Way out in a tiny little town in Dickey County, North Dakota, there is a hotel that has a history that could fill books. It looks charming from the outside, and if the walls inside could speak they would have plenty to say. This unique hotel is well over a century old and is as beautiful to look at as it is delightful to stay at. But it's the history that really makes this place so special. Take a trip out to this historic spot and see why:
This is the itty bitty town of Fullerton, North Dakota. Population: 54.
The Carroll House was built in 1889, making it as old as this state has been, well, a state! It actually predates North Dakota's statehood by a few months. Another thing that makes this place so unique is that it is also one of few preserved shingle-style architectural buildings here in ND.
This picture of The Carroll House was taken in 1907 when the hotel was booming with business.
During that year, rooms at the hotel were in such high demand that they renovated their third story ballroom (yes, they had a ballroom on the third floor instead of the ground floor) into more rooms.
The hotel has been many different things other than a place to stay over its lifetime.
Besides being a delightful hotel, it has also had parts of it used as a beauty parlor, cream station, restaurant, and even had a lumber business running out of it. In 1969 it was purchased and became the hunting lodge of two men who later sold it to the Fullerton Community Betterment Association for only one dollar. That was with the condition that the association preserve and upkeep this historic building. It was officially listed as a national historic landmark in 1994.
Today, this stunning piece of history is still open as a hotel and you can stay there yourself.
North Dakota is a beautiful state that boasts expansive wilderness, stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and plenty of local attractions that make each city memorable. Vacationing to the Peace Garden State should be hassle-free, so we've done the hard work by researching the best hotels in North Dakota and compiled them into a list for you here. You should have no difficulties finding the perfect lodging arrangements for your vacation or business trip.
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Best Unique Hotels to Stay in North Dakota
Are you someone who enjoys uncovering unique and interesting places everywhere you travel? There are so many hidden gem hotels in North Dakota that are begging to be discovered. This list of the best unique hotels in North Dakota offers a taste of the unusual and eclectic, for those who live on the more adventurous side but who still crave comfort and convenience.
Amenities: Pet-friendly, concierge, on-site parking, free breakfast, fitness center, bar/lounge area, rooftop terrace, steam room, hot tub, on-site restaurant, dry cleaning & laundry services, free WiFi, etc.
Ratings: 4.5 stars
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The Hotel Donaldson is an eclectic and charming hotel that is perfectly suited for the couple searching for an idyllic romantic getaway in Fargo. In the rooms, you'll find charming artwork and thoughtful decor, along with a minibar, flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and free WiFi. Order freshly-cooked breakfast served straight to your room, then head out and explore the nearby attractions like the Plains Art Museum, the Fargo Theatre, the FARGODOME, North Dakota State University, and a variety of highly-rated restaurants. Retreat back to the hotel and relax on the rooftop terrace with a couple of cocktails to wind down for the evening. On particularly cold nights, warm up in the steam room or soak in the hot tub. This hotel is pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry family members along with you for the adventure. You'll not regret choosing the historic and charming Hotel Donaldson for your vacation destination in Fargo.
Amenities: Free parking, free breakfast, fitness center w/full gym, casino, on-site restaurant, banquet rooms, hot tub, children's activities, free WiFi, etc.
Ratings: 4.5 stars
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Your stay at the Enchanted Castle in Regent is sure to be as extraordinary and unique as its appearance suggests. Transport yourself back through time as you drive up the drawbridge to the castle entrance and make your way inside. You'll quickly see why this lodging experience is like no other, with the medieval decorative touches all throughout. Dine at the on-site Excaliber Steakhouse or the medieval-themed tavern, both of which offer a warm and inviting atmosphere that gives way to times long past. The rooms feature plush bedding, and the suites also include an in-room hot tub for you to relax and unwind. The hotel also features unique added amenities such as a full gymnasium, a fitness center, a casino, and two eight-person hot tubs. Free breakfast is included with your stay as well. You'll never stay anywhere more unique than the Enchanted Castle.
