There are plenty of small towns across North Dakota, each with a unique history and characteristics. From the vibrant towns created along the expanse of the railroad to historic small towns where early European settlers set up trading posts, there is no shortage of beautiful, charming places to visit. Some say, however, that Riverdale, North Dakota is the state’s best-kept secret – and here’s why.

Riverdale, ND almost sounds like something from a storybook. It was originally formed as a construction camp for the workers building the Garrison Dam in the 1940s and continued on as a town after the dam was completed.
Boston Public Library/Flickr
Riverdale is one of North Dakota's youngest towns since it was officially incorporated in 1986, and today it has a population of just over 200 residents.
Andrew Filer/Flickr
Today, you'll find Riverdale is a pleasant, beautiful little town that resides right alongside Lake Sakakawea and has great access to outdoor recreation as well as local amenities.
Andrew Filer/Flickr
This is certainly one of our favorite places to visit in summer!
ND Parks & Recreation/Flickr

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People love visiting Riverdale during the summer for weekend getaways to spend some time at the lake and to enjoy the area's attractions. It's not far from museums, wildlife refuges, and lodges.
Andrew Filer/Flickr
And while restaurants in Riverdale, ND may be few, they're certainly tasty! Check out the Iron Oar next time you're here.
Tim "the Coffee Guy" Knutson/GoogleReviews
This hidden gem has a fun atmosphere, hearty eats, and a fantastic view.
Other great local eateries, like the Knights Bar & Grill, will round out the experience and ensure you'll never go hungry!
Chris Gordon/GoogleReviews
Places like the historic Riverdale High Lodge are perfect for a relaxing getaway if you want to stay in a charming city with great lake views.
Andrew Filer/Flickr
The next time you want to visit Lake Sakakawea, there are tons of small town options lining its shores. But don't pass up the chance to experience North Dakota's best-kept secret!
Andrew Filer/Flickr

You can learn more about Riverdale, North Dakota, and all it has to offer by visiting the town’s official city website. While you’re there, you must experience Lake Sakakawea, the largest lake in North Dakota!

What other best-kept secrets in North Dakota do you know about? Are there any small-town restaurants you love that we should check out? Let us know!

 

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Riverdale, North Dakota

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Add some sight-seeing photo ops to your small-town adventure! In addition to the state’s beloved national park, incredible prehistoric history, and spectacular badlands, North Dakota is home to literally dozens of larger-than-life roadside attractions and one-of-a-kind stops. Here are some of the most unique roadside attractions in North Dakota:

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  • Salem Sue, New Salem: a 40-foot Holstein that you can't help but love.
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  • Viking on a Hill, Fort Ransom: this hilltop viking stands guard and honors the region's Norwegian heritage.
  • W’eel Turtle, Dunseith: while not as tall as Tommy, this rim-turtle is quite spectacular!
  • Wahpper, Wahpeton (a.k.a. the World's Largest Catfish!)
  • World’s Largest Buffalo, Jamestown: this local icon embodies the heart of ND.

 

Where can I find fossils in North Dakota?

North Dakota is a unique treasure trove of prehistoric records. Larger-than-life fossils, footprints, and geologic remnants tell the fascinating story of North Dakota's once tropical ecosystem, where ancient giants once walked where bison now roam. For die-hard paleontology and geology enthusiasts, North Dakota even has an official dinosaur trail! Some of the coolest dinosaur museums and fossil hotspots in North Dakota include:

 

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Riverdale, ND, USA