14 Things To Do In Fargo: Complete Guide To North Dakota's Largest City (2024)

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Fargo may have inspired a cult classic movie and a hit TV show, but it’s also an ideal destination for tourists in North Dakota. The city has so much to offer, from an interesting downtown district with a 1920s theater still showing movies to stunning natural beauty in its parks and conservation areas.

Here is all the information on this intriguing North Dakota city, with details on where to stay, what to do, and how to get around.

Top Things To Do In Fargo

Fargo delights travelers with some of the best things to do in North Dakota, from walks in the conservations areas and kayaking on the Red River to exploring the city's downtown area. Here are some great options for a perfect Fargo itinerary.

Related: 10 Things To Do In Grand Forks: Complete Guide To North Dakota's Most Unique City

1 Get A Selfie With The Famous Fargo Wood Chipper

The Wood Chipper from the movie 'Fargo'

It wouldn’t be a visit to Fargo without checking out the famous wood chipper. The city is proud to display the actual wood chipper where Steve Buscemi’s character met his grizzly end in the '90s hit film Fargo. The original movie prop is also signed by the film’s creators, the Coen Brothers.

• Admission: Free
• Address: 2001 44th Street S Fargo, ND 58103

2 Enjoy Some Craft Beer At Fargo’s Breweries

Downtown Fargo, North Dakota

Fargo has plenty of breweries to test out after a day of exploring the downtown area or walking through the city’s nearby parks. A big local delicacy is beer served with pickles in the glass!

Here are some great options:

Drekker Brewing Company

• Address: 1666 1st Ave N, Fargo

Fargo Brewing Company

• Address: 610 N University Dr, Fargo

Icewind Brewing Company

• Address: 349 Knutson St, Unit B, Mapleton, ND

Junkyard Brewing Company

• Address: 1416 1st Ave N, Moorhead

Pixeled Brewing Company

• Address: 1100 NP Ave #101, Fargo

3 Explore Fargo’s Parks

Photo by William DeHoogh on Unsplash

Fargo has many parks where visitors can enjoy trails for walking and biking. A few options include Oak Grove Park, Island Park, the North River Grassland Conservation Area, and the Riverfront Park Conservation Area.

Oak Grove Park

• Address: 170 Maple St N, Fargo, ND 58102, United States
• Hours: 6 am - 10 pm (daily)

4 Admire The Exhibits At The Plains Art Museum

Plains Art Museum exterior

Lovers of art may visit the Plains Art Museum in Fargo, which boasts a collection of more than 4,000 works of art. These span several time periods, including paintings from the 1930s and 40s to contemporary art.

Some of the collections include Native American fine art, ceramics from prehistory to present times, and American modernist art. Visitors can also take part in educational programs or attend artist talks, workshops, and art classes.

• Address: 704 1st Ave N, Fargo, ND 58102
• Hours: Mon - Wed & Fri - Sun: 11 am - 5 pm; Thu: 11 am - 9 pm
• Admission: Free, guided tour $4

5 Catch A Performance At The Historic Fargo Theatre

Fargo main st and theater at dusk on a cold spring evening

Found in the heart of downtown Fargo, the historic Fargo Theatre has been a popular center for performing arts in the city since it was built in 1924. Its distinct art deco architectural style makes it an iconic landmark in Fargo, a testament to its close to 100-year age.

Presently, Fargo Theatre is a venue for live performances, film screenings, and a variety of events throughout the year, including film festivals and concerts.

• Admission: Tickets to see a show/movie are $9
• Address: 314 Broadway, Fargo, ND 58102

6 Visit The Red River Farmers Market

Tomatoes on display at a farmers market in Fargo, North Dakota.

While visiting between the months of July and October, be sure to check out the Red River Farmers Market on Saturdays in downtown Fargo where visitors can purchase local produce and local arts and crafts and enjoy some entertainment from performers.

• Admission: Free
• Address: Broadway Square, 201 Broadway N, Fargo
• The market is open from 10 am to 2 pm.

7 Catch A Bison Game At The Fargo Dome

FARGO, ND/USA : Fargodome on the campus of the North Dakota State University.

A major fall activity for local Fargoans is to head to the Fargo dome on a Saturday night and watch the North Dakota State University’s football team play a game. Tailgating is a popular event here too.

