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- North Dakota's Most Unique City: The Ultimate Guide To Grand Forks & Things To Do
Grand Forks is unique in many ways. For starters, it sits right at the border of North Dakota and Minnesota, almost straddling the line between the two states. However, North Dakota claims this little city which is home to almost 60,000 people. The Red River flows along the eastern edge of Grand Forks, endowing the city with stunning waterfront parks that make up the Greenway. Central Park and Lincoln Drive Park are two examples, and they are partly responsible for making Grand Forks one of North Dakota's most beautiful towns.
Grand Forks also has a rich history that can be traced back to the 18th century when French traders set up camp here. Visitors can find out more about the city’s past as an agricultural and trading center at the Grand Forks County Historical Society. There’s certainly plenty to do in this destination and this ultimate guide to Grand Forks shares the top things to do and everything else a traveler needs to know about this destination.
UPDATE: 2023/07/06 10:34 EST BY BARRY JUMA
North Dakota's Most Unique City: The Ultimate Guide To Grand Forks & Things To Do
It's easy to dismiss Grand Forks as a small city with nothing much for tourists to do. However, this destination offers more than one may think, and this update is proof that there's plenty to do in this Eastern North Dakota city.
Things To Do In Grand Forks, North Dakota
Grand Forks boasts some of the top things to do in North Dakota, and below is a list of some of these.
1 Explore The Greenway
The Greenway is the stretch of urban space along the Red River on the eastern edge of Grand Forks and the western edge of East Grand Forks. This area is nourished by the Red River and the Red Lake River, making it a lush part of the region.
Parks like Lincoln Drive Park and Central Park are two of the popular parks in The Greenway, offering wonderful places where visitors can marvel at the river.
Activities available here include golfing, rollerblading, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. There are also paved trails for biking and hiking.
- Address: 120 Euclid Ave, Grand Forks, ND 58201
- Hours: 6 am - 11 pm (daily)
2 Learn About Local History At Grand Forks County Historical Society
French traders landed in Grand Forks in the 1800s and set up a trading post thanks to its convenient position next to the Red River and its proximity to the wheat plantations of the Red River Valley.
Visitors can learn all about this history at the Grand Forks County Historical Society, which seeks to preserve the heritage of the region.
This space is made up of old buildings from the city’s past, like the old log cabin post office among others.
- Address: 2405 Belmont Rd, Grand Forks, ND 58201
- Hours: 1 pm - 5 pm (daily)
- Admission: $8 (16 yrs and older); $5 (children 10 to 15 yrs); Free (children 10 and under)
3 Catch A Hockey Match At The Ralph Engelstad Arena
The Ralph Engelstad Arena (known locally as the Ralph) is a world-class arena on the University of North Dakota property. It’s the home ground of the UND men’s ice hockey team.
The arena hosts various sporting tournaments, from hockey to basketball as well as concerts.
- Address: One Ralph Engelstad Arena Dr, Grand Forks, ND 58203
4 Wander Around Downtown Grand Forks
Downtown Grand Forks is a lively part of the city, and it’s where a lot of the action can be found. Some of the best shopping outlets are found here, including Columbia Mall as well as the summer farmer’s market.
Some popular places to visit are Town Square, which is marked by a gigantic paddlewheel that acts as its entrance. Visitors may also find festivals here depending on the season, like the Rockin’ on the Red Festival, and the Grand Cities Art Fest.
There’s also an ice rink that comes alive with ice skaters in winter.
- Address: 3 N 4th St, Grand Forks, ND 58203
- Hours: 24 hours (daily)
5 Shop At The Grand Cities Mall
Grand Cities Mall, located in the heart of Grand Forks, is the city's primary shopping destination. This expansive mall covers over 500,000 square feet and is home to a myriad of stores, including popular brands such as JCPenney, Macy's, and Bath & Body Works.
Visitors can also enjoy a variety of dining options, such as Olive Garden, Subway, and local favorite, Red Pepper. Regular events, including live music and seasonal sales, add to the shopping experience.
