7 Most Eccentric Towns in North Dakota
North Dakota's diverse landscape is flourishing with natural wonder. The state is home to open skied rolling plains, vast farmlands, rugged terrain, deep canyons, and interesting rock formations. Nature lovers and history buffs will feel right at home in this captivating state. Get a taste of cowboy culture and relive frontier history by galloping through Theodore Roosevelt National Park on horseback. North Dakota's eccentric towns offer plenty of epic photo opportunities. Check out numerous quirky statues and sculptures, especially along the Enchanted Highway. Being one of the least visited states, it is time to show North Dakota (ND) some love.
Medora
Yee-haw! Unleash your inner cowboy or cowgirl with a trip to Medora. This western-themed town is neatly tucked away in the raw beauty of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Medora is the poster child for a tight-knit community since this bizarre town is home to only 168 residents.
No Western-style trip is complete without some good old-fashioned horse riding. If you are in Medora from the end of May until the end of September, book a trail ride through the Badlands with Medora Riding Stables. After riding through the countryside, satisfy your appetite by dining like a true Westerner. Dig into a family-style meal from Pitchfork Steak Fondue. Watch as pitchfork-speared steaks are cooked in barrels of hot oil. Pair your fare with even more foods from the buffet, including baked beans, coleslaw, and garlic toast. Complement your dinner by supporting the local talent at the Medora Musical. Nothing beats dinner and a show, after all.
Cowboys and cowgirls will go nuts for a night or two at Rough Riders Hotel, where modern amenities meet historic Western charm. The original building was crafted in 1865, but the property has undergone renovations over the years. Maybe you will even catch a ghost sighting while staying in one of the Historic Suites.
New Salem
New Salem is a captivating and offbeat North Dakota treasure. This friendly and eccentric town has an unbeatable rural atmosphere. Catch a local event such as the Cow Town Hoe Down. Live it up with the locals at this three-day summer festival, including a parade, live music, duck races, and Cow Bingo. You can also get a feel for New Salem's rustic touch and mingle with New Salem's residents at ND Country Fest. Dance your heart out in July at this four-day extravaganza. See top artists like Sam Hunt and Cole Swindell.
No trip to New Salem is complete without waving hello or snapping a picture of Salem Sue, the World's Largest Holstein Cow. This fiberglass masterpiece has been an iconic symbol on Interstate 94 since 1974. You can also see Salem Sue in the distance when you putt around at Red Trail Links Golf Course. Afterward, experience a blast from the past at the New Salem Historical Society and Custer Trail Museum. View exhibits of old arm machinery, a blacksmith shop, and a 1910 house.
Garrison
While traveling around North Dakota, you will notice the state is a hotspot for colossal statues and sculptures. The quirky town of Garrison should be on your list if you are ready to witness Wally the Walleye. This friendly giant is a 26-foot fish you can see at the end of Main Street. You must also say hello to Big Gene, a towering 15-foot-tall guardian at the Garrison Golf Course. Do not forget to impress him with your golf skills and show him your A-game.
It is no secret that quirky towns have the cutest mom-and-pop shops. Ye Olde Malt Shoppe is a must-try when visiting the Garrison area. This 50s-style diner is a unique experience you will always remember. Dig into a good old Monte Cristo, omelet, or a milkshake crafted to perfection. You have to try the Walleye for an authentic North Dakota experience.
As you can tell, Garrison is all about the fish. Dive into the state's fishing heritage at the North Dakota Fishing Hall of Fame and Museum. You can also treat yourself to a more hands-on fishing experience. Book a guided fishing trip with Bloemendaal Guide Service LLC for a memorable trip in the gorgeous Lake Sakakawea.
Minot
Welcome to Minot, the Magic City. Named after its rapid population growth back in the day, Minot is a phenomenal place to bring the kids. Take the family to the oldest zoo in the State, The Roosevelt Park Zoo. You can easily spend the day getting lost viewing over 160 animals. If you have extra time, register the littles for Zoo Tots for even more interactive animal fun. Join Roosevelt Park Zoo for seasonal events, such as Christmas at the Zoo, where you can craft your heart out and meet Santa.
Check out the Magic City Discovery Center, a top-rated attraction given two thumbs up by kids. Watch as they release energy by climbing the Magic Climber, a 37-foot superstructure. See how rainbows are created in the light lab and get your hands wet at Water Flow Gallery. Kids of all ages will love seeing art and technology come to life in the Digital Worlds exhibit. Magic City Discovery Center is an entire day of exploration and fun for all ages.
