The Brainerd Lakes Area, conveniently located in the heart of Minnesota a mere two hours from the Twin Cities, boasts many well-known attractions, including Brainerd International Raceway and Paul Bunyan Land.
For the past half century, Paul Bunyan has welcomed, by name, tens of thousands of children, who visit him at his Brainerd amusement park. Paul and Babe, the Blue Ox, now can be found east of Brainerd, at Paul Bunyan Land, where he shares his many rides, Pioneer Village, even his railroad. Brainerd also is home to the Midwest’s largest racetrack, Brainerd International Raceway, which is home each August to the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals, when Top Fuel and Funny Car drivers compete. From spring through fall, BIR hosts a range of racing events at the Brainerd racetrack. Other major attractions in the region include waterparks, miniature golf courses, and fall corn mazes.