22 Best & Fun Things to Do in Jenkins, MN
Jenkins is a very small town in the Brainerd Lakes area, but that does not mean your options are limited. Many of the best things to do in Jenkins, MN come from its location between lakes, trails, and nearby resort towns. Jenkins is known as the gateway to the Whitefish Chain, so it works well for visitors who want boating, fishing, biking, short scenic stops, and easy day trips.
In town, you will find a few simple recreation spots, including park space and direct access to the Paul Bunyan State Trail. A short drive opens up much more. Crosslake adds museums, mini golf, river access, and the National Loon Center’s current visitor site. Pequot Lakes gives you a landmark photo stop, downtown events, golf, and another strong trailhead. Nisswa brings a walkable Main Street, summer turtle races, mini golf, and seasonal family attractions. Brainerd expands the list further with wildlife, gardens, and lake cruises.
This guide keeps the focus on verified places only. Some stops are quick and easy. Others can fill half a day or more. That mix is part of what makes Jenkins practical for a relaxed North Central Minnesota trip. You can stay close to town and enjoy the lakes area pace, or use Jenkins as a quiet base for exploring several nearby communities in one visit.
Things to Do in Jenkins, MN
1. Veterans Park and Jenkins Baseball Field
Veterans Park and the Jenkins Baseball Field are among the most useful in-town places to start when you want a simple outdoor stop without leaving the community. The City of Jenkins identifies both as city facilities, and they can be reserved through City Hall. That matters because in a small town like Jenkins, public spaces often double as gathering spots for visitors, families, and local events.
This is not a giant destination park with long trails or major attractions. It is a practical local recreation area where you can stretch your legs, let kids move around, and enjoy a casual break between lake outings and drives around the area. Recent city park materials confirm amenities at Veterans Park such as a resurfaced basketball court and improvements around the memorial area. That makes it a better stop than just an empty open field.
It suits travelers looking for an easy picnic stop, youth sports space, or a place to spend a quiet hour outdoors. It can also work well if you are attending a community event or meeting up with local friends and family. If you need the space for organized use, the city calendar directs visitors to contact City Hall for reservations. For travelers passing through Jenkins, it is a straightforward way to enjoy one of the town’s few verified recreation spots.
Address: Veterans Street area, Jenkins, MN 56474. Reservable through Jenkins City Hall at 33861 Cottage Avenue, Jenkins, MN 56474.
2. Paul Bunyan State Trail – Jenkins Access
The Paul Bunyan State Trail has a confirmed access point in Jenkins, which gives this small town one of its best active outdoor options. For many visitors, this trail will be the main reason to stop in town instead of only driving through. The Minnesota DNR confirms parking is available in Jenkins, and the paved trail supports hiking, biking, in-line skating, and other non-motorized use. In winter, the larger corridor also connects with snowmobiling use in season.
This is a good choice if you want movement and scenery more than a single attraction building. A trail stop also works well for travelers who only have a short time. You can take a brief walk, ride a bike for a longer stretch, or use Jenkins as part of a larger Paul Bunyan State Trail outing. If you prefer a more defined nearby trailhead, Pequot Lakes also has an official access point, which can be paired with a downtown stop and the kind of relaxed small-town Minnesota outing found in other state guides.
Most non-motorized users do not need a trail pass, which keeps planning simple. The main thing to remember is that conditions can change, especially across seasons, so the DNR trail conditions page is the best source before you go. For active travelers, this is one of the strongest and most flexible things to do in Jenkins itself.
Address: Official DNR directions: parking is available in Jenkins. Nearby regional signed access is from Highway 371 to Pequot Lakes via County Road 11, then west into town and south on Patriot Avenue for the Pequot Lakes trail parking lot.
3. Whitefish Chain of Lakes – Public Water Access near Jenkins
The Whitefish Chain of Lakes is near Jenkins and is the area’s signature lake attraction, with a public access reached from town via County Road 15 and Jenkins Township Road. The city promotes Jenkins as the gateway to the Whitefish Chain, so lake time is central to any visit here. Even if you do nothing else, getting out onto the water is one of the most fitting ways to experience the area.
