Taking time out of a busy schedule to enjoy a great getaway is always a delight, particularly for those families that are lucky enough to spend time in Gull Lake, Minnesota! The following are a few of the many exciting family-friendly summer activities in Minnesota to add to the itinerary when summer travel plans bring you this way.
Get Out on the Water and Cast a Line
Spending time with the family this summer in Gull Lake, Minnesota promises to be an exciting experience—especially for those who set aside time to get out on the water and cast a line! You don’t even have to be experts to make the most of the fishing fun when a summer trip to Gull Lake is in your sights. The water is here is brimming over with exciting species to reel in year-round and if you’re not up for an independent adventure, take time to book a fishing charter instead. Many of these local charters have options to customize your experience on the waves to either a half- or full-day tour. The gear you need to make the most of the fun is often included in the charter price and knowledgeable and friendly guides can offer up insight into where to go to be most productive as well as point out interesting sights along the way! Gull Lake is known for its Northern Pike, panfish, and walleye just to name a few. When you’re looking to book your summer charter, Nisswa Guides League, Walleyedan’s Guide Service, and Brainerd Guide Service are all great fishing charter companies to consider.
Cruise the Lake in Style
Time on the water is certainly a highlight of many family visits to Gull Lake, Minnesota year over year. If you’re the type of family that can’t wait to embrace the cruising style, there are options here just waiting for you! Gull Lake Cruises offers a great yacht experience that guests of all ages can appreciate and enjoy during a Gull Lake getaway. This yacht is fondly referred to as the North Star and can easily accommodate up to 70 guests at a time with options to book private cruise experiences available upon request. Cruises through this company run May through October, giving summer travelers every opportunity to reserve their place in advance. Cruise options range from evening dining to full sightseeing excursions that will be both educational and engaging for everyone! The North Star hosts a sprawling outdoor observation deck so guests can make the most of the Gull Lake view whether they’re sailing during the day or evening hours. There’s also an indoor salon to make for a cozy sail with a focus on a fantastic view even if the winds pick up.
Enjoy Some Friendly Competition on the Mini-Golf Course
While the options for on-the-water fun abound in Gull Lake, Minnesota, those traveling with family looking forward to a little land-based friendly competition will want to make sure they head over to Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf at least once during their visit. This whimsical destination is found at 17992 MN-371 in Brainerd and offers up a full pirate-themed experience on the charming greens! It’s great for all ages, complete with plunging waterfalls and skull-shaped caves as well as fun obstacles to overcome and colorful elements that make for an eye-catching experience from start to finish. During your round, you’ll want to be sure to keep your eyes open for the many bridges to traverse, as well as the dungeons and pirate ship too! The surrounding foliage is lush giving mini-golfers a real sense of stepping into another world. Kids under three play for free, and the course is open Fridays from 11:00 am until 8:00 pm, Saturdays between 10:00 am and 8:00 pm, and Sundays from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm.
Visit the Crosslake Area Historical Society
Those families that value a stop that’s as educational as it is fun will love every minute spent at the Crosslake Area Historical Society. Situated at 35404 CO Rd 3 in Crosslake, this historical stop is one for the books. Guests are invited to stop by on Saturdays and Sundays between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm to explore the center and grounds. When you’re here, it’s easy to step back in time and get a sense of what life has been like in the Gull Lake region through the centuries. The center hosts a historic log village to explore that includes everything from a replica town hall to a general store and saloon too. The kids in your family will likely love the chance to step through the old schoolroom that’s completely furnished with the chalkboard and desks little ones would have used in years past.
Book Your Getaway Today
Summer in Gull Lake, Minnesota is always an exceptional experience and when you’re looking for luxurious accommodations to keep you close to the fun, Gull Lake Beach Resorts can help. Reach out today to learn more about our incredible lineup of options and to start planning your next trip!
Gull Lake, Minnesota is a gorgeous and welcoming place to enjoy year-round, but there’s something particularly appealing about a summer getaway this direction. Whether you’re one for outdoor adventure or you’re craving a relaxing and restorative vacation, Gull Lake has something wonderful waiting for you. From the lush terrain mazed with hiking trails to the clear waters that beckon boats, swimmers, and anglers alike, there’s something for everyone to enjoy under the summer sun. When you’re ready to pack a suitcase and make your way to Gull Lake, the following is your summer guide to making the most of the fun that awaits! Consider this a starting point to a one-of-a-kind summer in Gull Lake adventure that will certainly have you planning a return trip before you’ve even finished this first adventure.
