Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG

3.0 star property
Family-friendly hotel with 2 hot tubs and free water park access

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG

Indoor pool
Exterior
Exterior
Interior
Interior

Reviews

8.6 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Bar
  • Gym
  • Pool

Explore the area

View in a map
15739 Audubon Way, Brainerd, MN, 56425
  • Place, Brainerd International Raceway
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Place, Lake Ossawinnamakee
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Place, Cragun's Legacy Courses
    ‪13 min drive‬
  • Airport, Brainerd, MN (BRD-Brainerd Lakes Regional)
    ‪17 min drive‬

Room options

Standard Room, 1 King Bed

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(4 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Standard Room

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Twin Bed

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Accessible (Communications)

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(5 reviews)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Accessible Bathtub (Communications)

  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Suite, Multiple Beds

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(4 reviews)
  • Sleeps 6
  • 1 Queen Bed and 2 Twin Bunk Beds

Standard Room, Multiple Beds

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(20 reviews)
  • Sleeps 6
  • 2 Queen Beds and 1 Double Sofa Bed

Suite, 2 Queen Beds

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Suite, 1 King Bed

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Transfer Shower (Communications Accessible)

7.0 out of 10
Good
(2 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Suite, 1 Queen Bed, Accessible (Communications)

  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed

Suite, 1 Queen Bed, Accessible Bathtub (Communications)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(38 reviews)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Accessible (Communications)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Suite, Multiple Beds

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bunk Bed

Standard Room, 1 King Bed with Sofa bed

  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

About the neighborhood

Brainerd

Located 2.5 mi (4.1 km) from Northland Arboretum, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG is within a 5-minute drive of Brainerd International Raceway. This 98-room, 3-star hotel has conveniences like a free water park, an indoor pool, and a 24-hour gym.

What's nearby

  • Brainerd International Raceway - 5 min drive - 4.1 miles
  • Lake Ossawinnamakee - 10 min drive - 5.6 miles
  • Gull Lake - 10 min drive - 7.0 miles
  • Cragun's Legacy Courses - 13 min drive - 6.7 miles
  • The Classic at Madden's Golf Course - 18 min drive - 9.4 miles

Getting around

  • Minneapolis - St. Paul Intl. Airport (MSP) - 156 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Culver's - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪El Tequila Mexican Restaurant - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Poncho & Lefty's - ‬3 min drive

About this property

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG

Family-friendly hotel with 2 hot tubs and free water park access
At Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG, guests enjoy a free water park, an indoor pool, and a lazy river. You can put free parking to good use if you drive. The 24-hour front desk has staff standing by to help with dry cleaning/laundry and securing valuables. Other amenities at this family-friendly hotel include a children's pool, a 24-hour gym, and 2 hot tubs.
Guests can expect flat-screen TVs with cable channels, along with free WiFi and wired Internet. Beds sport premium bedding and bathrooms offer hair dryers and free toiletries. Refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers are also available.
2 hot tubs are on site along with an indoor pool. In addition to a children's pool, other recreational amenities include a complimentary water park, a lazy river, and a 24-hour fitness center.

Children under 14 years old are not allowed in the swimming pool or fitness facility without adult supervision.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi and wired internet
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • Free continental breakfast available daily 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM
  • A bar/lounge
  • A restaurant
  • Snack bar/deli

Restaurants on site

  • Three Bear Bar and Grill

Things to do

  • 2 hot tubs
  • 24-hour gym
  • Arcade/game room
  • Children's pool
  • Free water park
  • Indoor pool
  • Lazy river
  • Waterslide

Family friendly

  • Arcade/game room
  • Children's pool
  • Free water park access
  • In-room crib
  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Indoor pool
  • Laundry facilities
  • Lazy river
  • Rollaway/extra bed (surcharge)
  • Snack bar/deli
  • Waterslide

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • ATM
  • Free newspapers in lobby
  • Gift shop/newsstand
  • Laundry facilities
  • Safe at front desk
  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)

Business services

  • 1,001 square feet of conference space
  • Business center
  • Computer station
  • Meeting room

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Assistive listening devices
  • Braille/raised signage
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel

More

  • 1 building
  • 3 floors
  • Banquet hall
  • Fireplace in lobby

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Free crib
  • Premium bedding
  • Rollaway/extra bed (surcharge)

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower/bathtub combination
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Flat-screen TV with premium cable channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Connecting rooms available
  • Desk
  • Free daily newspapers
  • Free local calls
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone
  • Safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3 PM; Check-in end time: midnight

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation
The property’s water park is closed Monday-Wednesday.