This stop is less about a single attraction building and more about what the lakes allow you to do. Boating, fishing, paddling, and scenic drives are the main reasons to go. If you bring your own gear or watercraft, public access makes the chain easier to use. If not, the drive alone can still be worth it for a feel of the region that shapes Jenkins more than any one downtown landmark.
This is best for travelers who enjoy unstructured outdoor time. Anglers, boaters, and anyone who likes quiet shoreline scenery will get more from it than visitors who want museums or amusement-style attractions. It also pairs well with other nearby Whitefish Chain stops in Crosslake, including beaches, campgrounds, and historic sites. Because launch details can change, it is smart to use current DNR mapping before heading out. For a small Minnesota town, this lake access is a major reason Jenkins works as a base for a Northwoods-style trip.
Address: Official map direction for Whitefish public access: 3 miles north and east of Jenkins on County Road 15, then 0.75 mile east on Jenkins Township Road.
4. Cross Lake Recreation Area
Cross Lake Recreation Area is in Crosslake, roughly a short drive north of Jenkins, and it is one of the best nearby places for a fuller lake day. Run by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this recreation area sits on Cross Lake along the Whitefish Chain and offers much more infrastructure than the simpler access points close to Jenkins.
According to Recreation.gov, the site includes 122 campsites, with 97 offering electric hookups, plus beaches, a boat ramp, docks, a playground, picnic shelters, and accessible fishing piers. That range makes it appealing to many kinds of travelers. Families can focus on beach time and playground breaks. Anglers and boaters can use the launch and piers. Campers can use it as a practical base while exploring Jenkins, Crosslake, and nearby towns.
Even if you are not camping, the day-use value is strong. Swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking all make sense here, and the setup is easier for visitors who prefer organized facilities over informal shoreline access. This is one of the best answers for people who ask for fun things to do near Jenkins with a mix of comfort and outdoor time. Reservations are required through Recreation.gov, with no walk-ins allowed, so plan ahead. If you stay overnight, pay attention to the posted stay limit. For travelers who want a substantial outdoor stop, this is one of the strongest nearby picks.
Address: 35507 County Road 66, Crosslake, MN 56442.
5. Crosslake Historical Society Museum and Historic Log Village
Crosslake Historical Society Museum and Historic Log Village is in Crosslake, a short drive north of Jenkins, and it is a good nearby stop when you want local history instead of more lake time. The site preserves historic buildings and interprets the area’s past, giving useful context to a region often experienced only through cabins, boating, and summer recreation.
This attraction works best as a short cultural visit rather than a full-day plan. The value is in seeing how the area developed and in walking through a setting that keeps local heritage visible. The chamber listing notes that the site is handicap accessible, which makes it more approachable for a wider range of visitors. Its location across from the Pine River Dam and the Cross Lake Recreation Area Campground also makes trip planning easy. You can combine it with other Crosslake stops without adding much extra driving.
Travelers who enjoy museums, preserved buildings, and regional stories will likely appreciate this more than visitors looking for high-energy family activities. It can also be a smart rainy-day option if the weather is not ideal for trails or boating. In a lakes region where many attractions are outdoors and seasonal, having one verified history stop nearby adds balance to your itinerary. If you are building a varied day around Crosslake, this museum is a simple but worthwhile addition that gives the surrounding landscape more meaning.
Address: 35404 County Road 3, Crosslake, MN 56442.
6. National Loon Center – The Nest
National Loon Center – The Nest is in Crosslake, a short drive north of Jenkins, and it is one of the more distinctive educational stops in the area. The important detail is that the current visitor option is The Nest in Crosslake Town Square. The larger future facility is not the one to plan around right now, so this is the correct place to visit.
The organization focuses on loon and freshwater ecosystem research and education, which fits naturally in a lake-rich part of Minnesota. For visitors, that means a stop here can add depth to the usual boating and vacation experience. Instead of only seeing the landscape, you also learn about one of the region’s best-known water birds and the environment it depends on. That gives this attraction appeal for adults, curious older kids, birders, and travelers who like educational side trips.
