A long layover in Brainerd is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 40 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at BRD:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi/Rideshare takes about 40 minutes into Brainerd, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — USD is the currency here. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
The Best Way Into Brainerd from BRD
You have two main options for getting from Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport into town:
- Taxi/Rideshare: About 40 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 60 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Exploring Brainerd on a Layover
For a layover visit to Brainerd, we’d suggest Northland Arboretum and Paul Bunyan & Babe the Blue Ox Statue. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Brainerd.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside BRD, you can spend time at BRD Gift Shop & Newsstand or try Quiet Terminal Relaxation. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Brainerd: Prairie Bay Grill & Catering and StoneHouse Coffee & Roastery. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Timberlake Restaurant & Bar or BRD Grab-and-Go Counter. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Brainerd might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$9 USD
- A meal: ~$18 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$37 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Luggage Storage at BRD
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At BRD, you’ll find bag storage at Not available.
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Staying Connected
WiFi at BRD should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in United States and you’re good to go.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at BRD, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Brainerd with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Brainerd may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.