8 Things to Do in Fargo, North Dakota
As the most populous city in North Dakota, it’s no surprise that Fargo packs a serious punch when it comes to entertainment and things to do. It’s full of everything from breweries and outdoor attractions to museums and a flourishing arts scene. Ahead, find a list of things to do in Fargo, North Dakota, that will bring fun, adventure and plenty of memories.
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1. Check out the local breweries.
Breweries are extremely popular in Fargo, so much so that residents and visitors are spoiled for choice.
“I would recommend checking out Drekker Brewing Co. and Brewhalla, the food and shopping hall connected to the brewery,” says Dannielle Melquist, director of marketing for Visit Fargo-Moorhead. “Drekker is housed in one of the oldest buildings in Fargo, and they make a killer sour.”
Another local favorite is Junkyard Brewing, which includes a location in West Fargo. It offers a rotating list of experimental beers. If you really want to get into the local brew scene, the Crafts & Drafts Pass is a digital passport that takes you to all of the local breweries. You’re rewarded with a T-shirt if you complete the list!
2. Stand in two states at once.
Visit beautiful Lindenwood Park, a fantastic recreation and gathering space in Fargo. The park is connected by a bridge to Gooseberry Falls State Park in Minnesota, so you can actually stand in two states at once. The area offers multiple miles of bike paths and links to additional trails beyond the parks. Lindenwood Park also offers kayaking and camping for more outdoor fun.
3. Explore the zoo.
Fargo’s Red River Zoo is a hoot. With over 600 animals and 89 species, it’s a great way to see a lot of cool animals all in the same place.
“The Red River Zoo is unique because it features almost exclusively cold climate species, so the camels, bison and takin are all used to being outdoors in the cold winters that we experience in Fargo,” Melquist says.
One of the biggest draws to the zoo is the exhibit featuring red pandas – arguably some of the cutest mammals around. Also notable is the beloved vintage carousel, a relic from 1928 that is fully restored and functional.
4. Learn about aviation history.
Located at Hector International Airport, the Fargo Air Museum is a fantastic place to check out, especially for aviation enthusiasts looking for things to do in Fargo, North Dakota. Two large hangars contain a compelling collection of aircraft that have been kept in excellent condition.
“The Fargo Air Museum is another must-visit museum in Fargo, promoting aviation through exhibits, education and events,” Melquist says.
The museum features a rotating selection of aircraft displays and offers exhibits featuring interesting memorabilia, photos, letters and more.
5. Root for the home team.
Cheer on North Dakota State Bison football in the fall, Tier 1 junior ice hockey team Fargo Force in the winter and minor-league baseball team Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks during the summer. It’s the perfect activity for families and friends to get out and have some fun.
6. Catch a show.
The city boasts a thriving arts and entertainment scene, meaning those who love music, theater and dance will find plenty of things to do in Fargo, North Dakota.
“There are tons of performing artists in the community, from the ballet to the symphony to the community theater,” Melquist says. “Beyond that, there is a thriving music scene with local artists playing in bars and at local venues throughout Fargo.”
Most notable is Fargo Theatre, a historic theater in the heart of downtown that opened in 1926 and hosts many ballet and symphony events.
7. Visit an art museum.
Peruse amazing contemporary art at Plains Art Museum in downtown Fargo. Admission is free, thanks to donors and sponsors, but the art on display would merit the cost of an admission. Art spans all three floors of the building, and with rotating exhibits, you’ll want to visit more than once.
“Plains Art Museum is not only the largest and only accredited art museum in North Dakota, but it features local, regional and national collections,” Melquist says. “The permanent collection includes objects from a variety of indigenous tribes and cultures throughout Africa.”
8. Experience an authentic rodeo.
If you’re looking for things to do in Fargo, North Dakota, that offer a little more action, head to Fargo PRCA Rodeo, which takes over Fargodome stadium every March. Watch as impressively skilled wranglers and riders compete in roping, barrel racing, bull riding and more as they attempt to qualify for the national finals. Plus, the Fargodome is an indoor stadium where weather is never an issue, so it’s a guaranteed good time.
This article was sponsored by the North Dakota Department of Commerce.