Posted in North Dakota
December 30, 2016
The 17 Places You Should Go In North Dakota In 2017
As we ring in the new year, we get the excitement of looking forward to what it will bring us. There will be fresh, new opportunities to get out and explore, learn new things, and visit some amazing places. North Dakota and all its wonderful gems that we’ve featured this past year will still be around, and you can make a point of taking advantage of what you haven’t seen yet and get to them this year. Here are 17 places in North Dakota you should add to your 2017 bucket list:
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
Valley City is known as the "City of Bridges" in North Dakota and has many different bridges crossing over the Sheyenne River, which winds through the town This tour will take you to 11 different bridges, all unique and lovely pieces of architecture.
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The Missouri River is a very important feature in North Dakota, and one of the best ways to experience it is on North Dakota's one and only riverboat, the Lewis & Clark Riverboat. You can take a casual ride down the waters or you can even hold events such as weddings on here. How fun would that be?
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White Butte is the highest point in North Dakota and is located a few miles away from the town of Amidon. You can hike to the top of this peak and see the expanse of prairie below.
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This is the only operational trolley in all of North Dakota, and it takes you through the sights of the Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park. You will see both the nature of the park as well as places like the historic Custer's House and the On-A-Slant Village. There is no other place you can do the same in the state!
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The only national park located in North Dakota is quite frankly one of the most beautiful national parks out there. The rugged buttes and valleys of the badlands are carved out by the Little Missouri River that winds through the park, and this huge area is full of trails, animals, and completely mesmerizing views. This is a must visit for everyone!
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This is the most remote, distant restaurant in North Dakota. Way out in the tiny town of Marmarth, a half-ghost town near the Montana border. It serves up absolutely amazing food you wouldn't expect from such an isolated place. Their food surpasses that of big city restaurants and it is well worth a visit.
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This state park is located within the valleys of the badlands and has some of the best horse riding trails in the state. Camping, hiking, and biking are also popular here and it is simply gorgeous to look at.
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This route will take you through some of the most picturesque small towns in North Dakota. Towns include Sims, New Salem, Almont, Hebron, Richardton, Taylor, and more. All while going through the quiet countryside surrounding them.
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This is a very special nature preserve within the Icelandic State Park near Cavalier, North Dakota. It contains plants that cant be found anywhere else in the state. The forest has many trails winding through it showcasing both the unusual, beautiful plants and the variety of bird species that are also special to here.
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One of North Dakota's most notable and unusual attractions is definitely the Enchanted Highway. It holds world records and the attention of many who drive through it. This highway is lined with massive metal sculptures of everything from a fishing scene, Theodore Roosevelt on a horse, and even a huge sculpture known as "Geese In Flight," shown above. All are sculpted by the same local artist who also made one of North Dakota's only castles - a hotel you can stay at.
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Within the Sheyenne River Valley is one of the most peaceful and lovely state parks in North Dakota. Dense forests cover the rolling hills, with trickling creeks on their way to the magnificent Sheyenne River create an amazing atmosphere. There is even a historic farming homestead here to preserve the history of the area.
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There is no other place in the world like this. Near Medina, ND is a lake that contains the largest nesting population of white pelicans in the entire country. These pelicans migrate here by the thousands and raise their young on the small islands that fill this lake. It is truly fascinating to see.
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Due to a decently sized percentage of North Dakotans being of Scandinavian heritage, we are home to the delightful Scandinavian Heritage Park. It includes unique, old buildings representing life in Scandinavian countries as well as the Gol Stave Church, based off a real church in the countries this place is based off of.
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In the itty bitty town of McLeod (population less than 20), there is an unusual yet awesome restaurant known as the Silver Prairie Saloon. It is a true cowboy saloon with hitching posts, saddle chairs, and plenty of cute decor inside to make you feel like you're in the wild west. To top it all off, their food is fantastic. Definitely worth checking out.
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This is considered one of the most underrated attractions in America. It is the place we get our official state nickname from and deserves more visits. It is both symbolically important and just a beautiful place!
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The only natural waterfall in North Dakota is located deep within the Sheyenne National Forest at the end of a stunning trail. It is created by a mineral spring.
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There is only one railroad tunnel in all of North Dakota, and today it lays abandoned but still structurally sound and open for people to walk through. The Fairview Bridge is also another singular oddity in North Dakota, as it is a lift bridge. Neither were never used after being built in 1913 and today provide a unique and interesting walking path.
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Where are you looking forward to going to most in 2017?
