Summary
Due to an oil boom, North Dakota has undergone a significant renaissance in recent years. Given that it is one of the least visited states in the United States, this development is indeed welcome! Immortalized by the Coen Brothers film “Fargo” and home to the breathtaking Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota is renowned for its expansive skies and striking landscapes. Dubbed the Peace Garden State, it is also rich in nicknames.
Here are 15 of the most scenic and captivating small towns that North Dakota proudly offers:
1. Gackle
The name itself offers an intriguing historical context. Gackle was named in honor of George Gackle, the farmer who established the town in the early 20th century. Currently, its population stands at around 300 residents. Situated on a beautiful prairie in the southern part of the state, Gackle is celebrated by some as the Duck Hunting Capital of the World. The community is welcoming and enthusiastic about sharing their town and state’s history with guests. You can expect to see expansive skies here. Make sure to visit one of the many lakes in the vicinity, such as Hehn-Schaffer, Arnies, and Marvin Miller, which are particularly popular. If hunting does not pique your interest, consider enjoying boating and fishing while unwinding in this charming town.
2. Jud
Jud is renowned as the Town of Murals. Its approximately 75 residents have collaborated over the years to paint exquisite murals on nearly every building in town. This unique artistic endeavor lends character to the community. The town was named after a politician from the early 20th century, and the painted murals exhibit a range of themes, including cottages, landscapes, patriotic motifs, cartoon characters, and even postage stamps. This distinctive approach to community art should not be overlooked.
3. Medora
Medora is entirely encompassed within the boundaries of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Although it only has approximately 150 residents, it is considered the top tourist attraction in the state. Medora offers a variety of activities. Guests can stroll through the town and explore the Chateau de Mores, a historical site that served as the summer residence of the town’s founder. For additional historical exploration, visit the 19th-century meatpacking plant. Don’t miss Chimney Park, or Pitchfork Steak Fondue, a picturesque location overlooking the Tjaden Terrace bluff where they prepare western-style steak. If fortunate, you may witness a performance at the Burning Hills Amphitheatre, an outdoor venue adjacent to the Missouri River Valley known for the Medora Musical, which honors President Roosevelt’s time in the region. Many visitors seek to learn about his experiences as a rancher in the Badlands. Surrounded by the national park, the natural beauty is truly breathtaking.
4. New Salem
Established in the late 19th century, New Salem possesses a fascinating attraction. In the 1970s, the local Lion’s Club constructed a 38-foot Holstein cow. Crafted entirely from fiberglass, Salem Sue stands as a monument to the diligent dairy farmers of the region. Visitors are often delighted by this remarkable landmark. Many North Dakotans choose to retire in New Salem, appreciating its tranquil pace and natural allure. The town also boasts a rich historical landscape, with six local parks and a charming old auditorium where performances such as the Cow Town Hoe Down are held.
5. Valley City
Known as the City of Bridges, Valley City is located along the winding Sheyenne River. The city is home to no fewer than 11 historic bridges, with the most notable being the wooden footbridge leading to Valley City State University and the Highline Bridge, recognized as one of the tallest rail bridges in the United States and designated as a landmark within the National Civil Engineering system. Within Medicine Wheel Park, visitors can explore sacred American Indian burial grounds and ancient solar calendars. Many travelers appreciate the scenic journey along the Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway, spanning over sixty miles from Lisbon to Baldhill Dam, especially during autumn when the foliage transforms. The area offers diverse recreational options, including snowmobiling, downhill and cross-country skiing, birding, biking, hiking, and canoeing. It is advisable to have your camera ready to capture the stunning vistas.
6. Hatton/Garfield
Founded in the late 19th century by resilient pioneers, Hatton and Garfield Township are situated in the eastern section of the state. The name was changed to Garfield following the assassination of President Garfield, several years after the county and surrounding townships were established. Originally a trading post, the current population is below 1,000. One of its most notable residents was Carl Ben Eielson, known for flying over both the North and South Poles in 1928; a monument and museum dedicated to his life and adventures can be visited.
7. Walhalla
As the second oldest community in North Dakota, Walhalla is situated just a few miles from the Canadian border and is recognized as the Heart of the Rendezvous Region. History enthusiasts will find this location particularly notable, as it houses the state’s oldest structure, the Kittson Trading Post. Additionally, visitors can explore the Gingras Trading Post State Historic Site to observe some of the earliest Euro-American buildings in North Dakota. West of the town lies the Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area, featuring numerous trails for extensive hiking options or horseback riding. The Pembina Gorge provides a plethora of outdoor experiences, including mountain biking, primitive camping, tubing along the Pembina River, birding, and geocaching. The Tetrault Woods State Forest is an undeveloped wildlife sanctuary, offering spectacular overlooks for visitors.