• Admission: Tickets range from $35.50 – $45.50
• Address: 1800 N University Dr, Fargo, ND 58102

Related: These Are The 10 Most Popular Ski Resorts In And Around North Dakota

8 Visit The Animals At The Red River Zoo

Red River Zoo front entrance

The Red River Zoo sits on a 33-acre in Fargo, and it boasts more than 300 animals from different parts of the world. This zoo is home to species like the big cats in the Cats of the World section, where there are species like Amur leopards, Pallas’s cats, and snow leopards.

Other sections at Red River Zoo include the Northern Trail, the Great Plains Zoo, the Winter Boots Farm, and the Tropics House, among others. Visitors also have access to a picnic area and a gift shop.

• Address: 4255 23rd Ave S, Fargo, ND 58104, United States
• Hours: 10 am - 6 pm (daily)
• Admission: Adults: $13.75; Seniors (60+): $12.75; Children (2-14): $11.25; Children (2 and under): Free

9 Drop By The Roger Maris Museum

Roger Maris Museum exhibits

Legendary baseball player, Roger Maris, was born and raised in Fargo. He had an illustrious career until his retirement from professional baseball in 1968.

The Roger Maris Museum is the city’s tribute to the baseball legend, allowing visitors to learn about his life and career through exhibits and memorabilia. Visitors get to see artifacts like jerseys and uniforms worn by Maris, as well as baseball bats, gloves, and other equipment that he used. There are also Roger Maris’ trophies, photographs, and personal items.

• Address: 3902 13th Ave S #3717, Fargo, ND 58103, United States
• Hours: Mon - Sat: 10 am - 9 pm; Sun: 12 pm - 6 pm
• Admission: Free

10 Have Fun At Thunder Road Amusem*nt Park

A rollercoaster at Thunder Road Amusem*nt Park

Thunder Road Amusem*nt Park offers a fun family getaway, with a variety of rides and attractions that appeal to visitors of all ages. At the top of the list are the amusem*nt park’s go-karts, which visitors get to ride on the over 1000-foot track.

There’s also an 18-hole mini-golf course, batting cages, a climbing wall, bumper boats, and laser tag.

• Address: 2902 Thunder Rd S, Fargo, ND 58104, United States
• Hours: Sat: 12 pm - 9 pm; Sun: 12 pm - 5 pm
• Prices: From $6 depending on activity

11 Stop By The Hjemkomst Center

The Hjemkomst Interpretive Center, a museum housing a replica Viking Ship, and Hopperstad Stave Church replica.

Although technically not in Fargo, the Hjemkomst Center is on the Dakota-Minnesota border and within striking distance for tourists in the city. It is a vital cultural institution with exhibits chronicling the heritage and roots of Scandinavian descendants in the area.

Visitors can explore various interesting displays, such as a Stave Church, Viking ship, and other relics from the bygone eras.

• Admission: Adults $10, Seniors & Students $9, Kids $8
• Hours: 9 am - 5 pm (Sunday 12 - 5 pm)

12 Discover 19th-Century History At Bonanzaville

West Fargo, North Dakota, USA: Bonanzaville USA museum. Wells Fargo horse-drawn carriage. US mail

Bonanzaville is among the most visited attractions in Fargo thanks to the treasure trove of historical gems it houses. With at least 45 historic structures and endless artifacts from the 19th-century frontier town, it's like stepping into a time capsule that transports guests to the medieval days.

The venue consists of fine exhibits like century-old steam locomotives, ancient horse-drawn carriages, and a delightful Dahl Car Museum. Guests will have an amazing time exploring the journey of the first pioneers in the Red River Valley region, shown through reconstructed buildings, such as a schoolhouse, church, and jail.

• Admission: Adults $12, Seniors & Students $10. Kids $6
• Hours: 10 am 5 pm (Sunday 12-5 pm)

13 Hang Out At Broadway Square

Fargo, ND, US: People gather around public fountain on a hot summer day at Broadway Square while children cool down in the water.

A popular meeting point for locals and visitors alike in downtown Fargo, Broadway Square impresses with a fun array of attractions and special events throughout the year. There is something to keep everyone busy, from quaint cafes to grab a hearty meal to cute shops selling refreshments and souvenirs.

The SCHEELS Skating Rink is another highlight that allows tourists to get a feel of Olympic-grade ice. Those looking just to relax and people-watch can also find a spot and enjoy the scenery.

14 Visit The North Dakota State University Campus

Bison Statue on the campus of the North Dakota State University.

