8 of the Most Walkable Towns in North Dakota
North Dakota has a handful of affectionate nicknames, including Flickertail State, Roughrider State, and Peace Garden State. Peace Garden State, specifically, is a perfect nickname for North Dakota since this destination is full of walkable towns that are beyond attractive and appealing to visitors and locals. Whether you call North Dakota home or you're planning to spend time visiting the Peace Garden State on vacation, knowing which towns are the most walkable is key if you’re hoping to remain super active. Some of these small towns are more walkable than others, and the benefits that come along with that are apparent. The more walking people do, the easier it will be for their health to improve. No longer worrying about spending money on gas is another huge win. Here is a breakdown of some of the most walkable towns you will track down in North Dakota.
Grafton
Grafton is a pleasant town in North Dakota with a rich history and a walkable downtown area. Main Street is lined with local shops and eateries, making it easy to explore on foot. These include the iconic Cabin Road Coffee House, Silo Boutique, and Byrdie’s Gift Shop & Lounge. The Grafton Heritage Center is there as well and offers insights into the town's history and heritage.
Just a short walk from downtown, Leistikow Park provides a peaceful setting for outdoor activities, including walking trails, picnic areas, and a scenic lake. The Park River flows through the town, adding to its allure. There are also additional walking paths along its banks. Grafton's combination of commercial storefronts and natural beauty makes it a perfect destination for walking enthusiasts. Some of the most exquisite hiking trails in Grifton include Dickinson Hill Fire Tower Trail, Dickinson Hill Loop, and Spruce Bog Trail Loop.
Medora
Medora, located in the picturesque Badlands, is known for its Western heritage and cultural attractions. The town's downtown area is home to the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame, where visitors can learn about the state's cowboy culture. The historic Rough Riders Hotel gives a glimpse into the town's storied past. Outdoor adventures to walk to in Medora include Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Medora Riding Stables & Trail Rides, and Maah Daah Hey Trail.
From the downtown area, visitors can access Theodore Roosevelt National Park, which hosts numerous walking trails showcasing the stunning Badlands landscape. The Harold Schafer Heritage Center, a short walk from the town center, offers visitors insights into the life of Harold Schafer, a major figure in Medora’s preservation and development. This museum is a must-see for those interested in the town’s history and its connection to Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Valley City
Valley City, often referred to as the "City of Bridges," includes walkable areas with historical and commercial attractions. These include the Historic Bridge Tour and some sightseeing near Lake Ashtabula. The town is known for its picturesque bridges that span the Sheyenne River. Walking along Central Avenue, visitors can explore local shops and cafes like City Lights Supper Club, Bridges Bar & Grill, and Leever’s Deli. The Barnes County Historical Museum, which showcases the area's rich history, is also accessible.
The Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway passes through Valley City, providing easy access to walking trails and parks. The Medicine Wheel Park, within walking distance of downtown, features a Native American medicine wheel, a solar calendar, and beautiful gardens.
Rugby
Rugby is known as the geographical center of North America. If you’re looking for a place to take a walk, it’s best to start with the Geographical Center Monument. It’s a unique landmark marking the town's claim to fame. The Prairie Village Museum features numerous historic buildings and exhibits that showcase the area's heritage. The historic Lyric Theater is one place where locals and guests can watch modern movies and new releases.
The nearby Pierce County Fairgrounds and Rugby Golf Club are full of additional outdoor spaces for walking and recreation. Rugby's well-connected streets and rich history make it an engaging place to visit on foot. Places like Solid Ground Coffee Café, Magnolia Wellness & Detox Spa, and Holly’s Stitches & Crafts are accessible in the area.
Bottineau
Bottineau, near the Turtle Mountains, offers a walkable downtown area with a variety of attractions. The town's Main Street is where you’ll find the historic Bottineau County Courthouse. The Bottineau Winter Park opens up possibilities for outdoor activities year-round, including hiking and skiing. Some restaurants you can walk to in Bottineau include Cenex Food Court & Champs Chicken, Cove Lounge, and The Norway House.
The Turtle Mountain Scenic Byway, which passes through Bottineau, offers scenic views and access to numerous walking trails and recreational areas. Lake Metigoshe State Park allows additional opportunities for hiking, fishing, and boating.
Devils Lake
Devils Lake features a walkable downtown area with some lively commercial attractions. The downtown district features local shops and restaurants like Anna's Cocina & Tequila, Devils Lake Pizza Ranch, and The Liquid Bean. The Lake Region Heritage Center showcases the history and culture of the area.
The town's namesake, Devils Lake, opens up numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, including walking trails, fishing, and boating. White Horse Nature Trail is widely recognized for being one of the top spots for all those activities. Devils Lake's scenic beauty and well-connected streets make it an ideal destination for visitors who enjoy exploring on foot. Balanced Rock Trail, Devil’s Doorway Trail, and Johnson Moraine Trail are some of the best paths to lay eyes on in Devils Lake.
Jamestown
Jamestown is often called the "Buffalo City" because of the National Buffalo Museum near the town. It is home to a live bison herd and educational exhibits about the American bison. The Frontier Village, a short walk from the museum, features historic buildings, shops, and the World's Largest Buffalo statue. Walking through downtown Jamestown, visitors can explore local shops, restaurants, and the Stutsman County Memorial Museum, which highlights the area's history.
Local restaurants include the Frontier Fort Bar & Grill, The Depot Cafe, and Great Dragon Buffet. Local shops that are unique to Jamestown include Junk in the Trunk, The Melted Crayon Gift Shop, and Country Gardens Floral & Greenhouse. The nearby Jamestown Reservoir and Pipestem Reservoir provide additional chances for outdoor walking and enjoying the natural beauty.
Lisbon
Lisbon is found along the Sheyenne River and includes a charming downtown area that is easy to explore on foot. The town's historic Main Street features the historic Lisbon Opera House, which hosts performances and events throughout the year. The Ransom County Historical Museum provides insights into the area's history. Some restaurants worth trying would be Lisbon Pizza Ranch, The Bronc Bar & Grill, and Gordy’s Grill & Fill. All these places are walkable, directly on Main Street.
The nearby Sheyenne River Valley provides numerous walking trails and scenic spots for outdoor activities. The Sheyenne National Grassland, a short drive from Lisbon, offers additional hiking and birdwatching zones.
Discover the Best Walkable Towns in North Dakota
Ultimately, a place like Grafton is noteworthy for hiking trails such as Spruce Bog Trail Loop. The cowboy culture in Medora is also ideal for folks who prefer to stay on foot. In Valley City, the Historic Bridge Tour is one of the most walking-friendly activities a person can do. North Dakota's small towns offer a unique blend of food-related charm, aesthetic bliss, and walkability. With well-connected street networks and a variety of attractions, these towns give an engaging and enjoyable experience for visitors who love to explore on foot. Whether you're strolling through historic downtowns, visiting local museums, or enjoying scenic walking trails, these eight towns ensure a memorable visit for all.
