things to see on highway 2 in north dakota

From there we'll head north up to Calgary and across the Canadian Rockies via Banff etc down to Vancouver BC. We are the usable and sensible guide that inspires 300,000 readers bimonthly with useful, fresh and compelling ideas for discovering our region.

Eastern Montana is so off of the beaten path and the people are so great! Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. Day 1 | Grand Forks The small town of Jefferson also holds a great deal of appeal with a Christmas-themed amusement park named Santas Village and numerous parks and hiking trails. Then you'd reach Valley City, the city of bridges. From Lake Chelan, youll take another detour to Grand Coulee Dam.

As the pandemic continues, we hope this virtual trip helps you explore Americas wonders. Few temptations exist to leave Highway 2. This post contains affiliate links. Stop by the official website of, After driving through Williston and on your way to Lake Sakakawea, the next stop is Lewis & Clark State Park. Epping has a population of 100 and its entire Main Street has been preserved, dirt streets and all, and turned into the Buffalo Trails Museum, where you can learn about the early pioneers and Native American tribes who once called the area home.

The views from your car will be phenomenal but there will also be plenty of places to pull over for a better look at the farms, islands, and picturesque communities of the peninsula. Be sure to stop by Ben and Bills Chocolate Emporium for a scoop of lobster ice cream just to say you tried it. Hopefully youll get out there soon!! Weve got the cow, worlds largest cow

Theodore Roosevelt, often called the conservation president, played a major role in expanding the National Park system. WebA 4 mile detour off of highway US-2, just east of Hungry Horse town, is the Hungry Horse Dam. on Highway 2 however is just amazingly gorgeous, you HAVE to at least drive along Highway 2 here. I much prefer Highway 2 than I-94. Leah moved to North Dakota when she was 12 years old and has traveled from the Red River Valley to the badlands and many places in between.

Highway 2 runs across Michigans Upper Peninsula (affectionately known as The Up) in two segments, totaling about 300 miles.

Seeing so many First Day Of Spring posts today, I figured I would remind people not from round Narrow by region. And then I haven't even mentioned my favs between Seattle and Sedona. However, I am the traveler that has gotten very sick of I-94. 1. Its possible to walk or drive over the top of the dam and view the famous glory hole. Pronghorn antelope feed in the fields and red fox stalk rodents in the grass. Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park is the highest spot on the eastern seaboard and a stunning spot to take in the sunset. For more on where to go and what to see around the country, check out our American Road Trip Guide. amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit0";
You cant miss the big parking lot off the north side of the road, around mile marker 21. Montpelier is full of charming shops and restaurants and period architecture. No portion of this document may be reproduced, copied or revised without written permission of the authors. The states first winery featuring wines made from local honey and fruits. The Museum is located on the east side of town.

You can actually see animals usually at the pull on I-94 at (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It really was. Head inside, grab a self-guided pamphlet at the info center if tours are not going on and take a look around. Youll receive a commemorative t-shirt, an official certificate, sticker and a round of applause from the staff. Your first stop in Bismarck should be the Skyscraper of the Prairie, the North Dakota State Capitol. The Victorian-era main street is lovely and there are incredible historic sites here, including well-preserved forts and areas seeped in Native American history. The Sand Point area is home to a number of reasonably priced lodging options including Best Western Plus Ponderay Mountain Lodge, a newer hotel with amenities including a swimming pool and complimentary breakfast. Most of us will probably agree that any times a great time for a road trip, and theres no better place to hit the road than in our beautiful state. Stop by Widmans Candy for the Chippers and top off the evening at Rhombus Guys. Amazon Associates Disclosure Dang Travelers is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Traveling the U.P. Its the perfect way to mark the end of your amazing journey. Also worth seeing is The Big Nickel, a 30-foot-tall replica of a Canadian Nickel. Turning ugly dark alleyways into colorful paths of genuine talent is a fantastic way to revitalize an area. Although that road youll find seven massive metal sculptures built seemingly in the middle of nowhere. Shelby welcomes visitors with several fascinating attractions.

Stop in these little towns, or drive through (some will only take minutes to do) but there is history there, and some friendly folks. Moose Brook State Park is a lovely place to explore. For dinner, treat yourself to fried cheesy pickles and the pasta special at The Toasted Frog. Its a great place to take a hike or stop for lunch at the Huckleberry Patch (be sure to get a slice of their homemade pie). Our final stop is looking for fun things to do Home to the Center for Aerospace Sciences, North Dakota Museum of Art and Ralph Engelstad Arena, home ice to the universitys NCAA Division I hockey team. Happens in central and eastern Montana .

Report inappropriate content 2. This newly remodeled resort and campground is a real gem. Highway 2 in this state spans over 650 miles. So not used to that! Another Michigan Highlight will require a detour from Highway-2 to Highway-28. Its easy to rush past but that would be a mistake.

Pyrotechnics Guild International Convention.

2 near Berthold around 11:45 p.m. Monday. Always a memorable stop.

