By Lucy Wyndham
North Dakota tourism hit new heights with a record-breaking 25.6 million visitors along with $3.3 billion in spending in 2023, highlights a report released by the North Dakota Department of Commerce. With an abundance of natural landscapes and modern accommodations, the state is a must-visit for many who wish to plan an all-American road trip or holiday. When a city like Fargo is on the itinerary, it’s crucial that tourists look beyond traditional destinations like the West Acres Shopping Center, as natural sights, annual events offer so much more.
An exploration of North Dakota’s nature
Spending more time outdoors is becoming more popular — one poll conducted by Talker Research on behalf of RVshare found that over half of Americans (57%) crave time spent outdoors more now than ever before. Results of the poll further revealed that those who spent time outdoors “said it relaxes them (68%), puts them in a better mood (66%), and helps them clear their head (64%).” The desire has led to shifts in travel preferences, with more individuals traveling to places in nature as well, the poll reveals. The Northern Plains Botanic Garden Society serves as just one nature-filled hidden gem in Fargo. In addition to the various gardens to explore (as well as an edible forest and butterflies), the Society offers tours, sells plants, and hosts events — not to mention that the butterfly and botanic gardens are free to the public.
The nature that surrounds Fargo highlights the perfect opportunity for travelers to soak in an abundance of natural locations and the benefits that come along with their exploration, from the Red River Valley to the number of parks that can be found near and far from the city. Time spent in nature has been found to reduce negative rumination, as well as improve overall psychological well being, highlights one 2023 Harvard Business Review (HBR). Physical benefits are another consideration, as time spent in nature can even reduce heart rate and blood pressure, not to mention the advantages that come along with participation in exercise like hiking, biking, etc. Located about an hour and a half drive from Fargo, Turtle River State Park can be found. Activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping are all available at Turtle River, in addition to fun activities for the family — such as geocaching. The park also allows visitors to book a stay in a cabin, which can present as a unique way to enjoy the park and its nature beyond traditional camping in a tent or RV.
Fargo summer events are a must-visit
Live horse racing, outdoor yoga, and river paddling excursions on the Red River are just a few summertime activities that travelers can find in Fargo, though the city is home to a number of events that take place throughout the summer months that attract anyone and everyone. Shopping events such as the Artist’s Flea Market, the West Fargo Street Fair, and the Red River Market are just a few events that have taken place in the past. Such events are considered a prime opportunity to explore local goods and vendors, purchase hand-made items, and an abundance of local cuisine as well. Additional events that take place in Fargo include ribfest, an annual summer event that features barbeque and music, as well as the Downtown Street Fair, North Dakota’s largest outdoor event. The street fair alone draws in more than 150,000 visitors with live music, shopping, local art, and food, a statistic that demonstrates the popularity of the event. The 2024 Street Fair, for example, featured over 200 vendors.
Online resources are ideal for those who wish to plan out an all-American road trip, especially if Fargo (or any other North Dakotan location) is on the itinerary. Self-guided tours are ideal when the plan is a well thought-out trip that focuses on popular, iconic landmarks, as the virtual walkthrough will provide an idea of what you may wish to explore in real life while learning more about the different locations out there. Those headed to North Dakota from the East Coast, for example, may wish to explore user-friendly guides of cities such as Boston, Chicago, or New York City to discover whether it’s a location you wish to add to the itinerary before the route heads out to North Dakota.
A look forward to 2025
Fargo is home to a number of one-of-a-kind events that draw in North Dakotans and tourists alike, even if just for a day. The city is off to a strong start in 2025, with January alone jam-packed with events such as Rumble on the Red, the Boat & Marine Show, and the Frostival all set to take place. Fargo’s Film Festival is just one local event that can result in a memorable visit to the city, and can even lead to the memory of a lifetime. The Breakfast Club’s very own Molly Ringwald will be in attendance at the Fargo Theatre on March 22nd, 2025, an appearance that will provide attendees with the chance to ask Ringwald questions after a screening of the film — not to mention a limited number of tickets for a post-movie VIP meet-and-greet. Additional celeb appearances are also expected in early 2025, with comedians Howie Mandel and Tom Segura scheduled at Scheels Arena (February 19th and April 17th, respectively).
North Dakota offers a variety of sights and experiences for natives and tourists alike. Fargo is just one city that operates as a major hub for activity, with one-of-a-kind events, nearby natural attractions, and even more to look forward to in 2025.