Giveaways

PRIZE: Sunday, April 19

Stay & Play Package: $100 Gift Certificate to Quality Inn, $25 Gift Certificate to Rafferty’s and $20 to Stonehouse.

PRIZE: Saturday, April 18

Package: $50 Gift Certificate to Fine Line Salon & Spa

PRIZE: Friday, April 17

Stay & Play Package: $100 Gift Certificate to Days Inn & Suites, $25 to Baxter Cafe, and $25 to Coco Moon

PRIZE: Thursday, April 16

Package: $50 to Yesterday’s Gone

Winner: Roxanne K. from Fort Ripley, MN

Located in Downtown Brainerd, Yesterday’s Gone is hands-down one of the best local bar and grills in town. They’ve got an amazing food menu with fresh hand-pattied burgers that are dynamite, hand-battered onion rings, thick-cut bacon BLTs and so much more. Watch the game, play some pool or darts, or just get a drink and a bite to eat, but definitely make it downtown to discover this gem.

PRIZE: Wednesday, April 15

Package: Stay & Play Package: $100 to Comfort Suites Rapid River Lodge, $30 to Pirate’s Cove and $25 to Coco Moon

Winner: Tracy L. from Akeley, MN

Family fun awaits! There’s an adventure to be had with this stay and play package at the Comfort Suites Rapid River Lodge. With 68 suites, this property is perfect for a family get-away. Rooms are complete with sofa bed, refrigerator, microwave, hairdryer, iron and ironing boards, coffee makers, 25″ TV, over 50 cable channels & free HBO. There is also a huge water park with a 240 ft tube slide, 240 ft body slide and a lazy river complete with waterfall and rapids.

Then plunge into the legendary world of 18th century buccaneers at Pirate’s Cove – the original adventure golf. Putt your way through mountain caves, across a full-scale pirate ship, over footbridges and under cascading waterfalls – all amid a fun-filled atmosphere of meticulously-kept landscaping and enchanting pirate lore.

Then treat yourself with a stop at Coco Moon. It is a locally owned and operated coffee bar featuring a full menu with fresh-brews and traditional espresso drinks as well as non-coffee drinks such as tea, smoothies, and Italian sodas. They also have a wide selection of pastries and desserts including home-made muffins, cheesecake, scones, cookies, brownies, and much more.

PRIZE: Tuesday, April 14

Package: $50 to B Merri

Winner: Deborah O. from Mankato, MN

Located just minutes from downtown Brainerd on Country Road 3, B Merri is the new gastro pub at The Woods event center. With a menu that will wow you and tease your taste buds, there is something for everyone. It’s food you don’t always find in smaller communities and we’re excited to have it in the Brainerd-area. From the famous Build-Your-Own-Bruschetta to perfect pastas to magnificent main courses, make B Merri a stop the next time you Visit Brainerd.

PRIZE: Monday, April 13

Stay & Play Package: $100 Gift Certificate to Baymont Inn & Suites and $50 to Boomer Pizza

Winner: Bob W. from Cloquet, MN

Stay & Play in Brainerd/Baxter later this year with this fun package including lodging at the Baymont Inn & Suites and great food at Boomer Pizza. Enjoy the free Baymont Breakfast Corner, along with free WiFi throughout this pet-friendly hotel. Take a dip in their indoor heated pool, whirlpool or sauna, or work out in the fitness center. Rooms range in size and amenities with many offering king beds or full kitchens. This is a great lodging property in Baxter, MN, but close to all the area has to offer.

Boomer Pizza has what pizza-lovers crave…fresh wood-fired pizzas with a variety of ingredients to tempt your taste buds. Locally-owned and operated, Boomer Pizza’s mission is to serve-up pizzas that do more than fill the belly but pizzas that nourish the soul. It’s specialty pizza at it’s best.

PRIZE: Sunday, April 12

Package: $50 Gift Certificate to The Gallery

Winner: Liz K. from Aitkin, MN

PRIZE: Saturday, April 11

Package: $30 Gift Certificate to 612 Station and $25 to Roundhouse Brewery

Winner: Liesa T. from Baxter, MN

Located in downtown Brainerd the family-owned and -operated 612 Station brings delicious food and cold refreshing drinks in a fun family-friendly atmosphere. Whether it’s a delicious appetizer, savory burger, or home-style pasta, they’ve got something for everyone. This is also an excellent spot to find old pictures of Brainerd for the history buffs in the crowd.

At Roundhouse Brewery, they craft superior beers in a uniquely historic setting. Starting with the highest quality ingredients and a passion for the pursuit of an exceptional pint – they aim to brew and distribute unsurpassed beer to the Brainerd Lakes area and beyond. Experience great beer and discover some of the history and uniqueness of Brainerd at the same time.