Kids and adults alike will love wandering the grounds of the Scandinavian Heritage Park, which definitely adds to the eccentric town vibe. Snap pics and watch kids gaze in awe at the Dala Horse, Danish Windmill, and the incredible architecture of the replica Gol Stave Church Museum.
Jamestown
If you are curious about where the buffalo roam, head to Jamestown. You have to meet Dakota Thunder, the World's Largest Buffalo Monument. Venture to the end of Louis L'Amour Lane to meet this gentle giant. Constructed in 1959, this 60-ton concrete is an iconic Jamestown symbol. Do not worry; he does not bite. If you would like to have a bite and you are feeling adventurous, dig into a bison burger at Buffalo Grill. Continue your buffalo adventure at the North American Bison Discovery Center. Rifle through interactive exhibits, including a touch table and bison puzzle. The bison-themed pottery exhibit is incredibly unique.
Like many quirky North Dakota towns, Jamestown has a rich past. Catch a glimpse of the historical pioneer times in North Dakota at Frontier Village. Make your way through original buildings such as the Northern Pacific Railroad Depot. There are plenty of incredible photo opportunities so bring your camera.
That's quite an exhausting day of all things buffalo. Rest your head at this beautiful and historic Rust House Inn built in 1925. This incredible Jamestown accommodation is beautifully decorated in a charming Farm style decor yet has luxurious amenities.
Williston
In Northwestern North Dakota, close to the border of Montana, you will find the historic and whimsical town of Williston. Embrace the origins of Williston by taking a trip to Fort Union Trading Post. Walk along the grounds that were a previous fur trade post from 1828 to 1867. Continue your history lesson with a trip to Fort Buford State Historic Site, a former military post. The site is famous for the location where Sitting Bull surrendered in 1881.
Raise a glass and enjoy a seasonal brew from Busted Knuckle Brewery, a beloved and top choice by visitors and locals. Experiment and try seasonal delights such as Fender Bender Blackberry Ale and Pumpkin Spiced Amber Ale. Adventure seekers will be thrilled to try Axe Throwing, which the brewery hosts. Although, it might be a good idea to throw axes first before you pound back the beer.
Finish off your time in Williston with tranquility and peace. Head to the Missouri River for a serene fishing session. It is considered to be one of the best fishing spots in North Dakota.
Walhalla
Walhalla perfectly captures a combination of scenic landscape and history. It is one of the oldest towns in North Dakota. Travel back to the 1840s with a trip to Gingras Trading Post. Journey through exhibits that showcase the home and trading post of businessman and legislator Antoine Blanc Gingras.
Frost Fire Park offers year-round activities from winter snowboarding to summer mountain biking. Get your adrenaline pumping on the forested slopes of Pembina Gorge. Fill up on fuel at Howatt Hangar Bar and Grill, the on-hill eatery. Warm up with a cozy bowl of chili, or cool down with a refreshing beverage. It's best to visit anytime from late spring until autumn for peak weather conditions, as the winter months are not for the weak.
Walhalla is a hotspot for getting in your daily exercise while also basking in the surrounding scenery. Hike, bike, or horseback ride to the Masonic Scenic Overlook. The panoramic views of the Pembina River and the Pembina Gorge are something you need to witness at least once in your lifetime. It is highly recommended to see the area during the peak fall foliage, from early to mid-October. Another popular spot for hiking and horseback riding is Tetrault Woods State Park. Watch the forested area turn into a winter wonderland while you snowmobile or cross-country ski; traverse through the snow-covered trees as you get your heart pumping.
Show Some Love to North Dakota's Eccentric Towns
Discover North Dakota's rich history, rooted in Native American heritage, Western traditions, and Scandinavian influences. Say hello to the massive buffalo sculpture in Jamestown or the giant cow in New Salem. Enjoy family-friendly fun in Minot, or head to Medora for authentic western-themed encounters. Catch a relaxing fishing session in Garrison while indulging in the local fried walleye. See exhibits of old trading sites in Williston and Walhalla and admire the surrounding landscape. Wherever you decide to venture in North Dakota, it is ready to welcome you and fascinate you with its thrilling past and many eccentric towns.