Another reason it deserves time is that the experience can go beyond an indoor stop. Research confirms that visitors can also join on-the-water loon observation programs aboard the educational pontoon StewardShip. If that interests you, check schedules in advance because programming is not the same as simply dropping by Town Square. For many travelers, this will be one of the most memorable nearby Jenkins attractions because it feels specific to Minnesota lakes country. It is also easy to combine with shopping, dining, or other Crosslake stops in the same outing.
Address: 14303 Gould Street, Crosslake, MN 56442.
7. Pine River Overlook Park
Pine River Overlook Park is in Crosslake, a short drive north of Jenkins, and it offers a quieter type of outdoor stop than the bigger lake beaches and campgrounds nearby. Planning materials identify the park at Riverwood Trail and describe features such as a gravel parking lot, a sheltered portable toilet, picnic or green space, a dock with kayak launch, and signage.
What makes this park useful is its simple focus. It is built around calm river access and low-key recreation rather than playgrounds, sports fields, or crowded waterfront activity. The park materials specifically call out picnicking, reading, bird watching, fishing, and launching kayaks, canoes, and tubes. That gives you a clear idea of who it suits. If you want a peaceful spot to sit by the water or put in a paddle craft, it can be a very good fit. If you want a large all-day family park, another stop may work better.
This is one of the better nearby choices for travelers who like quiet scenery and light outdoor activity. It can also break up a day spent driving around the Whitefish Chain communities. Because this is described through park planning materials and newer development concepts, it is wise to verify the exact state of on-site amenities before making it the centerpiece of your day. Still, for relaxed river access near Jenkins, it is a promising and useful stop.
Address: 35202 Riverwood Trail, Crosslake, MN 56442.
8. Crosslake Community Center and Nordic Ridge Trail Area
Crosslake Community Center and the Nordic Ridge Trail Area are in Crosslake, a short drive north of Jenkins, and they give visitors a more structured trail option nearby. The Parks and Recreation office is inside the Community Center, and trail maps identify the Nordic Ridge system beside it. That makes this one of the clearest places in the area for visitors who want marked loops and a proper trailhead setup.
The mapped network includes multiple loops, designated parking, and seasonal use guidance. Hiking on the ski trail is open from April through October, while winter brings ski and snowshoe routes when conditions allow. That clear seasonal pattern helps you know what to expect. In warmer months, this is a good place for a walk, light hike, or active family outing. In winter, it becomes more useful for visitors who want a designated cold-weather trail experience rather than just roadside snow scenery.
This area suits travelers who enjoy simple outdoor exercise and do not need a major attraction to have a satisfying stop. It can also work well for people staying in Jenkins who want to vary their outdoor activities beyond lake access and the Paul Bunyan State Trail. Because the Community Center houses the local recreation office, it is a practical place to ask questions about conditions or facilities. If your trip includes Crosslake and you like mapped trails, this is one of the most dependable nearby outdoor choices.
Address: 14126 Daggett Pine Road, Crosslake, MN 56442.
9. Whistling Wolf Mini Golf and Gifts
Whistling Wolf Mini Golf and Gifts is in Crosslake, a short drive north of Jenkins, and it is one of the easiest nearby family activities to add to a day out. The Crosslake chamber listing confirms that it has two mini golf courses, The Dark Moon Mega and The Original Whistling Wolf, which gives it a little more variety than a single-course stop.
This is a good option when you want something light and social that works for different ages. Mini golf is easy to fit into a broader itinerary because it does not require a large time commitment, special planning, or outdoor skill level. The same listing also notes shopping on site at Crosslake Clothing Co. and The Candy Den, so even people not playing can still enjoy the stop. That combination makes it especially practical for mixed groups.
Whistling Wolf is best thought of as a casual break rather than a major attraction. It works well after dinner, between shopping stops, or as a backup plan when the weather is good but you do not want to spend hours on the water. Families with younger children will likely find it especially useful, though couples can enjoy it too. In shoulder season, it is smart to call ahead and confirm daily operating status. For visitors based in Jenkins who want straightforward fun nearby, this is one of the easiest picks.
Address: 36006 County Road 66, Crosslake, MN 56442.
10. Wildwedge Golf, Mini Golf and Maze
Wildwedge Golf, Mini Golf and Maze is in Pequot Lakes, a short drive south of Jenkins, and it is one of the strongest all-around family attractions in the area. Research confirms a mix of activities that is hard to match nearby: an executive golf course, mini golf, a driving range, and a 10,000-square-foot wooden mystery maze. That range makes it useful for groups with different interests and ages.
