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.
← Back to Loving Locally MNExplore 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.
Electrical
Narrow Path Electric
Local electrical services for homes and projects in the Brainerd Lakes Area.
218-851-7736
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
Handyman
Pearson Property Services
Handyman services for home repairs and improvement projects.
Nisswa, MN · 218-270-9997
Construction
Revive Construction
A local construction business to contact about home improvement and construction projects.
Call Matthew at 320-279-3660
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 ↗