Last month the Seifert brood packed into the family Subaru Ascent, filling it with snacks, luggage, photo and golf equipment to take along to the beautiful Brainerd Lakes region of Northern Minnesota.

We’ve visited Brainerd several times in the past, including a couple of days at Madden’s Resort in 2013 and a long weekend at Grand View Lodge with WGA Contributor Troy and his family during the summer of 2022.

Cragun’s Resort – newly reimagined and clearly on the rise – gave us a fresh look at just how much the Brainerd Lakes region continues to evolve. It was our first visit to Cragun’s, and by the time we left, we were wondering what took us so long to get there.

Cragun’s hit my radar several years ago when word started spreading about their major golf experience overhaul. Now with over $15 million invested into the all-new Lehman 18 and the upgraded Dutch 27, and with all renovations complete, this felt like the perfect time to finally check it out – especially knowing there’s even more investment coming soon across the resort.

Minnesota native Tom Lehman, who was at one time the number one ranked golfer in the world and winner of the 1996 Open Championship at Royal Lytham and St. Anne’s, was responsible for all of the redesign work – and, in my honest opinion, he hit it out of the park.

Cragun’s is a spectacular golf destination, but it’s so much more than that. The resort also offers a ton of activities, amenities and programming that are sure to have you and your family excited to revisit year after year.

Getting to Cragun’s Resort from the Milwaukee Area

The one drawback about the Brainerd Lakes region is that it is a significant drive from the Milwaukee area. It’s about a seven-hour drive, in fact, which is far from prohibitive but should be considered.

To make it easier on the kids, we broke up our trip there in parts: First to Eau Claire following work and the kids’ summer school programming, then on to Minneapolis the following morning to visit my sister and her family and then the 2:15 drive to Brainerd.

With check-in at Cragun’s Resort starting at 5 pm, this itinerary left us plenty of time to hang out with family and keep things leisurely as we eased into vacation mode.

We always drive straight through returning from vacations. Even when driving to/from the deep south, there’s just something about getting home and back into your regular routine.

If considering visiting once a year, Brainerd is well worth the seven-hour drive – even with young kids!

Things to Do at Cragun’s Resort

If you find yourself getting bored at Cragun’s Resort, you’re doing vacation wrong.

Whether you’re into water sports, fireside lounging, photo opportunities or just playing catch until your arm falls off, there’s always something to do here – and we found ourselves trying to pack in as much as we could each day.

One of the highlights of our trip was Cragun’s first-ever Floatilla – a fun, family-focused event held off the central beach on Gull Lake. The goal? To break the Guinness World Record for most people floating on inner tubes on a single rope line. The record stands at 1,230 – and while we didn’t quite get there, the resort made it a day to remember with a DJ, fun programming for the kids and a convenient bar for the adults. It was the perfect backdrop for celebrating Charlie’s 8th birthday, which we pretended the whole event was secretly in honor of.

We spent most of our days lakeside – swimming in the shallows, playing in the sand and spotting birds and little fish darting beneath the surface. Our six-year-old daughter, Quinn, especially became a true lake girl – we couldn’t get her out of the water if we tried.

When we weren’t in the lake, we were next to it – roasting s’mores around the firepit at night (which staff kindly kept stocked with dry wood each day), tubing, going on a loon cruise and playing catch on the beach and in the grassy lakeside lawn until my arm officially turned to Jell-O. These are the kinds of simple joys that make family vacations special, and Cragun’s delivered them in spades.

We also took advantage of plenty of great photo opportunities around the property – from the beautiful waterfront vistas of Gull Lake to the playful Paul Bunyan statue and, of course, beach-side golden hours that were made for the camera.

Before heading back home to Wisconsin we capped off the trip in the most perfect way: standing at the water’s edge with drivers in hand, launching balls into the lake for a solid 30 minutes. We all took turns swinging clubs, laughing and trying to outdo one another, and we left with one more shared memory from a place that gave us so many.

