The Small Town In North Dakota That Comes Alive In The Fall Season
By Tori Jane|Published September 25, 2023
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Tori Jane
Author
Tori Jane is a storm chaser, writer, photographer, and the village idiot - in that order. When she's not out and about dancing with the meanest storms on planet Earth for funsies she can be found wandering, shooting landscapes, writing, editing photos, and otherwise up to no good. Legend has it that she can also be occasionally spotted typing up short bios in the third person, but those rumors are unsubstantiated.
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.
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.
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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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