Most towns have their own local park and place for people to get outside, have a picnic, or take a stroll. North Dakota, however, has a park that is so much more than that and is completely unique. This park celebrates the ancestry of many North Dakotans and regardless if you fit that category or not it is simply beautiful to experience. Pack up a lunch and explore this lovely place and you'll see what we mean.
Located in the Magic City of Minot, North Dakota, this lovely park was made to celebrate the heritage of many North Dakotans who are descendants from Scandinavians. It represents the cultures of Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Iceland, and Finland.
The main attraction in the Scandinavian Heritage Park that it is most notable for is the stunning Gol Stave Church, a replica of a church in Norway that was built 860 years ago.
The church is intricately detailed and absolutely gorgeous in person both inside and out, and you can explore both.
The scenic park features much more than just the Gol Stave Church, including a waterfall, fountains, and plenty of paths to take a stroll on.
The park also has other buildings and parts of Scandinavian life that has influenced the culture here in North Dakota for the many whose families tie back to the countries represented here, including an unusual yet pretty house.
You can even go inside of the house to see what life would be like if you lived in one of those countries back in the day.
Don't forget to take a picture next to the massive Dala Horse that stands tall and proud in the Scandinavian Heritage Park!
A Danish windmill, Finnish sauna, and many statues of notable Scandinavian figures fill the other corners of the park. There are so many unique little features here that will take you through the history of Scandinavia and everything about it, it's hard to list them all and is well worth taking an afternoon off to go see.
Even in the winter, the Scandinavian Heritage Park is still a breathtaking place to see - you just have to see it in person to be able to fully appreciate it.
The Scandinavian Heritage Park is located at 1020 S Broadway, Minot, ND 58701. For all the information you need on visiting the park, click here.
Need more beautiful parks to get your outdoor fix here in North Dakota? We've got you covered.
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