Step Into a Giant’s World: Why Families Can’t Get Enough of Paul Bunyan Land
Address: 17553 MN-18, Brainerd, MN 56401
About the Paul Bunyan Land Amusement Park
Brainerd’s most iconic amusement park is packed with big fun for pint-sized explorers and adults alike!
If your family’s heading to the Brainerd Lakes Area, don’t miss a stop at Paul Bunyan Land. Minnesota legends and classic amusement park fun meet in this whimsical world, making for a great family day out. Paul Bunyan Land is a long-standing family favorite that has been delighting kids since 1954—and yes, Paul still talks to your kids by name when you enter the park. The larger-than-life lumberjack (and his loyal blue ox, Babe) set the tone for a day full of wonder, laughter, and old-fashioned adventure.
Whether you’re riding the Ferris wheel or exploring Paul’s favorite haunts in Pioneer Village, Paul Bunyan Land promises big memories for your littlest adventurers.
The Amusement Park
Over 40 rides are available at Paul Bunyan Land.
The park’s amusement rides cater to all ages, but toddlers and preschoolers will especially love the Merry-Go-Round, Mini Himalaya, and Space Shuttle. There are gentle rides for the little ones and a few thrills for older siblings and parents, too. Everything is compact and walkable, making navigating easy with strollers in tow.
Park Tips for Parents:
- Pack sunscreen and hats—there’s minimal shade.
- Bring wipes for sticky fingers (hello, fair-style snacks!).
- Don’t miss the photo op with Paul and Babe!
- Outside food is allowed, so feel free to pack a picnic.
Beyond the Rides
Beyond the rides, you’ll find Pioneer Village, home to over 45 historic buildings and Minnesota’s most extensive collection of antiques. It’s like walking through a storybook of the late 1800s—with a blacksmith shop, one-room schoolhouse, and even an old-timey candy store. Many buildings are stroller-accessible, and kids love peeking into the past through vintage toys, tools, and farm equipment.
Animal-loving kiddos will enjoy the petting zoo. Summer visits often come with bonus experiences like live demonstrations of traditional trades or vintage tractor parades during Pioneer Days.
Visiting in the fall? Haunted Hidden Hollows transforms the park into a spooky (but kid-friendly) Halloween destination with a haunted house and corn maze.
On-Site Camping
Planning a more extended visit? The on-site campground offers spacious sites with water and electricity hookups, showers, and restrooms. Plus, fire pits for post-park marshmallow roasting. It’s a convenient and cozy home base for your Brainerd family getaway.
Related Article: The Ultimate Guide to the Brainerd Lakes Area
Amusement Park Highlights
- Season Passes Available
- Children ages two and under enter for free
- Paul greets children by name
- Unlimited rides open to close (40+ rides for all ages)
- Ability to leave & return to the park on the same day
- Pioneer Village (museum)
- Paul’s Petting Barns (cute barn animals)
- Campground on-site
- Haunted house & corn maze leading up to Halloween
Know Before You Go to Paul Bunyan Land
- Website
- Hours: Summer only, Memorial Weekend (Saturday) – Labor Day. Open Friday – Tuesday, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (Closed Wednesdays & Thursdays)
- Parking is widely available on-site.
- Birthday Parties
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
Images provided by Paul Bunyon Land Facebook page.
