Nisswa

About 13 miles from Brainerd is a city called Nisswa. Nisswa is a city in Crow Wing County. The population is 1,953. The city is near Gull Lake. This city is well known as a tourist destination. The Paul Bunyan Bike trail also runs through Nisswa. This enables the businesses to thrive over the whole year. There are many unique shops and cafes in the area.
It is also the town of turtle racing!
The turtle races have been a tradition in Nisswa since 1963! This is enjoyed by all ages. The fee to enter the race is $3.00 and the racers will be given a button with a number on it. The official race track is behind the Nisswa Chamber of Commerce building.

The races begin with the heat races and numbers are called in groups of fifteen racers. The racers will enter the racing ring and will pick out a turtle. (You may bring your own turtle.) The turtles will be in buckets with water. Each winner of the each numbered race will receive a ribbon and will race once again in the championship race. This winner will then be the champion racer of the week and will also receive a neck ribbon with a medallion.

After the numbered races, the speciality races will be held. The following are the speciality races:

Resort Race: If you are staying at an area resort, motel or campground, you can race in this one.

Out of State Race: If you are not a Minnesota resident you can enter this race.

Grandparents Race: This is for a grandparent and a grandchild to race together.

Tiny Tots Race: This is a race for all of those under the age of 5

Locals Only Race: This is a race for local residents of the area who live in Nisswa or neighboring communities.

It is a fun event in this fun city.