PRIZE: Friday, April 10

Stay & Play Package: $100 Gift Certificate to Country Inn & Suites – Baxter, $25 to VR Odyssey and $25 to Cold Stone Creamery

Winner: Gerald L. from Stillwater, MN

Stay & Play in Brainerd/Baxter later this year with this fun package including lodging at the Country Inn & Suites. Put your feet up in one of their recently remodeled comfortable hotel rooms or suites. Connect to social media with the free Wi-Fi or take a break and watch an HBO movie. Chill a drink in the refrigerator and warm up leftovers in the microwave for a quiet night in. Start every morning with our free, hot breakfast and an invigorating workout in the fitness center. Take a relaxing swim in the heated indoor pool. Snuggle up with your dog each night in the comfort of our pet-friendly accommodations.

Then head into a virtual reality at the VR Odyssey gaming parlor. Duck, jump, crawl or swing an arm—your motion is carried into the program further convincing the brain that it’s responding to an actual “reality” courtesy of the HTC Vive headset. Within the headset are two separate screens viewed through the eye-ports which create the illusion of 3D.

Finally, cool down and relax at Cold Stone Creamery. Their ice cream is hand-crafted and made fresh in every store. Churned from the finest ingredients and mixed with your choice of candy, cakes, fruits or nuts on a frozen granite stone they proudly serve the best tasting, super-premium, made-to-order ice cream you’ve ever had.

PRIZE: Thursday, April 9

Package: $50 Gift Certificate to The Local 218

Winner: Barb M. from Park Rapids, MN

If you are looking a a great atmosphere, delicious food, unique cocktails and friendly company, we’d like to invite you to visit The Local 218. Located on Mill Avenue in Brainerd, Minnesota, our focus is to celebrate the history of our area and provide our guests with a memorable dining experience. From our decor to our menu selections, our goal is to make an make a positive impact.

Whether you are just looking for a quick lunch or bringing family and friends for an evening on the town, our menu will provide a wide array of options that cater to all. We look forward to serving you at The Local 218 – Your Hometown Stomping Ground.

PRIZE: Wednesday, April 8

Package: $30 Gift Certificate to S&W Bait and $25 to Black Bear Lodge & Saloon

Winner: Justin M. from Big Lake, MN

Dreaming of casting a line? Make a stop at S&W Bait which is the only bait shop worth stopping at. Family owned and operated for more than 30 years, the staff there know all of the in’s and out’s of the Brainerd-area lakes. Bait, tackle, snacks, camping and convenient supplies north on Highway 371.

Black Bear Lodge & Saloon is your stop to enjoy north woods atmosphere in their award-winning, authentic log restaurant. They offer casual, full-service dining featuring prime rib, walleye, steaks, pasta, burgers and sandwiches.

PRIZE: Tuesday, April 7

Package: $50 Gift Certificate to Safari North Wildlife Park

Winner: Lindsi D. from South St. Paul, MN

Safari North is a family friendly wildlife park where you can feed a giraffe or ride a camel and see animals from around the world! We offer an up-close and personal experience where each year our guests marvel at wild wonders as they play, laugh, and learn. Our goal is to provide positive experiences that last a lifetime with every visit no matter how old you are.

PRIZE: Monday, April 6

Package: $25 Gift Certificate to CatTales Books & Gifts and $25 to Crow Wing Food Co-op

Winner: John T. from Brainerd, MN

Self-care at its finest. Stop into CatTales Books & Gifts in downtown Brainerd where they have something for everyone. It is a new & used bookstore, gift shop, and rock shop. CatTales is a diverse mix of old treasures, out-of-print titles, new specialty books, and an eclectic gift shop; which has made it a popular haven for book lovers as well as the go-to spot for a unique shopping experience.

Then make your way over a few blocks to the Crow Wing Food Co-op. Crow Wing Food Co-op is a cooperatively owned grocery store dedicated to sustaining a healthy and thriving community. It was founded in 1979 by a group of like-minded individuals and families who wanted everyday access to healthy, sustainably produced foods. You do not have to be a member to shop a the Co-op. They have awesome deli/take-out options for a quick bite.

PRIZE: Sunday, April 5

Stay & Play Package: $100 Gift Certificate to Super 8 by Wyndham and $50 Gift Certificate to Poncho and Lefty’s

Winner: Judy P. from International Falls, MN

Enjoy this great Stay & Play Package with lodging at the Super 8 by Wyndham. This recently remodeled property has offers amenities like free high-speed Internet and a free 8-item SuperStart breakfast. It also has free parking for your RV or truck and pets are welcome. Just down the road from the Super 8 is local-favorite Poncho & Lefty’s Tex-Mex and Cantina. Great food and drinks to be had for sure. The Visit Brainerd team recommends the Rio Grand Dip, Sizzling Fajitas and the Ultimate Margarita.