Other on-site activities at Cragun’s Resort include:

• Swimming, paddleboarding and boating on Gull Lake
• Fishing, sand volleyball and indoor/outdoor pools
• The marina and rental access for pontoons, paddle boards, jet skis, fishing equipment, etc.
• Tennis, pickleball and basketball courts
• Evening bonfires with staff-provided wood
• Lake cruises (aboard the North Star yacht, pontoon rides and loon cruises, which Kelly and the kids went on while I was playing golf and loved – they saw loons, bald eagles and more!
• Kids’ activities and recreational programs
• Yoga, biking, foot golf, disc golf, etc.
• Indoor Sports Centre with tennis, pickleball, a fitness center, running track, sauna, hot tub and volleyball courts
• Winter activities like dog sled rides, snowmobiling, ice skating and ice fishing
• Beach playground – yes, Charlie and Quinn spent plenty of time on this!

We could’ve easily stayed another week and still barely scratched the surface. My biggest regret? Not renting a boat or jet skis for an afternoon. We simply ran out of hours – next time!

Check out “Things to Do” on Cragun’s website for more on activities and programming

Lodging & Accommodations at Cragun’s Resort

For our family, lodging can make or break a vacation. We want to be close to the action, comfortable enough to unwind after a long day and, ideally, somewhere that helps us feel immersed in the destination. At Cragun’s, our Beach Cabin delivered all of that and more.

Located just steps from the water on South Beach, our cabin was cozy and convenient – the kind of place where sandy footprints are part of the charm. It wasn’t fancy, and no one would confuse it with luxury accommodations (which many of the other accommodations at Cragun’s look like they probably are), but it had everything we needed: a good-sized bedroom, full kitchen, living space for winding down at night and a back deck with views that reminded us we were exactly where we wanted to be.

The best part, though, was the location. We could walk straight from our door to the lake, the marina, firepits, playgrounds and beachfront path to the main lodge. The kids were always in motion, and we were never more than a couple minutes away from anything we needed. That kind of access made a big difference – especially when we were hauling towels, sunscreen, sand toys and snacks.

Cragun’s offers a wide range of accommodations beyond the Beach Cabins, too. From lakeside lodge rooms to larger multi-bedroom cabins and even more private vacation homes, there’s something to fit just about every group size and travel style – from rustic to luxury. Whether you’re visiting as a family, a couple or as part of a buddies trip, Cragun’s should have a setup that’ll suit your stay.

Explore lodging options at Cragun’s Resort on their website

Dining at Cragun’s and Beyond

When we travel as a family, food isn’t just about fueling up – it’s about experiencing the destination. Whether it’s breakfast with a view, grabbing comfort food on the go or capping the day with something special, dining plays a huge role in the overall feel of a resort stay.

Cragun’s delivered on this front, too, with a great mix of convenient on-site options and easy access to top local restaurants in the Brainerd/Nisswa area.

On-Property Dining

Irma’s Kitchen

The culinary highlight of our trip, Irma’s Kitchen is Cragun’s signature dining experience.

Nestled on a hill overlooking Gull Lake and just steps from our Beach Cabin, Irma’s offers elevated comfort fare in a refined yet welcoming setting. From perfectly cooked steaks (my filet was phenomenal!) and walleye to their famous pot roast, the menu is thoughtful and well-executed.

We celebrated Charlie’s eighth birthday here, and the staff went above and beyond – complete with a surprise birthday cake and a heartfelt rendition of “Happy Birthday” sung by the wait staff. It was the kind of personal touch that helped make the night truly special and he certainly felt it.

Canoe & Paddle Pub

Located in the main lodge, Canoe & Paddle was our go-to for casual, family-friendly meals and convenient takeout. With a menu packed full of hearty options – fish & chips, burgers, ribs and more – it hit the spot after long days spent swimming, golfing and chasing the kids around the beach.

On our last night, we ordered takeout and enjoyed dinner back at the cabin, watching the sun set over the lake – the perfect way to wind down after a wonderfully long day that left the kids unpresentable to the public.

