While visiting Gull Lake, there’s no doubt you’ll spend time on the water and explore all the nature, shopping, restaurants and touristy things the area has to offer. You can certainly check out the local Minnesota wildlife around the lake, but what about the more exotic varieties? Snow leopards, vervet monkeys, caracals, and a number of lions, tigers and bears all make their home at Safari North Wildlife Park in Brainerd.
Safari North is a unique outdoor park loaded with opportunities to learn more about animals while making lasting family memories. In addition to critter peeping, kids and adults alike will enjoy all the activities the zoo has to offer. The park proprietors, Kevin and Kelly Vogel, have dedicated their life’s work to wildlife care and conservation and have curated quite the collection of animal exhibits for their guests to enjoy!
LOTS TO DO AT THE ZOO
Feeding Jigsaw and Puzzles, the park’s two giraffes, should be at the top of your list of park activities. The duo always loves a free handout, and it’s a great way to get up close and personal with a zoo resident. Another way is to hitch a ride on the ‘ships of the desert,’ aka, the zoo’s camels! It’s a unique experience, and the camels provide a bird’s-eye view of the grasslands exhibit.
Other close-up opportunities can be found at the park’s Parakeet Encounter where you can mingle with hundreds of birds that hang out in the parakeet landing. Little ones especially love the Barn Yard and Petting Area, a great place to feed and pet all the domestic animals that roam this miniature farm.
Safari North also has a mining sluice for experiencing how miners of the past discovered their treasure. Kids are always enthralled by the Dino Dig and a chance to make the next big discovery, as well as the play area featuring a playground and giant climb-on spider web. At the Jungle Jumpers attraction, see how your jumping ability stacks up against the jumping power of animals around the world.
Finally, brand new this year is the park’s 10-acre Safari Expedition where you’ll see lions, hyenas, monkeys, zebras, wildebeest, bison, eland, nilgai, ostrich, emu and more. Ten acres sounds like a big area, but not to worry, the zoo has a new locomotive train to make it an easy trip for everyone.
ANIMALS GALORE
Safari North hosts a wide array of mammals, reptiles, primates, birds and even some endangered species within its gates. These animals come from all over the world, specifically Asia, Africa, South America, Australia, and some from closer to our home here in North America.
On the park’s Africa trail, you can see a host of animals that you’d see if you were on safari, including flamingo, addax, hyena, wart hog, monkeys, porcupine, tortoise, jackal, and kudu. The Asia trail takes you on a tour of the greatest continent, with opportunities to view antelope, water buffalo, leopards, macaque, deer, and tiger.
The diversity of climate and vegetation in South America makes those animals unique and often unusual. South American animals adapt to conditions ranging from the rain forests of the Amazon to the mountains and volcanoes of the Andes. On the park’s South America trail, you can view rhea, llama, alpaca, macaw, kinkajou, and brahma.
Most of the zoo’s animals representing Australia are unique to that continent. On this trail, you’ll enjoy seeing the kangaroo, wallaby, kookaburra, parrot and emu. In contrast to those exotic species, the North America trail features more familiar animals such as raccoon, fox, squirrel, bear, coyote, owl, eagle, cougar, alligator, wolf and bobcat.
VISIT THE ZOO BUT STAY AT THE BEACH
Unforgettable adventure awaits at Safari North Wildlife Park. Plan to spend the entire day to watch all the animal antics, experience all the activities and attractions, and take lots of photos at the various designated photo spots – don’t miss the giant grizzly and the waterwheel! The park has a “Snack Shack” with some great options for lunch, or just a quick snack and drink, as well as a gift shop with tons of souvenir items to remember the trip.
Don’t forget: no pets or outside food is allowed in the park, which is also smoke free. The zoo closes for the season on October 3, 2021, so plan now to get your visit in before the animals have to hibernate for winter. Contact us today to book your lakeside cabin and begin planning all your fun-filled vacation activities in lakes country. The wildlife is waiting for you!
If you find yourself with time to spare and can swap out work and the daily routine for a well-earned vacation, setting your travel sights on Gull Lake, Minnesota is a decision that’s sure to please. This scenic and inviting destination is loved by outdoor adventurers from near and far for its rolling hills, lush forests, tantalizing trails, and of course, options to get out on the water too! If you’re the type of traveler that likes to pair adventures in nature with time spent shopping and dining in style, Gull Lake and the many surrounding communities have plenty of that to enjoy as well.
Many travelers who head this way make renting a boat and getting out on the waves a top priority with good reason. Gull Lake and the surrounding bodies of water provide lovely views and ample opportunity for fun as well. While time leisurely boating is always a delight, there’s something special about spending time casting a line when the waters of Gull Lake call your name. Not feeling up to taking on the task on your own? Not to worry! Bobby G’s guided fishing charters have you covered and are a great way to spend quality time fishing in Gull Lake.
