The Best Small Towns in North Dakota to Visit (or Even Move To)
Nestled along the banks of the Missouri River, the town of Medora offers a captivating blend of old Western charm and scenic grandeur about 70 miles southwest of Bismarck. Visitors can explore the Theodore Roosevelt National Park’s South Unit just minutes outside of town, where rugged badlands and roaming bison create an iconic North Dakota experience. Hiking the Wind Canyon Trail, a moderate 2.7-mile loop, rewards with striking views of the Little Missouri River valley and the chance to see the native wildlife up close. Medora itself buzzes with cultural energy during the summer with the Medora Musical at the Burning Hills Amphitheater, a rootin’-tootin’ show celebrating the spirit of the West that perfectly complements the landscape.
Farther north, the town of Grand Forks sits along the Red River and is about 80 miles northeast of Fargo. This college town’s charm comes into focus at the North Dakota Museum of Art, located on the University of North Dakota campus. The museum showcases striking contemporary Native American and regional artwork, providing an enriching window into local culture and creativity. Strolling through downtown Grand Forks, you’ll find a burgeoning food scene that highlights farm-to-table freshness, reflecting the fertile Red River Valley surroundings. Visiting in late spring or early fall offers mild weather and vibrant community events that illustrate the city’s friendly and artsy vibe.
Heading west near the Montana border, the town of Killdeer occupies a spot about 90 miles northwest of Dickinson, famed for its proximity to the Killdeer Mountains and the Little Missouri National Grassland. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike the Killdeer Mountain Battlefield State Park, where the terrain tells a story of historic clashes and natural beauty. The park’s trails are family-friendly and provide interpretive signs that bring the area’s history to life. Killdeer’s unique blend of rolling hills and prairie invites visitors to experience North Dakota’s less-visited but spectacular landscapes, especially vibrant in the fall when grasses turn golden and skies stretch wide and clear.
In the eastern part of the state, the town of Langdon offers a slower pace about 110 miles north of Grand Forks, near the Canadian border. Langdon is home to the Cavalier County Historical Society Museum, where local pioneer history and Native American artifacts give insight into the area’s heritage. The town also serves as a gateway to the Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area, a rugged landscape of sandstone cliffs and forested hills just a short drive away. Hiking or kayaking in Pembina Gorge during late summer or early fall showcases the region’s dramatic foliage and wildlife, a hidden gem for nature lovers seeking solitude and stunning vistas.
Situated near the heart of North Dakota’s oil country, Watford City sits about 100 miles northwest of Bismarck and offers a surprising mix of rugged charm and community spirit. The town is the launching point for exploring the nearby Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site, located along the Missouri River just a few miles east. This reconstructed 19th-century fur trading post vividly illustrates the interaction between European traders and Native American tribes. Visiting during the quieter shoulder seasons in spring or autumn allows for more peaceful exploration of the trails and river views, making Watford City a fascinating stop for history buffs and outdoor adventurers alike.
In the southeastern corner of the state, the town of Wahpeton lies along the Red River, roughly 90 miles south of Fargo. It hosts the Ransom County Historical Society Museum, where visitors can dive into the agricultural roots and immigrant stories that shaped the region. Just a short drive away, the Bois de Sioux River and Lake Alice offer serene opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and birdwatching. The area’s wetlands come alive in the spring migration, turning this quiet town into a hotspot for bird enthusiasts seeking species like the American bittern and great blue heron. Wahpeton’s warm summers and crisp autumns make it a perfect base for combining cultural immersion with nature.
Finally, the town of New Town, located about 85 miles northwest of Minot on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation, offers a deeply meaningful cultural experience. The nearby Fort Berthold Tribal Museum showcases Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara history alongside traditional crafts and stories. In the summer months, the annual Mandan Days festival celebrates tribal heritage with powwows, food, and art. The surrounding landscape, including the striking Lake Sakakawea reservoir, invites boating and fishing amid stark but beautiful prairie and badlands scenery. New Town’s blend of rich Native American culture and outdoor adventure makes it a compelling destination to explore and appreciate North Dakota’s diverse identity.