Lakeside Dining Room (Breakfast Buffet)

Every morning at Cragun’s begins with breakfast at the Lakeside Dining Room, located in the main lodge overlooking Steamboat Bay. The buffet had something for everyone – omelette rollovers (my personal favorite), crispy bacon, sausage links, cheesy eggs, waffles and pancakes for the kids and hot coffee with a view for the adults. It’s a relaxed, no-frills setup where you pick your own table and enjoy breakfast at your own pace – exactly what you want on vacation.

Above Deck Pizza

Unfortunately, Above Deck was closed for a private event the night we planned to try it, but we heard good things from other guests throughout our stay. It’s another great on-site option we’ll definitely check out next time.

---

Local Favorites

Rafferty’s Pizza (Downtown Nisswa)

A short drive from the resort, downtown Nisswa is packed with charm – and great pizza. Rafferty’s lived up to its “world-famous” billing, serving up some of the best pies we’ve had anywhere.

As a family that’s spent time rating Milwaukee-area pizzas on our [hopefully returning soon] @TuesdayNightFoodFight Instagram account, I’d put Rafferty’s right there with the likes of Zaffiro’s, Maria’s and Hup’s here around us – maybe even higher.

This is a can’t-miss stop if you’re exploring the area.

The Chocolate Ox

Right across from Rafferty’s, The Chocolate Ox is part candy store, part ice cream parlor and entirely magical – especially for the kids. Packed to the brim with treats, sweets and nostalgia, it’s the perfect dessert stop that feels more like an experience than just a quick after-dinner bite.

Golf at Cragun’s Resort

As much as Cragun’s Resort has to offer for families, lake lovers and anyone looking for that classic Northwoods escape, the golf is truly its crown jewel. And in a region as golf-rich as Brainerd, that’s saying something.

I wasn’t sure what to expect heading into this trip. I’ve played The Classic at Madden’s before and consider it one of the finest public courses in the Midwest – beautifully conditioned, well-routed and packed with memorable holes. I honestly didn’t think anything else in the area could compare.

Then I played the Lehman 18.

Designed by Minnesota native and former world No. 1 Tom Lehman, the Lehman 18 is a masterclass in championship design. Set across rolling, wooded terrain and winding around Stephens Lake, it plays over 7,400 yards from the tips and has the look, feel and teeth of a course built for elite-level competition.

And it is. Cragun’s will host the PGA Tour Americas CRMC Championship on August 28-31, 2025. The course is already tournament-ready and I’d expect it to be an incredible test.

Check out the CRMC Championship website for more on this great upcoming tournament

Before our visit, I’d talked with Harrison Ott – professional golfer, friend and regular voice with Richie Burke, Stephen Watson and me on the Milwaukee Uncut golf podcast – and he said the same thing: this place is no slouch, even for some of the world’s best.

While playing the 17th hole, a long par four that plays over water, Shane Jordan, a Player’s Assistant at the Legacy Courses, and I decided to give the “Harry Ott experience” a go. We played from the fourth tee up, hit drivers and both cleared the hazard – where I found myself 245 yards out in the rough. I pulled three-wood, caught it flush and found the front bunker. A good sand shot and made putt later, I was walking off with par. It was definitely one of those “couldn’t-do-it-again” moments, but it said a lot about how challenging yet playable this course can be, even when it’s built to test the pros. I’m not a short hitter by any means, but I don’t think I could have cleared the hazard from the back tees.

Earlier that morning, I’d caught a shuttle from security before sunrise to photograph the course. I arrived at 6 am and was treated to a stunning golden hour over the lake and fairways. The property was empty, the light was perfect and it gave me time to appreciate how well Lehman and his team used the land. The greens and bunkers are thoughtfully placed, the views are gaping and the course flows beautifully from start to finish.

But it’s not just the Lehman 18.