PRIZE: Saturday, April 4

Package: $25 Gift Certificate to Wings Cafe and $25 Gift Certificate to Loco Espress Coffee House and Boutique

Winner: Dawn W. from Baxter, MN

Wings Airport Café is located in the Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport just minutes from downtown Brainerd, 1.5 miles east of the East Brainerd Mall on Hwy 210, left on Airport road. Take some time on your lunch break to try us out, we offer quick service and can have you fed and back to work in less than an hour, if you have less time call your meal in advance and we will have it ready for you when you get there or you can have it to take out. We offer breakfast all day and are open early enough in the morning that you can eat before work. You can expect the food to be top notch with fresh ingredients and made from scratch cooking served up with a warmth and friendship.

New to Brainerd, the Loco Espress Coffee House and Boutique, is located in The Northern Pacific Center (just off Washington St./Hwy. 210 and 13th St.). Stop in and enjoy great coffees, drinks and treats in a fantastic setting! There are also artwork and boutique items for purchase. With it’s homey setting it’s the perfect spot to gather with friends and family.

PRIZE: Friday, April 3

Package: $50 Gift Certificate to Dennis Drummond Wine Co.

Winner: Melanie L. from Walker, MN

Spend a day and relax at Dennis Drummond Wine Company. Their bistro is open daily from 11:00 AM until 8:30 PM serving lunch and dinner. They offer soup, sandwiches, an array of appetizers, quiche, a daily special, and dessert. We also serve wine, beer, and spirits.

PRIZE: Thursday, April 2

Package: $25 Gift Certificate to Fancy Pants Chocolates and $25 to Knotty Pine Bakery

Winner: Anne C. from Nisswa, MN

From the owner, “We started our journey back in 2002 when we opened Fancy Pants Chocolates in Downtown Brainerd, MN. ​We can think of nothing better than creating fantastic, delicious chocolates. We use fine Milk Chocolate from Belgium and Dark Chocolate from Columbia. No preservatives are added to our chocolates that we create daily at Fancy Pants Chocolates in Downtown Brainerd. Every day our selection varies. So stop by daily! We can create special orders for your occasion.”

From the owner, “Founded in 2016, Knotty Pine Bakery is focused on strengthening the connections between food and community through its scratch-made baked goods made with locally grown and sourced ingredients. Our farm-to-pie philosophy ensures that our bakery creations not only taste good, but are good for our neighboring growers, our local economy and our environment. This holistic approach to what “good” food truly means drives our mission to provide customers with the highest quality, handcrafted baked goods in the Brainerd-Lakes area.” Enjoy a wonderful selection of pies, pastries, cookies, breads and so much more baked fresh daily.

PRIZE: Wednesday, April 1

Package: $50 Gift Certificate to Brainerd Zip Line Tour

Winner: Matt R. from Mankato, MN

Add some adventure to your Brainerd vacation at Brainerd Zip Line Tour! Experience the seven-line zipline tour or come for a quick thrill on The Drop which is an exhilarating 50-foot free-fall experience.

PRIZE: Tuesday, March 31

Stay and Play Package: $100 Gift Certificate to Holiday Inn Express, $25 Gift Certificate to Morey’s Seafood Market and $25  Gift Certificate to Von Hanson’s

Winner: Kim F. from Alexandria, MN

Enjoy this great stay and play package! Holiday Inn Express is situated on Hwy. 371 North in Baxter close to major businesses and attractions. It’s home to the Three Bear Water Park, Cragun’s Laser Tag Park and Arcade. Eat More Fish! Morey’s Seafood Market is a specialty fish and fine food market with something for everyone. Morey’s also has a lunch trailer open May through September. Von Hanson’s offers award-winning meats and other fine foods in an “Old Fashion Butcher Shop” atmosphere.

PRIZE: Monday, March 30

$50 Gift Certificate to Brainerd International Raceway

Winner: Randy K. from Silver Bay, MN

Brainerd International Raceway is the largest racetrack in the Upper Midwest and may offer the most diverse motorsports schedule anywhere. With a world-class drag strip and two road course configurations (one is 2.5 miles and the other is 3.1 miles), BIR hosts drag racing, road racing, endurance racing, Superbike racing, drifting and autocross competitions, cruising events, and car shows. It even has a small lake in the campground for watercross, where snowmobiles race on open water.