The North Dakota State University Campus is a prominent city landmark hosting a vibrant student population of about 15,000. Besides being a crucial academic institution, it houses a handful of historic buildings worth checking out, such as the Memorial Union, Minard Hall, and the iconic Fargodome.

The campus is also surrounded by gorgeous natural scenery, offering a serene outdoor space ideal for relaxing and unwinding.

15 Best Time To Go To Fargo

Red River footbridge, Fargo, North Dakota

The best time to take in all Fargo has to offer and explore its parks and outdoor recreation is from mid-May to October. The summer months are hot and fall is a beautiful time of year to enjoy the changing colors of the season in North Dakota.

Temperatures vary considerably throughout the year in Fargo, with hot summers and very cold winters.

Related: North Dakota Vs South Dakota: Which State Is Worth Visiting?

During the summer, visitors can enjoy temperatures from the 80s to the 90s with some time relaxing near Fargo’s Red River, exploring the trails in the city’s flat, and prairie surroundings, or visiting the popular downtown area in the sunshine.

In the summer the city comes alive with markets, fairs, and festivals like the Red River Valley Fair in July and the Fargo Food Truck Festival in August.

In Fall, temperatures on average range between the 50s and the 60s, and it's a great time to visit the wineries in Fargo or just enjoy the foliage in the parks downtown.

It’s also a great time to purchase some locally sourced produce at the Red River Farmer’s Market or catch a Saturday football game.

16 What To Know When Visiting

Aerial View of Fargo Skyline at Dusk

Fargo became famous after film creators, the Cohen brothers made their 1996 film entitled ‘Fargo’ and the recent television series with the same title. Today, visitors can take a picture with the woodchipper that was used during a particularly gruesome and well-known scene in the dark comedy, and it's one of the ‘must dos’ of the city.

The Fargo metropolitan area includes its twin city, Moorhead, Minnesota which is very close to downtown Fargo and the two cities share a visitor’s center. Fargo is truly among many places in North Dakota worth visiting.

Fargo is the home of North Dakota State University and a popular tourist experience is watching their football team, Bison play during fall. Fargo is also full of natural beauty to explore and is a big part of unforgettable places in North Dakota.

In terms of getting to Fargo, it’s best to access it by car. The city is served by the I-29 and I-94. It’s possible to fly into the Hector International Airport which is about 15 minutes from Fargo’s downtown district. The airport has direct flights from Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Las Vegas, Minneapolis/St. Paul, and Phoenix-Mesa.

Hector International Airport has a number of car rental companies available which may be a good option for those who plan on exploring the parks surrounding Fargo but taxi services, Uber and Lyft are available too.

Here are some rental companies in Hector Airport:

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

• 2801 32nd Ave N, Fargo, ND 58102
• 844-917-0967

Budget Car Rental

• 2801 32nd Ave NW, Fargo, ND 58102
• 701-241-1575

Hertz Car Rental

• 2801 32nd Ave NW, Fargo, ND 58102
• 701-365-0878

Fargo is also accessible by train with routes leading to Chicago as well as Seattle and by bus with Greyhound offering routes direct to the city from $25.

17 Best Ways To Get Around

North Dakota State University, Fargo, United States

There are a number of ways to get around Fargo. Many of the town's attractions, restaurants, and cafes are within walking distance of each other and the outdoor activities are accessible via taxi, Uber, or Lyft.

It’s also a popular choice to rent a car while visiting Fargo.

Fargo also has a public transportation service called MATBUS, which has fixed bus routes in Fargo and West Fargo, North Dakota, and Moorhead and Dilworth, Minnesota.

The service has nine routes in total and fares start from $1.50 for an adult fare or $5 for a day pass with a discounted rate of $0.75 for the elderly, youths, and those with disabilities.

The system also has an app and smartcard called MATBUS connect which allows users to pay their fare via the card or their smartphone.

18 Where To Stay In Fargo

Jasper Hotel, Fargo, North Dakota

There is a mix of accommodations in Fargo and visitors often opt to stay close to the downtown area. There are plenty of other neighborhoods that offer hotels to suit a variety of budgets. North Dakota has an array of great stays for its visitors.