Amenities: Free parking, lake views, free breakfast, fireplaces, business center, free WiFi, room service, private jacuzzis, balconies, reading nooks, etc.
Ratings: 5 stars
Lady on the Lake Bed & Breakfast is a darling property located in the North Dakota town of Hankinson. It's perfectly situated so that each of its four unique suites overlooks Lake Elsie, offering a peaceful escape into nature with your loved ones. With your own section of private shoreline, you'll be able to enjoy activities like fishing, birding, and skipping rocks at the water's edge, or go for a hike on a nearby nature trail. Within the property, you'll find cozy fireplaces where you can snuggle up with a good book or a cup of fresh hot coffee in the mornings and enjoy a fresh, home-cooked breakfast to start your day off right. You'll fall in love with the charm and beauty overflowing from the lovely Lady on the Lake Bed & Breakfast.
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Best Hotel Pools in North Dakota
These hotels below do not have your ordinary, garden-variety swimming pools that you might expect to find at a standard hotel. These pools are large and luxurious, and some even feature a full-fledged water park suitable for the whole family. If you're looking for the best hotel pools in North Dakota, this list should be your first go-to.
Address: 1000 South 42nd St, Grand Forks, ND, 58201
Price: $125/night
Amenities: Free parking, 40,000-square-foot indoor waterpark, pool, hot tub, casino access, two-level gaming lounge, three on-site restaurants, fitness center, bar/lounge, flatscreen TVs, free WiFi, etc.
Ratings: 4 stars
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The Canad Inns Destination Centre is an extraordinary hotel resort located in Grand Forks. It is expansive in size and boasts a 40,000-square-foot water park called the Splasher's of the South Seas Indoor Waterpark, which features multiple water slides and a lazy river. Additionally, the hotel has three restaurants offering a variety of fare while also being conveniently located to many nearby restaurants. You'll be blown away by the two-level gaming lounge, but it it doesn't stop there: you'll also have inside access to Alerus Center for those with special event tickets. Each of the rooms features plush bedding and flat-screen TVs, room service, and more. Your stay at Canad Inns Destination Centre will feel like a grand adventure for the whole family.
5. Sleep Inn & Suites Conference Center and Water Park, Minot
Amenities: Free parking, free breakfast buffet, indoor pool & water park, hot tub, bar/lounge, fitness center, airport transportation, conference facilities, on-site restaurant, free shuttle/taxi, free WiFi, etc.
Ratings: 3.6 stars
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Sleep Inn & Suites Conference Center and Water Park in Minot may be unassuming in appearance, but when you walk in the door, you'll immediately see why this is no run-of-the-mill hotel. It features an indoor family-friendly waterpark with a 2,500-square-foot activity pool and three waterslides, a shallow wading pool, and even a hot tub to relax in after a long day. Aside from the indoor aquatic adventures, you'll find a game room that includes arcades and prizes, an on-site restaurant, a coffee shop, and a cocktail lounge area. As an added perk, the hotel is connected to one of the busiest malls in North Dakota, the Dakota Square Mall, so you'll hardly need to leave the hotel to satisfy all your travel and vacation desires. But if you do, you won't be far from the Roosevelt Park Zoo, the North Dakota State Fairgrounds, Maysa Arena, and other attractions. Sleep Inn & Suites Conference Center And Water Park truly has it all.
Address: 75 East River Road South PO Box 648, Medora, ND 58645
Price: $84/night
Amenities: Free parking, pet-friendly, free breakfast buffet, indoor heated pool & hot tub, fitness center w/gym, laundry services, horseback riding, conference facilities, business center, free WiFi, etc.