The biggest advantage here is flexibility. Serious golfers can spend time on the executive course or driving range, while families and casual visitors can focus on mini golf or the maze. Because not everyone has to do the same activity, it works especially well for mixed-age groups, multigenerational trips, or families where some people want more challenge than others. It is also conveniently located near Highway 371, making it easy to combine with stops in Jenkins, Pequot Lakes, or Nisswa.
The chamber listing notes that it typically operates from April through October depending on weather, so this is mainly a warm-season recommendation. It is a place to keep in mind when you want one stop that can hold attention longer than a quick roadside attraction. In a region known for lakes and trails, Wildwedge adds a different kind of outdoor fun. For visitors asking about fun things to do in Jenkins and nearby, this one earns its place because it offers real variety without a long drive.
Address: 32792 Paul Bunyan Trail Drive, Pequot Lakes, MN 56472.
11. Whitefish Golf Club
Whitefish Golf Club is in Pequot Lakes, a short drive south of Jenkins, and it is one of the stronger public golf options near town. The Pequot Lakes chamber lists it as an 18-hole public course, which matters for visitors because you do not need to stay at a private resort to book a round. That makes it a realistic choice for travelers building a short lakes-area getaway.
The club also offers a practice range plus a full bar and grill, so it works for more than just the round itself. You can come for practice time, a meal, or a more complete golf outing. The course is described as being carved through mature Norway pine and hardwood forest, and that setting is a big part of the appeal. In this region, scenery matters as much as the score for many golfers, and a wooded course can make the day feel tied to the Northwoods character of the area.
This stop suits golfers who want a full course experience close to Jenkins rather than only mini golf or range practice. It can also work for couples or groups where not everyone is playing, since the clubhouse amenities add some flexibility. As with many Minnesota golf outings, it is wise to check seasonal conditions and tee times in advance. For visitors who want one of the best things to do near Jenkins beyond lakes and trails, a round here is an easy option to consider.
Address: 7883 County Road 16, Pequot Lakes, MN 56472.
12. Trailside Park
Trailside Park is in Pequot Lakes, a short drive south of Jenkins, and it is best understood as the heart of downtown public events rather than a stand-alone park destination. Official listings confirm that concerts and community festivals happen here, including Saturday’s Under the Bobber performances at the bandshell in North Trailside Park and major Bean Hole Days activities in the center of town.
That event role is exactly why it deserves a place on this list. In small Minnesota communities, public space often matters most when it comes alive with gatherings, music, vendors, and town traditions. If your timing matches an event, Trailside Park becomes one of the liveliest nearby stops for visitors staying in Jenkins. It is also easy to combine with a quick downtown walk, the kind of classic small-town stop travelers often seek in Minnesota, and other nearby Pequot Lakes attractions.
Without an event, this is more of a pleasant downtown space than a reason for a long special trip. That is not a flaw. It just means expectations should be realistic. Visitors who enjoy local culture, seasonal happenings, and community energy will get the most from it. Before you go, check the city or chamber calendar to see what is scheduled. When something is happening, Trailside Park can give your Jenkins-area trip a more local and social side.
Address: Trailside Park in downtown Pequot Lakes; official event references place it in the center of town and in North Trailside Park near the bandshell. Pequot Lakes visitor contact: 31095 Government Drive, Pequot Lakes, MN 56472.
13. Paul Bunyan State Trail – Pequot Lakes Trailhead
The Paul Bunyan State Trail – Pequot Lakes Trailhead is in Pequot Lakes, a short drive south of Jenkins, and it is one of the most useful nearby access points if you want a clearly marked place to start. While Jenkins has in-town access, the DNR provides exact directions to this Pequot Lakes parking lot, which makes planning easier for visitors who prefer a signed trailhead over informal parking.
The trail itself is one of the region’s best assets for biking, walking, and relaxed outdoor time. Because no general trail fee is required for most non-motorized use, it is an easy activity to add without much preparation. This access point also pairs especially well with downtown Pequot Lakes. You can ride or walk the trail, then stop for food, shopping, or a quick photo at the Bobber Tower. That kind of simple combination often makes for one of the most enjoyable half-day outings in the area.
