9 North Dakota Small Towns With Unmatched Friendliness
North Dakota is one of the few states where the wild and rugged terrain still overshadows the population, whether the expansive plains and valleys or the raging rivers and tranquil lakes. The Flickertail State has fewer than 800,000 residents, many living in smaller towns and communities that embrace their history, heritage, and pioneering spirit. Friendly towns are not challenging to find, though some stand out for their hospitality and community offerings. Ranging greatly in size and amenities, nine towns and cities are topping the list as the friendliest in North Dakota.
Valley City
Many travel to the Sheyenne River Valley for its beautiful scenery and natural splendor, but some also visit this part of North Dakota for Valley City. Known as the “City of Bridges,” Valley City has multiple paths that vehicles and pedestrians can take to cross the wild Sheyenne River around the community. You can get a unique look at the natural wonder of this river by traveling down the Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway in your vehicle or bicycle.
When you are looking for a quick pick-me-up after exploring Valley City's bridges and natural attractions, check out The Vault Coffee Shop in the old historic bank building. Interestingly, a testament to the city’s friendliness and welcoming spirit is that this is a self-serve establishment run on the honor system. You keep track of your purchase, whether coffee or baked goods, and ring yourself out before leaving the counter area.
If you are visiting Valley City in June, check out the Rally in the Valley, a community event that is part street fair, car show, and parade for a fun and family-friendly weekend.
Minot
While technically Minot might be one of North Dakota's biggest cities, it maintains a small-town charm and a welcoming spirit that exudes neighborly kindness for visitors. Many discover it as part of their July excursion to the region for the North Dakota State Fair. The town is at the center of this statewide event, bringing together thousands of residents for a week of rides, fair food, entertainment, and competition.
Another aspect leaning into the city's friendliness is its acceptance of different cultures and ways of life. A good example of this is EbeneeZer's Eatery & Irish Pub, where traditional Irish dishes and American plates are on the menu, along with live music sure to get your toes tapping. Minot also features several beautiful attractions that preserve the region's natural splendor, such as Oak Park, a lush green space that city residents use for everything from barbecues to exercise courses. The Scandinavian Heritage Park also offers a gorgeous communion with nature backed by a memorable tribute to Nordic culture from North Dakota’s earliest settlers.
Grafton
In the northeast corner of North Dakota, travelers can find Grafton. This small town is quaint and charming, offering a surprisingly long list of potential attractions and things to do. Begin your exploration of Grafton at the Heritage Village, a small epicenter of the community’s history with pioneer-era structures, businesses, and exhibits to glimpse life before modern amenities. For those looking for some recreation with their exploration, stop by the renowned Grafton Golf Club to test your skills on the well-manicured links.
In June, Grafton gets a surge of visitors for the annual SummerFest celebration. Guests can expect everything from live music and fireworks to food trucks and artisan products for sale. This event is the best gathering to truly experience the welcoming spirit of Grafton as it prepares for a bustling summer celebration.
West Fargo
While Fargo might be one of the biggest and most recognizable cities in North Dakota, West Fargo is a smaller town abutting this metropolis with a charm and story all its own. Much of the region's attractions and focus involve its rich heritage and history, which is on display daily at Bonanzaville USA. During business hours, volunteers populate this museum and collection of replica period homes, telling visitors the stories of days gone by and giving interactive tours.
This community is local business-oriented because it is smaller and less commercialized than neighboring Fargo. One of the best examples is the popular local eatery Barcode Bar, where patrons can get a wide variety of quick eats and delicious dishes.
To truly see this city come to life, visit during the West Fargo Street Fair. This mid-June event turns the entire downtown square into a raucous celebration of local art, food, music, and family-friendly fun.
Beulah
Because Lake Sakakawea is one of the most popular destinations in the state for water recreation, fishing, and boating, it is no surprise that so many find the small town of Beulah very nearby. From the cheaper accommodations, like those you are likely to find at locations like Cobblestone Hotel & Suites, you have a conveniently short drive to reach the lake.
Nature is a driving force in Beulah, from the Beulah Bay Recreation Area, which welcomes boaters and campers, to the farm-to-table eats offered at the popular Country Kettle. For those experiencing this lakeside town in August, check out the Beulah Community Festival for a parade, games, food, and a massive ice cream social.
Williston
The town of Williston continues to grow in the northwest corner of North Dakota, yet it has not lost its small-town charm and hospitality. It cares very much about its pioneering past, which you can learn more about at the Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site. Here, staff guide visitors through exhibits and tours of the reconstructed trading post for an immersive and interactive learning experience.
Family is at the heart of the attractions and the community events that make Williston known. From Spring Lake Park, a peaceful escape and nature with walking trails and scenic views for photographing, to Davidson Park and the splash pad known for its water-themed fun, there is always something fun to do and explore in the town.
When coming in May, check out the Williston Band Day. Marching bands from around the region converge on the town to showcase their talents and bring a melody of joy to the community every spring.
Mandan
While you might think that many come to Mandan for its access to the Missouri River and its proximity to Bismarck, there is much more to see and explore in this charming community. History is the pulse of this city, beginning with Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park. Not only can you hike scenic trails to see impressive views of the landscapes of sprawling North Dakota, but you can also visit iconic destinations like General Custer's home, where period-dressed actors bring history to life through interactive tours.
In the summer months, a staple of this region in North Dakota is the Raging Rivers Waterpark, where guests can experience all the thrills mixed with laid-back swimming options to suit every taste while beating the heat. Another summer staple is the Mandan Rodeo Days, which combines a large Fourth of July celebration with a large rodeo competition.
Devils Lake
While the town's name seems uninviting, the community of Devils Lake and the body of water for which it is named have become one of the most welcoming and visited places in North Dakota. From the abundance of shops in a slow and unhurried environment downtown, like you find at the City Plaza, to the wealth of natural beauty and water recreation possible around the lake, tourism is a driving force of the town.
While there is no shortage of places to eat and appreciate the fresh catches from the lake, perhaps the most popular of these destinations is Proz Lakeside at the Cove. This laid-back restaurant sits directly on the lake and offers hearty portions of fresh food.
For those coming in June, check out the Devil's Run Car Show. This classic car show is one of the largest in the state, drawing in thousands to see the impressive machines on display.
Lisbon
Many of the towns and communities throughout the Sheyenne River Valley, including Lisbon, are known for their scenery and natural wonders. Locations like Sandager Park offer a tranquil setting to appreciate the beauty of the river passing by the town, and it has become a popular spot for the community to host events and gatherings.
History is a foundation of the quaint town here, especially with preserved cultural sites like the Lisbon Opera House. Still in use, the venue hosts local theatre performances and concerts for the community. Perhaps one of Libson's best-known features is its hosting of the Ransom County Fair in August. While the fair might draw thousands from around the county and across North Dakota, it is small-town fun with livestock competitions, local talent shows, and entertainment for all ages.
Much of the draw to North Dakota lies in its small towns’ welcoming spirit and hospitality. Friendly people make the destinations worthwhile, whether planning an excursion on the water in Devils Lake or rediscovering the history of the Midwest with the restored trading post in Williston. Every corner of the Flickertail State has a unique draw that shows you the warmth of the residents, whether that is a county fair in the summer or marching band music in the spring.