It is massive (the largest grassland in the entire country) and beautiful, and it makes the long drive to our next stop worth it! The Harborside Hotel Spa and Marina is right downtown with stunning views of the harbor, a restaurant, pool, tennis courts, and private balconies. Get answers to your questions about North Dakota. From Glacier, enjoy the views of the Rockies all the way to Shelby.

Stop by the official website of, On our way over the Missouri River to start our southern route back is the Four Bears Memorial Bridge near New Town, Sanish, and Four Bears Village. If you came to see North Dakotas famed Roadside Giants displays of quirky roadside art, this is a good place to take a 300-mile round-trip detour to drive the 30-mile route running from Gladstone to Regent where youll find the best examples. End the day with a yacht tour at 4 Bears Casino and Lodge. *Disclaimer: We were hosted by Bismarck Mandan CVB for one night during our North Dakota road trip. Learn how your comment data is processed. WebHere are the 10 best things to experience in North Dakota. This giant cement penguin on the westbound lanes of US-2, near the eastern border of town claims that Cut Bank is the coldest place in the nation but google search tells me its not even in the top ten coldest!if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'thehotflashpacker_com-box-4','ezslot_10',118,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thehotflashpacker_com-box-4-0'); Shelby is the best place to stay in far central Montana.

Thanks for these great ideas Diane! Users can filter places based on ratings. The Italian food at Sarduccis Restaurant and Bar wins raves from locals and visitors alike. Hoping to visit Summer 2021.

North Dakota is rich in fantastic attractions and landmarks that illustrate the history and culture of the regions Native American population, and This area is definitely worth taking an extra day or two to explore. WebNorth Dakota Attractions Fit Map-a-City City: State: Go to Map!
Travel Tip: Plan for at least 3-4 hours.

Unique shopping, dining and farmers markets. The last stretch of Highway 2 before hitting the North Dakota border consists of endless fields of hay and more white-tail deer than people. The scenic road trip in North Dakota will take you in a complete round trip in the western part of the state. It starts in Medora, but you can begin at any part of the route. If you cant get out to the western half, no worries there will be road trips for some other regions in the state in the near future.

Rob went as a teenagerthat was so long ago that it hardly counts anymore!

When I found out the Midwest Travel Network Conference was going to be in my 49th state, I immediately started doing some research. Lining the street is a trading post, saloon, barber shop, post office, church, and print shop all right out of an Old Wild West movie.

You may want to split it into two days over a relaxing weekend. Peter Unger/Getty Images Route distance: 358 miles Suggested length of time: 1 to 2 days More details about Sleeping Buffalo here. Its a National Historic Landmark filled with local history and artifacts.

The New Hampshire part of US-2 is only 35 miles but that doesnt make it any less beautiful or worthwhile. From Shelby, its well worth the 1 hour, 20 minute drive down I-15 to Great Falls so much history of Lewis & Clark, and location of the only mermaid bar I know. Fish fossils may put "the single worst day for multicellular life on Earth" on the calendar. Next is Jamestown, the only place in the world to see the albino bison (and there are 3 in the National Buffalo Museum herd) and the World's Largest Buffalo Monument. Note that youll experience heavier than youd expect traffic for isolated prairie because of the oil boom if you truly are continuing on US2 west past Williston before turning north to Regina.

MUST-SEE: South Unit 36-mile Loop Drive (*partially closed in the southern section due to road damage- check website for updates), Sunset at Wind Canyon, Painted Canyon Visitor Center Overlook, Ridgeline Nature Trail, Roosevelts Maltese Cross Ranch Cabin, Boicourt Trail, Buck Hill Trail, Oxbow Overlook, River Bend Overlook, Cannonball Concretions Pullout, 14-mile North Unit Scenic Byway.

Then zip on up to the 18th floor observation deck for fantastic views of the city. Day 1 | Grand Forks As the Best Hockey Town in the Country, Grand Forks has several ways to immerse yourself in its culture.

In winter, there may be times when conditions are too treacherous to travel. Sadly, scientists say they are on the cusp of disappearing due to climate change.

Copyright 1996-2023 Doug Kirby, Ken Smith, Mike Wilkins. What are some must see natural wonders in North Dakota? (Wait until you see it frozen in the winter, too.).

This expanse of wetlands, meadows and dense ponderosa pine forests offers a chance to stretch your legs and hear the howl of wolves. This is the definition of the scenic route because it is basically a giant art gallery. Also check out the Sleeping Buffalo Rock and sunset at Nelson Reservoir when youre in the area. Theres even a small blackjack table tucked away in the corner. Jamestown actually has a lot of really beautiful walking trails, too! Thanks for the ideas. 4 bighorn sheep, and a few hundred deer. I need to look at things, I need to make stops in quirky little places. From the days of canoes and trading posts to the edge of space, follow the Hi-Line to adventure. At 36 feet high and 50 feet long, Salem Sue can be seen from five miles away. I have driven both Highway 2 and I-94 through the states you mentioned many many times. I remember the Jamestown buffalo from my childhood! Its not far off the highway. Either way you choose, you will want to plan your journey through the western half of North Dakota carefully. The rooms are spacious with stunning views of the White Mountains. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States.

