Frame-Sauna-Cold Plunge-Fire Pit-Seclusion

✔ Sleeps 4 – Lofted bedroom +pull-out couch (Both Queen Beds) ✔ Cozy & stylish – In-floor heating, A/C, 50” TV ✔ Fully equipped – Kitchen, Combo Washer/Dryer, fast WiFi ✔ Outdoor retreat – Sauna, Private patio, BBQ grill, firepit, string lights ✔ Secluded yet close to Brainerd Book now for the ultimate nature escape! -2 Miles from direct access to Paul Bunyon Trail -6 Miles from Northland Arboretum -7 Miles from Brainerd International Raceway -15 Miles from Crosby -20 Miles from Breezy Point

Top guest favorite
A cozy living area features a brown sofa and a wooden coffee table at its center. A wood stove stands in the corner, providing warmth, while a large window allows natural light to fill the space, framed by wooden walls.
Cottage in Pequot Lakes
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 419 reviews

Private Cottage w/Queen Bed + Lakes, golfing, etc.

Beautiful, cozy cottage located on owner's property. Surrounded by lakes (however not on one), world-class golf, towering pine trees and amazing restaurants and shopping. You will have the cottage to yourself. There is a private bedroom with a queen bed, also a full bath. The living room sofa pulls out to sleep two more. We are walking distance to Pequot Lakes, and just a 10 minute drive to Breezy Point or Nisswa for an amazing shopping experience. We welcome friendly, fully vetted dogs.

Top guest favorite
A wooden dock extends into the calm waters, featuring a small boat secured on top. The lush green lawn leads up to a log cabin, partially obscured by trees. A bright blue sky with scattered clouds enhances the serene lakeside setting.
Cabin in Merrifield
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 170 reviews

Fallen Oak on Silver Lake near Brainerd!

Log home privately located on Silver Lake. The cabin sports a large yard. Fish off the dock or take advantage of the canoe and kayaks for use on the lake. The lake has a shallow bottom ideal for kids to play nearshore. The home is pet friendly (inquire). Winter sports fans the Merrifield to Crosslake snowmobile trail is accessible from the property. We have a heated garage too! Paul Bunyan trail and the Cuyuna County Recreation Area are nearby. Near Brainerd, Nisswa, Crosby and Crosslake.

Top guest favorite
A spacious living area features vaulted ceilings and large windows offering views of the surrounding greenery. A dining table with chairs occupies one side, while a cozy seating arrangement with a side table is positioned on the opposite side. Natural light enhances the inviting atmosphere.
Cottage in Brainerd
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 436 reviews

Adventure Studio

The Adventure Studio is like stepping into a treehouse that boasts stunning views and a cozy relaxing deck overlooking 200' of shoreline on a great fishing lake. Inside enjoy views from two full walls of windows, a skylight and vaulted ceilings. Well appointed kitchen for a several day stay. A fire pit, pedal boat, paddleboards, wooded acreage, a mile long nature hiking, biking trail and access to other adventures. All on a quiet tree lined road, perfect for peaceful strolls at sunset.

Top guest favorite
An aerial view captures a home surrounded by lush greenery, showcasing a spacious and private backyard. The nearby Pelican Lake glimmers in the sunlight, with trees framing the scene and distant houses nestled along the shoreline.
Home in Breezy Point
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 156 reviews

Year-Round Hot Tub! Home in Breezy Point Resort

Unbeatable relaxation! You will be staying within walking distance of Pelican Lake, golf courses, the city park, and restaurants. Prefer staying in? Enjoy the fully fenced backyard with a hot tub, perfect for privacy and relaxation. The kitchen is well stocked for all of your cooking needs. This home checks all the boxes: convenient, clean, and comfortable. We're confident you will love your stay in the heart of Breezy Point! 2 bedrooms - 960 sq ft No cleaning fees, minimal checkout list.

