Hotels in Baxter

Unleash Your Spirit at Baxter: Dive into Nature’s Playground by the Lake

Discover the charm of Baxter, Minnesota, where rustic beauty meets aquatic adventure! Nestled near the stunning shores of the Brainerd Lakes area, this vibrant destination is perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike. Dive into the excitement at the local waterpark, or unwind by the serene lakes, offering fishing, boating, and scenic views. Explore nearby parks for hiking and wildlife watching, or indulge in local shops and eateries. With its blend of outdoor fun and cozy community spirit, Baxter invites you to create unforgettable memories in nature’s playground. Your adventure awaits in this hidden gem of the North! For the best hotel rates in Baxter and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Baxter

Some of the best places to stay in Baxter are Brainerd, Nisswa and Pequot Lakes. Baxter, Minnesota, is ideally located near Brainerd, Nisswa, and Pequot Lakes, each offering unique attractions. Brainerd is great for first-time visitors, featuring vibrant shops and outdoor activities. Nisswa is perfect for lakeside relaxation and quaint boutiques, while Pequot Lakes offers scenic trails and charming dining. Accommodations in these areas range from cozy motels to comfortable inns and family-friendly suites, providing various options for every traveler's budget and preference. Enjoy a memorable stay in this beautiful region! These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Baxter:

1. BrainerdOpens in a new window: Brainerd is a vibrant destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and sports lovers, featuring attractions such as the Brainerd International Raceway and The Classic at Madden's Golf Course. This area is known for its adventure, sports, and beach themes. Notable hotels include Maddens On Gull LakeOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star resort offering direct beach access and business amenities like a conference center and adventure sports options such as motorboating and kayaking. Another option is Cragun's Resort & HotelOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel with a focus on business travelers and access to ice skating and hiking activities. For golf enthusiasts, Kavanaugh's Sylvan Lake ResortOpens in a new window provides direct beach access and various adventure sports like kayaking and snowboarding.
2. NisswaOpens in a new window: Nisswa is an outdoor paradise, ideal for families and adventure seekers, with attractions like Gull Lake and Mount Ski Gull. The area emphasizes beach fun and adventure activities. Families can enjoy Grand View LodgeOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star resort featuring child-friendly amenities and direct access to the beach. For business travelers, Good Ol' Days ResortOpens in a new window offers meeting facilities and outdoor activities like snowshoeing and hiking nearby. If you're traveling with pets, Lost Lake LodgeOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star lodge allowing pets and providing access to adventure sports like motorboating and horseback riding.
3. Pequot LakesOpens in a new window: Pequot Lakes is a charming location for outdoor lovers, featuring scenic spots like Gull Lake and several golf courses. The area is perfect for those looking to unwind in nature. Affordable options include Pelican Lake MotelOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star motel with entertainment options and nearby recreational activities. Another choice is Commander MotelOpens in a new window, also a 2.5-star motel, offering dining options and sports activities like billiards. For business travelers, AmericInn by Wyndham Pequot Lakes/JenkinsOpens in a new window provides essential business amenities, alongside a pleasant golf experience.

Things to do in Baxter for first time

A visit to Baxter is perfect for three days of outdoor fun, featuring stunning lakes and lush forests. Enjoy activities like boating, fishing, and hiking, or unwind at a waterpark. With ample opportunities for shopping and golf, this destination offers a refreshing escape for every traveler. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Baxter:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Baxter by exploring the serene shores of Gull Lake, where you can enjoy activities like fishing, boating, or simply soaking in the beautiful scenery. Afterward, head to Lake Ossawinnamakee, a lovely spot ideal for a picnic or a leisurely walk along the water’s edge. As the day winds down, make your way to Buster Dog Park, a perfect place to unwind and let your furry friend roam freely while you relax and enjoy the fresh Minnesota air.
• Day 2: Begin your day at Bay Lake, where the tranquil waters are perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding. After your morning on the lake, visit Buffalo Hills Park, which offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking trails and playgrounds, making it a great spot for families. Conclude your day at This Old Farm, where you can experience local agriculture and perhaps even pick up some fresh produce or handmade goods to take home.
• Day 3: Kick off your exploration at Horseshoe Lake, a great location for swimming or fishing. Following your time by the water, visit Crosby Memorial Park, an excellent spot for picnics or a leisurely stroll on the scenic trails. Finally, delve into history at Croft Mine Historical Park, where you can learn about the area's mining heritage and enjoy guided tours that provide fascinating insights into the past.

5 tips to find a great Baxter hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Baxter is from October to December when hotel rates drop significantly. If you’re traveling internationally, make sure to book your flight at least one month in advance to secure better prices. For a budget-friendly experience, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the main attractions, which include a fantastic waterpark and beautiful lakes. This way, you can make the most of your trip while keeping costs down and finding great value for your money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for great hotel deals in Baxter, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. Here, you could find discounted rates for hotels close to your travel dates. To enhance your chances of snagging a bargain, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you'll stay informed about flash sales and special last-minute promotions, allowing you to compare prices and make the most of your travel budget.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices may fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could increase the chances that you may save on hotel expenses in Baxter.
4. Consider your location: Staying near the city center and local attractions in Baxter usually tends to be more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like cars and buses to explore the area while potentially saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Baxter and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

Best time to go to Baxter

Baxter experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 11.7°F (-11.3°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 70.3°F (21.3°C). June is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Baxter, March, June, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.