You know, just because North Dakota is one of those lesser-populated states it doesn’t mean it doesn’t have its fair share of charming small towns. In fact, one could make the argument that every town in North Dakota is a small one; we suppose it depends on your definition of “small.” Well, we’ve put together a list of seven of our favorite charming small towns in North Dakota, and you’ll definitely want to make sure to write these down. Who knew North Dakota had so many cute little towns you might have never heard of?

1. Jud
Andrew Filer/Flickr
Jud, ND 58454, USA
Andrew Filer/Flickr
Jud is an adorable little town with under 100 residents, but that doesn't mean it doesn't know how to get cozy. This town is known for its extraordinary murals painted all over the place - trust us, you'll love them! Better still, each has been painted by a resident of Jud. It's the perfect all-American little town.
2. Walhalla
Andrew Filer/Flickr
Walhalla, ND 58282, USA
mara/Flickr
Walhalla is the second-oldest community in the entire state of North Dakota. It's ideal for history buffs to explore, as it's certainly got plenty of history to go around! Nearby is the gorgeous Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area, so make sure to come prepared!
3. Jamestown
Jasperdo/Flickr
Jamestown, ND, USA
Jasperdo/Flickr
It doesn't get a whole lot more adorable than Jamestown, friends. It's one of the "bigger" small towns on this list, but never fear - with the slightly larger resident count comes even more awesome things to do! This town is known as "the pride of the prairie" and during your stay, you can even check out the Jamestown Frontier Town, where there are re-enactments of what life on the prairie was like hundreds of years ago.
4. Fort Ransom
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr

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Fort Ransom, ND 58033, USA
Andrew Filer/Flickr
Fort Ransom, is another on this list ideal for history buffs. Founded in the 1860s, Fort Ransom State Park is a wonderful place to learn about some of North Dakota's fascinating history. Most of the time, there are fun things like festivals and events going on here, so make sure to plan accordingly! You never know what's going on in Fort Ransom.
5. Hillsboro
Andrew Filer/Flickr
Hillsboro, ND 58045, USA
Andrew Filer/Flickr
Like Fort Ransom, Hillsboro was also founded in the 1860s. The town is said to be "founded on friendliness" and there's a general vibe here that somehow feels like home, even if it's your first time visiting. This town is quaint and totally adorable, and we are in love with it!
6. Medora
Ken Lund/Flickr
Medora, ND 58645, USA
Johnathan Miske/Flickr
This list would simply not be complete without a nod to Medora. The town of Medora is located entirely within Theodore Roosevelt National Park and has a population of right around 150 residents. It might be tiny, but that doesn't mean the list of things to do is short by any means. Here you'll find old historic sites and buildings, a picnic area with an interesting past, and more.
7. Valley City
Ken Lund/Flickr
Valley City, ND 58072, USA
Andrew Filer/Flickr
Last on our list but definitely not least is the little town of Valley City, which is home to at least 11 historic bridges. Here, you'll find wonders like Medicine Wheel Park, which has some fascinating Native American burial grounds nearby. Fun fact: this town is also home to not one but two solar calendars. Oh, and the fall color in this area is so vibrant and remarkable that it definitely deserves a shout-out.

So, what do you think? Which small towns in North Dakota are your favorite? North Dakota might be the least-visited state in the entire USA, but that doesn’t mean we don’t know how to do small-town charm!

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Small Towns In North Dakota

Tori Jane | September 20, 2022

What are some of the best small towns in North Dakota?  

Life in North Dakota is quiet and simple – and scenic! We just so happen to have so many favorite small towns in North Dakota that it’s impossible to narrow it down to just a couple. We think they’re all worth a visit, and you could totally do a North Dakota small towns road trip if you want. Some of our favorite stops include amazing places like Medora, which is actually inside Theodore Roosevelt National Park! Who knew you could theoretically move to a National Park and live there? Jud is another one of our favorite small towns in North Dakota, and we also love Garrison and Jamestown!  

Which small towns in North Dakota are the best for families?  

Any and all of the above-mentioned small towns in North Dakota are wonderful places for families, but don’t limit yourself to only those – the list goes on! There are cities, like Fargo, that have plenty of amazing neighborhoods great for families, and then there are entire towns! Some of the best small towns in North Dakota for families include places like Williston, which is quiet and simple, and Minot, which is better suited for those who don’t want to be in a tiny, quiet place but also don’t want to be in a bustling city. We also love Stanley, Valley City, and Bismarck (though Bismarck isn’t exactly tiny).  

Which North Dakota small towns are the most scenic?  

Jud is one of the most beautiful small towns in North Dakota, we think, and so is Medora – but there are many more. We love Walhalla, which is a northern town nearby the international border with Canada. It’s splendidly beautiful and well worth a day trip! Bottineau is known for getting all four seasons, including some of the best places to see fall colors in North Dakota. Then there’s New Salem, Garrison, Devils Lake, and so many more – no matter what you’re hoping to find, you’re sure to locate it somewhere in just about any North Dakota small town.  

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