Crow Wing County Interactive Map Travel Guide

Introduction

Crow Wing County is a beautiful destination located in central Minnesota. The county boasts of a rich history, breathtaking natural landscapes, and a vibrant cultural scene. The Crow Wing County Interactive Map is an excellent resource for visitors looking to explore this region. In this travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

Paul Bunyan State Trail

The Paul Bunyan State Trail is a 120-mile trail that winds through forests, past lakes, and alongside rivers. The trail is perfect for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. It is a great way to explore the natural beauty of the region.

Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area

The Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area is a 5,000-acre park that boasts of clear lakes, rugged terrain, and an extensive bike trail system. Visitors can enjoy mountain biking, hiking, and even scuba diving in the park’s crystal-clear lakes.

Hidden Gems

Nisswa

Nisswa is a charming little town with unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the town’s main street, which is lined with historic buildings and beautiful gardens.

Brainerd International Raceway

The Brainerd International Raceway is a hidden gem for motorsports enthusiasts. The raceway hosts several events throughout the year, including drag racing, road racing, and autocross.

Food Scene

Pizza Ranch

Pizza Ranch is a local chain that serves up some of the best pizza in the region. The restaurant also offers a buffet with fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and other comfort foods.

Bar Harbor Supper Club

The Bar Harbor Supper Club is a classic supper club that serves up steaks, seafood, and cocktails. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and is popular with locals and visitors alike.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Visitors can save money by visiting the region during the off-season. Hotel rates and attraction prices are often lower during the fall and winter months. Additionally, visitors can save money by packing a picnic lunch and exploring the region’s many parks and forests.

Outdoor Adventures

Zip lining

The Brainerd Zip Line Tour is a thrilling way to experience the region’s natural beauty. The tour takes visitors through the forests and over the lakes on a series of zip lines and suspension bridges.

Fishing

Crow Wing County is home to numerous lakes and rivers, making it an excellent destination for fishing enthusiasts. Visitors can fish for walleye, northern pike, and bass in the region’s many waterways.

Historical Landmarks

Crow Wing County Historical Society

The Crow Wing County Historical Society is a museum that showcases the region’s history. Visitors can explore exhibits on the Ojibwe tribe, the fur trade, and the logging industry.

Paul Bunyan Land

Paul Bunyan Land is a theme park that celebrates the legend of Paul Bunyan. Visitors can meet Paul Bunyan and his trusty sidekick Babe the Blue Ox, ride amusement park rides, and enjoy live entertainment.

Family-Friendly Activities

Baxter Cinema

The Baxter Cinema is a family-friendly movie theater that offers affordable ticket prices and a welcoming atmosphere. The theater also serves food and drinks, making it a great spot for a family night out.

Northland Arboretum

The Northland Arboretum is a nature center that offers educational programs and outdoor activities for families. Visitors can hike, bike, and snowshoe through the center’s many trails.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Mount Ski Gull

Mount Ski Gull is a ski resort that offers skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. The resort also has a summer camp program that includes outdoor activities like archery, kayaking, and rock climbing.

Minnesota Fishing Museum

The Minnesota Fishing Museum is a unique attraction that showcases the history of fishing in the region. Visitors can see vintage fishing gear, boats, and even a fishing lure collection.

Natural Wonders

Gull Lake

Gull Lake is a beautiful lake that is popular with boaters and fishermen. The lake is surrounded by forests and is a great spot for picnicking and swimming.

Pillsbury State Forest

The Pillsbury State Forest is a vast wilderness area that is home to numerous hiking trails, camping sites, and fishing spots. The forest is also home to several rare and endangered plant species.

Vibrant Nightlife

The region has several bars and clubs that offer live music, karaoke, and other entertainment. Zorbaz on Gull Lake is a popular spot for drinks and dancing, while The Iron Rail in Crosby is a cozy bar that serves craft beers and cocktails.

Local Markets

The Brainerd Farmers Market is a popular spot for locals and visitors to buy fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts. The market is open on Saturdays from May to October.

Beaches and Mountains

Crosslake Recreation Area

The Crosslake Recreation Area is a beautiful spot for swimming and picnicking. The area has a sandy beach, a playground, and a picnic area with grills.

Mount Ski Gull

Mount Ski Gull is also a great spot for skiing and snowboarding. The resort has several runs for skiers of all levels, as well as a terrain park for snowboarders.

Cultural Immersion

Whitefish Chain of Lakes

The Whitefish Chain of Lakes is an important cultural site for the Ojibwe tribe. Visitors can learn about the tribe’s history and culture by taking a guided tour of the area.

Annual Pow Wow

The annual pow wow is a celebration of Native American culture and heritage. Visitors can enjoy traditional dancing, music, and food at the pow wow.

Art and Music Scene

Bruce the Spruce

Bruce the Spruce is a sculpture that was created by local artist Brian Ferrell. The sculpture is located in downtown Brainerd and is a popular spot for photos.

Brainerd Community Theatre

The Brainerd Community Theatre is a non-profit theater that offers productions throughout the year. The theater also hosts workshops and classes for aspiring actors and actresses.

Walking Tours

The Brainerd Historical Walking Tour is a self-guided tour that takes visitors through the city’s historic downtown area. Visitors can see historic buildings, hear stories about the city’s past, and learn about the region’s logging industry.

Architectural Marvels

Historic Water Tower

The historic water tower in Brainerd is a beautiful example of architecture from the early 1900s. The tower is still in use today and can be seen from several spots around the city.

Crosby Memorial Park

Crosby Memorial Park is a beautiful park that features a unique bandstand that was built in the 1920s. The bandstand is still used for community events and concerts today.

Historical Sites

The Northern Pacific Railroad Depot

The Northern Pacific Railroad Depot is a historic site that was once a bustling transportation hub. Today, the depot is a museum that showcases the region’s railroad history.

The Crow Wing County Courthouse

The Crow Wing County Courthouse is a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture. The courthouse was built in 1920 and is still in use today.

Biking Routes

The Northland Arboretum offers several biking trails that wind through forests and along lakes. The Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area also has an extensive bike trail system that offers scenic views of the region’s lakes and forests.

Wellness Retreats

Good Ol’ Days Resort

The Good Ol’ Days Resort is a wellness retreat that offers yoga classes, spa services, and healthy dining options. The resort is located on Gull Lake and offers stunning views of the water.