The Most Picturesque Small Towns in North Dakota
North Dakota, the smallest Midwest state by population, is also one of the least crowded by tourists, leaving all the picturesque views unobscured. To this end, the state boasts plenty of small communities with a range of unique attractions. These attractions range from the largest buffalo statue in Jamestown to the most extensive undisturbed forest in Walhalla, North Dakota's second-oldest community. Similarly, Medora is home to unique museums, historic sites, and its own portion of the extraordinary Theodore Roosevelt National Park. From outdoor scenery to rustic tales, these small towns in North Dakota are full of scenic ways to spend a vacation.
Devils Lake
Devils Lake is a perfect outdoorsy destination for the active, the swimmers, and the water babies as it is nestled along the northern shore of its namesake, the 160,000-acre Devils Lake. Among relaxation, strolls, and bankside picnics, the opportunity for fun watersports abounds, including boating, kayaking, and the local favorite, fishing. No wonder, often cited as one of the US's most fishable lakes, North Dakota’s biggest natural body attracts anglers from all around for record-breaking catches.
There are plenty of ways to get back into nature beyond the bountiful waters, like camping and bird-watching on Grahams Island. From golfing, birdwatching, and hiking in the summer to leaf-peeping and skiing through the other seasons, the Lake Region Heritage Center connects visitors to the area's fascinating history, like the lifestyle of early pioneers. The historic downtown Devils Lake delights all palates with places like the homey Roosevelt Park and the Old Main Street Cafe. After Mexican bites over drinks at Anna's Cocina & Tequila, unwind in style at the Fireside Inn & Suites.
Jamestown
It doesn't get more picturesque than Jamestown, "The Pride of the Prairie." As one of the bigger small towns with even more attractions, the prairie lands—as far as the eye can see—are perfect for getting lost in wanderings with a picnic basket. The Overlook Trail is mildly challenging along the Jamestown Reservoir, while North Ridge is a leisurely wind along the shores of Pipestem Lake. From hiking trails and historic buildings, S & R Truck Plaza & Cafe is a local hit, steps away from the James River through the heart.
Full of hospitality and small-town charm, Jamestown welcomes visitors with the world's largest giant buffalo statue. At 26 feet high, Dakota Thunder, the 60-ton giant concrete roadside attraction, marks the site of the National Buffalo Museum, home to live buffalo and the importance of the American bison. Another cultural draw is the Jamestown Frontier Town, which features reenactments to experience life on the prairie hundreds of years ago. After all the fun, visitors can book a room at Norway Inn for a reputable stay today.
Jud
Jud, an adorable little town of under 100, is easily overlooked and may not return many results in searches or maps. “The Village of Murals” is a perfect example of how the best things come in small packages and that beauty is on the inside. Featuring a variety of paintings for every taste of scenery, from images to stamps and landscapes, it inspires a fun family hunt around the town. The cartoon characters delight the kids while browsing notable small businesses and town greens, like the adorable Jud Bar & Grill.
Photogenic and matching the surrounding natural beauty with its quaint charm and artistic efforts, Jud is a picture of a perfect all-American little town. It really knows how to get cozy amid all the greenery, with nearly every home and building hand-painted in extraordinary murals by its own native muralist. Just check out the nearby Bone Hill Creek National Wildlife Refuge to the northeast, by a lake, to decipher the inspiration source.
Medora
Nestled along the banks of the Little Missouri River, Medora attracts nature and history lovers alike with themed cafes and riverside strolls that make it one of the coziest destinations. It is home to plenty of outdoor areas like the Medora Children's Park and its own portion of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Thus, there is picturesque scenery all around, whether through wildlife, educational resources, or trails for all levels. For example, one can hike along the Skyline Vista, an easy trail to campsites, and end the day at the Medora Campground for an overnight stay near the heart of town.
Back in town, Medora boasts a handful of unique museums, including the Billings County Courthouse Museum and the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame. The latter is a local hotspot and features the cultural contrasts of the Old West against modern-day cowboy culture. For a more immersive experience, visitors can also head to Medora Riding Stables, which is popular among equestrians to gallop along the unique landscape.
Valley City
Valley City, home to the meandering Sheyenne River and its many historic bridges, ranks high among some of the most picturesque towns in the Midwest. It's easy to get caught up in admiring the intricate, ornate design of the wooden Valley City State University Footbridge. The Hi-Line Bridge, a National Civil Engineering Landmark, is one of the nation's highest single-track rail bridges. Affectionately known as The City of Bridges, this is a perfect destination for those in search of relaxing sights and memorable photo opportunities on a leisurely getaway from a real city.
The scenic 63-mile Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway, named the best Fall Color Getaways in the region by Midwest Living Magazine, is an unmissable foliage drive from Baldhill Dam down to Lisbon, with valley views and plenty of historic sights. A stop-along, Medicine Wheel Park, features Native American burial grounds and two solar calendars with panoramic views across the small town. For casual exercise, nothing beats a bike ride across a few beautiful bridges or a walking tour of eight for insights into these exciting and historic arches, some of which date back to World War I.
Walhalla
Dripping with small-town charm, Walhalla, the state's second-oldest town, is a year-round community of under 1,000 people. Attracting visitors with its photogenic appeal, every pursuit comes against a picturesque backdrop. The gorgeous Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area is home to North Dakota's most extensive undisturbed forest, with over 30 miles of trails to wander for the next scenic picnic spot in the summer. In the winter months, Walhalla is an unmissable picture-perfect town along the snow-dusted shores of the Pembina River, with skiing, snowboarding, and dining opportunities at its Frost Fire Park.
Kittson Trading Post is a scenic old landmark, ideal for history buffs, while Jackson's Bar offers that lovely early 1900s atmosphere. Everything is within walking distance to soak up the charm of the small town, with florists along the streets and farms on the outskirts. The Rendezvous Region Scenic Backway offers lovely views of the Pembina River, particularly along the waters reflecting the shimmering fall foliage. Walhalla Riverside Campground is a popular stay with access to the water, and if not Waters Family Restaurant and Bakery for breakfast, choose the Cure, a pretty blue sandwich spot, for a bite to go exploring.
Wrapping Up
The Peace Garden State has so much in store for vacationers looking for a picturesque retreat. For example, Jud is a good thing that comes in a small package, proving that beauty is on the inside. Similarly, the nearby Bone Hill Creek National Wildlife Refuge features a scenic lake that matches the town's aesthetic efforts for summertime recreation. Meanwhile, in Medora, Theodore Roosevelt National Park has wildlife, educational resources, and trails for all levels, like the all-time favorite Skyline Vista. These, and the many other small towns in the state, provide a world of beauty and activities ideal for all travelers.
