8 Perfect Destinations for a Long Weekend in North Dakota

North Dakota is a magical place to escape for a long weekend, especially when one visits one of these eight perfect destinations. Whether you plan to visit during a summer holiday, over the winter, or even in the spring or fall, there is no bad time to visit this beautiful state. North Dakota has so much to offer tourists year-round. Whether you’re a history lover, itching to enjoy the great outdoors, or want to explore the bustling capital of Bismarck, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a long weekend vacation in North Dakota. Besides driving, the best way to reach North Dakota is by plane. Several of the state’s largest cities have airports, including Minot and Fargo, which makes it very accessible, no matter where one is visiting from.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is the perfect destination for a long weekend in North Dakota. This national park is by far one of the most gorgeous parts of the state. It is divided up into the North, South, and Elkhorn Ranch units. Each has its unique appeals. No matter which you choose, you will have lots of phenomenal options for hiking trails and scenic drives. There is also a visitor’s center and ranger-run programs, such as guided walks, during the summertime. One of the best aspects of visiting Theodore Roosevelt National Park is the potential to see all kinds of native wildlife. The park is home to bison, wild horses, deer, porcupines, eagles, and rabbits. Please note that if you’re visiting in the winter, conditions may be more challenging as trails are not groomed and roads are not ploughed. If you plan to spend the weekend exploring Theodore Roosevelt National Park, an ideal place to stay is the town of Medora, located near the South Unit of the park. Hotels include the Rough Riders Hotel and the Badlands Motel.

Bottineau

Bottineau is a must-visit destination in North Dakota. In the winter, it is a haven for skiers and snowboarders alike due to its proximity to the Turtle Mountains. You’ll only have to drive 10 minutes outside of town and you will reach Bottineau Winter Park, a ski resort with ski and snowboard slopes and snow tubing. The park is very beginner-friendly, with equipment rentals available and slopes to suit all skill levels. Alternatively, if you’re visiting Bottineau in the summertime, be sure to check out the nearby International Peace Gardens. Located on the Canadian border, these gardens come alive during the warmer months. Meanwhile, a few accommodation options in the area include the Cobblestone Inn & Suites, the Super 8 by Wyndham Bottineau, and the Four Seasons Inn.

Garrison

Garrison is worth a long weekend visit. This small town has a population of approximately 1,500 residents, and yet, there is so much to do and see. For example, the town is situated next to Fort Stevenson State Park, which offers tons of recreational activities to visitors. There are several trails running through the park for hiking and biking. The park is also located on a peninsula of Lake Sakakawea, so that allows visitors to get out on the water by boat. You can enjoy an afternoon of kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, or even fishing. (Garrison is known as the “Walleye Capital” for a reason). The Garrison Golf Club is also located in town. If you aren’t sure where to stay in Garrison, consider the North Shore Inn & Suites, the Garrison Motel, or the Cabernet Inn.

Bismarck

Bismarck is a fantastic place to spend a long weekend in North Dakota. As the state capital, you can bet there are attractions and activities for people of all ages here. For example, shopaholics can shop ‘til they drop at Kirkwood Mall. Meanwhile, kids will love exploring the Dakota Zoo and the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. There is also the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum for history buffs looking to learn a little bit more about the state of North Dakota, including its dinosaurs. Last but not least, Bismarck isn’t far from several beautiful parks, like Sertoma Park, Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, and Huff Hills Ski Area. There are accommodation options for all budgets in Bismarck, such as the 2-star Days Inn by Wyndham Bismarck or the 3-star Radisson Hotel Bismarck.

Grand Forks

Grand Forks is a go-to destination in North Dakota for a reason. Not only is it a bustling college town, but it also boasts tons of natural beauty. Situated on the banks of the Red River of the North and near the border of Minnesota, there is so much fun to be had here. For instance, you can tour the University of North Dakota campus or even catch a collegiate sports game, including those of the eight-time national champion UND men's hockey team, which plays at Ralph Engelstad Arena. Afterward, head to Lincoln Drive Park, which offers hiking, biking, fishing, and disc golf in the summer, and snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, skating, and sledding in the winter. Places to stay in Grand Forks range from the Best Western Harvest Inn & Suites to the Canad Inns Destination Center.

Williston

Williston can make for a spectacular long weekend getaway in North Dakota. Situated in the northwestern part of the state, this small town is vibrant in both the winter and summer. In the winter, it is a popular ski, snowshoe, and snowmobile destination. Nearby Lewis and Clark State Park and Blacktail Dam both have cross-country and snowshoe trails, while Lake Sakakawea is a prime spot for ice fishing. You might also be able to catch a Williston State College Tetons NJCAA hockey game. In the summer, outdoor enthusiasts love visiting the area to go boating and fishing in the lake, as well as to hike and bike the many trails that surround the small town. Despite its small size, you’ll have several options when it comes to a place to stay, like the Grand Williston Hotel and the El Rancho Hotel.

Cross Ranch State Park

Cross Ranch State Park is a lovely place to spend a weekend. This state park sits adjacent to the Missouri River and features over 17 miles of trails. These trails can be used year-round, so whether you visit on a long weekend over the holidays or for Memorial Day, there are trails to take advantage of here. For example, in the winter, you can enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing (the park even has snowshoe and ski rentals). Hiking can be done year-round, as well as biking in the summertime. A few popular trails include the 2.9-mile Matah “River” Trail, the 2.5-mile Ma-ak-oti “Old Village” trail, and the 5.4-mile Cottonwood Trail/Gaines Trail. As for where to stay, visitors might have the option of camping in Cross Ranch State Park if there are still spots available. The park has three cabins and three yurts that can be rented for overnight stays, as well as regular tent sites.

Minot

Minot is a small, charming town with a Scandinavian history, a thriving art community, and plenty of attractions that the whole family will love. First, to get a better sense of the town’s history, be sure to check out the Scandinavian Heritage Association. History and military buffs will also love the Dakota Territory Air Museum. From there, take the kids to the Roosevelt Park Zoo, go shopping at the Dakota Square Mall, or marvel at fine art at the Taube Museum of Art. While in town, visitors can stay at the Staybridge Suites Minot, the Hyatt House Minot, or the Baymont by Wyndham Minot. The town has its own international airport, which makes it very accessible.

Wrapping Up

Now’s the time to start planning your long weekend getaway to North Dakota. As you can see, these eight perfect destinations have so much to offer, no matter what time of year you’re going or what part you choose to visit. For example, Bottineau and Grand Forks are fantastic locations if you love winter activities, Theodore Roosevelt National Park and Cross Ranch State Park are breathtaking year-round, and Garrison is the ideal spot to go fishing (especially if you're after walleye). What’s not to love about this unique and underrated state?