Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport
Brainerd, US · 3 nautical miles (6 km) northeast of the central business district of Brainerd
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Crow Wing County Transit Bus/van transit | — | — |
| Local Taxi Operators Taxi | 10-20 min ride to Brainerd/Baxter once in the cab; 0-30 min potential wait depending on whether you pre-booked | $15-25 from BRD to Brainerd/Baxter (reported in user reviews; exact meter rates vary by operator) |
| On-site Rental Cars Car rental | 10-15 min to pick up keys and exit the airport; ~20-45 min drive to common lake resorts depending on distance | — |
Insider notes
Parking is free for up to 45 days directly at the airport, literally steps from the terminal doors. This is highlighted as a key feature on their "Fly BRD" page.
Allocate about 90 minutes before departure for baggage check-in, as advised by BRD's own recommendation due to potential delays with staffing.
Consider dining off-site if possible, as the airport restaurant’s hours are limited and tied to the flight schedule.
Welcome
Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport (BRD) stands out as a unique gem among US commercial airports, not least because it offers free parking for up to 45 days. Positioned just steps from the terminal entrance, this perk simplifies airport logistics for local and visiting travelers heading to Minnesota’s picturesque lake resorts. BRD's atmosphere is more akin to a small-town fixed-base operator (FBO) than a bustling metropolitan hub. The welcoming staff and TSA agents are often commended for their personable and flexible service, echoing the airport's small-town charm.
At a glance
Situated 3 nautical miles northeast of Brainerd’s central business district, BRD serves as a gateway to the idyllic Lakes Area. With a single terminal hosting 30 gates, the airport offers flights primarily operated by Delta Air Lines/SkyWest Airlines, connecting heavily to Minneapolis. Ground transportation options include on-site rental cars, local taxi services with fares ranging from $15 to $25 to Brainerd/Baxter, and Crow Wing County Transit.
Terminals & layout
BRD's main terminal houses all operational facilities within one compact area, easing navigation for travelers. Despite having 30 gates, the limited flight schedule keeps the terminal uncrowded. Aviation enthusiasts will appreciate the terminal's design, as it provides sweeping views of both the commercial gate and the adjacent general aviation ramp, ideal for plane spotting.
Getting to and from the city
The airport's proximity to Brainerd’s center means reaching downtown is a quick 10-20 minute taxi ride. If you’re renting a car, expect to spend 10-15 minutes completing paperwork and exiting the airport. The drive to popular lake resorts can take between 20 to 45 minutes, depending on your chosen destination. While rideshares are sporadically available, it's best to pre-arrange transportation, especially for late-night arrivals.
Traveller essentials
With free parking available right outside the terminal, BRD eliminates the typical off-site parking hassles. It’s advised to arrive around 90 minutes before departure if you're checking bags, despite the typically short lines, because limited staff can lead to unexpected delays. Inside the terminal, amenities include a quaint airport restaurant and NorthPoint Aviation, which doubles as a lounge for private flyers.
Dining & shopping highlights
While there’s only one dining option, The Airport Restaurant serves as both a community café and a practical choice for travelers looking to grab a quick bite before their flight. It's worth noting that this establishment operates in tandem with the flight schedule, so it might not always coincide with your travel needs.
Lounges
Though standalone lounges are absent, NorthPoint Aviation offers a pseudo-lounge experience for those flying privately. Located on the general aviation side, it provides conveniences such as pilot supplies, a cozy lobby, and efficient ground handling services, which are especially appreciated by those familiar with the field.
Insider tips
- Money: Parking is free for up to 45 days directly at the airport, literally steps from the terminal doors. This is highlighted as a key feature on their "Fly BRD" page.
- Time: Allocate about 90 minutes before departure for baggage check-in, as advised by BRD's own recommendation due to potential delays with staffing.
- Local: Consider dining off-site if possible, as the airport restaurant’s hours are limited and tied to the flight schedule.
- Avoid: Don't rely on finding a rideshare at the curb; ground transport is best arranged in advance given the limited on-demand options.
- Insider: The compact terminal and proximity to parking make BRD an ideal meeting point for groups heading to the lakes for a weekend.
- Quiet: Despite its small size, BRD's terminal offers excellent opportunities for plane spotting from its waiting area.