Activities to Enjoy During Your Summer Getaway
Making the most of a summer adventure to Gull Lake, Minnesota often means focusing some fun on the water! Gull lake is a sprawling place to explore and discover something new and a great way to do just that at your very own pace is with a rental boat. Fortunately, those looking forward to time on the waves will find there plenty of options whether you’re up for renting a pontoon, kayak, canoe, fishing boat or something in between. Both Lake Fun Rentals in Nisswa and Your Boat Club Gull Lake in Lake Shore are great places to start your search when you’re ready to leave the land in distance and enjoy every second of your watery adventure. For the ultimate convenience, simply rent one of our vessels and it will be docked near your cabin. The Gull Lake Beach Resorts fleet features a variety of pontoon and fishing boats to meet any party’s needs.
Of course, if you’re a traveler who prefers a guided on-the-water experience with some flavor and fun to match, booking a cruise while you’re visiting in the summer is definitely the way to go! Gull Lake Cruises is a premier provider of sightseeing and dinner cruises in this area and is wonderful place to book an experience you won’t soon forget. Headquartered at 11000 Craguns Drive in Brainerd, Gull Lake Cruises is open daily from 9:00 am until 9:00 pm. Travelers who book a cruise through this company will enjoy options that make for a customized experience on the waves. Your Gull Lake escape will start with boarding a luxury yacht where you’ll find two levels and two separate onboard bars to enjoy while you sail. Day and evening dining and sightseeing cruises can be booked through Gull Lake Cruises whether you’re looking to make it a group event or prefer a private experience. The yacht’s spacious observation deck provides a place to take in unobstructed and undeniably scenic views of the surrounding landscape from a vantage point on the water. With Gull Lake Cruises, your sightseeing is taken to a new level of excellence with every trip.
Add Some Adrenaline into the Mix
For those who prefer adrenaline-pumping fun built into their summer Gull Lake getaway, spending time at Brainerd Zip Line Tour is a must. Located at 9898 County Road 77 SW in Nisswa near the Mount Ski Gull Area, Brainerd Zip Line Tour is a tantalizing place to defy gravity and take your adventure to new heights. Touted as the very best way to see the Brainerd Lakes region, a zip line tour here promises to be an unforgettable adventure from start to finish. This 2.5-hour guided experience takes visitors across not one, but seven zip lines as well as a 50-foot free fall jump and a suspended sky bridge to top it all off. The views are impeccable, and the challenge is well-worth the effort just to get that bird’s eye view of the terrain. In fact, the zip line park boasts 15 miles worth of views from its elevated Mount Ski Gull vantage point. Those who visit Brainerd Zip Line Tour need to be at least 10 years old, weight 70-250 pounds and be wearing closed-toe shoes to enjoy the fun. A reservation is required in advance, and you’ll need to sign a wavier before you head off on your adventure!
Hike or Bike Your Way to Adventure
If you’re the type of traveler that prefers time on the ground rather than an elevated view, hiking or biking your way through a summer Gull Lake stay is sure to inspire. There are a variety of trails that wind through this region that are just right for trekking or cycling alike. The Paul Bunyan Access Trail is a great place to start your adventure if you want to customize your day on the route according to skill level and pace. Fritz Loven Park in nearby Lake Shore is a particularly appealing hiking destination while the Gull Lake Recreation Area hosts a multitude of trail access points in tandem with playgrounds, flower beds and lush scenery to enjoy.
Find Your Fishing Stride on Gull Lake
For avid anglers excited to get out on the water and cast a line, Gull Lake is a gorgeous and lucrative place to wait for a bite. Many anglers come here with plans to make it a solo adventure on the water, but chartered fishing experiences are just as easy to access when you’re in town over the summer. Boggs Fishing Adventures in Lake Shore, Walleydan’s Guide Service in Nisswa and Todd Andrist in Brainerd are all great places to start when you’re looking for a guided fishing experience where gear is included in the booking cost. No matter which company you select, anglers will find that the waters of Gull Lake are stocked with a variety of exciting species including pan fish, walleye, and northern pike just to name a few.
