Brainerd, Minnesota

New culinary energy, a buzzy minimalist resort and zippy activities both above and below the water are among the reasons to visit the Brainerd area— plus, of course, the 400 lakes.

For generations, dozens of resorts in the Brainerd area—130 miles northwest of the Twin Cities—have drawn travelers seeking laid-back lake escapes.

When winter's chill settles into Minnesota's Brainerd Lakes area, only the water comes to a standstill. This summertime destination stays hot after the weather turns cold.