home Plan Your Brainerd Golf Trip in 60 Seconds Minnesota lake country with world-class resort golf
The Brainerd Lakes area is Minnesota's premier golf destination, anchored by two massive resorts — Madden's and Grand View Lodge — plus Cragun's and The Classic. With 460+ lakes, endless cabin rentals, and a laid-back Up North vibe, it's built for groups who want to play 36 and fish at sunset.
The best courses, bars, and rentals in Brainerd — curated for groups.
5 coursesSummer, Fall BRD (10 min drive)10-50k population
Courses Where to Stay lakehouse Sleeps 12-18
$700-$2500/night
Gull Lake and Mille Lacs area
full kitchen lake access dock boat slip fire pit hot tub game room
lodge Sleeps 12-16
$500-$1400/night
Madden's on Gull Lake or Grand View Lodge
golf on-site pool spa restaurants marina fitness center
Dining
Ernies on Gull $$$ steakhouse Lakeside steakhouse on Gull Lake — prime cuts with sunset views from the patio
Prairie Bay $$$ upscale Baxter's best — creative American menu, large wine list, and a private dining room for groups
The Rustic $ bbq Smoked meats and craft beer on the water — laid-back lakeside BBQ that handles big groups well
Black Bear Lodge & Saloon $$ casual Northwoods tavern with burgers, walleye, and a huge bar — the go-to casual group spot
Nightlife
Zorbaz on the Lake patio Legendary Minnesota chain — trashy pizza, lake views, and the best patio bar vibe in Brainerd
Moonlite Bay Bar Late Night dive Classic lake dive bar — cheap drinks, jukebox, and the locals' favorite after-dark spot
Jack Pine Brewery brewpub Baxter's craft brewery — solid IPAs and a relaxed taproom with food trucks on weekends
Bar 218 Late Night sports bar Downtown Brainerd sports bar — TVs everywhere, pool tables, and strong drinks
Activities Gull Lake Fishing Charter fishing half day $60-$120/pp
Walleye, bass, and northern pike on one of Minnesota's premier fishing lakes
Brainerd International Raceway Go-Karts go karts 2-3 hours $30-$60/pp
High-speed go-kart racing at the same facility that hosts NHRA drag races — competitive group fun
Cuyuna Mountain Biking mountain biking half day $15-$40/pp
IMBA Gold-level trail system through reclaimed iron ore mines — turquoise pit lakes and red rock terrain
Pontoon Boat Rental on Gull Lake boat rental half day $40-$80/pp
Rent a big pontoon and cruise Gull Lake — swimming, tubing, and sunset beers on the water. The perfect arrival day activity.