Focus on the Family Fun
When your summer getaway to Gull Lake happens to be in the company of the entire family, having some family-friendly stops to add to the itinerary is essential. Luckily, Gull Lake and the surrounding communities are packed with places to enjoy when you’re traveling with adventurers of all ages and interests. Consider heading over to Northland Kart Kountry Family Fun Park when go-karting sounds like just your family’s style. This stop is a great place to let everyone get behind the wheel and engage in a little friendly competition on the track. Northland Kart Kountry even has lower-powered junior karts to help younger kids get in on the fun safely. When you’ve had your fill of excitement on the track, this stop also hosts a 23-foot climbing wall with five different routes to choose as you make your way towards the top. Between the basketball trampoline area and the 18-hole mini golf course, you’ll find it easy to linger at Northland Kart Kountry and possibly return a time or two during your stay!
On a mild weather day, mini golf options can be expanded at places like Pirates Cove near Gull Lake. Pirates Cove Adventure Golf is located at 17992 MN-371 in Brainerd and provides guests with two 18-hole courses of fun in a pirate-themed space that’s sure to delight. The course comes complete with waterfalls and caves dotting the terrain and is a great place to bring golf enthusiasts of all ages. This stop is a budget-friendly choice as well if you’re traveling with little ones because all kids three and under play for free!
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind way to enjoy the weather and Minnesota views with the family, head over to Pine River Stables at least once during your visit and enjoy some time on the trails. Located at 2301 40th Avenue SW in Pine River, these stables are open daily from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm. Here, visitors will have access to over 240 acres of lush terrain where they can learn to ride or simply enjoy the adventure if they’re experienced. The stables are home to over 130 trained horses and on-site staff are equipped to give lessons, introduce riding equipment, and guide you and your crew on a one-of-a-kind excursion via horseback. Trail rides here offer up a chance to enjoy wildlife spotting along the way. Commonly spotted creatures include everything from deer and otters to porcupines and more.
Attractions to Check Out
For those summer travelers who are looking to cool off beyond the waters of Gull Lake, making time for a trip to the Nisswa Family Fun Waterpark is always a good choice. Situated at 4871 Co Road 77, this stop is open daily between 11:00 am and 6:00 pm in the summer. From the many rides and attractions to the waterslides and splash pools, time here is a chill experience that’s always well-spent. This is a popular summer stop for many visitors so be sure to show up early to get the best poolside spots and to make the most of the fun.
If you’re a summer adventurer who’s looking for moments during your getaway to really connect with nature, making time for a visit to Pillsbury State Forest will be a highlight of your stay. The terrain here is truly inspiring, and the protected landscape is home to a wide variety of thriving creatures and habitats too. The forest was first designated protected land in 1900 and continues to capture the minds and imaginations of visitors year after year. Settled into the heart of Cass County, Pillsbury State Forest is a great place to hike, bird watch, or bring a camera and capture the view if photography is your passion.
When you’re a Gull Lake summer visitor with a passion for the past, history comes to life with a visit to the Crow Wing County Historical Society. Located at 320 Laurel Street in Brainerd, this museum is a must for anyone looking to learn more about the Gull Lakes region’s rich past. The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am until 3:00 pm and hosts a wide variety of exhibits and displays that tell the story of this area in a unique way. Historical pamphlets, books, records, photographs, and videos are available to browse when you’re looking to bring the past to life in vivid style.
Restaurants to Savor During Your Stay
Taking time to unwind, relax, and plan for moments of fun in Gull Lake during the summer is easy to do. However, it’s bound to lead to an appetite that needs attending at one point or another. Fortunately, those who can’t wait to savor a stay will find that Gull Lake is packed with flavorful stops to check out when cravings come calling. When your adventures have you longing for a relaxed place where you can order up everything from pizza and Mexican dishes to traditional Minnesota favorites, a stop at Zorbaz is sure to please. Found at 8105 Lost Lake Road in Lake Shore, this restaurant is open daily from 11:00 am until 2:00 am. It’s a versatile eatery with plenty of options to enjoy as well as friendly service and a colorful setting to settle into. Whether you go with a burrito and a beer or a slice of pepperoni and a Coca-Cola, your tastebuds will certainly thank you for the experience.
