Rooted in the Brainerd Lakes Area · Minnesota
Shayla Loving logoLoving Locally MNSHAYLA LOVING · REALTOR®
The Loving Locally guide

Good people.
Great places.

A growing collection of local favorites and practical resources, chosen thoughtfully as I get to know and share more of the businesses that make the Brainerd Lakes Area special.

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Explore local favorites

From unique treats and family fun to trusted local services, there's always something new to discover. Businesses are featured with permission, not as paid sponsorships.

🍷 A True Taste of BLA

Local eats, craft drinks, and delicious discoveries throughout the Brainerd Lakes Area.

Crosby · Ice cream & gourmet provisions

Victual

A distinctive stop on Crosby's Main Street for house-made, lactose-free ice cream, artisan cheeses, charcuterie, specialty foods, gifts, and a thoughtfully curated selection of wine and spirits.

Shayla's note: Their ice cream flavors are so fun and unique, and my kids really enjoyed our visit!

124 W Main Street, Crosby, MN · 218-545-1000

Brainerd · Coffee house & boutique

Loco Espress

A locally owned coffee house and boutique in the historic Clock Tower building at the Northern Pacific Center. Stop in for coffee and espresso, loose-leaf teas, coffee or tea flights, and a little browsing.

1521 Northern Pacific Road, Brainerd, MN · Text only: 218-330-4335

🛍️ Shop & Explore

Local shops, family activities, entertainment, and fun things to do.

Family fun

Copper Cat Escape Games

One of our family's favorite local activities! Their escape rooms are creative, well thought out, and a lot of fun for the whole family.

605 Laurel Street, Brainerd, MN · 218-270-4305

Downtown Brainerd · Specialty pet shop

Ectothermic Nirvana

An independent exotic pet and bioactive reptile shop in downtown Brainerd—a unique local stop for reptile enthusiasts and curious visitors.

708 Laurel Street, Brainerd, MN

🔨 Local Services & Contractors

Local trades and home services throughout the Brainerd Lakes Area.

Tree care · Family connection

Toenyan Tree Service LLC

My family's tree service! They handle tree removal, trimming, stump grinding, and storm cleanup throughout the Brainerd Lakes Area. I help with the business behind the scenes.

Baxter, MN · 218-232-3000

Auto repair

Corral Auto Repair

A locally owned Brainerd auto repair shop offering maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs.

303 W Washington Street, Brainerd, MN · 218-829-5273

Construction

Revive Construction

A local construction business to contact about home improvement and construction projects.

Call Matthew at 320-279-3660

❤️ Community & Connections

Good places. Good people. A little sense of belonging.

Local churches, nonprofits, volunteer opportunities, and community groups coming soon!

More local favorites coming soon! Businesses are featured with permission, not as paid sponsorships.

Know a local gem?

I'd love to hear about another special place or business in the Brainerd Lakes Area.

Get in touch ↗