- Address: 1726 S Washington St, Grand Forks, ND 58201, United States
- Hours: 6:30 am - 8 pm (daily) Store hours vary
6 Play A Round At King's Walk Golf Course
King's Walk Golf Course is a stunning 18-hole course that offers golfers a challenging yet enjoyable round. Designed by golf legend Arnold Palmer, the course beautifully incorporates the natural landscape of North Dakota.
Whether one is an expert or a beginner, this course promises a memorable experience. After a round of golf, visitors can relax at the Eagle's Crest Grill, which offers a panoramic view of the course.
- Address: 5301 S Columbia Rd, Grand Forks, ND 58201, United States
- Hours: Mon - Fri: 6:45 am - 9 pm; Sat & Sun: 6 am - 9 pm
- Cost: Rates start from $24 for 9 holes and $39 for 18 holes
7 Admire The Collections At The North Dakota Museum Of Art
The North Dakota Museum of Art is a cultural gem in Grand Forks, housing an impressive collection of contemporary art. The museum, located on the University of North Dakota campus, offers visitors a chance to engage with works from both local and international artists.
The museum's exhibits, which rotate regularly, span a diverse range of mediums and styles. The museum also hosts various events, such as artist talks and music concerts, adding to the richness of the visitor experience.
- Address: 261 Centennial Dr, Grand Forks, ND 58202, United States
- Hours: Mon - Fri: 9 am - 5 pm; Sat - Sun: 1 pm - 5 pm
- Cost: Free entry, donations appreciated
8 Have Fun At Splasher's Of The South Seas
Situated in Canad Inns Destination Center, Splasher's of the South Seas is an indoor water park that guarantees fun for all ages. It's the largest facility of its kind in North Dakota, featuring exciting water slides, a lazy river, and a kids' play area.
The park also offers a hot tub for adults seeking relaxation. Visitors can grab a bite at Garbonzo's Pizza & Arcade, located within the premises.
- Address: 1000 S 42nd St, Grand Forks, ND 58201, United States
- Hours: 9 am - 9 pm (daily)
- Cost: Visitors ages 9 and above: $25.95; Children (5 to 8): $15.95; Toddlers (4 and under): Free
9 Explore Sertoma Park
Sertoma Park, located along the Red River, is a haven for nature lovers. It's a sprawling area with a Japanese Garden, picnic spots, and a butterfly garden. The park also houses the Grand Forks Sertoma Club's 4th of July Festival.
Visitors can enjoy the serene environment, walk along the river, or engage in bird watching.
- Address: 3300 11th Ave S, Grand, ND 58201, United States
- Hours: 5 am - 11 pm (daily)
- Cost: Free
10 Attend An Event At The Alerus Center
The Alerus Center is Grand Forks' premier entertainment and convention facility. It's known for hosting a variety of events, from concerts by top artists to trade shows and sports events.
The center has a capacity of over 20,000 and features state-of-the-art acoustics and seating. Visitors can also enjoy food and beverages at one of the many concession stands.
- Address: 1200 S 42nd St, Grand Forks, ND 58201, United States
- Hours & Cost: Vary depending on the event
11 What To Know When Visiting Grand Forks, North Dakota
Grand Forks is found to the west of the Red River, which acts as the North Dakota-Minnesota borderline. To the east of the river, on the Minnesota side of the fence is East Grand Forks, Grand Forks’ smaller sibling.
Grand Forks is the third-largest city in the state; North Dakota's largest city is Fargo and the second-largest is Bismark.
This city was predominantly an agricultural center as the region was made up of wheat plantations. Presently, Grand Forks retains its key status as a trade and processing center since the Red River Valley is largely an agricultural region.
Produce like wheat, sunflowers, corn, and barley are the main crops that are processed in this city.
It’s hard to believe that less than three decades ago, Grand Forks was flooded by the Red River, and in the process, a fire almost completely burned Downtown Grand Forks. The city rose from the ashes and is today a major tourist destination in North Dakota.
- Visitors can take a 1.5-hour road trip to the fascinating Devil's Lake, North Dakota, which is about 90 miles away.
12 When To Visit Grand Forks
Grand Forks experiences warm summers and extreme winters. The best time to visit this city is when the weather is pleasant from late spring to early fall. Below is a look at what to expect in Grand Forks during the different seasons.