When lakeside steakhouse dining is more your style, Ernie’s on Gull is a great choice. Located at 10424 Squaw Point Road in Brainerd, Ernie’s on Gull provides dining service to guests daily in the summer months between 11:00 am and 11:00 pm. This casual steakhouse is a great place to enjoy a sensational sirloin when hunger strikes but is just as suited for the guest who is longing for a handcrafted cocktail they can sip on the patio. Live musical performances are hosted here throughout the summer, giving visitors a chance to pair their plate with some exciting entertainment.
Book Your Stay Today
There’s never been a better time to book your Gull Lake getaway and when you’re ready to turn travel plans into a reality, the property professionals at Gull Lake Beach Resorts are here to help. Reach out today to learn more about our many luxurious rental options across the Gull Lake region and how we can help you start planning your trip. We’ll make sure you’re settled into a home away from home that meets your getaway plans perfectly. We can’t wait to see you in Minnesota soon!
There are times in life when a vacation booked for a high-energy destination is in the cards. There are other times when a secluded summer rental is the right choice. This year, consider taking a breath and a beat and enjoying the peace, tranquility, and opportunity that awaits in a secluded rental option. The following are just a few of the many reasons you’ll love a secluded rental near Gull Lake—don’t be surprised if it becomes your new favorite vacation mode!
Make the Most of Time in Nature
When life gets busy and stress builds, one of the best routes to resetting your internal sense of calm is to simply take time to get into nature. Booking a secluded rental for summer vacation is a great chance to immerse yourself in natural beauty and step away from triggers that keep tension levels high. As you take time to appreciate your surroundings and connect with the basics, you’ll be able to feel that stress melt away one beautiful view, hike, or stroll at a time.
Enjoy Quality Family Bonding Time
For all of the beauty a secluded rental for summer vacation offers up, it’s also a chance to unwind and spend some quality, uninterrupted time with your family. In an age of endless digital distractions, making the most of quality time with those you love is sometimes easier said than done. Booking a stay that keeps you away from the daily grind, responsibilities, and maybe even the phone is a great way to reconnect with family and enjoy each other’s company. Scenic surroundings also provide endless options for fun activities that can be enjoyed together as a group. From family walks to time on the water, your secluded summer rental is a gateway to refocusing on spending that much-needed time together.
Take an Opportunity to Reset the Mind and Body Without Distractions
Despite what the ads may tell you, you don’t have to shell out the big bucks to attend a high-profile yoga or meditation retreat when you can get the same results by booking a secluded summer vacation rental of your very own. Many group yoga and meditation retreats are designed to help participants enjoy time away and a chance to focus on the internal without external distractions; that’s exactly what a secluded vacation rental can provide! Consider booking a stay this summer that offers up peaceful surroundings far from any bustling city centers. Here, you can enjoy time meditating, practicing yoga, and reconnecting with yourself in the same way you would if you were to reserve your place at a retreat.
Find Inspiration Away from the Crowds
If you’re a traveler who also happens to be an artist dealing with any type of creative block, booking a stay in a secluded rental could be the answer you’ve been searching for. Sometimes, a new destination, peaceful scenery, and a chance to reflect stress-free is all it takes to open the creative floodgates once again. Even if you’re not having any type of writer’s or artist’s block, a secluded stay could offer up some unexpected inspiration that you can carry home with you and include in your next creative project!
You’ll Be Able to Focus on Hobbies You Love
Life is full of distractions. There are a million reasons to focus on work and responsibilities and put those hobbies and activities we’re actually passionate about on the back burner. When you book a secluded vacation rental in the summer, you’ll have an opportunity to reverse that pattern for once! Taking time out of a busy schedule to focus on those activities you love is refreshing and revitalizing. Feel free to make it a stay where you spend time practicing an instrument, listening to music, reading, writing, or exploring the great outdoors. As long as it’s something you’re passionate about, it’s worth your while.
You’ll Be Doing Something Different, and That’s a Good Thing
Breaking out of the routine from time to time is important for personal growth. If you’re a person that tends to stick to rigid schedules, making time to book a stay in a secluded vacation rental where there is no to-do list involved could be an amazing and new experience for you! Getting outside of your comfort zone is a good way to see what else you might enjoy. If you’re someone who always books vacations to bustling city centers, changing things up with a secluded and scenic stay could be a good way to dig a bit deeper and enjoy something new on every level. Give it a try!