Cragun’s Dutch 27 is a worthy co-star, offering three distinct nine-hole layouts – the White, Blue and Red. Like the Lehman course, the Dutch 27 was completely overhauled as part of the resort’s $15 million golf renovation. It gives Cragun’s incredible flexibility to host events, accommodate guests and provide fresh variety to returning players.

We played the White Course as a family on Charlie’s birthday – it’s considered the most beginner-friendly of the three – and even with our kids in tow, it was clear that this wasn’t your typical “resort filler” course. Each hole had character, challenge and great conditioning. While no part of the golf at Cragun’s is necessarily easy, all of it is well thought out, fair and rewarding.

We didn’t get the chance to play it during our visit, but Cragun’s also offers the Nice9, a fun and approachable par three course that’s perfect for sharpening short games or introducing kids and beginners to the sport.

Said to be in excellent condition, the Nice9 is designed with families, novices and group outings in mind. It’s great for squeezing in a quick round between activities or enjoying a laid-back loop in the afternoon. It’s also part of Cragun’s expansive practice facility, which includes a full driving range, pitching and chipping area and nicely manicured greens complexes – making it a great place to dial in your game, no matter your talent level.

Whether you’re a low-handicapper chasing a true test or a family looking for a scenic round with junior tees and great service, Cragun’s delivers. And it’s only getting better.

Want to see a few shots of each of the three nine-hole layouts of the Dutch 27?

Dutch Blue 9

Dutch Red 9

Dutch White 9

Where Cragun’s Fits Among Brainerd Resorts

Cragun’s Resort checked every box for what we were hoping to get out of this summer trip: a true Northwoods experience with great golf, a laid-back atmosphere and plenty to keep the whole family entertained. After a long drive up from the Milwaukee area, you want a destination that feels like it’s worth the effort – and Cragun’s absolutely delivered.

Our Beach Cabin wasn’t high-end luxury, but it was exactly what we wanted and needed – comfortable, family-friendly and just steps from the lake, playgrounds, marina and fire pit. We weren’t after granite countertops. We were after experience, convenience and character – and Cragun’s delivered in a way that felt authentic.

If you’re looking for upscale accommodations and top-tier finishes now, Cragun’s does look to offer that with their villas and hilltop accomodations, as well.

From what we’ve experienced in Brainerd, Grand View Lodge is probably the most luxurious. It’s beautifully renovated with a wide range of dining and activities – though in my opinion, Cragun’s has the edge when it comes to golf.

Madden’s still boasts the exceptional Classic Course – one of my all-time Midwest favorites and a Top 100 public track located just across the street from Cragun’s Legacy Golf Courses. But when I visited Madden’s, I was single and there solely to play golf. From what I remember, Cragun’s has a stronger family atmosphere and more to offer for all ages. I’d also put Cragun’s renovated golf experience up there with the Classic Course (and with 27 more holes of elite-level golf).

All of that said, every resort in the Brainerd/Nisswa area has its strengths. But for our family, Cragun’s found the right balance – offering championship-caliber golf alongside welcoming accommodations, outstanding service and endless lakeside fun.

Planning Your Midwest Golf & Family Getaway? Make It Cragun’s!

If you haven’t yet made the trek to the Brainerd/Nisswa area, now’s the time. This pocket of Northern Minnesota offers something special – a mix of world-class golf, true lake country charm and a wide range of resort experiences that can suit everyone from hardcore golf enthiusiasts to families just looking to unplug and make indellible memories.

For us, Cragun’s checked every box. It gave us the championship-level golf I was hoping for, paired with laid-back accommodations, great food and nonstop fun for the kids. Between the Floatilla, morning [and evening] swims, birthday celebrations, boat rides and golden-hour rounds on the Legacy Golf Courses, we created the kind of memories that stick – the kind that have us already dreaming about a return trip.

It’s no wonder so many of our neighbors at the Beach Cabins have been coming back year after year. Cragun’s is the kind of place that earns loyalty, and after one visit, it’s easy to see why.

Looking to book your own Northwoods golf getaway to Cragun’s Resort? Learn more and plan your stay via their website!