Highly rated hotels in Fargo

Jasper Hotel: Room rates at Jasper Hotel start from $179 per night

• Amenities: Restaurant, bar, fitness center
• Address: 215 Broadway N, Fargo, ND 58102

Radisson Blu Fargo: Room rates at Radisson Blu Fargo start from $175 per night

• Amenities: Hot tub, restaurant, fitness center
• Address: 201 5th St N, Fargo, ND 58102

Mid-range options

Courtyard by Marriott Fargo: Room rates at Courtyard by Marriott Fargo start from $126 per night

• Amenities: Hot tub, indoor pool, fitness center
• Address: 2249 55th St S, Fargo, ND 58104

Home2 Suites by Hilton Fargo, ND: Room rates at Home2 Suites by Hilton Fargo, ND start from $122 per night

• Amenities: pools, fitness center, free breakfast
• Address: 1652 44th St S, Fargo, ND 58103

DoubleTree by Hilton West Fargo Sanford Medical Center Area: Room rates at DoubleTree by Hilton West Fargo Sanford Medical Center Area start from $130 per night

• Amenities: Hot tub, indoor pool, fitness center
• Address: 825 E Beaton Dr, West Fargo, ND 58078

Budget hotels in Fargo

Best Western Plus Kelly Inn & Suites: Room rates at Best Western Plus Kelly Inn & Suites start from $105 per night

• Amenities: Free breakfast, indoor pool, fitness center
• Address: 1767 44th St S, Fargo, ND 58103

Travelodge by Wyndham Fargo West Acres: Room rates at Travelodge by Wyndham Fargo West Acres start from $53 per night

• Amenities: Free breakfast, pool, hot tub
• Address: 1407 35th St S, Fargo, ND 58103

Quality Inn West Acres: Room rates at Quality Inn West Acres start from $66 per night

• Amenities: Free breakfast, restaurant, pool
• Address: 1407 35th St S, Fargo, ND 58103

Americas Best Value Inn Fargo: Room rates at Americas Best Value Inn Fargo start from $60 per night

• Amenities: Free breakfast, free wifi, restaurant
• Address: 1401 35th St S, Fargo, ND 58103

Related: Majestic Landscapes: 10 Top-Rated Resorts To Book In North Dakota

19 Where To Eat And Drink In Fargo

A street in Fargo, North Dakota

Fargo has some great eateries to suit all taste buds and is an exciting destination for caffeine lovers as its coffee scene continues to grow.

The city even has seven breweries specializing in unique craft beers. Here are some great food and drink options:

Best breakfasts in Fargo

• Randy's University Diner, Kroll's Diner, The Shack on Broadway

Great lunch spots in Fargo

• Porter Creek Hardwood Grill, Doolittles Woodfire Grill, The Shack on Broadway

Delicious dinners in Fargo

• Mezzaluna, Granite City Food & Brewery, LongHorn Steakhouse

Best coffee shops in Fargo

• Twenty Below Coffee Co. Fargo, Babb's Coffee House, Youngblood Coffee Roasters

Fun bars in Fargo

• The Windbreak, Fort Noks Bar of Gold, Rick's Bar

20 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Fargo

Aerial view of Fargo, North Dakota

Make the most out of 24 hours, start the day with a picture with the woodchipper to get the most important attraction done first followed by coffee at Babb’s coffee house. Then it's time to explore some downtown areas.

Travelers will be spoiled for places to grab a quick breakfast before spending some time admiring the artwork in Plains Art Museum, be sure to check out the Historic Fargo Theater too.

Related: 10 Most Beautiful North Dakota Beaches You Shouldn’t Miss

In the afternoon take a walk along the trails in the Riverfront Park Conservation area. In the evening, enjoy a beer tasting at the city’s first brewery, the Fargo Brewing Company, and then enjoy dinner at the swankiest restaurant in town, Mezzaluna.

FAQ

Q: Is Fargo North Dakota worth visiting?

Fargo in North Dakota is definitely worth visiting. Film buffs will enjoy getting a selfie with the original wood chipper prop from the Coen brother film Fargo.

The downtown area has great restaurants, cafes, and shopping available for visitors and a beautiful 1920s historical theater that still shows films for $9 a ticket. Fargo is surrounded by parks and prairie lands that make great spaces for outdoor recreation in the summer and the fall.

Q: What is Fargo North Dakota known for?

Fargo, North Dakota is the seat of Cass County and is home to North Dakota State University. It's the largest city in North Dakota (though the small ones are worth visiting, too) and was made famous by the '90s Coen brother film Fargo and a recent television series of the same name.

Q: Is there an airport in Fargo North Dakota?

Fargo, North Dakota is served by Hector International Airport which is about 15 minutes from Fargo’s downtown district. The airport has direct flights from Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Las Vegas, Minneapolis/St. Paul, and Phoenix-Mesa.