This trailhead suits active travelers, cyclists, couples, and families who want a reliable place to begin. It is also useful if you are staying in Jenkins but want a stronger support point for parking and navigation. As always with a Minnesota trail, it is smart to check current DNR conditions before heading out, especially outside peak summer. For visitors who like easy, low-cost outdoor recreation, this is one of the handiest nearby Jenkins attractions.
Address: Official DNR directions: from Highway 371, exit onto County Road 11 and go west into Pequot Lakes to the stoplight at Patriot Avenue. Turn left (south) onto Patriot Avenue, then take the next left (east) onto Woodman Street for 1/2 block; the parking lot is on the left.
14. Pequot Lakes Bobber Tower
Pequot Lakes Bobber Tower is in Pequot Lakes, a short drive south of Jenkins, and it is the area’s best quick photo stop. Pequot Lakes brands itself as the Home of the Bobber Tower, and official town materials continue to reference support for preserving it. That confirms it remains a current local landmark rather than a fading roadside curiosity.
This is a brief stop, but that does not make it unimportant. Distinctive landmarks often help define a trip, and this one is easy to enjoy without much effort. If you are exploring the Jenkins area by car, the tower is the kind of place that breaks up a day nicely. It also works well for travelers who like finding unusual local icons rather than only major attractions. Because it sits near the visitor area and downtown, it is simple to combine with Trailside Park, Paul Bunyan State Trail access, or a meal in town.
The Bobber Tower is best for people who appreciate small-town character and fun regional identity. It is not something that fills an afternoon, but it adds personality to a broader outing. Travelers putting together a northern Minnesota loop may also enjoy pairing this kind of stop with other Upper Midwest town guides such as Sturgeon Bay or Superior for future road trips. In the Jenkins area, this is one of the easiest memorable stops to fit in.
Address: Downtown Pequot Lakes near the chamber and visitor area at 31095 Government Drive, Pequot Lakes, MN 56472.
15. Nisswa History Center and Museum
Nisswa History Center and Museum is in Nisswa, a short drive southwest of Jenkins, and it is one of the better nearby heritage attractions for visitors who want more than lake scenery. The museum site includes the Nisswa History Center along with the historic Pioneer Village, Depot, and Caboose. That mix makes it more immersive than a single-room local museum.
This is a good stop for travelers who enjoy seeing preserved buildings and learning how a town developed. In a resort region where many visits revolve around shopping and outdoor recreation, a place like this adds perspective. The site also includes a heritage garden and a gift shop with local artisan items, so the visit can feel varied rather than purely informational. It is well suited for adults, history-minded families, and anyone looking for a quieter activity between busier outings.
The chamber listing provides seasonal details and current admission information, which is helpful because this is not an all-year drop-in attraction with the same schedule every month. For 2026, regular Wednesday through Saturday hours begin in late May, with additional Labor Day weekend hours. That means timing matters. If you already plan to visit downtown Nisswa, this museum can easily become part of the day. For visitors staying in Jenkins, it is a worthwhile cultural side trip that shows a different side of the Brainerd Lakes area beyond the water.
Address: 25611 Main Street, Nisswa, MN 56468.
16. Downtown Nisswa and Main Street shopping district
Downtown Nisswa and its Main Street shopping district are in Nisswa, a short drive southwest of Jenkins, and this is one of the strongest stroll-and-shop outings nearby. The Nisswa Chamber places its office in the heart of the historic Main Street area, and official materials show that the district remains the base for major traditions such as Turtle Races and City of Lights.
For visitors, the appeal is simple. Nisswa offers a more developed town center than Jenkins, with an easy small-town layout that works well for walking, browsing, and taking your time. This is a good choice when you want a break from full outdoor activity but still want to be out and about rather than indoors all day. Couples often enjoy it for a slower afternoon. Families can pair it with mini golf or a seasonal event. Solo travelers may like it for a casual look around with coffee, shops, and people watching.