Spring (March to May)
March is generally still chilly with highs of just 33 degrees Fahrenheit (1 degree Celsius) but temperatures start to rise as spring progresses. May is the warmest month this season and is the best time to visit in order to enjoy time outdoors.
Temperature highs this month are in the mid to high-60s Fahrenheit (about 20 degrees Celsius) and lows are in the 40s.
Summer (June to August)
These are the best months to visit because of the warm weather. On average, summer highs range between the mid-70s and low-80s Fahrenheit (25 and 28 Celsius), which is ideal for outdoor activities.
However, the chances of rain are higher in summer, with June being the wettest month of the year.
Autumn (September to November)
September is the best autumn month to visit for good weather. This month has mild highs of around 69 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius) and lower chances of rain than in summer.
However, it starts to get colder in October and November, with highs of 55 Fahrenheit (13 Celsius) and 35 Fahrenheit (2 Celsius) respectively.
Winter (December to February)
Winters can be extreme in Grand Forks with temperatures likely to dip as low as below 0 Fahrenheit. However, skiing, ice skating, snowshoeing, sledding, and snowboarding are popular this season, and lovers of these activities will enjoy visiting Grand Forks at this time.
These make the city an unforgettable place in North Dakota to visit in winter.
13 Getting Around Grand Forks, North Dakota
Grand Forks is served by the Grand Forks International Airport, which receives flights from Minneapolis and Mesa. Delta and Allegiant are the only airlines that serve this airport.
Sadly, there are no international flights that land or depart from here, although it is labeled an international airport.
Visitors arriving by road can use Interstate 29, which passes through the western fringes of the city. US Route 2 also passes through the northern part of Grand Forks.
The most convenient way to get around any destination is by car, and visitors can rent vehicles to explore Grand Forks County.
However, those on a budget can get around this destination using the means below.
Bus
Grand Forks has a public bus known as Cities Area Transit (CAT), which operates on over 10 routes around the city. Riders can catch the bus from as early as 6 am to as late as 10 pm on some routes.
Some of the places of interest where the buses operate are the University of North Dakota, Downtown Grand Forks, and Midtown. Fares cost $1.50 for a single ride, $13 for a 10-ride pass, and $5 for a day pass.
Bike
The city has a bike-share program known as Grand Rides. This service, which is available via the Movatic bike share app, offers over 60 bikes for rent.
These bikes can be picked up and dropped off at any of the dock locations across the city.
Those interested in this service have to sign up for a membership with Grand Rides, afterward, they enjoy free rides for up to 6 hours.
There are over 50 miles of bike trails in Grand Forks all the way to the Greenway parks, even into East Grand Forks.
14 Where To Eat In Grand Forks
Dine out in Grand Forks with these restaurant recommendations.
Breakfast: Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
Perkins is a family-friendly establishment with excellent food that has placed it on the Grand Forks map. This is one of the best places to have breakfast, whether it’s a light or a heavy meal to start the day.
The restaurant’s breakfast menu is made up of beloved treats like sausages, bacon, eggs, French toast, waffles, and pancakes. Diners can also build their own breakfast, by choosing individual items from three categories.
- Address: 1305 S Columbia Rd, Grand Forks, ND 58201
- Hours: 7 am - 9 pm (daily)
Lunch: Texas Roadhouse
The name says all there is to know about this restaurant; it specializes in Texan food in a Texas-themed space. Therefore, Texas Roadhouse offers delicious fried food and barbecue meats as well as burgers and sandwiches.
Their Texas Size Combos include a combination of grilled BBQ chicken & ribs, sirloin & ribs, or grilled BBQ chicken & sirloin. They also served pork chops, salmon, and shrimp.
- Address: 3200 32nd Ave S, Grand Forks, ND 58201
- Hours: Mon - Thu: 3:30 pm - 10 pm; Fri & Sat: 11 am - 11 pm; Sun: 11 am - 10 pm
Dinner/Drinks: The Toasted Frog
The Toasted Frog is a great place in Grand Forks to enjoy classic American fare. For instance, the restaurant serves appetizers like Buffalo Wings, fried calamari, and sweet potato fries. However, their entrées like ribeye, pork loin, scallops, and fish tacos draw lots of attention.
