Hotels in Garrison

Discover Garrison: Where Nature Meets Art in a Lakeside Sanctuary

Nestled in the heart of Minnesota's lake country, Garrison is a charming destination perfect for families seeking outdoor adventure and relaxation. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, Garrison offers access to the serene waters of Mille Lacs Lake and the lush trails of nearby state parks. Visitors can explore local art at cozy galleries and indulge in fresh, local cuisine. With its up north charm, Garrison invites you to unwind, fish, hike, or simply bask in the beauty of the great outdoors, making it an ideal escape for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful retreat. For the best hotel rates in Garrison, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Garrison

Some of the best places to stay in Garrison are Brainerd, Deerwood and Onamia. Brainerd, Deerwood, and Onamia each offer unique attractions for travelers. Brainerd is great for first-time visitors, boasting outdoor activities, lakes, and vibrant local culture. Deerwood provides a quaint, small-town feel with scenic beauty, while Onamia offers access to natural wonders and lakeside relaxation. Accommodations in these areas range from cozy inns to larger hotels, ensuring a variety of options for comfort and convenience, perfect for exploring the beauty of Garrison and its surroundings. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Garrison:

1. BrainerdOpens in a new window: Known for its thrilling outdoor adventures, Brainerd is a hotspot for sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. It features attractions like Brainerd International Raceway for motor racing and The Classic at Madden's Golf Course for golf aficionados. For accommodations, consider Maddens On Gull LakeOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star resort that offers direct beach access, ideal for adventure seekers and business travelers. Another option is The Lodge at Brainerd LakesOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel with amenities for families and business travelers, including a water park and arcade game room. Finally, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is another 3.0-star option that welcomes pets and provides family-friendly amenities, making it suitable for all types of travelers.
2. DeerwoodOpens in a new window: Embracing the beauty of nature, Deerwood offers outdoor recreation with attractions like Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area and The Lakes golf course. For a comfortable stay, look into Ruttger's Bay Lake ResortOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star resort with beach access and various adventure sports nearby. Alternatively, Country Inn DeerwoodOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel, is perfect for families and golf enthusiasts, offering child-friendly amenities and adventure sports activities that include fishing and hiking.
3. OnamiaOpens in a new window: This charming destination is perfect for those seeking romance and adventure, featuring Mille Lacs Lake and Grand Casino Mille Lacs. For a memorable stay, Eddy's ResortOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, provides a great golf experience along with recreational activities like fishing and motorboating. Another choice is Grand Casino Mille LacsOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel that caters to business travelers and casino enthusiasts, featuring meeting rooms and access to nearby adventure sports. Lastly, Izatys ResortOpens in a new window, also a 3.0-star resort, offers beach access and various outdoor activities, ensuring an exciting getaway.

Things to do in Garrison for first time

Garrison is a perfect three-day getaway for nature lovers, offering stunning lakes, lush forests, and expansive parks. Enjoy activities like boating, fishing, and hiking along scenic trails. With opportunities for golfing and relaxing at campgrounds, this charming destination promises a wonderful blend of recreation and relaxation. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Garrison:

• Day 1: Begin your exploration at the beautiful Mille Lacs Lake, where you can enjoy activities like fishing, boating, or simply taking in the scenic views. After a relaxing morning by the lake, head over to Whitefish Lake for a peaceful afternoon. This tranquil spot is perfect for a leisurely picnic or a swim. Conclude your day with a visit to the Mille Lacs Indian Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the Native American tribes of the area, rounding off a fulfilling day of discovery.
• Day 2: Start your adventure at Paul Bunyan Land, where you can enjoy the whimsical attractions and learn about the legendary lumberjack. Next, make your way to Horseshoe Lake, an excellent location for some outdoor fun, whether that's fishing, kayaking, or hiking along the shoreline. Finish your day at This Old Farm, where you can experience farm life, explore the local produce, and even enjoy some farm-fresh treats!
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Farm Island Lake, where you can enjoy the serenity of nature and perhaps spot some wildlife. Afterward, visit Mille Lacs Kathio State Park for a day of hiking and exploring its beautiful trails, offering stunning views and a chance to connect with nature. Wrap up your itinerary at Crosby Memorial Park, where you can relax, have a picnic, and reflect on your memorable journey through Garrison, soaking in the natural beauty one last time.

5 tips to find a great Garrison hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Garrison is between October and December, when hotel rates are significantly lower. For international travelers, it's wise to book your flight at least two months in advance to secure more affordable prices. To fully enjoy the main attractions in the area, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended. Key highlights in Garrison include its beautiful lake, scenic parks, and captivating national parks, all offering great value for money for those exploring on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Garrison, Hotels.com is a great resource. You could find attractive discounts by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, especially as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of scoring a great rate, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you’ll stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, helping you save on your hotel stay in Garrison. Keep an eye on the price guarantee for peace of mind while booking!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to various factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Garrison.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, take your location into account. Staying nearer to major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels located in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you wish to explore.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Garrison. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

Best time to go to Garrison

Garrison experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 12.0°F (-11.1°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 69.8°F (21.0°C). May is usually the wettest month. June to August are the peak travel months in Garrison, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.