PRIZE: Sunday, March 29

$25 Gift Certificate to Firehouse Subs and $25 Gift Certificate to The Barn

Winner: Duane H. from St. Cloud, MN

Firehouse Subs specializes in hot sub sandwiches made with premium meats and cheeses, steamed to perfection. then piled high on a toasted private recipe sub roll. The Barn is a cozy place to eat that will make you feel at home. Great food, service, atmosphere, conversation and value. Best known for their home-style breakfasts, Maid Rite sandwiches and pie.

PRIZE: Saturday, March 28

$50 Gift Certificate to Sage on Laurel

Winner: Nancy B. from Detroit Lakes, MN

From the owner, “Our scratch made dishes are delicious and creative with something for everyone. We have many options for special diets such Vegetarians, Vegans, and Gluten Free as well as traditional Minnesota fare.” Located in a beautifully restored Historic Downtown Brainerd building on Laurel Street.

PRIZE: Friday, March 27

$50 Gift Certificate to Christmas Point

Winner: Becky M. from Deerwood, MN

Christmas Point is located in Baxter on Highway 371. It is a 26,000 square foot three-story log-cabin structure offering wild rice, furniture, home décor, gifts, and so much more. It’s a favorite spot for a coffee, lunch or sweet treat.

PRIZE: Thursday, March 26

$50 Gift Certificate to Easy Riders Bicycle and Sport Shop

Winner: Austin S. from Sartell, MN

From the owners, “Since 1972, Easy Riders has been providing quality products and expert service to central Minnesota. We were the first bicycle specialty shop in the area, and we’re still the best. In addition to carrying hundreds of bikes and a wide variety accessories and clothing, we offer a ski and snowboard shop, certified service, canoes and kayaks, Boy Scouts Supplies, an archery pro-shop, fitness equipment, rollerblades and a skateboard/longboard shop. We also have rentals!”

PRIZE: Wednesday, March 25

$50 Gift Certificate to The Old Open Window

Winner: Michelle M. from Breezy Point, MN

From the owner, “You’re invited to step into our cozy, relaxing atmosphere with a mix of old, new and locally handmade items for you and your home.” Featuring: Vintage Inspired Clothing, Accessories, Primitives, Knick-Knacks, Antiques, 1803 Soy Candles & Melts, Black Crow Candles. OTBT Shoes & Boots, Locally Handcrafted and Seasonal Items. Find them in Downtown Brainerd on Laurel Street.

PRIZE: Tuesday, March 24

$100 Gift Certificate to Arrowwood Lodge, $25 Baxter’s Bar & Grill and $25 to Jack Pine Brewery

Winner: Bryan V. from Cedar, MN

Here’s a great stay and play package! Receive $100 for lodging and $25 for dining at the Arrowwood Lodge of Brainerd Lakes. Staying at the Arrowwood Lodge at Brainerd Lakes is like retreating to a cozy cabin—just with all the comforts of a modern hotel. Our Lodge is known for its rustic beauty, indoor waterpark, Baxter’s Bar & Grill, and elegant meeting and event spaces. From Jack Pine Brewery, “Our goal is to bring you a quality brew across a wide spectrum of flavors. From light to dark, malty to hoppy, and even an award-winning pepper beer to spice things up, you’re bound to find something you like. You might even be surprised with a well made style outside of your typical realm of favorites. Take a look at our taproom beer list below to see what we are currently pouring.”

PRIZE: Monday, March 23

$50 Gift Certificate to Northland Kart Kountry

Winner: Jennifer L. from Buffalo, MN

From the owners, “We have one focus at Northland Kart Kountry — that you and your family have a great time making memories. That’s why we do our best to offer safe, exciting rides, activities, and attractions for visitors of every age!” Attractions include Can Am Go-Karts, Bullit Karts, Indy Racing Karts, Junior Karts, Bungee Bounce, 9D Virtual Reality and Batting Cages.

PRIZE: Sunday, March 22

$50 Gift Certificate to Prairie Bay Grill

Winner: Scott D. from Hutchinson, MN

A local favorite, to be sure, this restaurant is known for it’s delicious and unique menu. Inspired by farm-to-table ingredients which are locally sourced, there is something for everyone. Amazing starters and craft cocktails, magnificent main entrees, and delicious desserts.

PRIZE: Saturday, March 21

$50 Gift Certificate to Purple Fern Bath Company

WINNER: Anastacia L. from Wilton, ND

From the owner, “We make our own soaps, bath bombs and salts in-house. Every product is made to nourish your skin and have you feeling your best. We feature the use of essential oils and natural colorants, so you can feel great about what you are using in your bath, and on your skin. We have a carefully curated selection of hand-poured candles, artisan tea, lotions made from scratch, unique sugar scrubs, natural deodorants, and a lot more! These products are inspiring and are all handmade by people who care about what they are producing, and how it affects your body and mind.” The fun goes beyond the products and into the makers’ space with classes and instruction available too.