What to See & Do in North Dakota | Must See ND [2023]

This Little-Known Scenic Spot In North Dakota That Comes Alive With Color Come Fall

Tori Jane — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 16:05:37 +0000

North Dakota is a well-kept open secret. Just ask anyone who lives here…. And during the fall, as with many places, something amazing happens: All the foliage in our beautiful little corner of the world comes alive with brilliant, vivid color. And, luckily for us, there are numerous wonderful places to witness it. Autumn is a unique, transitional, transformative time, and North Dakota gets a front-row seat to some awe-inspiring views of it all. Check out Pembina Gorge this year if you get a chance – it’s one of the downright best places for fall colors in North Dakota, and it’s well worth (at least!) a day trip.

With more than 2,800 amazing acres of jaw-droppingly beautiful wildlands, Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area is a special respite from the noise of the real world.

ShanOC/TripAdvisor

It is, predictably, nestled right within the gorge itself, and in the fall, the whole area blazes to life. Or, perhaps, it blazes to sleep, as soon the branches will be bare and covered with snow.

Soon, the bitter cold of winter will arrive.

Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area/Facebook

...but until then, the leaves have some changing to do, and should you arrive at the gorge at the right time, you'll see it for yourself.

It's an exquisite experience, and it's best had on foot.

John Williams/Google Local

Thankfully, there are several trails weaving throughout the reserve that are perfect for the occasion. Take your time. Wear good shoes. Pack plenty of water. And then, finally, enjoy.

The reds, golds, and oranges of the surrounding foliage put on an unforgettably brilliant show.

John Williams/Google Local

When they think about fall colors, folks probably imagine states like, say, New Hampshire or Vermont. But, as long as you know where to look, North Dakota is just fine for the season, too.

Of course, Pembina Gorge isn't the only amazing place to witness fall colors in North Dakota.

ShanOC/TripAdvisor

We happen to have numerous favorites; our state parks, our county and city parks, and lots of our amazing hiking and biking trails are all excellent options when it comes to enjoying the great outdoors.

Best of all, thanks to the relative "emptiness" that is North Dakota, should you show up during the week you might even have the entire place - or places, depending on where you end up - all to yourself.

Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area/Facebook

North Dakota is, after all, probably the best state to live in if you're a big fan of peace and quiet (and no neighbors for miles).

There are a lot of things to love about this quirky, beautiful little state of ours...

Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area/Facebook

...and its fall colors are probably near the top of the list.

Need to know more about this amazing natural wonder in North Dakota? Check out the ND Parks and Rec website for more details. Planning a road trip to the gorge and need to know what to pack? No worries – check out our epic road trip essentials packing list.

Where are your favorite places for fall foliage in North Dakota? Let us know.

The post This Little-Known Scenic Spot In North Dakota That Comes Alive With Color Come Fall appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

The Small Town In North Dakota That Comes Alive In The Fall Season

Tori Jane — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 23:25:28 +0000

North Dakota is a startlingly charming place year-round, but there’s a specific time of year that really doesn’t seem to get the credit it deserves: autumn. While states like Vermont tend to steal the spotlight for their awe-inspiring autumn displays, North Dakota remains an unsung champion – and this means fewer crowds. Looking to maximize your season in the perfect autumn town in North Dakota? Look no further than the town of Bottineau, from which you’ll never want to leave.

Bottineau has a population of just over 2,100, definitely qualifying it as a small town in our book.

Bottineau Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook

Well, goodness, even Fargo might be considered a "town" by some, but we digress. Bottineau is a quaint little place where community is everything, especially during the autumn harvest season and the winter holiday season when everything REALLY comes roaring to life.

Lovers of the outdoors will love the options in beautiful, bountiful Bottineau.

Management/TripAdvisor

Perhaps the most notable natural attraction in or near town is Lake Metigoshe State Park, one of the best camping destinations in the state - particularly when everything is bright with brilliant color.

Lake Metigoshe itself is an awe-inspiring sight on these kinds of autumn days. Should you show up at just the right time - early in the morning, during the week - you might even get it all to yourself for golden hour.