8. Bottineau
Bottineau, popularly known as the Four Seasons Playground, is another charming northern town embraced by rolling hills and lush green forests. The town offers diverse outdoor activities suitable for all four seasons and is nestled between two federal wildlife refuges, where moose, deer, geese, and ducks can thrive. As the final destination before reaching the Turtle Mountains, Bottineau is often regarded as a haven for thrill-seekers. In the town, you will also find Tommy the Turtle, the town mascot, standing tall at 26 feet, recognized as the world’s largest turtle.
9. Jamestown
Jamestown ranks among the larger communities listed here, but with a population of approximately 16,000, it retains the essence and character of a small town. It is often referred to as the Pride of the Prairie due to its deep historical roots, which trace back to the establishment of the Northern Pacific Railway. Visitors can immerse themselves in this late 19th-century atmosphere at the Jamestown Frontier Village, where reenactments illustrate life in a prairie town. Within the Village, guests can also visit the Louis L’Amour Writer’s Shack, where the renowned American Western novelist was born in 1908. Additionally, the National Buffalo Museum features the impressive Dakota Thunder, a 26-foot statue that honors the buffalo, showcasing various bison species and the unique certified albino bison.
10. Edgeley
Edgeley boasts some of the largest wind farms in the state. With a population of under 700, this town is crucial to agriculture and community engagement. Conveniently located a short drive from Jamestown, Edgeley has embraced wind energy since the early 21st century, now hosting 41 turbines that create a serene silhouette on the skyline. Be sure to visit the Lions Weaver Memorial Park, meticulously constructed by the residents. If you visit in the summertime, you can partake in the SummerFest Celebration.
11. Wilton
Primarily settled by Ukrainian immigrants in the early 20th century, Wilton plays a significant role in North Dakota’s rich cultural heritage. Located less than ten miles from the Missouri River and Lakes New John’s and Heckers, Wilton offers a diverse array of outdoor activities, including jet skiing, water skiing, boating, fishing, and camping. The town, with its approximately 800 residents, has a youthful average age of under 40, and its residents take pride in their warm and approachable community atmosphere.
12. Garrison
Situated on the banks of Lake Sakakawea, one of the country’s largest artificial lakes, Garrison is sometimes referred to as the Walleye Capital of the World. The town attracts numerous anglers from far and wide. Visitors can also explore the Heritage Park and Museum, an open-air facility that recreates life in the early 20th century, featuring a replica train depot from 1905, along with an old county school, a country church, and the town’s first telephone office. Nearby, at Fort Stevenson State Park, the Guardhouse Interpretive Centre allows visitors to view a full-sized replica of the original guardhouse, which was lost due to flooding when Lake Sakakawea was created, alongside a full-sized three-inch rifle cannon.
13. Fort Ransom
Although you might be surprised to find a place with fewer than 100 residents worth visiting, history enthusiasts should not miss Fort Ransom. Established in the 1860s as a military outpost to support new settlers, the original homesteads can still be visited within Fort Ransom State Park. Depending on the time of year, the park offers activities such as cross-country skiing, hiking, and snowmobiling. The town hosts Sodbuster Days twice a year, featuring two weeks of a living history festival honoring its pioneering roots. Additionally, North Dakota’s Sheyenne Valley Arts and Crafts Festival celebrates rural southeastern artists and their crafts. While in town, make sure to explore the Ransom County Historical Museum, the Viking Statue Monument, the swinging bridge, the Old Flour Mills, and the National Scenic Byway.
14. Hillsboro
Hillsboro arguably represents North Dakota’s quintessential small town. Founded in the 1860s, it was established on the principle of hospitality. Railroad magnate James J. Hill traveled through the area while preparing for the construction of his railroad and was warmly welcomed by the townsfolk who rejected other visitors due to poorer appearances. The railroad, unsurprisingly, traversed the town, providing vital economic support during the early years. Located conveniently close to Fargo and Grand Forks, Hillsboro is a popular weekend destination for those seeking a cozy bed and breakfast experience, allowing visitors to embrace the town’s slower pace of life while enjoying good coffee and lively conversations.
15. Lisbon
Once a thriving hub for the Northern Pacific Railroad in the late 19th century, Lisbon stands as a beautiful testament to life during that era. As you wander through the town, you will encounter historic homes and businesses, including the Lisbon Opera House, constructed in 1889. Lisbon is not solely defined by its history; nature enthusiasts flock to the area for its wildlife, birdwatching opportunities, and the overall outdoor charm. The town is also home to Prairewood Winery, one of only six wineries in the state, which offers tastings and tours, establishing a commendable reputation. Be sure to visit the National Grasslands Recreation Area, an expansive conservation area exceeding 70,000 acres, offering breathtaking views of the natural landscape.