Book Your Gull Lake Getaway Today
When you’re ready to turn your Gull Lake getaway plans into a reality, the team at Gull Lake Beach Resorts is here to help. Reach out today to learn more about our many rental property options in the area. We can’t wait to see you in Minnesota soon!
If you’re looking for an early summer escape full of natural beauty and lakeside fun, look no further than Gull Lake. You and your group will enjoy plenty of fun Gull Lake things to do, both indoors and outdoors, on the water and off the water. There is something for everyone to while away the time and relax and unwind at Gull Lake.
Splash Pad
If you have some “littles” in your group who may not be able to participate in all of the “big kid” activities, make sure to schedule in some time at the splash pad. A fun way to cool off and play in the water for youngsters or non-swimmers, the interactive, zero-depth play area includes misters, cascading, flowing, and sprinkling water structures, and much more.
Campfire Circle
Put a cap on any day of your Gull Lake escape with time around one of the lake’s campfire circles. Roast s’mores, star gaze, or just watch the flames and pass the time recounting the day’s adventures with friends and family before turning in for a good night’s sleep.
Water Activities
Your lakeside vacation is guaranteed to be packed with tons of fun water-themed activities. Spend some time on the lake in your own vessel, in a rented pontoon, or in one of our loaner kayaks or canoes (first come, first served). Rent some fishing gear and catch lunch or dinner from the 70-foot fishing dock. Splash around in the water, try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding, or hop on our Aqua Lily Pad. After all the water fun, dry off and have a lakeside picnic lunch or dinner.
High Adventure
Challenge yourself and get your adrenaline pumping. Adventures like ziplining continue to be popular, and Gull Lake has its very own course! At Brainerd Zipline Tour, located at Mount Ski Gull in Pillsbury State Forest not far from Gull Lake, you’ll catch views of the Brainerd Lakes area and take in the gorgeous surroundings during the 2.5-hour tour. There’s even a 50-foot free fall drop as an optional end to your experience.
Gull Lake Things to Do Indoors
If the weather isn’t cooperating with your lake plans, Gull Lake has many indoor activities to keep you busy when the weather isn’t at its best. Choose from sports like basketball, volley, and glow bowling to activities like foosball, pool, table tennis, and air hockey. Try your hand at the indoor climbing wall or spend some time with your artistic side and create tie-dye items, edible sand art sculpture, and more.
Archery
Ready, aim, fire! Archery is one of the oldest activities dating back tens of thousands of years. It’s a skill many still use today for hunting, but over the years it has become a competitive sport as well. Whether you’re a skilled marksman or just want to try out a new activity, make sure to spend some time at the outdoor archery ranges. Aim for a bullseye as you challenge your friends or family to do the same.
Beaches
It’s no secret: Gull Lake Beach Resorts has THE best beaches on Gull Lake! Many of our units are nestled directly on the beautiful sand beaches along the shoreline of Gull Lake, making it the perfect place for relaxing the day away and soaking up the early summer sun. Spread out your beach blanket and plant your beach umbrella for a day on the beach, and if the sun gets a little intense, take a dip in the water to cool off. Minnesota might be landlocked, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some amazing beach time on your freshwater vacation!
Biking
Grab a bike rental and head out and explore. Gull Lake is close to Northland Arboretum, the beginning of the Paul Bunyan Trail. The paved trail spans 120 miles, so you have plenty distance to roam and explore. The trail is great for all ages and ability levels and passes through small towns and plenty of gorgeous Minnesota scenery. The portion nearest Gull Lake is mostly flat and easy going. Watch for others enjoying the trail, including guests and locals on foot, rollerblading, or enjoying other trail activities.
Early Summer Getaway to Gull Lake
Enjoy your early summer getaway to Gull Lake and leave all your cares and worries at the door of your vacation rental provided by Gull Lake Beach Resorts. You’ll want to make sure all the fun and excitement of your vacation is reflected in your accommodations. After a long day of fun, gather together for a home-cooked meal in the fully equipped kitchen. Relax and unwind in the open living area with a book or your favorite movie or TV show. We have units to fit any size family or group. No matter what your vacation needs and style, we have a rental that is just right for you. Our premium units include upgrades like stainless steel appliances, granite counters, hardwood floors, flat-screen TVs and more!
Contact us today to plan your early summer getaway!