Renovations and closures

The following facilities are closed seasonally each year. They will be closed from September 2 to May 22:
  • Water park
The following facilities are closed on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday:
  • Bar/lounge
  • Dining venue(s)
The following facilities are closed on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday:
  • Indoor pool

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 40 per pet, per night, plus a deposit of USD 150 per stay
  • Dogs only
  • Certain rooms only, restrictions apply
  • Guests can request a pet-friendly room by contacting the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Up to 3 kids 17 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding
  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for USD 10.0 per night
  • Free cribs/infant beds are available

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Pet deposit: USD 150 per stay
  • Pet fee: USD 40 per pet, per night
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Rollaway bed fee: USD 10.0 per night

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Safety features at this property include a smoke detector and a security system
This property affirms that it follows the cleaning and disinfection practices of Clean Promise (IHG)
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
  • Check-in: 3 PM
  • Check-out: 11 AM
The front desk is open 24 hours a day. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Onsite safety features include a smoke detector and a security system.
  • This property affirms that it follows the cleaning and disinfection practices of Clean Promise (IHG).

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Connecting or adjoining rooms can be requested, but all rooms are subject to availability. Contact the property using the phone number on your booking confirmation.
  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

Property is also known as

Holiday Inn Express Brainerd-Baxter
Holiday Inn Express Hotel Brainerd-Baxter
Holiday Inn Baxter
Holiday Inn Express Hotel And Suites Brainerd-Baxter
Baxter Holiday Inn
Holiday Inn Express Baxter
Holiday Inn Express Hotel Suites Brainerd Baxter

Frequently asked questions

Is a free cancellation option available at Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG?

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG provides free cancellation on some room rates. To learn more, review the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

How much does it cost to stay at Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG?

As of Oct 23, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG on Nov 23, 2025 start from $134.0, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What's there to do close to Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG?

This hotel is located in Brainerd, close to Lake Ossawinnamakee, Brainerd International Raceway, and Cragun's Legacy Courses. You'll also find Mississippi River and Northland Arboretum within a short drive.

Will I be able to park at Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the hotel. Accessible parking is also available for guests.

Does Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG feature a casino?

No, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG?

Yes, this hotel has an indoor pool along with 2 hot tubs.

What amenities will couples enjoy at Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG?

There are plenty of amenities for couples at this hotel, including an indoor pool, a bar, and a restaurant.

Does Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG have a hot tub?

Yes, this hotel has 2 spa tubs.

Does Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

Yes, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG serves free continental breakfast at Three Bear Bar and Grill each morning.

Does Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although they can't stay for free, dogs are welcome at Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG for a fee of USD 40 per pet, per night. A deposit of USD 150 per stay is collected.

Are there connecting rooms at Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG?

Yes, you can book connecting guestrooms at this hotel for your group or family vacation.

What is the closest airport to Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG?

The closest major airport to Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG is Brainerd, MN (BRD-Brainerd Lakes Regional), which is 8.7 mi away (15 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies at Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG?

No, at Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG, there aren't any guestrooms that list a balcony.

Reviews

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Brainerd-Baxter by IHG Reviews

8.6

Excellent

8.8/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Staff & service

8.6/10

Amenities

8.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.4/10

Eco-friendliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 453 out of 839 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 250 out of 839 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 80 out of 839 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 41 out of 839 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 15 out of 839 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

sandra

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Best place to stay un Brainerd area
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amiri

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Samantha

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Michele

Traveled with group
Liked: Property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Lucina

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I wish the person that checked me out didn't make me feel like a criminal for booking through a 3rd party. This isn't the first time this has happened to me.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

4/10 Poor

RaeAnne

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with group, Traveled with partner
Liked: Amenities
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
We stayed Friday- Sunday and the area of the hotel was very nice. At check in we were given keys to our room and as we opened the door there were already guests in the room and we felt terrible walking in on them. We then went to get new keys and got to our new room. We were fine with our new room. We then realized late Saturday night there was a leak coming from our toilet in our bathroom.. we alerted front desk as we checked out. We had a few issues, but the waterpark was a blast for the kiddo and we also enjoyed the breakfast.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Susan

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Shawn, Bemidji

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lacey

Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jacqi

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jean

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jon

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

8/10 Good

Nicholas

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

6/10 Okay

Anna

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with family
Needs major updates, nothing has changed for years.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tara

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The waterpark area was big with lots to do to keep my kids of all ages entertained all weekend! The room was big and beds were comfortable.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

8/10 Good

Mike

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nichole

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Fun place. Nice staff. Clean environment. Only downfall is the only bar and restaurant closes tpo early.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

8/10 Good

Shantel

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service

Bring earplugs

Quick getaway with our 9 year old son. Check-in was great, very happy helpful attendant. Water park was great. The room on the other hand was a hug disappointment. There were two men in a room next to us, we heard every bit of their conversation and they talked until after midnight. Bed was uncomfortable. The room next to us had a morning alarm on their phone and it literally woke us up at 5:45! Room was spacious for the 3 of us however I got less than 3 hours sleep due to the rooms not being sound proof enough.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Disliked: Staff & service
Like the amenities
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Chelsi

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with pets, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Fun place! The kids love it
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Simon

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort

Very solid Holiday Inn Express!

Super fast check in. Great room. Perfect for our quick 1 night stay.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nancy, Wyoming

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Family-oriented, water park was great for kiddos up to about teens. We had 4 grandchildren with us, ages 6-10, they had a blast, could always see where they were, it was safe, and even fun for the parents and grandparents. ;-)
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025