Things To Do
in Grand Forks
Grand Forks, located in North Dakota, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage and welcoming community. The city is home to the University of North Dakota, which adds a youthful energy and numerous events year-round. With a charming downtown area filled with local shops, restaurants, and parks, Grand Forks offers a blend of urban and natural attractions.
Visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, including outdoor sports and cultural festivities throughout the year.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Grand Forks Farmers Market, open on Saturdays, where you can enjoy fresh local produce and artisanal goods.
After the market, take a leisurely walk along the Red River at the Riverwalk, where you can appreciate the scenic views and public art installations.
For dinner, head to the historic downtown area and enjoy a meal at the popular North Dakota Museum of Art Cafe, followed by a stroll through the nearby parks.
Visit the North Dakota Museum of Art to explore contemporary art exhibits and learn about local history.
Spend some time at the Ralph Engelstad Arena to catch a hockey game or take a guided tour of this impressive facility.
Wrap up your day with dinner at the popular Red Lobster, followed by drinks at a local pub like the Toasted Frog, known for its vibrant atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at a restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚍Public transport fare | $1.50 |
| 🏨Hotel per night | $80-150 |
| 🍕Pizza delivery | $12-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly and welcoming community
- Affordable cost of living
- Rich cultural and recreational offerings
- Harsh winters may deter some visitors
- Limited public transport options
- Smaller city with fewer large attractions
Places to Visit in Grand Forks
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture stunning sunsets and scenic views along the banks of the Red River, especially at the Riverwalk.
The modern architecture of the museum combined with the surrounding landscaping provides a beautiful backdrop for photos.
The picturesque campus features historic buildings and lush green spaces, perfect for capturing moments of college life.
Food in Grand Forks
Grand Forks Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local favorite, this pizza features a unique blend of fresh ingredients and creative toppings that reflect the region’s culinary influences.
Must-Try!
Experience a taste of the Great Plains with juicy bison burgers, which are leaner and packed with flavor compared to traditional beef.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held weekly in the summer months, this market is a great place to find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious local street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents value politeness; greetings and smiles are common in public spaces.
Outdoor enthusiasts are expected to follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment.
Participating in local events and festivals is encouraged, as it fosters a sense of community.
Safety
Tipping in Grand Forks
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip service staff 15-20% in restaurants and for other services such as taxis.
Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, while cash is still commonly used in local markets and smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, ideal for outdoor activities and events like the Farmers Market.
Warm weather allows for numerous outdoor festivals, river activities, and hiking, making it a vibrant season for visitors.
Cooler temperatures and changing leaves create a picturesque setting, perfect for photography and enjoying local harvest events.
Cold and snowy, winter offers opportunities for ice skating, snowshoeing, and enjoying cozy indoor activities.
Grand Forks at Night
Hiking in Grand Forks
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 30 minutes from Grand Forks, this park offers scenic hiking trails through forests and along the river, ideal for nature lovers.
A paved trail system that runs along the Red River, perfect for walking, running, and biking, with beautiful views of the river and surrounding landscape.
Airports
How to reach Grand Forks by plane.
Located just a few miles from downtown Grand Forks, this airport offers limited domestic flights and is well-connected to major cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
With the University of North Dakota located in the city, a significant portion of the population consists of college students, contributing to a youthful and vibrant atmosphere.
Many families reside in Grand Forks, drawn by the city’s community-oriented lifestyle, good schools, and recreational opportunities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is a major sport in Grand Forks, with the University of North Dakota’s team being a significant part of the local culture and community.
American football is also popular, especially during the fall season when high school and college teams compete.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Grand Forks.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Grand Forks offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, particularly in cafes and diners focusing on healthy fare.
Several eateries cater to gluten-free diets, ensuring options for those with dietary restrictions.