TakinLotsaPictures/TripAdvisor

Another popular destination in Bottineau is the wondrous International Peace Garden, which is right up on the international border with Canada. It, too, is amazing in the fall.

Oh, and there's this guy.

Darcy S/TripAdvisor

He doesn't change much for any season, but he's always there, and we love him just the same. He's Tommy the Turtle, and he's probably the best roadside attraction in North Dakota of all time. We don't make the rules.

In town, you'll find boutique shops, museums, and truly one-of-a-kind eateries.

Management/TripAdvisor

During the fall, all these places decorate and really get into the autumnal spirit with events and festivals, all of which are worth a day trip.

And, goodness, are parts of this town (and the parts just outside of town) photogenic!

Bottineau Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook

Everywhere you turn, you'll encounter something worth photographing.

Bottineau might be a small town, but it's huge in the fall - come check it out!

Kevin Stewart/Flickr

Be sure to check out the awesome Four Seasons Playground, which you’ll never find anywhere BUT in Bottineau. Our friends at Viator might also have a few fantastic pointers for your Bottineau getaway.

What are your favorite things to do in or near Bottineau? Let us know.

The post The Small Town In North Dakota That Comes Alive In The Fall Season appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

The Largest Pumpkin Patch In North Dakota Is A Must-Visit Day Trip This Fall

Tori Jane — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 22:36:16 +0000

Autumn is such a wonderful, magical time of year. There really is just something about the transitional seasons that makes them special, and fall is especially known for being an adventure all on its own. After all, there are countless autumn traditions we can think of right off the bat – like, for example, the legendary pumpkin patch! There’s a huge pumpkin patch in North Dakota that’s so awesome it’s worth driving out to no matter where you’re starting from. Check it out and be utterly enchanted by its autumn awesomeness:

It all started, well, kind of by accident.

Papa's Pumpkin Patch and Papa's Polar Patch/Facebook

In 1983, a family friend of the farm owners had a request: Could they grow some pumpkins for them to use for a parade float?

Between a not-so-great growing season and the parade being rescheduled for weeks earlier than originally planned, the pumpkins weren't going to be ready in time... so what was there to do?

Papa's Pumpkin Patch and Papa's Polar Patch/Facebook

Once the pumpkins turned orange, the kind folks at the farm decided to invite some elementary school classes to come enjoy the patch, letting everyone take one home. One thing led to another, and soon enough there were 8,000 school children visiting the patch with their classes every year!

In 1989, Papa's Pumpkin Patch finally opened to the general public, and ever since, it's been a wonderful highlight of autumn in North Dakota.

Papa's Pumpkin Patch and Papa's Polar Patch/Facebook

Every year, one can expect anywhere from 25,000 to 30,000 incredible pumpkins onsite.

Visiting season lasts for seven weeks, from September to October, and typically sees about 70,000 visitors every year.

Papa's Pumpkin Patch and Papa's Polar Patch/Facebook

Considering North Dakota is the single least-visited state in the United States, any one attraction that isn't a state or National park bringing in that kind of attention is absolutely remarkable.

It's affordable, too, at just $6 per person (and kiddies two years and under are free).

Papa's Pumpkin Patch and Papa's Polar Patch/Facebook

There's so much more to do than pick out the perfect pumpkin (or three). This is an awesome place for picture-taking, bale mazes, a nature trail, swings, and SO much more.

It's a veritable autumn playground, perfect for the entire family to enjoy.

Papa's Pumpkin Patch and Papa's Polar Patch/Facebook

Most of the attractions on the farm are free. There are some that ask for a small fee, like horse-drawn hayrides ($2 per person), pony rides ($5 per person), a barrel train, wagon rides, and more.

Literally, this huge pumpkin patch in North Dakota is the most fun you'll have all year!

Papa's Pumpkin Patch and Papa's Polar Patch/Facebook

Need more to do while in Bismarck? Check out the one-of-a-kind experiences up for grabs with our friends at Viator! Need more information about the pumpkin patch? Visit the official Papa’s Pumpkin Patch website.