Ratings: 4.2 stars
The charming AmericInn Hotel & Suites Medora is the ideal getaway for those traveling to North Dakota. With the unveiling of their new Badlands Conference Center, this hotel also makes the perfect home base for large corporate gatherings and events. Unwind after a long work day in the large heated swimming pool and hot tub; or better yet, soak in your own private jacuzzi tub by upgrading to a Premier Suite. If you're traveling for pleasure or with family, be sure to explore the nearby Badlands National Park or Sully Creek State Park where you'll find tons of wildlife and otherworldly landscape. You'll love the freshly prepared hot breakfast served every morning to start each day of your vacation or business trip off right. Be sure to explore the historic town of Medora while you're in the area.
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Best Luxury Hotels in North Dakota
Perhaps you have a taste for luxury and require a certain level of style and comfort when you travel. Who doesn't want to travel in class and style? If you're curious about where to find the best luxury hotels in North Dakota, you'll surely find that the top-tier listings below will meet and exceed all of your luxury lodging desires.
Amenities: Paid private parking, indoor pool & hot tub, spa, bar/lounge, fitness center, tennis court, on-site restaurant, golf course, bicycle rentals, laundry services, free WiFi, etc.
Ratings: 4.4 stars
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Courtyard by Marriott Bismarck North is an elegant hotel with friendly staff conveniently located in central Bismark. Beautifully modern touches are found throughout the hotel's exterior, lobby, lounge areas, and within the luxurious rooms themselves. Cozy outdoor seating and portable heaters are available outside for those who'd like to dine or drink outdoors even in the colder months. Relax in the heated pool and hot tub or work out in the state-of-the-art, well-equipped fitness center. Enjoy delicious cuisine from the on-site restaurant. Book a spa service, play tennis or golf, or rent bicycles for some added physical biking activity on your trip. You'll be conveniently located to explore Bismark, which is only minutes away from Grand 15 Theatres, Menards, Scheels Baseball Complex, Sanford Medical Center, and more. Relax in luxury and adventure at Courtyard by Marriott Bismarck North.
Amenities: Free parking, pet-friendly, indoor heated pool & hot tub, free breakfast buffet, bar/lounge, free shuttle/taxi services, on-site restaurant, fitness center with gym, business center, laundry services, free WiFi, etc.
Ratings: 4.5 stars
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The elegant Clubhouse Hotel & Suites is an upscale hotel situated moments from West Fargo. You'll be walking distance from Scheel Arena and about 10 minutes driving distance from the FARGODOME, as well as countless restaurants, museums, the Red River Zoo, and movie theaters, so you'll be perfectly located to access it all with ease. The hotel features luxurious bedding, room service, flat-screen TVs, and fireplaces to provide all the warmth and comfort you'll need. This hotel is both pet and kid-friendly, so the whole family can join in on the fun and relaxation. Go for a dip in the heated indoor pool or hot tub, work out in the state-of-the-art fitness center, or enjoy a cocktail or two in the spacious lounge. The breakfast buffet is to die for, or order room service to have your freshly-prepared meals delivered straight to your room. Relax and unwind from the day's adventures in Fargo at the Clubhouse Hotel & Suites.
Amenities: Free parking, indoor pool & hot tub, fitness center, business center, breakfast buffet, bar/lounge, banquet rooms, airport transportation, on-site restaurant, dry cleaning & laundry services, free WiFi, etc.
Ratings: 4 stars
Four Points by Sheraton Williston offers contemporary decor and cozy amenities throughout the hotel. Cozy up in front of the fireplace in the lobby, soak in the heated pool and hot tub, or work out in the fully-equipped fitness center. The dining and lounge areas are both quite spacious and will easily accommodate large groups and families while serving fresh craft beers and delicious hot meals. Your room will feature pillowtop mattresses and cozy duvet covers, along with a mini fridge, flat-screen TV with premium movie channels, a large desk with an ergonomic chair, and more. You'll be perfectly located near Williston Area Recreation Center, Eagle Ridge Golf Club, the Upper Missouri Valley Fair, and more. Enjoy your Williston getaway in style and luxury at the Four Points by Sheraton Williston.
