2024's 9 Most Adorable Small Towns in North Dakota
North Dakota is a Northern US state known for its picturesque prairie lands and wide-open spaces—the perfect panoramic backdrop for an epic vacation. Though many vacationers may not consider the Peace Garden State a bucket-list getaway, North Dakota’s small towns offer an eclectic mix of outdoor activities, rich heritage, and distinctive attractions that make the beautiful state a destination all its own. From picture-perfect prairies to byways and historic sites to national and state parks, 2024's most adorable North Dakota towns have something for every traveler looking for an unforgettable escape.
Jamestown
The epitome of North Dakota prairie country, Jamestown is all boundless plains, sprawling grasslands, and the emblematic buffalo—some of which still roam the countryside. However, today, Jamestown also pays tribute to the iconic American bison with two dynamic attractions: the World's Largest Buffalo Monument, featuring the 60-ton concrete giant dubbed Dakota Thunder, and the North American Bison Discovery Center, where visitors can learn about the US national mammal’s past, present and future.
There is plenty of history in the “Buffalo City,” too. Learn about Jamestown’s pioneer past at Frontier Village, Fort Seward Military Post, and the Stutsman County Memorial Museum, or walk in the footsteps of famed Western writer Louis L’Amour on the Jamestown Talking Trail or the Louis L’Amour Walking Tour. For a taste of local recreation, stop at the Jamestown Reservoir for boating, swimming, hiking, biking, and fishing.
Walhalla
Located in the “Heart of the Rendezvous Region,” Walhalla is a lovely small town in northeast North Dakota. One of the earliest settlements in the Peace Garden State, Walhalla has a rich heritage dating back to the mid-19th century. Learn all about the area’s early settlers at the Walhalla State Historic Site and the Gingras Trading Post State Historic Site, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Popular outdoor recreation in Walhalla includes canoeing and kayaking the Pembina River; hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, kayaking, and enjoying activities at Frost Fire State Park while spending the day at Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area; and visiting the spectacular overlook and nature trail at Tetrault Woods State Forest. Those looking to bask in the natural beauty in Walhalla and the surrounding area can also visit the 1,155-feet above-sea-level Masonic Scenic Overlook for panoramic views of the Pembina River and Gorge, or explore the region’s most dramatic views with a drive on the Rendezvous Region Scenic Backway.
Valley City
Valley City is a beautiful small town in North Dakota’s Sheyenne River Valley. Known as the “City of Bridges,” Valley City has many historic bridges, most dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Explore these unique structures on the town’s Bridges Tour, including the famed Hi-Line Bridge, one of the longest and highest single-track railroad bridges in the US, and the West Park Bridge, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
More Valley City attractions include learning about Sheyenne River Valley history at the Rosebud Visitor Center or the Barnes County Museum and exploring Medicine Wheel Park and its Native American burial grounds, a large-scale model of the solar system, and solar calendar; and outdoor activities on the Sheyenne River and Ashtabula Lake. Additionally, Valley City has many 2024 events that showcase the area's natural beauty, such as the Sheyenne RiverFest and Summer Nights on Central. To appreciate the best of the region’s spectacular scenery, hike the local segment of the North Country National Scenic Trail, or take a road trip on the Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway to see famous local landmarks and breathtaking North Dakota towns like Kathryn, Fort Ransom, and Lisbon.
Medora
Medora is an adorable community of just over 100 residents located in southwest North Dakota. However, what the tiny town lacks in size, it makes up for in breathtaking natural beauty, enduring community spirit, and rich heritage that has shaped its reputation as a top North Dakota tourist destination. Adjacent to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Medora is an outdoor enthusiast’s playground with access to activities like scenic drives, hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife watching. The park also has its share of history and local lore. Visited by future US President Theodore Roosevelt in 1883, the site’s breathtaking beauty and iconic Badlands landscapes would shape his life for years to come—and today, park-goers can visit his original Maltese Cross Cabin, located behind the park’s Interpretative Center.
However, Medora is not just about its presidential past. From a near-ghost town to a mid-20th century revival by beloved North Dakotan Harold Schafer, Medora is now more than a historic haven; it is an entertainment mecca. Bustling with exciting events, including the Medora Gospel Brunch, The Teddy Roosevelt Show, and its signature Medora Musical, the Badlands town continues to enthrall visitors year after year. To learn more about Medora’s eclectic past, visit the Harold Schafer Heritage Center and the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame, or book a stay at the historic Rough Riders Hotel. Additionally, Medora has many must-visit 2024 events, such as the 68th Annual Champions Ride Rodeo and the Medora Hot Air Balloon Rally.
Devils Lake
Named for the largest natural body of water in the state, Devils Lake is famed for its epic outdoor recreation and breathtaking beauty. With hundreds of miles of shoreline, Devils Lake is a top spot for watersports as well as hiking, wildlife watching, and panoramic overlooks at the White Horse Hill National Game Preserve. Devils Lake is also famed for its world-class fishing, earning it the nickname the “Perch Capital of the World.” Grahams Island State Park is another popular lakeside retreat known for its year-round recreation, from swimming, fishing, and hiking in the summer to snowshoeing, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing in the winter.