What are your favorite fall traditions in North Dakota? Do you know of any other enormous pumpkin patches? Let us know!

The post The Largest Pumpkin Patch In North Dakota Is A Must-Visit Day Trip This Fall appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

The 18 Best Campgrounds In North Dakota: Top-Rated & Hidden Gems

Jasmine Vieau — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 18:23:30 +0000

Explore the best camping in North Dakota with our curated list of the top 18 campgrounds, including both top-rated destinations and hidden gems. Whether you’re seeking scenic lakesides, tranquil forests, or unique outdoor experiences, this guide has you covered for your next camping adventure in the Peace Garden State.

Table of Contents

You Might Be Surprised To Hear The Predictions About North Dakota’s Damp And Cold Upcoming Winter

Tori Jane — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 21:58:24 +0000

If there’s anything we’re fascinated by here at Only In Your State, it’s winter (and sometimes even autumn!) predictions. Sure, there’s no one way to determine exactly what the weather will do in any given season (other than assuming based on the typical climate), but it’s fun to try! Enter the old-school way of doing it: the Farmers’ Almanac. Winter in North Dakota is typically pretty brutal, but sometimes we’re thrown for a loop – during the winter of 2022-2023, for example, several parts of North Dakota received an utterly absurd amount of snowfall. This season, however, you might just be surprised by the winter predictions for North Dakota.

That is, as long as you're surprised that (almost thankfully) this winter is expected to be much more normal.

Geof Wilson/Flickr

I never thought I'd say "Oh, thank goodness," about a North Dakota winter being average, but after the ludicrous amount of snow we got last year, I'm good. This is fine.

So, what exactly is an "average" North Dakota winter?

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USFWS Mountain-Prairie/Flickr

First of all, it's typically pretty chilly, starting around November. It typically stays pretty dang cold (with the high rarely, if ever, reaching above freezing).

January is usually the coldest month of the year, and the biggest time of year for dangerous, icy conditions - though these can definitely occur at any point through the winter.

Geof Wilson/Flickr

The Almanac suggests there's a higher-than-usual chance of blizzards for this winter, though, so perhaps it might end up being above-average, anyway.

Typically, North Dakota sees about 50 days a year in which temperatures never get higher than zero degrees Fahrenheit.

Geof Wilson/Flickr

Needless to say, our winters can be pretty brutal... but we can handle it.

There are plenty of wonderful things to do in North Dakota during the winter, despite the frigid temps.

Fargo-Moorhead CVB/Flickr

You might want to embark upon a winter day trip in North Dakota, or maybe you're daring enough to find a campground open year-round and rough it for a night or three.

You can meander around and simply appreciate the simple beauty of winter, too - it's all up to you.

USFWS Mountain-Prairie/Flickr

Winter in North Dakota doesn't have to be miserable; there are many ways to enjoy it, especially if you're local.

For more information about the Farmers’ Almanac and how it come up with these forecasts (which are to be taken with a grain of salt, of course), be sure to check out the official Farmers’ Almanac website. So, what do you think about these winter predictions for North Dakota? Let me know in the comments.

The post You Might Be Surprised To Hear The Predictions About North Dakota’s Damp And Cold Upcoming Winter appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

Here Are The Best Times And Places To View North Dakota’s Fall Foliage In 2023

Tori Jane — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 15:39:36 +0000

Autumn is an awe-inspiring time of year in the Dakotas (more like awe-tumn, amirite? ‘kay, I’ll show myself out), and what better way to celebrate fall in North Dakota than by a good old-fashioned day (or 12) of leaf-peeping? Not sure when to go? No worries – our friends at Great Smoky Mountains have a rigorous method for determining each and every year just how and when the whole “fall colors in North Dakota” (and elsewhere) thing will go and reporting it back to us – let’s see how accurate it is this year! When do leaves change color in North Dakota? Let’s find out:

By playing with the slider above, you can see Great Smoky Mountains' predictions for each of the coming weeks.

Amber Lien/Flickr

It's definitely fun to fiddle with - and especially fun to see how close to perfect they get it this year!

