East Grand Forks

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with East Grand Forks's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival and Explore
morning
:

Arrive in East Grand Forks and check into your hotel. Spend your morning exploring the nearby parks, taking a leisurely stroll along the Greenway trails. Grab breakfast at a local café, enjoying a slice of their famous pie.

afternoon
:

Visit the East Grand Forks Heritage Center to learn about local history and culture. Afterward, take a guided tour of a local farm to experience the rich agricultural heritage of the area. You can pick up some fresh produce or homemade goods before heading back to town.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant that serves traditional Midwestern cuisine. Enjoy a quiet evening walk along the Red River, watching the sunset over the water. Wrap up your day by visiting a nearby pub for live music and relaxation.

day 2
Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a quaint diner, savoring pancakes or an omelet. Head to the Riverwalk for a scenic bike ride or walk along the riverbanks. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you enjoy the natural scenery.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at the Red River State Recreation Area, where you can hike or picnic surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Engage in some bird watching or simply find a peaceful spot to relax and read. If traveling with family, check for any scheduled events or activities happening in the park.

evening
:

Return to town for dinner at a family-friendly restaurant known for its hearty portions. After dinner, visit one of the local ice cream shops to indulge in a sweet treat. Consider catching a local movie at the cinema to wind down the evening.

day 3
Cultural Discoveries
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local bakery, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee. Visit the East Grand Forks Public Library to discover local literature or participate in a morning reading session. Check out any scheduled events or workshops that might interest you.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby North Dakota Museum of Art for an art-filled afternoon, viewing local and regional exhibitions. Take a break for lunch at a local café, immersing yourself in the culinary scene. Afterward, explore art galleries in downtown East Grand Forks to discover emerging local artists.

evening
:

Attend a local theater production or community event to experience the vibrant arts scene. Enjoy dinner at an upscale restaurant featuring local ingredients and specialties. Conclude the evening with a nightcap at a cozy bar or lounge to reflect on the day.

day 4
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
morning
:

Fuel up with breakfast at a local spot before heading out for a thrilling morning of kayaking on the Red River. Equip yourself with gear from a local rental company and enjoy the calm waters. This adventure is perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers.

afternoon
:

After kayaking, enjoy lunch at a riverside picnic spot. Spend the afternoon trying your hand at fishing or participating in outdoor games at one of the local parks. Join in on any community events or sports activities if available.

evening
:

Return to your accommodations to freshen up and prepare for dinner at a barbecue restaurant. Afterwards, join a local guided night hike or stargazing session to experience the quiet beauty of the area after dark. Finish with dessert at a nearby bakery before heading back.

day 5
History and Heritage
morning
:

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel or a local café before immersing yourself in local history at the Grand Forks County Historical Society. Discover artifacts and exhibits that reflect the region's rich heritage. Have a quiet moment enjoying the historical buildings surrounding the area.

afternoon
:

After your historical tour, head to the Farmers Market for lunch, where you can sample local dishes and buy handmade crafts. Take your time exploring the various vendors and speaking with the locals about their crafts. Spend the afternoon visiting the local art studios to appreciate local artists' works.

evening
:

For dinner, choose a restaurant that celebrates the local food scene, selecting seasonal ingredients. Following dinner, enjoy a craft beer at a local brewery that showcases local brewing talent. Engage in conversations with locals to learn more about East Grand Forks and their personal stories.

day 6
Relaxing Day by the River
morning
:

Relish a slow start to your day with breakfast in your hotel room. Spend your morning lounging by the Red River, taking in the serene environment with a good book. Consider bringing a hammock to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic and find a lovely spot by the river for a leisurely lunch. Spend your afternoon fishing or bringing out the paddleboards to enjoy the water. Explore the hidden trails along the riverbanks to discover secret viewpoints.

evening
:

As evening approaches, enjoy a laid-back dinner at a riverside restaurant. Experience local flavors while enjoying views of the river at sunset. Finish your day with a sunset bike ride along the Greenway, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.

day 7
A Day of Celebration
morning
:

Start your festive day with a celebratory breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café, surrounded by friends and family. If visiting during a local festival, check out any morning activities or parades to kick off the celebrations. Engage with local vendors and sample delicious food offerings.

afternoon
:

Partake in festival activities throughout the day, such as live entertainment, artisan markets, and community events. Enjoy lunch from local food vendors while soaking in the festive atmosphere. Capture memories by mingling with locals and participating in fun games or contests.

evening
:

Conclude your festive day with a communal dinner, joining a barbecue or potluck gathering. Celebrate with locals and visitors alike as evening festivities kick off, enjoying fireworks or performances. Reflect on your journey during this memorable day before heading back to your accommodation.

day 8
Departure and Reflection
morning
:

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast one last time before preparing to check out. Take a final walk along the river or revisit your favorite local spot. Reflect on your trip while soaking in the morning views.

afternoon
:

Spend a few hours picking up any last-minute souvenirs from local shops. Grab a light lunch at a favorite spot, soaking in the last moments of your visit. Prepare for departure, ensuring all memories are packed along with your luggage.

evening
:

Head to the airport or your next destination with a heart full of memories and experiences from East Grand Forks. Remember the kindness of the locals and the beauty of the surroundings. Promise yourself to return and explore more in the future.

Discover East Grand Forks

Read more in our East Grand Forks 2025 Travel Guide.

East Grand Forks Travel Guide