You have any number of options for summer day trips in North Dakota – to places like Medora or a state park – but there is so much more to our state beyond that! This state is full of unique attractions, unusual activities, and just downright fun things to do. If you’re looking for the day trip ideas for the best spots to hit up in the Peace Garden State while the weather’s hot, then look no further than these truly unique North Dakota day trips:

1. Head out to a restaurant on a remote farm and garden.
Prairie Bistro and Gardens (Flower House), 38th Ave NW, Mohall, ND, USA
The Prairie Bistro/Facebook
The absolutely gorgeous Prairie Bistro and Gardens is inside a greenhouse on a lovely little farm. It is only open during the spring and summer, so be sure to get there before it's too late! Not only is the setting unique, but their food is absolutely delicious. It might be a bit of a drive for most people, but it is well worth the trip!
2. Take the most beautiful canyon hike in the entire state.
Wind Canyon Trail, Medora, ND 58645, USA
Gabe H/Tripadvisor
The Wind Canyon Trail in North Dakota is by far one of the most picturesque trails in the entire state. Located at Theodore Roosevelt National Park, it'll take you down into the rugged valley and up onto the ridge lines. The unique geological features will fascinate you the entire way. Views like this will drop your jaw in person and make the entire hike worth it.
3. Take a delightful drive on this scenic byway through North Dakota's small towns.
Old Red Old Ten Scenic Byway, 425 S Elk St, Hebron, ND 58638, USA
Andrew Filer/Flickr
The Old Red Old Ten is a scenic byway in North Dakota that'll take you on a journey through the countryside and quite a few small towns. It makes for a lovely drive that anyone can appreciate.
4. See fossils exactly where they stood in a time since passed on an unusual trail.
Petrified Forest, North Billings, ND 58645, USA
sonybaloney/Tripadvisor
The Petrified Forest of North Dakota is one of the largest remaining forests of its kind. These huge tree stumps have turned into stunning stone that you can see for yourself on this trail. At one point they were towering, massive trees in the time of the dinosaurs. They're still pretty awesome today, even if they're a little different now.

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5. Experience the most perfectly midwest town in North Dakota.
Mayville, ND 58257, USA
Ross Griff/Flickr
Mayville, North Dakota should be your destination if you want to find the most ideal, picture perfect small town in the entire midwest. It has many local attractions that make it unique, including an old fashioned theater and a sculpture garden.
6. Visit the lake with the bluest, almost sapphire-colored water.
Lake Metigoshe, Roland, ND 58318, USA
North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department/Flickr
Lake Metigoshe in North Dakota remains one of our most popular lake destinations. The stunningly blue water is loaded with recreational opportunities (besides simply looking at its beauty). Fishing, canoeing, swimming, or simply taking a stroll on its banks are just a few of the many things you can do here. No matter what your plans are, you'll love just how pretty it is.
7. Visit the most remote, isolated spot in all of North Dakota.
Fort Berthold Reservation, Beulah, ND, USA
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
Ever wondered where the most distant spot was? A place far from all towns, roads, and any civilization? North Dakota has one buried out in the eastern edge of the badlands in the Fort Berthold Reservation. It is possible to walk out here and listen to the true, natural silence of the prairie.
8. Discover the one campground with the most beautiful natural setting.
Cottonwood Campground, 315 2nd Ave, Medora, ND 58645, USA
Greg D/Tripadvisor
Known as the Cottonwood Campground in North Dakota, this place is great for an afternoon cookout, picnic, or an extended stay overnight and under the stars. It is right on the edge of the Little Missouri River and the views of the river are outstanding. Don't be surprised if some critters pass through - bison and wild horses call this place home!
9. Explore North Dakota's barn quilt trail.
Red River Barn Quilt Trail
Red River Barn Quilt Trail
More than 50 barn quilts have been created and hung on old farm buildings across North Dakota. There is a nifty trail to follow in the Red River Valley to find some of these quilts. It is a great way to see the local farms and the works of art they created, and it's truly one of the most colorful NoDak road trips you'll take this summer!

What are your North Dakota summer plans? Have you ever taken one of these day trips in North Dakota? If so, tell us about your experience in the comments! And, if you’re looking for more epic spots to check out, here are five more unforgettable road trips to take in North Dakota!

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Best Day Trips in North Dakota

Tori Jane | April 21, 2022

What are some unique things to do around North Dakota? 

North Dakota might be the least-visited state in the entire United States, but that doesn’t mean there aren't plenty of things to do in North Dakota. In fact, we might argue that it’s THE perfect place to escape to, because there aren’t a whole lot of crowds. Plus, there are all kinds of truly offbeat and/or unique things to do around North Dakota, like all things buffalo-related in Jamestown. Go see the legendary albino buffalo that live in a herd near Jamestown, or head to the largest buffalo (statue) in North Dakota located within the same town. If you’re a movie fan, you can hit the F+M Visitors Center and check out the Fargo Wood Chipper, complete with Steve Buscemi’s severed foot (what? You wanted unique!). If you’re a geology fan, head to the Paul Broste Rock Museum for some interesting times.  

Where are some of the best romantic getaway spots in North Dakota? 

With as few crowds as there tend to be in North Dakota, it’s also an ideal place for a romantic getaway. Visit the amazing Moose Creek Lodge, which is nestled within the beautiful Rendezvous Region outside of Langdon, North Dakota. The Hotel Donaldson is another lovely romantic getaway spot in North Dakota; with just 17 beautiful suites total, it’s an intimate and quiet getaway you and your person are sure to love, so should you find yourself in or near Fargo, that’s the place to go! In Havana, you’ll find the Coteau des Prairies Lodge, which features some truly epic prairie views and a wonderful rustic setting. Finally, simply head to any of our state parks – especially, say, Lake Metigoshe State Park – and rent a cabin or stay at the amazing lodges we’ve got. They make for some of the best day trips in ND! North Dakota is an excellent destination for romantic getaways; the possibilities out here in big-sky country are as endless as the horizon.  

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