North Dakota is a northern tier state (surprise), and thanks to this geographical positioning, autumn comes faster (and goes faster too).

Bill Tanata/Flickr

By early September, the northernmost parts of the state should already be seeing some changes. Interestingly, by September 18th, the central part of the state might still have yet to start, whereas the rest of it is off to the races.

The final week of September sees all of the state entrenched in the blazing colors of autumn - some spots more so than others.

Amber Lien/Flickr

The week of October 2 will see the colors approaching their peak, starting in the north and creeping southward as the week progresses.

The weeks of October 9 through October 23 should see colors at their most brilliant and vivid as the entire thing builds to a colorful crescendo.

Bill Tanata/Flickr

Between October 23 and 30, though, some to all of North Dakota will be past its autumnal prime, and many of those brightly-colored leaves will already be on the ground.

So, what are some great places in North Dakota for viewing this annual wonder?

justin s./Flickr

Pembina Gorge is ridiculously beautiful all year 'round, but in the fall, it takes on an especially amazing wonder. You'll be blown away by its brilliance. Fort Ransom State Park is another good one - as are most of our state parks.

Lake Metigoshe is absurdly lovely at this time of year, and the rolling prairies of Theodore Roosevelt National Park are also worthy of a day trip.

U.S. Department of Agriculture/Flickr

These aren't even close to all of the amazing destinations to see fall colors in North Dakota, but they are an excellent start.

When do leaves change color in North Dakota in 2023? I suppose we’ll see – but this guide might just be helpful (it usually is). So, what do you think? Will the Great Smoky Mountains website get it right this year? Let’s wait and see – and revisit later! What are your favorite things about autumn in North Dakota? How about your favorite leaf-peeping destinations in ND? Let me know in the comments. Need a good sweater for all that leaf-peeping? Our friends at The North Face got you covered.

The post Here Are The Best Times And Places To View North Dakota’s Fall Foliage In 2023 appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

Enjoy The Simple Life When You Visit This Tiny Rural Community In North Dakota

Tori Jane — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 16:21:59 +0000

North Dakota is a state full of interesting places, attractions, natural wonders, and, of course, plenty of delightful small towns to explore. I’d like to take a moment to appreciate one particularly nice little place that is often overlooked in favor of more popular destinations: the town of Kulm is rich with history, plenty of wonderful things to do, and just a handful of friendly faces that call it home. Of all the small towns in North Dakota worthy of a short trip, this is one that’s all too often forgotten.

The town of Kulm, North Dakota, was originally founded back in 1892.

Andrew Filer/Flickr

As of the 2020 census, its population was just 368, making it one of the smallest still-living towns in the entire state.

It's a great place for a day trip; it's quiet, laidback, and never too crazy.

J. Stephen Conn/Flickr

Though there is some shopping and dining to be done in town, the real draw is the wonderful natural attractions peppered all over the place in and around town.

Take, for example, the Kulm Wetland Management District.

USFWS Mountain-Prairie/Flickr

Established in 1971, this interesting expanse of land is located in the Prairie Pothole Region, which provides plenty of shelter and support for numerous species of waterfowl and migratory birds.

It's a place so outrageously beautiful that even photos look impossibly perfect.

Krista Lundgren/USFWS Mountain-Prairie/Flickr

Other interesting must-see attractions in Kulm include the Whitestone Hill State Historic Site, a place of remembrance for the approximately 300 people who were massacred there in September 1863. History is not always comfortable, but it's important that we learn from it. This site helps us remember one of the darkest days in the Dakotas.

You'll also find some excellent camping options at the Whitestone Hill Lake Campground and the Kulm City Campground.

Krista Lundgren/USFWS Mountain-Prairie/Flickr

I definitely recommend spending a night or two at each - they're both magical in their own ways!

Back in town, be sure to try and catch a performance by The Kulm City Band, which was originally established in 1895 and has been going strong ever since.

Andrew Filer/Flickr

It's not every day you encounter a tiny little town that's so full of history and natural beauty - not to mention musical talent! - but here we are.