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Best Boutique Hotels in North Dakota
Boutique hotels are generally smaller, stylish hotels that shy away from resort-style trends while creating a lodging experience that is refined, but uniquely different from the standard hotel chains. These hotels listed below are among the best boutique hotels in North Dakota, and they each offer comfort, style, and luxury, unlike any other hotels you'll find.
Amenities: Pet-friendly, parking garage, on-site restaurant, fitness center, breakfast available, lounge, sauna, free WiFi, room service, mini bar, bathrobes, flatscreen TV, etc.
Ratings: 4.5 stars
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Nestled in the heart of charming downtown Fargo, Jasper Hotel is an elegant boutique hotel that boasts city views, endless comforts, and luxury all rolled into one. This pet-friendly hotel has a refined lounge area that doubles as a café during breakfast hours, and the on-site Rosewild Restaurant serves daily breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Get your blood flowing with a quick gym session at their state-of-the-art fitness center, or relax in the therapeutic heat of the Nordic sauna. In your room, you'll enjoy plenty of comforts and amenities including a wine bar, room service at your request, and cozy bathrobes. There are stunning, spacious banquet rooms for your wedding or special event, or relax and warm up in the sauna after a night out in historic Fargo.
The Historic Hygge Hotel in Powers Lake is a charming three-star hotel that features six uniquely-styled and furnished rooms with premium bedding, luxurious rain showers, and flat-screen TVs with premium digital channels. The main floor of the hotel houses a coffee shop and café that serves gourmet coffee, offers breakfast and lunch specials, and has a selection of delectable desserts. You'll also be conveniently located from several restaurants and attractions in Powers Lake, including the Lostwood Wildlife Refuge, Tioga Public Swimming Pool, and more. Relax and enjoy a unique yet luxurious getaway at The Historic Hygge Hotel.
Best Resorts in North Dakota
There are few resorts that truly make the cut for the best of the best in North Dakota, but below you'll find three of the highest-rated resorts in different cities. Each hotel offers all the best amenities, including free hot breakfasts, indoor pools, and business centers to suit all your travel needs. Read on to learn more about the best resorts in North Dakota.
Amenities: Free parking, indoor heated pool, hot tub, free breakfast buffet, BBQ facilities, spa services, fitness center w/gym, dry cleaning & laundry services, fishing & boating access, free WiFi, etc.
Ratings: 4.5 stars
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Sleep Inn & Suites Devils Lake offers luxurious and convenient lodging with easy access to boating and fishing on the top-rated Devils Lake. It even features a fish cleaning station, freezers, and dog kennels. Relax in the indoor heated pool and hot tub after a day of fishing or exploring, or gamble at the Spirit Lake Casino. Each room features premium bedding, flat-screen TVs, and fast, free WiFi. Be sure to grab a hot, fresh meal from the complimentary breakfast buffet before you head out for the day's adventures. You'll find all your travel needs and desires well met and exceeded at the Sleep Inn & Suites Devils Lake.
Amenities: Free parking, indoor heated pool & hot tub, breakfast buffet, fitness center & gym, self-serve laundry, flatscreen TVs, free WiFi, etc.
Ratings: 4.5 stars
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Holiday Inn Express & Suites Grand Forks is a beautiful, modern hotel that is conveniently located near many Grand Forks attractions such as the Alerus Center, the Columbia Mall, and the Ralph Englestad Arena. Relax in the large heated pool and hot tub after a workout in the fully-equipped fitness center. Don't miss out on the Smart Start Hot Breakfast, most importantly the highly-acclaimed cinnamon rolls for the perfect start to your day. Upgrade your room to a suite and take advantage of your own private spa tub to decompress after a long day. Each room features a closet and a flat-screen TV, and suites also have a kitchenette and couch for extra space and comfort. You won't regret booking the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Grand Forks for your North Dakota getaway.
Amenities: Free parking, free breakfast buffet, fitness center & gym, indoor pool & hot tub, bar/lounge, business center, dry cleaning & laundry services, free WiFi, etc.