Guest favorite
Cabin in Pequot Lakes
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 113 reviews

Dog Friendly Up North Private Escape

Welcome to Cabin au Nord; a Scandinavian inspired cabin near Pequot Lakes, MN perfect for your up North summer getaway. Custom designed, every detail has been thought of to promote relaxation. The cabin features one queen bedroom on the first floor, large king room with nature views on the upper level, modern kitchen, spa-like bathroom, work desk area for remote workers, living/dining area with floor to ceiling windows, and an outdoor Solo Stove. 5 mins to Pequot Lakes and 10 mins to Gull.

Superhost
A tranquil lakeshore scene showcases sandy beach and gently sloping steps leading to the water. A wooden dock extends towards a boat, with sunlight reflecting off the calm lake surface, surrounded by lush trees and a rocky border enhancing the natural setting.
Home in Crosby
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 132 reviews

Spacious lake house w/ room for the whole family!

Perfectly located near downtown Crosby on Rabbit Lake, this 2-acre lot w/ 400 ft of sandy lakeshore is the ideal up-north getaway for groups. All bedrooms are upstairs w/ 1 king bed, 7 Queens, a crib, and a standing desk. The lower level boasts a fully updated kitchen, dining room, game room/bar, & spacious living room w/ a gas fireplace, great wifi, and streaming services! Outdoor dining, yard games, beach/water toys, swim dock, propane grill, fire pit, and a 7-person Jacuzzi hot tub!

Top guest favorite
The cabin's exterior features warm pine siding complemented by a covered porch. Two adirondack chairs sit welcomingly on the porch, flanked by trees and landscaping. The front door is painted in a bright hue, and a small plaque adorns the wall beside it.
Cabin in Long Lake
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 126 reviews

Quaint modern cabin set in private woodland

Escape into the forest at the Ursa Minor cabin. Built in 2017, this comfortable and tranquil getaway includes a full kitchen, bathroom with a cedar-lined shower, electric in-floor heat, a wood stove, warm pine siding throughout, and a spacious sleeping loft. A covered porch, fire pit and fully-stocked woodshed are right outside the door. Your stay includes access to more than ten kilometers of trails traversing hundreds of acres of private woodland originating steps from your door.

Top guest favorite
Home in Nisswa
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 100 reviews

The Nordic - Dog-Friendly - Lake Front - Hot Tub

Relax at The Nordic, where Scandinavian charm meets modern comfort! Enjoy plush bedding, a fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen, and luxury finishes. Explore 175 ft of lakeshore, a sandy beach, paddleboards, and a boat dock. Unwind in the 6-person hot tub with lake views or hit the Paul Bunyan Trail for year-round adventure. Perfect for families, couples, or friends. Amenities: Smart TVs, games, washer/dryer, fire pit, ninja course, and more! Book your retreat now!

Guest favorite
The cabin is set among lush Norway pines, featuring a deck leading to the entrance. Large windows along the front allow warm light to illuminate the interior, showcasing a welcoming atmosphere. A path can be seen extending into the surrounding nature.
Cabin in Nisswa
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 227 reviews

Pedal and Pine on the Lake

On the shore of Clark Lake and nestled under a canopy of Norway pines, the cabin provides a cozy getaway. With lake access, you can fish right from the dock, enjoy a paddle on the water, or relax by the outdoor fire pit. The Paul Bunyan trail is just steps away. Bike or stroll (or snowmobile!) straight into the town of Nisswa, home to shops, great coffee, and unique places to eat. In the warmer months, you might even see some turtles racing downtown!

Guest favorite
The serene lake reflects a cottage surrounded by lush greenery and tall trees. The calm water showcases mirrored images of the landscape, enhancing the tranquil setting. A seating area is visible near the water's edge, inviting relaxation in nature.
Cottage in Deerwood
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 223 reviews

Quiet Lake Cottage and Cuyuna Mountain Bike Trails

Charming cottage located in the heart of Minnesota’s Up North vacationland! A relaxing retreat on one acre wooded lot, quiet 80 acre lake with no public access. Get out on the lake for a paddle with the canoe or kayak or fish from the dock, catch and release is best. Year round fun, abundant wildlife, and vivid starry skies. Located ten miles from Cuyuna Country State Recreation's excellent single track mountain bike trails and many other lakes.