NDTraveler85/TripAdvisor

To learn more about this tiny town in North Dakota and the things to do here, visit our friends at TripAdvisor. What is your favorite small town in North Dakota? Let me know – I love learning about all your favorite spots and secrets!

The post Enjoy The Simple Life When You Visit This Tiny Rural Community In North Dakota appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

The Fascinating Archaeological Discovery That Put This Rural North Dakota Town On The Map

Tori Jane — Tue, 22 Aug 2023 20:30:03 +0000

It’s no secret whatsoever that the state of North Dakota (and most of the American Midwest) is interwoven with the incredibly lengthy, intriguing history of the Native American peoples who have occupied its land for centuries. It’s home to numerous absolutely amazing historical sites directly related to the many tribes and groups who have called what is now North Dakota home at one time or another; one such location was once a huge, vibrant village that might have had up to 1,000 people calling it home for about two decades. This intriguing archaeological discovery in North Dakota put the tiny town of Huff on the map… at least for those of us who are really, really into archaeology.

Huff, North Dakota isn't even technically a town, with a population of fewer than 20 people as of the 2020 census.

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Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr

It is, however, a place that many history geeks - particularly those of the archaeological persuasion - will recognize immediately as a place of tremendous significance.

It's the site of the Huff Indian Village State Historic Site, an incredibly important historical discovery.

Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr

It dates back to some time around AD 1450, though researchers believe that the community was only in use for about 20 years, due to a lack of clarity in the village plan and little to no evidence of waste disposal or buildup.

From above, the layout of the whole town becomes evident, which is remarkably uncommon and makes this place particularly important.

State Historical Society of North Dakota

You can still see the locations of where about 100 lodgings were all lined up in rows along the banks of the river. It was a Mandan settlement. Today, there are still Mandan in North Dakota - they were here at least 200 years prior to the arrival of European colonizers, and they are still here today. This particular settlement would not be rediscovered until the early 1900s.

Surrounding the community is a huge fortification system that was quite advanced.

State Historical Society of North Dakota

It features some truly brilliant highlights like a 2,000-foot-plus long ditch with 10 obvious, well-defined bastions along its lengths.

Many artifacts and items have been recovered from the site.

State Historical Society of North Dakota

These items and artifacts include everything from your standard pottery shards, arrowheads, and art to more intricate things like glimpses into a long gone past that you definitely don't find every day.

Sure, we can't travel back in time, but we can come to the amazing Huff Archaeological Site and put our ear up to the wall to listen to the stories it whispers.

State Historical Society of North Dakota

To learn a more detailed history of the site, visit the official State Historical Society of North Dakota website. You’ll find the site exactly one half-mile south of Huff; admission is free, though they do always accept donations (please and thank you!). Want to road trip it to Huff to check it out? Bring all the best snacks using our epic road trip snacks guide, which is perfect for a North Dakotan adventure.

What are your favorite little-known historic places in North Dakota? Let me know in the comments!

The post The Fascinating Archaeological Discovery That Put This Rural North Dakota Town On The Map appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

Locals Can’t Get Enough Of The Artisan Creations At This Mom And Pop Bakery In North Dakota

Tori Jane — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 15:15:49 +0000

There’s something so fun and special about those little mom-and-pop shops you find every so often that you simply won’t find anywhere else. There’s a hyper-local sense of camaraderie in these little places, and North Dakota is lucky enough to have several worth discussing. I’d like to take a moment, though, to appreciate one little spot that somehow doesn’t get the love it so rightly deserves. It’s one of the best bakeries in North Dakota, and it’s been a favorite among Fargo locals since 1985. It’s the delightful Red River Coffee Company, and it might just be the best lil’ mom and pop bakery in North Dakota.

Welcome to Fargo, and welcome to Fargo's greatest bakery.

Thomas Overmiller/Google Local

It's been going strong for more than 30 years, with no signs of slowing down any time soon.

The reasons for this success become obvious the moment you walk in.

Thomas Overmiller/Google Local

You'll be greeted by a happy, friendly face and immediately surrounded by the incredible aroma of fresh-baked everything.

If you're a fan of it, you'll likely find it here: cupcakes, cookies, breads, pastries... everything.

