Bundle up for winter fun!
When the flakes start flying, the fun is just beginning at Grand View Lodge! Winter is one of the best times to visit northern Minnesota with its more relaxed atmosphere compared to the frenzy of summer.
There are plenty of activities to pursue whether we have snow or not. Take a look at some of our favorite winter activities to do here below and come see for yourself everything the Brainerd Lakes Area offers in the winter months!
Snow Activities
If winter weather advisories make you giddy, the following activities will be right up your alley!
Snowmobiling
Spend a day on the trails snowmobiling! Nisswa Adventure Rentals offers convenient snowmobile rentals with all the gear you will need just down the road from us at the resort. You won’t get bored with hundreds of miles to choose from for your ride, and be completely warm with the proper gear needed for a fun afternoon.
Nordic Skiing & Snowshoeing
Offering 8 kilometers of groomed trails for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, The Pines golf course serves as our winter recreation area. Enjoy the winter scenery of northern Minnesota while you get a workout at the same time!
Sledding
Every winter, guests of all ages have fun on our onsite sledding hill. Feel free to use one of our complimentary sleds or bring your own! Warm up afterwards with something hot to drink from Grand Outfitters or Brew.
Mount Ski Gull
If sliding down a hill is more your speed, Mount Ski Gull is just a short drive from Grand View and offers downhill skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. Have fun on the slopes and enjoy 15% off when you present your Grand View room key.
Non-Snow Activities
If we’re in between snowfalls, there is still plenty to do. Try one or all of the following activities.
Ice Fishing
Ice fishing is a Minnesota ritual everyone should experience! Gull Lake offers phenomenal ice fishing for a variety of species all winter long. If you’re a serious ice fisher or just want to experience one of the most fun and unique events in the Brainerd Lakes Area, visit us during the Ice Fishing Extravaganza, which is the largest charitable ice fishing tournament in the world.
Skating
Lace up your skates, pick one of our ice-skating rinks, and take in the fresh air as you glide across the smooth, lighted rink.
Take a swim or hot tub at NorthPark
After a day out in the cold, there is nothing more revitalizing than a soak in Minnesota’s largest hot tub, located right here at NorthPark! Or take a swim in our indoor pool. Either way, there will be plenty of room for you and your companions!
Horse-drawn wagon ride
See our beautiful property in a whole new way behind a pair of majestic horses. Marvel at the twinkling lights and scenery as you listen to the clip-clopping of the horses in the background.
Cookie decorating kits
Decorate your dessert with one of our cookie decorating kits! Each kit comes with 12 baked sugar cookies, frosting, and sprinkles to make your creation come to life before you enjoy them later.
Sample Beer, Wine, or Cocktails
Purchase one of our beer tasting kits from the front desk to create your own tasting experience or visit one of the many breweries in the Brainerd Lakes Area. Jack Pine, Roundhouse, 14 Lakes, Snarky Loon, Cuyuna Brewing, Woodlore Cider, and Big Axe are all within easy driving distance of the resort.
5Rocks Distilling in Brainerd is a family-owned distillery passionate about creating products that reflect the spirit of Minnesota. Sample their smooth and refreshing spirits or try one of their renowned cocktails.
If wine is more your thing, drive out to Dennis Drummond Winery, also located in the Brainerd Lakes area.
Indoor Golf
Book a tee time online and take a few swings at our state-of-the-art golf simulator, located at Freddy’s at The Pines! Equipped with the latest software, you can play a variety of courses around the world, or even The Pines and The Preserve. The whole family can enjoy a number of different practice modes and target games as well.
Spa
Spend a day treating yourself to a world-class spa experience at Glacial Waters Spa. Our esteemed spa completed an exciting new renovation and expansion this year, giving you more ways than ever to relax, rejuvenate, and unwind.
Sertoma Winter Wonderland
Make the short drive over to the Northland Arboretum for Winter Wonderland, presented by the Brainerd Noon Sertoma Club. View more than 80 beautiful holiday light displays as you stay warm in your vehicle on this drive-through tour. This exciting holiday event is in its 16th consecutive year and will run from November 24-December 31. Ticket and schedule information.
Shopping in Nisswa
Spend an afternoon exploring downtown Nisswa and browsing its many shops. If you get thirsty, grab a hot beverage at StoneHouse Coffee and Roastery or stop for a beer at Big Axe Brewing. Whether you are looking for seasonal essentials or fun gifts and more, Nisswa will have it.
Christmas Acres at Copper Creek Landscaping
From November 25-December 23, visit our neighbors at Copper Creek Landscaping for their annual Christmas Acres tradition. Featuring fun activities such as ornament decorating, hayrides, ice skating Santa Claus visits, classes and workshops, and more!
Book Your Winter Stay Today
The great thing about winter in northern Minnesota is that whether there is snow or not, you can still have fun. With stunning surroundings and activities galore for your entire family to enjoy, you have the freedom to spend as little or as much time outdoors as you like. Put on your puffy jacket, lace up your boots, and come pay us a visit! Book your winter getaway today!