Ratings: 4 stars
Wingate by Wyndham in Bismark offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and luxury. Situated only six miles from Bismark Airport, express check-in and check-out eliminates many travel stresses and ensures a seamless lodging experience. Enjoy the free breakfast buffet or happy hour specials in the lounge area, or relax in the heated pool or hot tub to make the most of your relaxing getaway. A business center with fast, free WiFi will keep you connected and prepared for any business travel needs. Enjoy the views from your large hotel room windows and relax in comfort and style in front of the flat-screen TV. Wingate by Windham Bismark will make your North Dakota travel experience a memorable one.
Which of these best hotels in North Dakota are you most excited to book your next stay at? Did we leave off a hotel you'd like us to feature next time? Let us know in the comments below!
Lovers of peace and quiet have good reason to want to visit (or live in) North Dakota. With a population of just over 762,000 people, it's one of the least-populated states in the US. We're not entirely certain why; sure, the winters up here can get a little... uh, dodgy... but that's a minor price to pay for the luxury of calling somewhere so beautiful (and so peaceful!) home. Whether you already live here or you're just planning a visit, chances are that at some point you'll find yourself wanting to relax and unwind in some quiet way, and you'll be wanting to find accommodations that align with that desire. We found a delightfully secluded stay at a North Dakota dude ranch that offers all the peace and quiet in the world matched with a brilliantly vibrant atmosphere that even the most hardened of cowpokes will come to love.
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If you've ever wanted to stay at a dude ranch in North Dakota, Buffalo Gap Guest Ranch is THE quintessential representation of what rest, relaxation, and good times in the Badlands is like.
It really is located in the middle of nowhere, somewhere off in far west-central North Dakota, near Sentinel Butte.
Don't let the remoteness of the location fool you, though: once you check in to Buffalo Gap Guest Ranch, you're in for a splendid time that's somehow both invigorating and relaxing.
Unwind on the porch overlooking miles of scenic North Dakota wildlands; the Badlands are so much more beautiful than most will give it credit for, and Buffalo Gap just so happens to be cozily nestled smack-dab in the middle of it all.
The lodge consists of 27 rustic, modern cabin rooms, each outfitted with two queen beds, a TV, and Wi-Fi.
We personally prefer to unplug entirely when at places like this, but that's us - you do whatever it is that brings you peace. The Ranch is perfect for a weekend of decompressing.
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There is a plethora of fun stuff to do on and around the ranch, like camping, hunting (one of their specialties is catering to hunters!), and horseback riding, with things even the kids can get in on.
Hike the amazing Maah-Daah-Hey Trail and then come back for a genuine cowboy supper followed by dancing and a bonfire with other guests just like settlers used to do in the old days.
The Ranch restaurant serves up some of the best steaks in the upper Midwest, and the breakfasts here are to die for, too.
They'll even pack you a trail lunch if you have plans to go horseback riding or mountain biking on the Maah-Daah-Hey; just let them know and you'll get a plethora of options. This getaway is ideal for the outdoorsy-explorer type, but if you prefer a cozy weekend in, no worries - the Ranch is perfect for that, too.
The rooms are split up into many cozy cabins, and the grounds also have all kinds of campsites offering different amenities from primitive sites to RV hookups up for grabs as well.
This is one of those wonderful places where the days can be anything you want them to be: slow and quiet, fast-paced and fun, or a mixture of both - no matter what you prefer, this is the ideal secluded stay in North Dakota for you.
Come for the peace and quiet, but stay a while to really absorb the intense natural beauty of the badlands at one of the premier dude ranches in North Dakota.
For more photos and information and to book your stay, be sure to visit Buffalo Gap Ranch on the web. Head over to L.L. Bean to pick up some outdoor apparel before you make your way out to the ranch.
Have you ever visited this or another North Dakota dude ranch. Do you have a favorite North Dakota escape? Tell us about it in the comments, or by filling out this form.
