Things To Do
in Grand Forks
Grand Forks sits along the Red River in northeastern North Dakota, blending university energy with prairie charm. The city offers riverfront trails, parks, and a growing cultural scene anchored by the University of North Dakota. Downtown Grand Forks is walkable and friendly, with local eateries, galleries, and seasonal festivals.
Its four-season climate invites outdoor adventures from snow to riverfront sunsets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by enjoying a hearty breakfast at the iconic North Dakota Museum of Art Café, where you can indulge in locally sourced ingredients. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the museum, admiring contemporary artwork and local exhibitions that reflect the culture of the area. Don't forget to capture some photos of the beautiful architecture surrounding the museum.
Head to the historic downtown area to explore unique shops and boutiques, where you'll find everything from handmade crafts to vintage clothing. Grab lunch at a local eatery, like the Blue Moose Cafe, known for its delicious sandwiches and welcoming atmosphere. Afterward, visit the Grand Forks County Historical Society and learn about the rich history of the region.
As the sun sets, make your way to the Riverwalk along the Red River for a peaceful evening stroll. Enjoy the scenic views and perhaps catch a glimpse of local wildlife along the riverbanks. To cap off the night, dine at a local favorite, such as The Toasted Frog, where the innovative dishes are sure to impress.
Begin your morning at Turtle River State Park, where you can enjoy a picnic breakfast surrounded by the beauty of nature. After your meal, take a hike on one of the many trails, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the forest. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including deer and a variety of bird species.
After your morning adventure, head to the nearby Grand Forks Greenway for an afternoon of biking or walking along the scenic trails. The Greenway offers beautiful views of the Red River and is a perfect spot for a leisurely ride or a quick jog. Stop for a light lunch at a picnic area or a nearby café to refuel.
As evening approaches, visit the North Dakota Museum of Art again if you missed any exhibits or to enjoy a special evening event. Alternatively, find a cozy spot at a local brewery like the Rhombus Guys Brewing Company for a relaxing atmosphere and craft beer. End your day with some live music, as many local venues host performances on weekends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $3-5 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3-4 |
| 🛏️Hotel night | $100-200 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly Midwestern hospitality
- Compact, walkable downtown with river access
- Strong campus-driven cultural scene
- Seasonal outdoor activities and festivals
- Harsh winter conditions
- Smaller urban scene may feel limited for some tastes
- Winter travel can be challenging due to snow and ice
- Limited high-end dining options in some areas
Places to Visit in Grand Forks
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic riverfront trail system with bridges, trees, and water views, especially dramatic at sunset.
Photograph the skyline and river from pedestrian bridges and the riverwalk.
Architectural lines and sculpture gardens provide artful backdrops.
Historic and modern campus buildings provide interesting textures and colors.
Food in Grand Forks
Grand Forks Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic North Dakota casserole typically featuring ground beef, noodles or rice, vegetables, and cream-of-soup, perfect for sharing and potlucks.
Must-Try!
Freshwater fish often prepared as a fried or pan-seared entree with lemon, dill, and light sides.
A dairy-forward dessert reflecting regional dairy culture, often enjoyed at local diners and gatherings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, and crafts along the riverfront.
Seasonal vendors offering fresh produce, sandwiches, and street-food-style bites with a Midwestern twist.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite in conversations; say hello and hold doors for others in public spaces.
Respect lines and personal space; cashiers appreciate friendly, patient interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Grand Forks
Ensure a smooth experience
Gratuities of 15-20% at restaurants are standard; small tips for baristas or delivery when service is good.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash is fine; some places may accept mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days emerge from late March; rain and melt can cause flooding risk on the Red River, plan for variable weather.
Warm days with pleasant evenings; outdoor events and riverfront activities thrive; thunderstorms possible.
Crisp air, fall foliage along the Greenway; some outdoor venues close as temperatures drop.
Cold, snowy, and windy; opportunities for winter sports, ice skating, and warm indoor venues; driving can be challenging.
Grand Forks at Night
Hiking in Grand Forks
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Pine and open-water trails along the river; nice for short day hikes and scenic overlooks.
Extensive loop trails around the river with varied terrain and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Grand Forks by plane.
Located just southeast of Grand Forks; convenient for domestic travel and regional flights.
A larger regional airport in nearby Fargo with more flight options; about 90 minutes by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Diverse in age due to a strong student presence from the University of North Dakota; majority White with Native American and other communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A central winter sport with strong local college programs and community games.
Common in schools and community leagues; UND hosts NCAA events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Grand Forks.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Grand Forks restaurants offer meat-free options; look for veggie burgers, salads, and plant-based entrees; ask for substitutions.