Have a long weekend coming up but not sure how to use it to its fullest potential? North Dakota might have just the places for you! People may think that they have to go out of state on a mini-vacation to use up their long weekend well, but they may be totally missing the perfect short trip opportunity right here on the prairie. From a visit to the big city to a trip out into the wilderness, here are 8 awesome spots that are the optimal choice for that long weekend:
What better place to spend your long weekend than at the lake? And this isn't just any lake, of course, it's Devils Lake! It is North Dakota's largest natural lake and is known for its fantastic fishing, beautiful scenery, and of course the lake resorts that are perfect for that mini vacation. The city of Devils Lake has a great downtown area and plenty to see. There are multiple nature parks, as well, for you to fully experience the area - such as Sullys Hill National Game Preserve and Grahams Island State Park. Plus, there are historic sites like Fort Totten and numerous small towns surrounding the lake that you can explore. There is a whole lot more than just one long weekend to see and do here, so your visit will be packed!
Experience the city life by taking a trip to North Dakota's biggest city. The downtown area of Fargo is absolutely loaded with shops, restaurants, museums, and unique places like the iconic Fargo Theatre or the Hotel Donaldson. Fargo also has a zoo and many recreational activities, all along the beautiful Red River of the North. Places like the Lindenwood Park are great for camping, or there are plenty of hotels - both hip and upscale to quaint inns - to stay at.
Not far west of Fargo is the gorgeously scenic Sheyenne River Valley. You can take a long drive on the Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway and stop at many places along the route. Spots like the tiny towns of Fort Ransom or Kathryn are great pieces of North Dakota small town life to experience. Plus, the Fort Ransom State Park has amazing trails, cabins, yurts, campsites, and even historic homesteads and farms you can visit. Valley City is a bigger place in the Sheyenne River Valley that is worth stopping by while you're in the area, too. This "city of bridges" has 11 historic bridges over the Sheyenne River, and you can visit them all. The list goes on - this area is a must see!
We can't have a list with North Dakota weekend getaway ideas without mentioning the most popular vacation destination in the state, of course. That would be Medora, located among the breathtaking badlands and loaded with history. It'll make you feel like you're stepping in an old wild west town, which at one point it was, and one that Theodore Roosevelt himself walked through and adored. Speaking of Teddy, a big draw to Medora is North Dakota's one and only national park, the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Historic sites like the Elkhorn Ranch and Chateau des Mores are also awesome spots to add to your list to see while in the area. Restaurants such as the Theodore's Dining Room, The Farmhouse Cafe, Maltese Burger, and Medora Fudge and Ice Cream Depot are all great options for food there. And the list goes on - Medora is just loaded!
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Of course there is one particular experience that is unmissable when spending time at Medora, and that's the Medora Musical. It isn't just seeing the outdoor musical, it's also experiencing part of the town and the unique Pitchfork Steak Fondue.
The busiest state park in North Dakota has way more to see and do than your average park, and that makes it perfect for a long weekend. Other than being situated on the Missouri River with stunning views, great nature trails, and awesome campgrounds, the park also has so much history to experience. There are quite a few fort buildings, Custer's House, and the On-A-Slant Village of earthen lodges. Plus, this park has North Dakota's only operating trolley ride that will take you through the prettiest sections of the park. There is so much to do here, a long weekend might not even cover it all.
Experience the walleye capital of the world in Garrison, North Dakota. This town of around 1,500 people is situated right on North Dakota's biggest lake, Lake Sakakawea, near the Garrison Dam that created it. Lake Sakakawea is exceptional when it comes to fishing and you could visit many places along its coastline, but Garrison is definitely one of the best. Explore the charming downtown or experience Fort Stevenson State Park, located nearby. Garrison is appealing to visit year round, as other than being the walleye capital, it also becomes the Christmas capital of North Dakota when it has its Dickens Village Festival each year. This town might not be very big, but it sure has a lot to offer.
One of the prettiest places in North Dakota is the Pembina Gorge. Located right up against the Canadian border, this hilly forested spot becomes a gorgeous array of colors in the fall and transforms into one of the state's most popular ski areas in the winter. The Frost Fire Ski Area has great slopes for all ages and skill levels. The nearby town of Walhalla is one of the oldest settlements in the entire state and has plenty to offer on its own.
Jamestown is one of those underrated cities to visit in North Dakota. It may not be the biggest, but it has so much to explore. The downtown area has plenty of shops, restaurants, and more. What really brings people to visit is the National Buffalo Museum, its World's Largest Buffalo, and live bison herd. That particular herd was home to one of the only true albino bison in the world and still has white bison within it. With bison being one of North Dakota's most well known "mascots," so to speak, there is no better place than here to immerse yourself in all things bison. It doesn't end there, though. The Pioneer Village is right next to the museum and giant bison statue and it'll make you feel like you've stepped back in time to North Dakota's early settler days.
Where is your favorite spot to visit in North Dakota on a long weekend? If you don't have the time for a visit that long, here are some great day trip spots in the state that'd be perfect for a single afternoon.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Winter's fun, right? Okay, maybe it gets a little cold sometimes (alright, fine, it's big cold a lot) but that doesn't mean we can't appreciate the beauty of winter anyway. What better way to celebrate winter than by visiting the snowiest town for a winter getaway in North Dakota? This one's definitely for all the snow lovers out there because those who can't stand the fluffy white stuff and lament each time it starts to fall are gonna hate this one. Winter in North Dakota is amazing... as long as you enjoy winter, anyway... and arm yourself with your warmest winter essentials.
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Welcome to Fargo, North Dakota! It's the single most populous "Fargo" in the United States.
As of the 2020 census, there are 125,990 people who call this little town home. Sure, it's the largest "city" in North Dakota... but by almost any other state's standards, a population of just over 100k makes it a "town", but we guess it's subjective.
Later, its name would be changed to honor William Fargo, the Northern Pacific Railway director and Wells Fargo Express Company founder. It's a really nice little place to call home or to visit year-round...
The national average in the United States is 28 inches of snow annually. Fargo, however, knocks that standard out of the park, with an impressive average of 51.6 inches of snow annually, almost double the norm.
The snow isn't even so bad, really - usually, it's the wind and the frigid temperatures that ensure haters of all things winter will stay far away.
The average daytime temperature during winter in Fargo, ND is around 24 degrees in December, dropping to 16 degrees in January (which is the coldest month of the year). If that sounds cold to you, wait 'til you learn the lows: 8 degrees in December, and -1 degrees in January. Yay!
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Of course, this doesn't mean there isn't anything to do during this time. In fact, it's quite the opposite.
There are plenty of amazing things to do in North Dakota during the winter, and folks around here tend to celebrate it for all its beauty instead of grumbling about what a pain the snow is. After all, if we weren't fans of snow, we probably wouldn't still be here.
Fargo is a friendly, warm community, and we think visiting this little place is one of the best possible ways to kill some time this winter.
It's not every day you step inside somewhere that quite literally feels like a snow globe, but it sure is magical.
What are some of your favorite places to go during the winter in North Dakota? Have you ever been to Fargo when there's two feet of snow on the ground? Let us know! And if you are, indeed, planning a winter getaway in North Dakota, tell us all the details - we'd love to hear.
