It might be one of the least populated states, but this glorious destination has a ton of great sites, attractions, and natural wonders to discover. North Dakota vacations are all about getting out in the great outdoors and having a go at the coolest activities. Bordering Canada to the north and home to beautiful places like Lake Sakakawea and the Theodore Roosevelt National Park, vacations in North Dakota are simply stunning no matter where you go.
North Dakota travel is popular with anyone who loves the outdoors, thanks to its mixture of landscapes and culture spots like the historic Indian villages and some awe-inspiring views. City life in North Dakota is great too, and families will love Grand Forks on the eastern border. Take the kids to the Splashers of the South Seas indoor water park or go to the National Buffalo Museum in friendly Jamestown. For families and couples, North Dakota is an outdoor destination you won’t forget.
If you do just one hike on your vacations in North Dakota, it’s got to be the Maah Daah Hey Trail on the edge of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. This trail shows you every type of landscape in one go. Look down through the Missouri River valley or have a picnic in Sully Creek State Park.
If you want to marvel at incredible engineering, head to Garrison Dam on Lake Sakakawea. This is the largest lake in the state and you can book onto tours where the whole family can learn about how the dam is used to create electricity. Afterward, go hiking at Lake Sakakawea State Park or take a fishing tour.
Devils Lake is another top spot for vacations in North Dakota, and no matter what time of year you arrive, there are loads of activities to do. Go ice fishing in winter or stop by in January to see the annual ice fishing tournament. Visit the historic site at Fort Totten across the lake from Devils Lake city or drive out to Grahams Island State Park.
1. Lisbon - Not far from Fargo is Lisbon - a great place for hiking and following the history trail of the Native Americans. Hike parts of the Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway and enjoy stunning views. If you visit in winter, snowmobiling is the most fun you’ll have all year, and Lisbon has hundreds of miles of well-maintained trails for you to explore.
2. Jamestown - Perfect for family vacations, Jamestown combines history with the great outdoors so everyone can enjoy it. Check out the Fort Seward Interpretive Center and the fascinating National Buffalo Museum. Kids will love the sculpture of the world’s largest buffalo!
Just 90 miles west of Grand Forks, Devils Lake is a wonderful winter destination and the snowmobiling down in Lisbon is unforgettable. In the summer months, North Dakota has exceptional hiking with the Maah Daah trail and beautiful spots in every state park. North Dakota has defined seasons so it’s easy to match up a time of year with the activity you want to do. Spring and fall are ideal for city exploring and seeing the leaves on the trees change in the forests.
North Dakota only has one interstate that crosses from Minnesota to Montana via Bismarck. While other roads are smaller, they offer scenic views and add to the adventure. It’s easiest to get around by car and you can fly into Bismarck Municipal Airport (BIS) for central North Dakota vacations or head to Fargo-Hector International Airport (FAR) or Grand Forks International Airport (GFK) on the eastern border.