After a day in the great outdoors, head to Devils Lake’s quaint downtown area and explore its historic buildings (several listed on the National Register of Historic Places); visit town attractions like the Lake Region Heritage Center and the Sheriff’s House Museum; or take a short drive to Fort Totten Historic Site, less than 20 minutes away. Additionally, Devils Lake offers plenty of 2024 events, from its fall Wine Walk to entertainment at Spirit Lake Casino & Resorts; there is something for everyone.
Wahpeton
Wahpeton is an adorable community located in southeastern North Dakota along the Bois de Sioux River. Approximately 5.4 square miles in area, Wahpeton is extremely walkable. Its quaint, welcoming downtown features a small (yet bustling) array of restaurants, including local favorites like City Brew Hall, The Boiler Room, and Prante’s. For more signature Wahpeton attractions, explore local history at the Richland County Historical Museum, enjoy a relaxing day at the beautiful Chahinkapa Zoo, and ride the classic Prairie Rose Carousel.
Wahpeton also showcases its offbeat, tiny town personality with spots like the Dakota Avenue Mural, the Red Door Art Gallery and Museum, and the World’s Largest Catfish (aka Wahpper), showcasing the town’s quirkier, more artistic side. Popular 2024 Wahpeton events like Blue Goose Days, Headwaters Music Festival, the Wahpeton Fall Festival, and Bull Bash are also worth a visit, while nearby attractions like historic Bagg Bonanza Farm and Fort Abercrombie State Historic Site are ideal day trips in the surrounding area.
Bottineau
Bottineau is a bustling North Dakota town located along the US-Canadian border. With the Turtle Mountains on its doorstep, Bottineau is the ideal combination of stunning mountain scenery and outdoor adventure. Proximity to attractions like the Turtle Mountain State Recreation Area offers miles of motorized trails for off-highway vehicles, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and snowshoeing, while Lake Metigoshe State Park is a popular destination for year-round outdoor activities.
For an exciting day trip, visitors can also explore the 53-mile Turtle Mountain Scenic Byway and visit local attractions like Mystical Horizons, a “modern-day Stonehenge” with panoramic views of the Turtle Mountains and surrounding area; the International Peace Garden, a commemorative marker/botanical garden; and Coghlan Castle, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. While in Bottineau, be sure to get a photo with the Bottineau County mascot and quirky local attraction, Tommy the Turtle, a nearly 30-foot snowmobile-riding turtle statue in the town’s Tommy Turtle Park. To learn more about Bottineau, attend the town's 2024 Pioneer Life Weekend.
New Salem
Though just 30 miles from Bismarck, New Salem’s tranquil atmosphere and picturesque farmland setting seem like a world away. However, the cozy North Dakota town still has plenty of activities for would-be visitors looking for a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Stay the weekend at The Metropolitan Hotel and try popular New Salem pastimes, like learning about local history at the New Salem Historical Society/Custer Trail Museum and soaking up the region’s picturesque landscapes and fishing opportunities at Gaebe Pond. For more outdoor recreation, enjoy New Salem’s swimming pool, city parks, and nearly two miles of hiking trails.
The nearby Old Red Old Ten Scenic Byway is another great way to explore the area, including the towns of Mandan, Hebron, and Richardton, and the nature preserve at Schnell Recreation Area. Finally, no visit to New Salem would be complete without a glimpse of “Salem Sue.” A quirky New Salem landmark since 1974, the world’s largest Holstein cow towers over the surrounding landscape, measuring 38 feet tall and 50 feet wide.
Beulah
Beulah is a small Mercer County gem in the heart of North Dakota’s “powerbelt,” a region known for its many wind farms, mines, and power plants. Garrison Power Plant in Riverdale and the Falkirk Mine in Underwood also offer tours of their facilities, which is a great way to learn about local industry. However, the tiny town is not just about keeping the power on. There are plenty of other activities to entertain visitors. Experience the area’s rich heritage with a visit to the Mercer County Museum or admire the expansive wildlife collection at the Pfennig Wildlife Museum.
Beulah also has its share of outdoor recreation, including world-class fishing, hiking, swimming, camping, and watersports at Lake Sakakawea State Park. The third-largest manmade reservoir in the US, Lake Sakakawea is home to spectacular lakeshore views as well as part of the North Country National Scenic Trail. To enjoy more of the area’s natural beauty, take a road trip to Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site in nearby Stanton.
North Dakota is known for its natural beauty, which can be seen everywhere, from its sprawling landscapes to its beautiful waterways. However, there is more to the Peace Garden State than meets the eye. Here, scattered throughout the state’s most adorable small towns, are places where history and heritage meet epic outdoor adventures and one-of-a-kind attractions. Set against the backdrop of open skies and wide-open spaces the Northern state is famous for, these cozy communities are the perfect places to have a one-of-a-kind vacation in 2024.