The chamber office is also useful as a visitor-information stop for maps and event updates. That can help if you are trying to connect your day with a race, festival, or special program. Downtown Nisswa is especially worthwhile on event days and in summer, when more of the area’s social life moves outdoors. For a Jenkins-based trip, this is one of the best nearby places to add a little town energy and variety to your itinerary.
Address: Main Street area centered around 25532 Main Street, Nisswa, MN 56468.
17. Nisswa Turtle Races
Nisswa Turtle Races are in Nisswa, a short drive southwest of Jenkins, and they are one of the area’s most recognizable summer traditions. The Nisswa Chamber confirms that the races return on Wednesdays from June 3 through August 12, 2026, with registration starting at 1:00 p.m. and the races beginning at 2:00 p.m. That makes this a clearly seasonal attraction that needs advance timing.
This event stands out because it offers a kind of local character you are unlikely to find in many other places. It is playful, family friendly, and tied closely to Nisswa’s identity. Visitors are not allowed to bring their own turtle because of state regulations, and the event provides the turtle as part of the official setup. That keeps participation simple for travelers. The 2026 fee is listed as $5 per racer and includes a racing button.
Turtle Races are best for families with children, but adults who enjoy quirky local traditions may also have fun watching. Because it is an event rather than an all-day attraction, it works best as part of a larger Nisswa outing that could include Main Street shopping or nearby mini golf. If your Jenkins trip falls in summer, this can be one of the most memorable and distinctly local things to do nearby. Just be sure to label it as a seasonal midweek activity when planning.
Address: Downtown Nisswa event area; chamber office at 25532 Main Street, Nisswa, MN 56468.
18. Nisswa Falls Mini Golf
Nisswa Falls Mini Golf is in Nisswa, a short drive southwest of Jenkins, and it is a convenient family stop close to both downtown and the Paul Bunyan Trail. The Nisswa chamber lists it as an 18-hole mini golf course and notes that it sits right along the trail and just steps from downtown. That location is a big part of why it works so well.
This is a smart option when you want a simple activity that adds fun without taking over your whole day. Families can play a round before or after shopping. Couples can use it as a light break from walking around town. Cyclists using the Paul Bunyan Trail may find it an easy extra stop if they want something playful along the route. Because the course is so close to other Nisswa attractions, it is one of those places that is easy to fit into many kinds of itineraries.
Mini golf will not replace a major destination, but that is not the point here. Its value comes from being easy, social, and flexible. It also helps balance a trip that might otherwise lean too heavily on browsing shops or driving between towns. As with many seasonal attractions in northern Minnesota, it is wise to confirm day-of hours before you visit, especially outside peak summer. For visitors based in Jenkins, this is one of the simplest nearby attractions for low-pressure fun.
Address: 25116 Smiley Road, Nisswa, MN 56468.
19. Nisswa Family Fun Center
Nisswa Family Fun Center is in Nisswa, a short drive southwest of Jenkins, and it is one of the better warm-weather family attractions within easy reach of town. The Nisswa chamber identifies it as Nisswa’s outdoor water park, with amenities that include multiple slides, a family pool, and hot tubs. For visitors traveling with children in summer, that can make it a very appealing change from lake access alone.
This stop works best for families who want a more contained and predictable water outing. Lakes are beautiful, but they are not always the easiest option for every group. A water park setting can feel simpler for parents who want a clearer setup and for kids who enjoy slides and pool-based play. It also gives visitors another type of recreation if weather is hot and everyone wants to cool off without arranging a boat or finding a beach.
The key planning point is seasonality. The chamber listing says it is open from June through Labor Day weekend, so this should only be treated as a summer attraction. If your Jenkins trip falls outside that window, choose one of the region’s other family options instead. In the right season, though, this can be one of the most fun things to do near Jenkins for kids. It pairs naturally with downtown Nisswa, making it easy to build a half-day or full-day outing around it.
Address: 4871 County Road 77, Nisswa, MN 56468.
20. Roundhouse Brewery
Roundhouse Brewery is in Nisswa, a short drive southwest of Jenkins, and it is a strong casual stop for adults exploring the area’s food and drink scene. The Nisswa Chamber’s leadership page lists the brewery as an active local business, and Nisswa’s official What to Do page features current events there, confirming that it is operating as a visitor venue.
