WHY MN IS "PRETTY GREAT"

8 Reasons you'll fall in love with the Brainerd Lakes Area

A Local Perspective: Featured in Redfin’s Guide to What Makes Minnesota Unique, with insights from Book the B.L.A. and Woods to Water Real Estate. 

At Woods to Water, we’ve made it our mission to share the beauty and lifestyle of the Brainerd Lakes Area with everyone who visits. As a local real estate agency, vacation rental management company, and passionate advocates for the “up north” experience, we believe that Minnesota is pretty great in more ways than one. From the natural landscapes that define our state to the lifestyle we embrace, here’s why Minnesota—and the Brainerd Lakes Area—is unlike anywhere else.

1. Minnesota’s Lakes Are Legendary
When you think of Minnesota, you think of lakes. The Brainerd Lakes Area is home to over 500 of them, each one offering its own unique charm. Whether you're out on the water fishing, boating, paddle boarding, or simply enjoying the view from a lakeside patio, our lakes provide year-round recreation. It’s no wonder that many visitors fall in love with the area and choose to invest in lakefront properties through Woods to Water Real Estate. After all, why just visit when you can make it a part of your life?

2. Built on Community and Tradition
Minnesota’s identity is shaped by a deep connection to its communities and the land. The Brainerd Lakes Area is no different—here, traditions like cabin life, summer bonfires, and local festivals are part of our daily rhythm. You’ll often find neighbors gathering for a meat raffle or locals cheering at a hometown event. The warmth of Minnesota Nice is more than just a saying—it’s a way of life that you’ll experience firsthand when you stay in one of our Book the B.L.A. vacation rentals, which are locally managed for a truly authentic experience.

3. Food and Drink That Celebrate Local Flavors
Whether you’re sipping a craft cocktail or indulging in a lakeside meal, Minnesota has a food and drink scene that’s hard to beat. From family-friendly spots like Zorbaz on Cross Lake to upscale dining on Gull Lake, our area is packed with unique local flavors, suited for lake life or local dining. And, for those seeking a more intimate experience, MN Traders Co. is our go-to local café for craft coffee, inventive cocktails, and fresh bites in a cozy setting. After all, there’s nothing like enjoying a meal on a patio or overlooking the water after a day of adventure.

4. Unforgettable Local Attractions
When you think of iconic Minnesota landmarks, think of the Brainerd Lakes Area. From the world-famous Paul Bunyan Trail, perfect for biking or hiking, to the breathtaking Gull Lake and Whitefish Chain, there’s so much to explore. Whether you're taking a boat out on the lake or hiking through the wooded trails, there’s always something new to discover. Our Area Guide provides an insider’s look at local attractions, making it easy to plan your perfect vacation. Check out local events, attractions and near by rentals on Explore MN.

5. Scenic Real Estate With a Range of Options
Minnesota’s real estate is as diverse as its landscape, and nowhere is that more evident than in the Brainerd Lakes Area. From classic lake cabins to modern lakefront homes with panoramic views, there’s something for every taste and lifestyle. For those looking to invest in a second home or vacation rental, Woods to Water Real Estate specializes in finding the perfect property to fit your needs. Many of our clients turn their passion for the Brainerd Lakes Area into an investment that offers both personal enjoyment and financial return. Plus, we make it easy with Woods to Water Vacation Homes, our property management service that takes care of everything for you.

6. A Gateway for Year-Round Adventure
Whether it’s snowshoeing across frozen lakes or hitting the trails on a fat tire bike, Minnesota's outdoor activities are endless. The Brainerd Lakes Area is a hub for snowmobiling, ice fishing, and winter recreation, but it doesn't stop when the snow melts. In the warmer months, the lakes come alive with boating, fishing, and paddle boarding. Book the B.L.A. offers a range of vacation homes to help you enjoy every season to its fullest—whether you're taking part in the Ice Fishing Extravaganza or hitting the lake chains in the summer. Every season offers something new, which is why Woods to Water Vacation Homes provides well-curated vacation rental experiences that highlight each season’s best. Whether it's cozy winter getaways or sun-soaked summer retreats, we help our guests make the most of Minnesota's seasonal magic.

7. Incredible Wildlife and Natural Beauty

Minnesota’s landscapes are home to some of the most stunning natural beauty in the U.S. The Brainerd Lakes Area boasts pine forests, crystal-clear lakes, and breathtaking wildlife. Whether you’re paddling through quiet lakes or hiking through serene woodlands, there’s always an opportunity to reconnect with nature. Staying in one of our vacation homes puts you right in the heart of it all, with easy access to the best natural experiences Minnesota has to offer.

8. The Best of Both Worlds
Minnesota is unique in that it offers the peace and beauty of rural life with access to a vibrant, growing community. The Brainerd Lakes Area is the perfect balance of relaxation and activity, with small-town charm and big-city amenities. It’s no wonder we’re featured in Redfin’s article on what makes Minnesota unique, where we share some of our expert insights about the area. (You can read more about it here.) 

Minnesota is a state of contrast, where the pace of life slows down without ever losing its vibrancy. Whether you’re exploring our legendary lakes, enjoying our culinary scene, or settling into one of our picturesque vacation homes, the Brainerd Lakes Area offers something for everyone.

Discover more about the area with Woods to Water + Book the B.L.A. - get an insider's perspective on how you can experience Minnesota’s magic all year long.