Popular amenities for Brainerd vacation rentals

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the best places to stay in Brainerd?

    Lakeside neighborhoods and wooded areas around Brainerd have cabins and retreats that blend comfort with nature access. Staying near the water or within town makes it easy to explore local dining and events.

  • What are the best things to do in Brainerd with kids?

    Children can explore Paul Bunyan Land with themed rides and displays or spend time at family adventure parks. Local nature centers and playgrounds also provide hands-on fun.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Brainerd?

    Explore area lakes for fishing or kayaking, visit Paul Bunyan Land for family fun, and follow trails in Crow Wing State Park. The downtown area has friendly boutiques, galleries, and seasonal markets.

  • How is the weather in Brainerd?

    Brainerd has cold winters, usually between 3–26°F (-16–-3°C), with snow and brisk winds. Summers are warm, often around 68–82°F (20–28°C), and popular for outdoor activities on the lakes and trails.

  • When is the best time to visit Brainerd?

    Late spring through early fall is often recommended for warmer weather, lake activities, and lively local events. Winter appeals to those who enjoy snow sports and festive traditions.

  • What are the best places to visit in Brainerd?

    Explore Crow Wing Historical Society Museum for a look at regional history, Paul Bunyan Land for family attractions, or local lakes for outdoor activities. Area state parks and bike trails are also frequently suggested.

  • What are some hiking trails in Brainerd?

    Trails wind through Crow Wing State Park, with forested paths and river overlooks. The Paul Bunyan State Trail is also popular for hiking, running, or biking in a scenic setting.

  • What are some family activities we can do in Brainerd?

    Families can explore mini golf courses, interactive museums, or spend time at parks with playgrounds. Biking trails and seasonal community events are frequently suggested for those seeking outdoor fun together.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas from Brainerd?

    Explore the area's lakes for boating or fishing, visit state parks with forest trails, or discover local heritage sites and small-town shops around the region. Scenic drives through the woods and farm visits are often recommended.

  • Are there any pet friendly accommodations available in Brainerd?

    Many properties in Brainerd welcome pets, including cabins and vacation homes near lakes or trails. You can find stays with fenced yards or easy access to outdoor green spaces.

  • What are some local tips for visiting Brainerd?

    Bring layers, as weather can change quickly, and wear comfortable shoes for exploring trails or lakeshores. Early reservations are helpful for popular cabins during summer and event weekends.

  • What is Brainerd known for?

    Brainerd is known for its lakes, outdoor recreation, and welcoming small-town atmosphere. The area has a strong tradition of fishing, water sports, and seasonal celebrations.

  • What are the best hidden gems to explore in Brainerd?

    Discover locally owned shops, arts centers, or quiet lake beaches around Brainerd. Walking trails through pine forests and lesser-known historical sites offer a more tranquil experience.

  • What are the best foods to try in Brainerd?

    Local eateries serve walleye, wild rice dishes, and hearty comfort foods rooted in the region's traditions. You can also enjoy classic Midwest pies and ice cream at area diners.

  • What should I bring for a trip to Brainerd?

    Pack layered clothing, swimwear for lake activities, sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes. A light jacket is useful, even in summer, especially if you plan outdoor activities.

  • What is the nightlife in Brainerd like?

    Brainerd's nightlife centers around casual bars, live music venues, and local pubs. You might explore venues that host weekly trivia, karaoke, or regional bands.

  • What are the most popular events or festivals in Brainerd?

    Crow Wing County Fair draws visitors in summer for rides and local exhibits, while the Brainerd Jaycees Ice Fishing Extravaganza is a winter highlight. Seasonal festivals celebrating music, arts, or community traditions are frequently suggested.

  • Are there family friendly vacation rentals in Brainerd?

    Brainerd has a variety of family-friendly vacation rentals, including cabins, homes, and properties near lakes or attractions. Many listings feature amenities like kitchens, outdoor space, or extra bedrooms.