Things To Do
in Moorhead
Moorhead is a Minnesota city located along the Red River just across from Fargo, North Dakota. It proudly hosts campuses like Minnesota State University Moorhead and Concordia College, contributing a lively academic vibe and cultural events. The downtown combines historic brick storefronts with modern cafes, museums, and arts venues, offering a true Midwest small-city feel.
As a gateway to the Red River Valley, Moorhead blends riverfront scenery with outdoor recreation and educational attractions year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Moorhead Historical Society, where you can delve into the rich history of the region. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the nearby Riverside Park, taking in the scenic views of the Red River. Grab a coffee from a local café and watch the world wake up around you.
Visit the Hjemkomst Center, which showcases the Viking ship replica and offers insights into the Scandinavian heritage of the area. After exploring the exhibits, have lunch at a nearby restaurant that serves traditional Norwegian dishes. Spend some time at the Moorhead Public Library, where you can relax with a good book or join a local reading group.
Head to the downtown area for a delightful dinner at one of Moorhead’s charming restaurants. After dinner, catch a live performance or event at the Historic Fargo Theatre just across the river. End your evening with a stroll along the riverbank, enjoying the sunset over the water.
Begin your day with a visit to the Plains Art Museum in Fargo, just a short drive from Moorhead, where you can admire contemporary and traditional artwork. Participate in an interactive art workshop offered at the museum to unleash your creative side. Enjoy a light breakfast at the museum café, savoring locally sourced pastries and coffee.
Explore the vibrant arts district nearby, filled with galleries and shops showcasing local artists. Stop for lunch at a trendy spot that features art-inspired dishes, allowing you to refuel before continuing your journey. Take a guided tour of the local artist studios to gain insight into the creative processes of the community.
Return to Moorhead to enjoy dinner at an eclectic restaurant that combines global flavors with local ingredients. Attend a theater performance at the Fargo-Moorhead Community Theatre, where you can experience local talent on stage. Wrap up your cultural evening with a visit to a nearby bar featuring live music, making for a lively atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 🍺Beer (0.5L) at a bar | $4-6 |
| ⛽Gasoline per gallon | $3-4 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment in city center per month | $900-1,400 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong university presence and cultural activities
- Relaxed pace with approachable downtown and riverfront
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Winter weather can be severe and long
Places to Visit in Moorhead
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic Viking ship replica set against the river and surrounding architecture—great for dramatic daytime and sunset shots.
Brick storefronts, vintage signage, and street corners provide classic Midwest urban photography, especially in golden hour light.
Sunset and early evening views of the Red River offer peaceful landscape photography and shoreline textures.
Open green spaces framed by campus buildings; good for architectural and campus-life photography.
Gothic-inspired architecture and shaded avenues provide elegant portrait and detail shots.
Food in Moorhead
Moorhead Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Minnesota casserole usually featuring cream of mushroom sauce, meat, and potatoes or pasta; widely available at local diners and events.
Must-Try!
A cheeseburger with the cheese tucked inside the patty; a popular bar and diner staple in Minnesota communities.
A thin Norwegian flatbread often served with butter, or sugar, and cinnamon; you’ll find it at bakeries and seasonal celebrations.
Freshwater fish prepared in fish fry or grilled form; a nod to local fishing traditions and lake/river cuisine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, and crafts in downtown Moorhead.
During warmer months, food trucks and pop-up vendors mingle with locals around downtown gathering spaces.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite, reserved, and friendly demeanor; small talk is common but not overly intrusive in casual settings.
Being on time is valued; a handshake or casual greeting is typical when meeting new people.
Respect personal space; casual conversations about weather and local life are common icebreakers.
Safety
Tipping in Moorhead
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, tip 15-20% of the pre-tax bill; for hotel staff and taxi drivers, $1-2 per bag or 10-15% of fare is common.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for smaller vendors, tips, and some markets; mobile wallets are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very cold with potential heavy snowfall; dress in layers, plan warm indoor activities, and enjoy winter festivals and cozy cafés.
Mild to cool with melting snow and possible river flooding; great for early blossoms and city walks with fewer crowds.
Warm to hot days with long daylight hours; ideal for outdoor festivals, riverfront strolls, and photography at sunset.
Cool and crisp with vibrant fall foliage; excellent for scenic drives, hiking, and town events.
Moorhead at Night
Hiking in Moorhead
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate trails through forested terrain and along river bluffs, about a short drive east of Moorhead.
Scenic loops with rolling terrain and open prairie views, located to the south of Fargo–Moorhead.
Urban-friendly loops and river views; ideal for a quick hike or sunset stroll in the FM area.
Airports
How to reach Moorhead by plane.
Closest major airport located in Fargo, ND; quick drive across the river from Moorhead, with national and regional flights.
Located in Grand Forks, ND; about a 90–110 minute drive depending on traffic; alternative for some longer connections.
Major hub in Minneapolis, MN; longer drive but offers extensive flight options and connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable portion of residents are connected to the local colleges, contributing to a youthful, educated demographic in parts of the city.
A diverse mix of families, educators, and professionals supports a stable, community-focused environment.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local college teams and community leagues contribute to a strong winter sports culture.
The Red River Valley and nearby lakes support year-round fishing activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Moorhead.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Moorhead eateries offer veggie burgers, salads, grain bowls, and meatless pasta dishes; ask for customization and look for menu labels indicating vegetarian options.