June 27, 2021

7 Reasons to Book a Spa Weekend at Madden’s Resort in Brainerd, MN

black girl looking out at the lake at Maddens in Brainerd

I wish I would have discovered Spa trips much sooner in life, but I am definitely making up for lost time! A few weekends ago, I took an incredible staycation to Brainerd, MN with my three sisters and my mom. It was intended to be a Mother’s Day gift from all of the children, but it ended up being a gift for everyone! We did not realize just how much we ALL needed a restful weekend away, to relax and recharge.

Coming off of a year of lockdowns, racial and political tension, a global illness, etc., I’m going to assume that you could use a spa weekend away too! Keep reading to learn more about our incredible spa weekend in Brainerd, and the 7 reasons why you should plan this spa trip too.

1. You get to explore a weekend getaway right in your backyard

Have you taken a “staycation” before? I hope the answer is a resounding YAS! We love staycations because we are able to get the benefits of a vacation, without having to go far. It’s also a great opportunity to explore some of the amazing spots right around you.

Brainerd, MN is a charming town located in the center of northern Minnesota. It’s a popular destination for summer because it is surrounded by lakes! It’s only 2.5 hrs from Minneapolis, and for our Wisconsin readers, it is about a 6hr drive from Milwaukee, so definitely still drivable!

Madden’s Resort is one of the best places to stay in Brainerd–we absolutely loved it! It’s a bit older, but the rooms are updated and cozy. We stayed in their main hotel rooms, but they also have cabins available on site if that is more of the vibe you are looking for. AND they are giving our lovely audience 10% off of your stay from August 29 – October 20, 2021 using our discount code: TWC. All the more reason to plan a trip!

outside of Madden's resort in Brainerd, MN

outside of one of the cabins at Madden's resort

2. Their On-site Spa is Top Notch

There is something so wonderful about being able to walk directly from your hotel room to a spa. The hotel’s spa is tucked away on Madden’s Resort, overlooking the lake. They have a wide range of services–some that I had never even heard of! You can check out the full list of services on their website, but a few of the most notable ones are their Himalayan Salt Stone Massage, “Barefoot Massage” and Rejuvenation Facial.

5 black women in robes at the Spa in Madden's resort

3. You don’t have to break the bank

Given everything that we were able to do on this weekend trip, it was incredibly affordable. I highly recommend booking the ‘Stay & Spa Package’, which covers your housing plus a $50 credit per person, per night towards spa services. Since we stayed two nights, each of us received $100 that we were able to use towards the on-site Spa!

Spa prices range from $15 to $160 depending on the type of service you are looking for (massage, facial, wrap, etc.) and how long you want the service to be (30 min, 60 min, or 90 min). But this is truly one of the most affordable spa’s I’ve been to and the service is high quality.

Plus if you use our 10% discount code, TWC, on your room, you’ll find it that much more affordable.

The lobby inside of Madden's resort in Brainerd, MN

Girl sitting in phone booth in Brainerd, MN Madden's Resort

4. The resort offers Outdoors and Relaxation

You didn’t think you came all the way to Brainerd, MN JUST for the spa, did you? Before, after, or in between spa services you definitely need to walk around Madden’s 1000 acres of greenery to take in the sites. Grab some headphones, put on some music and take a stroll through the many trails on the resort. You can also walk along their beach, or take a dip in one of their 4 indoor or outdoor pools. So many options for additional relaxation, all at your disposal. We did an afternoon at the pool and enjoyed margaritas, while taking in the resort views.

5. ….Or Take Advantage of the Many Activities available

But if the peace and quiet is getting to be a bit too much, there are a lot of activities you can participate in. They offer everything from sand volleyball and shuffleboard, to pickleball and morning yoga. You can take a look at their activities calendar to see what they have going on during your stay.

Black girl sitting in the chair at Madden's Gulf Lake

6. the food scene is really good

Another perk that comes with the ‘Stay and Spa’ package that we booked, is complimentary breakfast at Madden’s elaborate breakfast buffet. Hotel buffets can be hit or miss, but we were really impressed with theirs. Lots of delicious options and the best service and hospitality.

For lunch and dinner, there are plenty of restaurants on site to choose from. You can stop at The Classic Gril for a sit-down meal, or hit up the pizza spot on the resort, Parfecto Pizza (SO GOOD). If you are looking to grab a bite to eat outside of the resort, check out Ernie’s on Gull or Tanque Verde Cantina.

7. It’s a great opportunity to Support Local Businesses

While you are in the area, you can check out the many local shops that the city has to offer. We always love when our money can go back to our community in a meaningful way. A weekend in Brainerd, MN will allow you to do just that! If you are looking for more things to do while in Brainerd, check out this Ultimate Brainerd blog post by our friend Liz.

We really hope you take our advice and plan a spa weekend away or another Minnesota staycation! It’s the best way to take advantage of the beauty right in your backyard.