All About Bobby G
Bobby G, short for Bob Gessell, is one of Gull Lake’s most trusted fishing guides and the ideal option for those looking to make the most of an on-the-water experience whenever they come to town. Bobby G’s passion has always been fishing, and sharing his area insight and knowledge with his guests makes for an engaging experience every time. A married father of three children, Bobby G has been offering guided fishing services in the Gull Lake area since 2004 and is happy to customize each tour to match his guest’s experience level.
What a Guided Fishing Experience Entails
From walleyes and bass to pan fish and brown trout, the waters that surround the Gull Lake and Brainerd Lakes region are flush with opportunities to reel in something exciting. Making sure anglers are comfortable while finding those fishing hot spots is a specialty that Bobby G brings to the table. Guests who book a guided fishing tour will hop onboard a V2090 Warrior fiberglass fishing boat that boasts a 200 hp, four-stroke engine. The vessel is comfortable, stylish, and powerful enough to make moving from one fishing spot to another as smooth as ever.
Enjoy Customized Experiences on the Water
Booking a guided fishing experience with Bobby G is not only fun, it’s easy to customize as well. Guests can pick and choose between everything from a two-hour family fishing experience to a half-day on the water. Looking for more? Bobby G offers six-hour guided tours upon request, as well as a full day of fun when you’re looking to maximize every moment of your time!
What’s Included and What You’ll Need to Bring
No matter what type of tour you select, guests can expect convenient pickup service and delivery to the lake, making the start to the experience seamless. Access to Bobby G’s Warrior V2090 is always part of the process, and guests are often thrilled to find the vessel is fully equipped with state-of-the-art rods and reels.
There’s no need to worry about tackle and bait when you book your tour, and guests will always have access to US Coast Guard life preservers while onboard. Fish cleaning and packaging are available to tour guests at no extra cost, and there’s an underwater camera available for use if you’d like to add that in too!
While there’s much included with every tour, guests should plan to wear weather-appropriate boat wear as well as a sun hat for those reflective lake days. Packing suntan lotion and sunglasses is highly recommended, as well as packing some snacks and beverages for the ride.
You’ll need to have a Minnesota fishing license to enjoy this journey, and a camera always comes in handy for capturing great moments. Have a favorite fishing rod you prefer to use? Be sure to bring it along!
Book Your Gull Lake Getaway Today
Knowing you’re headed to Gull Lake with adventures waiting to greet you in abundance is always a treat. Knowing you’ve booked rental accommodations that are stylish, comfortable, and keep you close to the fun makes it that much better. Guests who book their stay with Gull Lake Beach Resorts can count on enjoying the convenience and elegance they deserve from a getaway at every turn. From vaulted ceilings to waterfront views, the Gull Lake Beach Resorts team is here to handle requests of all types in order to perfectly customize each stay. Reach out today to learn more and to start planning your next exciting trip to Gull Lake. We can’t wait to welcome you to beautiful Minnesota soon!
Getting out of your daily routine and setting aside dedicated time to enjoy a great getaway is always a good idea! When you’re the type of traveler who’s on the hunt for a scenic destination that pairs outdoor adventure with in-town options for fun, there’s no better place to set your travel sights than gorgeous Gull Lake, Minnesota. This vibrant and inviting locale is loved by visitors from near and far for its on-the-water adventure, tantalizing hiking trails, and of course, savory stops to enjoy along the way. When you’re putting the finishing touches on your itinerary and need to add a few bar stops with friends, the following are three bars on Gull Lake you won’t want to miss!
Ernie’s on Gull
Situated at 10424 Squaw Point Road in bustling Brainerd, Ernie’s on Gull has long been a favorite waterfront stop for visitors and locals alike. Open 11:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. daily with extended hours until 11:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, Ernie’s on Gull is a casual and welcoming destination that features fantastic fare and the views made to match. While some come for the savory steak selections, many more find their way here in the name of pursuing well-earned moments settled in at the scenic patio bar. The fresh-air lakeside deck is sure to delight while you sip a Gull Lake evening away with a cocktail, wine, or beer in hand. Ernie’s on Gull is known for their live musical performances, particularly in the summer months, only adding to the overall welcoming vibe and fun appeal. If you drop by and happen to have a passion for locally brewed beverages, Ernie’s on Gull is proud to provide 22 taps right on site!
Zorbaz
For an enticing twist on the traditional bar experience, head over to Zorbaz at 8105 Lost Lake Road in Lake Shore. Zorbaz offers guests a hybrid culinary experience paired with fantastic cocktail selections that are sure to inspire the tastebuds! Here, guests can enjoy everything from pizza piled high with customized topping to traditional Mexican dishes that come with plenty of spice and bold flavors included. While Zorbaz offers up an extensive selection of beer and wine that can be enjoyed on an open-air patio complete with colorful lighting schemes, it’s perhaps the house margarita that you just won’t want to overlook. Whether you pair your perfect evening beverage with a burrito or a slice, Zorbaz is a one-stop shop for a good time for all!