There are also various burger, sandwich, and pizza options as well as a wide selection of salads. The Toasted Frog also serves cocktails, wines, and martinis.
- Address: 124 N 3rd St, Grand Forks, ND 58203
- Hours: Tue - Thu: 4 pm - 10 pm; Fri & Sat: 4 pm - 11 pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
Drinks: The Loft
This is a lively spot in Grand Forks, where patrons can enjoy wonderful drinks amidst a charming environment. The establishment boasts a wide variety of beers and spirits like vodka, rum, whiskey, and gin.
The drinks can be accompanied by burgers, tacos, chicken wings, or pulled pork, among other bites served at The Loft.
- Address: 308 Demers Ave, Grand Forks, ND 58201
- Hours: Mon - Wed: 4 pm - 1 am; Thu: 4 pm - 2 am; Fri & Sat: 12 pm - 2 am; Sun: 12 pm - 1 am
15 Where To Stay In Grand Forks, North Dakota
Many different hotels and accommodations are available in Grand Forks; find the perfect place for every budget here.
Hotels
Hampton Inn & Suites Grand Forks
- Address: 2985 42nd Street South, Grand Forks, ND 58201
- Amenities: Meeting facilities, on-site ATM, complimentary breakfast, hot tub, indoor pool, free parking, gym, smoking area.
- Rate: From $113
Baymont by Wyndham Grand Forks
- Address: 951 South 42nd Street, Grand Forks, ND 58201
- Amenities: Breakfast included, restaurant, bar, heated pool, hot tub, gym, laundry, free parking, vending machines
- Rate: $84
Hilton Garden Inn Grand Forks-UND
- Address: 4301 James Ray Drive, Grand Forks, ND 58203
- Amenities: Free parking, bar, gym, indoor pool, laundry, spa, hot tub, restaurant, business center
- Rate: $99
Vacation Rentals
- Address: Grand Forks, North Dakota, United States
- Amenities: Twin bedroom, single bed, air mattress, private parking, coffee maker, shared bathroom, TV, PS3 game console, private entrance
- Rate: From $102
- Address: Grand Forks, North Dakota, United States
- Amenities: 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, private parking, fenced yard, patio, gas fireplace, full kitchen, BBQ grill, washer & dryer, travel crib
- Rate: From $466
- Address: Grand Forks, North Dakota, United States
- Amenities: Kitchen facilities, free parking, TV, in-building washer & dryer, self-check-in
- Rate: $137
Campsites
- Address: 4796 S. 42nd St., Grand Forks, ND 58203
- Amenities: Electricity, showers, RV sites, restrooms, playground, RV hookups, Wi-Fi, laundry, firewood, biking trails, kayaking, boating
Grand Forks County Larimore Dam Recreation Area
- Address: 3586 18th Ave NE, Larimore, ND 58251
- Amenities: Swimming beach, boat ramp, picnic areas, 144 campsites, showers, flush toilets, Wi-Fi
- Rate: From $30 per night
16 Spending The Perfect Day In Grand Forks, North Dakota
Start the day in Downtown Grand Forks with some breakfast at a restaurant in the area. Then, head to Lincoln Drive Park to start the morning at The Greenway.
Spend some time playing disc golf at Lincoln Disc Golf Course or bike along the trails on The Greenway. Go boating on the Red River before having a picnic lunch in one of the Greenway’s parks.
Afterward, visit Grand Forks County Historical Society to find out more about the region’s history before spending the rest of the afternoon in Downtown Grand Forks. Visit sites like Town Square and the ice-skating rink.
Have some dinner at a restaurant like The Toasted Frog, before catching a show at the Ralph. Finally, end the day with some drinks at a spot like The Loft.
FAQ
Q: Is Grand Forks a small town?
Grand Forks has a population of just over 59,000 people, so by national standards, it's a small town in North Dakota. However, it's still the third-largest city in North Dakota.
Q: How far is Grand Forks from the US border?
Grand Forks is about 78 miles (125 kilometers) south of the US/Canada border at Pembina in North Dakota.
Q: What is there to do in Grand Forks in the winter?
Grand Forks is an unforgettable place to visit in North Dakota in winter as it offers opportunities for skiing, ice skating, sledding, snowshoeing, and snowboarding.