The Crazy Reason We Drove to Fargo, North Dakota

Post Topic: 5 Unique Things to do in Fargo, North Dakota

A sixteen hour drive north of Dallas, you will find the city of Fargo, North Dakota. This small city is not only a college town but also a center of culture and delicious cuisine. Fargo, North Dakota is not on most people’s travel list, so how did we end up here?

Several years ago, I made it my goal to visit all 50 states in the United States. As a person who is typically goal-oriented, I was driven by the idea of checking each of the 50 states off of my list. But it was also more than that.

The United States of America is vast and diverse and the difference among the states is remarkable. From the plains of North Dakota to the jagged shores of Maine or the deserts and canyons of Arizona. It was my goal to see it all – to have a greater understanding of this country that I call home.

President Eisenhower once said:

“It is probably a pity that every citizen of each state cannot visit all the others, to see the differences, to learn what we have in common, and come back with a richer, fuller understanding of America – in all its beauty, in all its dignity, in all its strength, in support of moral principles.”

North Dakota was #49 on my quest to reach all 50 states (I’m coming for you Alaska!) and this friendly Midwestern state definitely could not be overlooked.

….and that’s how we ended up in Fargo, North Dakota.

Fargo is a small college city (which is actually one of the biggest in North Dakota) and is on the border of North Dakota and Minnesota. Surprisingly, this Midwestern city is full of culture and delicious cuisine.

Five Unique Things to do in Fargo

In addition to checking out Fargo’s array of scrumptious restaurants, make sure you do these 5 things while in Fargo:

#1 – Go on a Bison Scavenger Hunt

Spread throughout the city of Fargo, you will find these painted bison that were painted by local artists.

There are about 20 bison that can be found throughout the city both outside and inside of local businesses. And they each have a name! “Aunie” is the name of the bison pictured above.

You can find a map to all of the painted bison around Fargo, here.

#2 – Check out the Fargo Theater

The Fargo Theater is a cinema and vaudeville theater that was built in 1926 and is probably the most iconic thing to see in Fargo. This beautifully restored theater now features independent and foreign films.

Interested in seeing a show at the Fargo Theater? Check out events and show times here.

Even if you don’t have time to see a film (or the theater is closed due to COVID), the Fargo Theater is still a must see when you’re in Fargo.

#3 – Go Shopping Downtown

Downtown Fargo is very quaint and has many fun and quirky boutiques that are perfect for picking up a souvenir or a new outfit.

I don’t know what it is about window shopping in small towns, but I love it! And Fargo is a great place for some good window shopping.

Some fun clothing/home boutiques to check out are:

#4 – Watch the Sunset from One of the City’s Parking Garages

The Midwest plains are known for their stunning sunsets that are barely obstructed by… anything.

A Fargo local’s hack to get the best view of the sunset is to head to one of the city’s parking garages. I would recommend viewing from the Roberts Commons Parking Garage in downtown Fargo.

Unfortunately, we visited on a pretty overcast day. But we were still able to see some color through a small break in the clouds. I’m sure when conditions are right, the views are spectacular!

If you’re more into sunrises, you can also get views to the east from this parking garage.

#5 – Walk or Bike Along the River

The Red River separates the cities of Fargo, ND & Moorehead, MN. Running straight through this small town, the Red River is a great spot for some outdoor recreation with views of the city.

If you’re wanting to get outside during the warmer months, the trails along the river are a great place for a stroll or bike ride.

Fargo isn’t your typical travel destination but it’s definitely worth a stop if you ever find yourself in North Dakota! Or if you need a reason to get to that 50th state.