Dock 77
If you find yourself in the Nisswa area of Gull Lake, a drink or perhaps even a dinner enjoyed at Dock 77 is a must. This bar and grill located at 9820 Birch Bay Drive SW is a fun, casual, and inviting place to roll up or sail up for a savory treat any time of day between 11:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. Much as the name of this bar indicates, Dock 77 enjoys a waterside locale that’s perfect for those arriving for the fun by land or sea. This bar and grill is a great place to enjoy a round of ribs, smoked meats, or a savory catch of the day. No plate is complete without pairing it with beer, wine, or a handcrafted cocktail made to inspire the fun in everyone! From martinis and margaritas to spritzers and mojitos, it’s easy to fall into a lakeside state of mind at Dock 77. Beer is available on tap or by the bottle and the ciders in stock are just as enjoyable. This bar and grill are glad to open its doors to the public year-round, making it a great place to be no matter what brings you to Gull Lake or when you happen to arrive in town.
Book Your Gull Lake Stay Today
There’s never been a better time to put work and daily responsibilities aside and focus on planning a fantastic and fun getaway to beautiful Gull Lake, Minnesota! Some well-earned rest and relaxation have a way of renewing the mind and body, and knowing you’re booked into accommodations that keep you close to the fun adds inspiration! When you’re ready to turn travel plans into a reality, Gull Lake Beach Resorts is here to help. Our rentals are comfortable, luxurious, and provide waterfront views that guests can enjoy every day of their stay. Reach out today to learn more about our versatile property options in the area and to start planning your next Minnesota-bound adventure!
After more than a year of pandemic-related lockdowns, postponed plans, and canceled trips, 2021 is looking to be the year of some restoration in the way of fun, creativity, and socialization. For those who happen to be making their way to the Gull Lake region of Minnesota this summer, there’s no better way to step back into the world of exciting events and gatherings than by booking your tickets to Lakes Jam 2021 in Brainerd!
Considered so much more than a traditional music festival by locals and visitors alike, Lakes Jam is shaping up to be one of the most exciting area events yet—especially in light of newfound post-pandemic opportunities. Find summer vibes at their finest when you spend time at this exciting Brainerd event this year. Whether you’re a first-time Jammer or excited to make a grand return, there promises to be something fun for everyone!
Event Specifics
This year, Lakes Jam will be hosted between June 24th and June 26th at Brainerd International Raceway on Birchdale Road in Brainerd. Over the course of these three high-energy days, guests will enjoy a full lineup of entertainment options that are sure to thrill!
Musical Performances
Just like its name implies, Lakes Jam is a destination that caters to music lovers from near and far and the crowds gather to make the most of some incredible performances. Big names take to the stage throughout Lakes Jam 2021 including the likes of the Brothers Osborne, RATT, Hairball, Matt Stell, Runaway June, The Plot Hounds, Larry Fleet, Jon Pardi, and more! Complete with a state-of-the-art stage and breathtaking sound system, these live concerts put festival goers right in the heart of the creative vibe and deliver up an outdoor concert experience that’s quite unlike any other.
Activities Beyond the Music
What makes Lakes Jam 2021 such an exceptional experience is the fact that beyond the music, this festival is filled with unique and fun activities to enjoy. Those who’ve purchased their festival pass can pick and choose between options like watercross, drift car racing, lawnmower racing, poker tournaments, bean bag tournaments, and even costume contests!
Watercross events feature high horsepower sleds racing an oval course on the waves. Drift car competitions will provide viewers with the option to observe vehicles navigating a track at up to 100mph thanks to modified engines that push 700Hp. Lawnmower races are a fun-for-everyone event, while poker tournaments promise to be a challenge that highlights who has the best poker face in town. To participate in the tournament requires 2000 in chips and the tournament revolves around 20-minute rounds.
The bean bag competitions and costume contests are ideal for participants of all ages and while there is a $20 participation fee, the rewards are worth the effort. Prizes range from two- to three-day festival tickets to free merch to keep as a souvenir of the fun!
Those who have tickets to the Lakes Jam 2021 musical performances can enhance their experience by booking backstage tours or meet-and-greet events that give you a chance to come face-to-face with some of your favorite artists.
Festival Logistics and Ticketing
Planning in advance is the best way to make the most of your Lakes Jam 2021 experience and there are plenty of options available when it comes to customizing ticket purchases. Festival participants can choose to purchase a three-day pass to savor every day of the fun at multiple tier options ranging from general admission to VIP. Single-day passes to the event are also available upon request and can be purchased as VIP experiences or general admission options.