Raegan Linster/Google Local

You can't go wrong with any one item; I personally recommend stocking up to last you until your next trip up to Fargo...whenever that might be. Good luck deciding on just a thing or two; you're better off getting one of everything.

I think my personal go-to is always going to be the old-fashioned, fudgy brownie, but cake lovers rejoice: There's plenty of that, too.

Red River Coffee Company/Facebook

Even if you're not a huge fan of sweets in terms of your baked goodies, no worries - you'll also find rolls, breads, buns, muffins, and all sorts of other delights. Not one thing on the menu is "bad". Not. Even. Close.

Of course, you'll need a reason to keep coming back, so remember that there are always seasonal goods, too.

Red River Coffee Company/Facebook

During the fall, it's time for pumpkin everything. In the winter, holiday-themed goodies abound. Spring and summer bring their own wonders... I guess you'll just have to come see for yourself.

For the most up-to-date hours, specials, and so much more, be sure to visit the official Red River Coffee Co. website. If you’re visiting Fargo and need some ideas as to what to bring along, check out some of our suggestions for the best road trip snacks.

The post Locals Can’t Get Enough Of The Artisan Creations At This Mom And Pop Bakery In North Dakota appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

6 Photos You’ll Only Understand If You Hail From North Dakota

Tori Jane — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 12:37:06 +0000

You know, living in North Dakota is kind of a weird privilege. As one of the least-populated and most-seldom-visited states in the U.S., our little corner of the world is a place where there’s never any rush, and honestly, we love it that way. We’ve got our own way of life around here, and we’re pretty proud of it. So, I’ve gone ahead and, just for fun, collected six photos that you’ll definitely understand if you’re from ’round these parts. Here are six photos of things only North Dakotans understand:

1. It's pronounced "bizon." Not “bison.” Not “buffalo.” BiZon. With a Z.

Bill Tanata/Flickr

Nobody here really knows why we say it like this. We just do, you know? And it's one of those dead giveaways that someone definitely grew up here... or has at least lived here long enough to adopt the dialect. Oh, and we don't say "yah" after every sentence... that's a myth. Like the "s" in bizon.

2. This photo fills you with a sense of irrational rage.

Karen Eckberg/Flickr

Seriously? SERIOUSLY? Who just gave them all those Super Bowl rings? Talk about getting something for nothing. Fun fact: The Packers are the single most hated team in not one but six states. The five other states that get it right are Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Iowa, and South Dakota. Solidarity.

3. Summer? More like sunflower season.

Dorian Wallender/Flickr

Kansas is called the Sunflower State, but everyone here knows that there are actually WAY more sunflowers in North Dakota than in Kansas. Every summer, usually in August, the fields are ablaze with stunning yellows and, in some cases, oranges, as millions of sunflowers burst into bloom. It's a truly incredible time and should be a season all its own.

4. This photo either makes you roll your eyes or smirk to yourself. There is no in-between.

Fargo-Moorhead CVB/Flickr

Yeah. Fargo. Wood chipper foot. We get it. Hilarious. 90-something-percent of us don't even have a wood chipper, so no, you can't borrow it.

5. 40 degrees? You mean shorts weather?

Geof Wilson/Flickr

Winter in North Dakota is particularly brutal... if you're not from here. January is the coldest month of the year by far, with daytime highs ranging anywhere from six to 19 degrees. This can only mean one thing: once it hits 40, summer's here. Bust out the shorts. Sure, everyone else looks at us like we're insane, but maybe we're into that.

6. What kind of monster puts lettuce in salad?

Slice of Chic/Flickr

Everyone in North Dakota knows that the ingredients list for the perfect salad is something like whipped cream, candy, sprinkles, and the occasional fruit bit. WAY better than that lettuce-covered junk the rest of the world calls a salad.

So, what do you think? What photos would you add to this list? Let me know! And if you’re visiting North Dakota for the first time and need somewhere to stay, you’ll find plenty of killer deals on lodging over at Booking.com.

The post 6 Photos You’ll Only Understand If You Hail From North Dakota appeared first on Only In Your State ®.