This is a good choice when you want an evening outing or a relaxed break from outdoor recreation. After time on the trail, on the lake, or walking around town, a brewery stop can add a more social pace to the day. It is especially easy to pair with downtown Nisswa shopping, and it can work well for couples, groups of friends, or adults on a weekend getaway. Because official materials reference current events, it may be worth checking listings if you hope to catch live music or another gathering rather than only stopping by the taproom.
Roundhouse Brewery deserves time because it adds variety to a Jenkins-area itinerary. Not every outing needs to be built around trails, water access, or family attractions. Sometimes a local venue with a relaxed setting is exactly the right fit. If you enjoy exploring towns through their active gathering places, this stop makes sense. It also helps show why nearby Nisswa remains one of the most useful side trips from Jenkins for visitors who want more than outdoor recreation alone.
Address: 23836 Smiley Road, Nisswa, MN 56468.
21. Safari North Wildlife Park
Safari North Wildlife Park is in Brainerd, roughly southeast of Jenkins, and it is one of the strongest full family day-trip options in the wider area. This is one of the farther entries on the list, but it earns its place because it offers a bigger-scale experience than most attractions close to Jenkins. Current chamber listings confirm the address, the active operating season, and a range of animal experiences.
Event descriptions mention opportunities such as feeding a giraffe, touching a tortoise, parakeet encounters, camel rides, and a safari train. That variety makes the park especially appealing for families with children, though many adults will enjoy it too. Unlike a quick mini golf stop or a brief museum visit, this is the kind of attraction that can become the main plan for a day. If you are traveling with kids and want a reliable crowd-pleaser beyond the lakes, Safari North is one of the best options nearby.
The park is also useful because it offers structured entertainment in a region where many top activities depend on weather, water access, or seasonal events. A chamber event page notes hours of 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for one 2026 event date, but daily details should still be checked before you go. For many families, this will be one of the most memorable side trips from Jenkins. It brings a different energy to the trip while still fitting within the broader Brainerd Lakes area.
Address: 8493 State Highway 371, Brainerd, MN 56401.
22. Northland Arboretum
Northland Arboretum is in Brainerd, roughly southeast of Jenkins, and it is a strong nearby choice for travelers who want a more nature-focused outing. Current Brainerd Lakes Chamber listings verify both the address and active programming in 2026. The arboretum supports recreation, conservation, environmental education, and trail use, which gives it broader appeal than a simple garden walk.
This is a good fit for walkers, runners, and visitors who enjoy quiet outdoor places with purpose. Materials tied to events and fundraising reference trail maintenance and recreation improvements, showing that the site is actively used rather than just passively preserved. That makes it useful whether you want a straightforward nature walk or hope to connect your visit with a workshop, run, or seasonal program. Compared with a quick scenic stop, the arboretum can offer more time and a stronger sense of place.
It also adds a different kind of landscape experience to a Jenkins-area trip. Lakes and town centers dominate many local itineraries, but an arboretum gives you another way to engage with the region outdoors. If you enjoy places that mix recreation with learning, this is one of the better choices within reach. Before visiting, check the arboretum site or event calendar for current programs and trail-related updates. For travelers who want fresh air, movement, and something a little more substantial than a roadside park, this is a rewarding final stop to consider.
Address: 14250 Conservation Drive, Brainerd, MN 56401.
Final Thoughts
Jenkins works best when you treat it as both a destination and a base. In town, you have simple local recreation and direct access to one of Minnesota’s best-known state trails. Just outside town, the Whitefish Chain gives you the lake experience that defines this part of the state.
The biggest advantage is how easily Jenkins connects to nearby places. Crosslake adds history, river access, and family fun. Pequot Lakes brings trail access, downtown events, and one of the area’s best roadside landmarks. Nisswa gives you a fuller Main Street experience with seasonal traditions and easy family stops. Brainerd opens the door to larger attractions when you want a bigger outing.
That variety means the best plan depends on your travel style. Active visitors can focus on the Paul Bunyan State Trail and paddling spots. Families can build days around mini golf, water play, or wildlife. Couples and slower travelers can enjoy scenic drives, downtown walks, and quieter cultural stops. Jenkins may be small, but it sits in a part of Minnesota where short drives lead to a very full trip.