If you’re planning on attending a musical performance and would prefer reserved seating, it’s possible to add that extra to your event pass for up to the entire three days! While general admission tickets provide access to the main concert bowl, VIP tickets allow guests to make their way to the front of the stage and enjoy a close-up experience with the artists and music they admire.
In addition to an amazing view, VIP ticket holders at Lakes Jam 2021 will enjoy access to complimentary soda, water, food, and beer as well as designated restroom access, covered dining areas, and exciting musical performances that happen in between the main stage performances!
Book Your Gull Lake Getaway and Enjoy Lakes Jam 2021
Whether you’re in town for Lakes Jam 2021 or headed this way any other time of year, the property professionals at Gull Lake Beach Resorts have the accommodations you need to keep you living luxuriously and close to the fun. Reach out today to learn more!
Spending quality time with your significant other is important and planning regular date nights is key to keeping a relationship on point. Having an amazing destination to make the most of the fun always helps and those looking to enhance the experience will want to be sure to plan a date night during their time away in Gull Lake, Minnesota. This welcoming locale and its surrounding communities make for an exciting place to spend time together, get outdoors, and enjoy activities that provide for bonding. When you’re putting together the list of Gull Lake attractions for a date night you don’t want to miss, the following should definitely top the list!
Ernie’s on Gull Lake
Deciding on just the right dinner spot may be the most important part of planning a date night. Fortunately for those who find themselves in the Gull Lake area, there are plenty of savory options to choose from! If you’re on the hunt for a casual and welcoming lakeside eatery, Ernie’s on Gull Lake is the place to be. Located at 10424 Squaw Point Road, Ernie’s on Gull Lake is an area favorite hotspot and one of the popular Gull Lake attractions where couples can settle in waterside or in the dining room and enjoy everything from steak and burgers to mouthwatering sandwiches and pasta too. No matter what you select, you’ll want to be sure to pair it with a handcrafted cocktail to top it all off. Ernie’s is a great place to make the most of the view as well as the many live musical performances that grace their calendar.
Go Bowling at Jack’s House in Brainerd
If a touch of friendly competition would take your date night to the next level of excitement, heading over to Jack’s House in Brainerd is a must! Get ready to play a frame or two with the one you love most at this welcoming and exciting stop that’s sure to inspire couples from near and far. Jack’s House is located at 300 MN-25 South and is open Tuesday through Friday from 11:00 am until 10:00 pm, Saturdays from 11:30 am until 10:00 pm, and Sundays from 1:00 pm until 6:00 pm. A variety of food and drink options are readily available at Jack’s House, guaranteeing your date night fun will be as savory as it is thrilling.
Take a Lakeside Stroll or Sunset Sail
Sometimes, it’s the simple things that make a date night memorable. When you’re in the Gull Lake area and you’re looking to spend quality time with your significant other, a lakeside stroll could be just the ticket. Gull Lake is a destination brimming over with spectacular scenery and making the most of the landscape could begin with a hand-in-hand walk that’s straightforward, yet unforgettable. This area boasts a multitude of pathways to choose from that provide inspiring vistas and plenty of time to enjoy good conversation in a leisurely setting.
Of course, if you’re up for something even more romantic, booking a sunset sail with the team at Gull Lake Cruises is bound to be inspiring. Headquartered at 11000 Craguns Drive in Brainerd, Gull Lake Cruises provides options to book private sails onboard multi-level vessels with stunning views to be enjoyed from every vantage point.
Northland Kart Kountry
When adrenaline-pumping fun is more your date night style, Northland Kart Kountry is calling your name. Located at 17568 MN-371 in Brainerd, Northland Kart Kountry is a one-stop-shop for all things go-karting fun! Grab your helmet and jump on in for a ride you won’t soon forget. You’ll be enjoying thrilling speeds as you race to the finish line in style. There are three go-kart tracks on-site to choose from, but this stop provides plenty of other date night fun activities too. Take advantage of access to bumper boats, water wars, and a video arcade for endless fun options that will keep you and your loved one laughing the night away. This stop even includes a climbing wall when you’re looking to earn a new and heightened perspective on date night!
Whistling Wolf and Dark Moon Mini Golf
There’s something quintessentially romantic about a date night mini-golf adventure and that’s just what you’ll find at Whistling Wolf and Dark Moon Mini Golf in Crosslake. Marketed as a mega mini-golf course, this stop features no less than 27 holes to enjoy! Grab your club and sense of adventure as you make your way through a maze of challenging and whimsical designs that are sure to satisfy amateurs and avid mini golfers alike.
Book Your Stay and Enjoy Gull Lake Attractions
When you’re ready to enjoy a Minnesota-bound adventure, the team at Gull Lake Beach Resorts is happy to help make sure you’re settled into accommodations that are stylish, comfortable, and always close to the fun. Reach out to our professional team today to learn more about our many property options and how we can help you start planning your next Gull Lake trip.