10 Date Ideas in Brainerd, MN 

February is traditionally the month of romance, but in Minnesota, it is also the “six more weeks of winter” season, which means different things to different people. We have created this list of 10 Date Ideas that can be crafted for romance or for getting together with friends and family. Dates aren’t just about romance—they are about connection—so you choose. We love providing tips and inspiration for experiencing Brainerd and Baxter. 

  1. Visit an art exhibit or museum. The art community in Brainerd/Baxter is rich and you will be able to find exhibitions at Central Lakes College, Crossing Arts Alliance, Crow Wing County Museum, and Franklin Arts Center. 
  2. Browse at a bookstore. Spend some time exploring the stacks of books at Cat Tales in downtown Brainerd. There are thousands of titles to peruse—it is a book-lover’s dream. While you are downtown, take some time to stroll a couple of blocks and visit the other shops and eateries. 
  3. Take a dance lesson. Spirit Movement Dance Studio provides private lessons for people at all levels of experience. What better way to learn something new and do something good for your body and soul? 
  4. Enjoy a snowshoe hike. Hiking in the fresh air under a sunny sky? You just can’t beat it. There are several trails in Brainerd and Baxter that you can explore but a favorite spot is the Northland Arboretum. Rent snowshoes and more at Easy Riders and do the trek.  
  5. Cook a special or fancy dinner together. Cooking dinner is a great way to spend some quality time together. Try out a new recipe or find some ingredients you don’t normally buy. Check out Morey’s Seafood Market, Von Hanson’s Meat Market, or Merciful International Market in Baxter for ingredients that you might not find everywhere.  
  6. Play board games. You can branch out with some strategy games like Settlers of Catan or Ticket to Ride, or just play timeless classics like Monopoly and Clue. Dragon Forge Games is the local game destination. 
  7. Grab some sweets with your sweetheart. If you in the market for great sweets, we’ve got you covered. There is the fudge counter at Christmas Point, hand-crafted chocolates at Fancy Pants Chocolates, specialty baked goods at Knotty Pine Bakery, and the best candy and craft popcorn shop at Goody’s Gourmet Treats. 
  8. Cozy up for the weekend at a hotel. Sometimes it’s nice to have a small change of scenery and let someone else make the bed. Stay at one of the nine hotels in Baxter and Brainerd and escape to the pool, hot tub, water park or in-room jacuzzi.  
  9. Craft something. Pick-up arts and crafts supplies at Jo-Ann’s, the Country Fabric store, or head to Minnesota Makerspace and do wood-working in the community workshop. The Purple Fern Bath Company has DIY candle-making.  
  10. Attend a show or concert. There are often live music and theater events to attend courtesy of Central Lakes Performing Arts Center, Lakes Area Music Festival, and Stage North Theater. Many of the breweries and downtown establishments are bringing back live music on the weekends too. 

No matter what piques your interest, there is something for everyone. Check out the Visit Brainerd events calendar or sign-up for the Weekly Round-up e-Newsletter to stay in the know. The business directory is a great resource too. Plan your date today. You won’t regret it.