There isnt much to see on highway 2 between Bemidji, MN (Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox) and western ND (lots and lots of oil rigs and man camps). The views are just spectacular. You can read more about him and his books at the Writers Shack. Check Rates and Availability at booking.com. Bob Dylan is from Duluth and although there isnt a formal museum, his childhood home is still there as are plenty of nods to the singer, such as a street named Bob Dylan Way. We planned on taking two to go but they didnt make it out the door! wants to go to General George Custer and his wife lived here until his death. Next, youll venture into Canada for just over 600 miles. Check Rates and Availability at booking.com.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'thehotflashpacker_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_13',104,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thehotflashpacker_com-medrectangle-3-0'); Mile marker 69 is the location of the beautiful Loon Lake. Get out!? amzn_assoc_default_category = "All";
A couple years ago, I traveled this same route by Amtrak. Nestled on the shores of Lake Superior, Duluth itself is a picturesque smaller city flanked by tall granite bluffs. WebOn Highway 2, Grand Forks does have some beautiful parks and Cabela's.

Originally created as a way to lessen the pains of polio, the springs still make claims to a range of health benefits for all who soak in these waters. amzn_assoc_region = "US";
Next, youll stop at Glacier National Park-1,500 miles of mountain scenery, rivers, forests, more than 200 lakes, ancient valleys formed by glaciers, and over 700 miles of hiking trails. All Rights Reserved. We will be crossing the border in North Dakota just South of Regina. Thanks to you both.

Click our photo tolearn more. The best time of year for the Great Northern Road Trip is spring, summer, or fall. amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "search";

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-37291880', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Fargo, the largest metropolitan area in North Dakota. Largest and most important fur trading post on the upper Missouri River from 1828-1867. Set high along the Rocky Mountains' eastern foothills of Montana, the road runs from Butte (a city and the county seat of Silver Bow County) to Three Forks (a city in Gallatin County). MUST-SEE: Explore the Underwater World exhibit that has the worlds largest giant squid fossil, the Innovation Gallery that has a handpainted mural of Double Ditch Indian Village, a rare mummified dinosaur, and much more!

If you select the icons on the map, you will get more information about the point of interest. Once you get to the other side of the Cascades Mountains, Lake Chelan is a worthy detour. Killdeer Mountain Four Bears Scenic Byway, on the other hand, boasts chiseled land and plenty of natural beauty. (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=38cf8a01-c7b4-4a61-a61b-8c0be6528f20&cid=877050e7-52c9-4c33-a20b-d8301a08f96d'; cnxps.cmd.push(function () { cnxps({ playerId: "38cf8a01-c7b4-4a61-a61b-8c0be6528f20" }).render("6ea159e3e44940909b49c98e320201e2"); }); The monorail is just a five-minute walk from The State Hotel and its the best way to get to Seattle Center and the citys most iconic building, the Space Needle, Originally built in 1962 for the Worlds Fair, the observation deck treats you to spectacular 360-degree views of the city, mountains, and the Puget Sound. The Enchanted Highway. Get more stories delivered right to your email.

They have great views, kid-friendly amenities like a pool and waterpark, free breakfast, a beach, and kitchenettes in the rooms.

For lodging, the Historic Davenport Hotel is beautiful and within walking distance to the majority of the sights, shops, and restaurants downtown. Start with a cup of coffee at Urban

ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-38121535', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Fargo go north on I-29 to Grand Forks and take hwy 2 from there, it's alot nicer drive plus that way you can take a tour through northern WI and the upper peninsula(U.P.) The other Thompson Lakes are off the highway and require fees for day use or camping. I would definately see ND through I-94 then when you get to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Its the oldest city in the state and architecture buffs will love the many buildings dating back over 100-years old. The Corning Pumping Engine and Mining Museum is a great place to learn about the area. Begin your voyage at Keelboat Park on the 40-foot flat bottom boat as you feel American history come alive. We will have 2 boys with us (ages 8 and 10). Boasting a four-season fishing playground, time on the water is a must in Devils Lake. Place Jacques-Cartier in Old Montreal is at the site of the citys oldest European settlement, full of charming shops and sidewalk cafes. The Quality Inn in Havre offers reasonably priced rooms with a pool and free breakfast.

Minnesota is also the kick-off point of a trip down the River Road. Pronghorn antelope feed in the fields

We will be travelling through North Dakota on US-2 in June heading to Alberta and need some interesting stops along the way to break up the drive and stretch our legs.

There are a ton of other places like wildlife refuges, small towns, and lakes you could stop at along the way if youd like to spend the extra time doing so. The difference in road shoulder widths between reservation land and non reservation land. What are the best scenic drives in North Dakota? Attraction status, hours and prices change without notice; call ahead! WebUS 2 is an eastwest highway that runs through North Dakota's northern tier of larger cities: Williston, Minot, Devils Lake, and Grand Forks.

Stop in the Little Missouri Saloon, established in 1883, where the door handles are pistols and the ceiling is draped in dollar bills. We can thank him for the Antiquities Act of June 8, 1906, which enabled President Roosevelt and succeeding Presidents to proclaim historic landmarks, historic or prehistoric structures, and other objects of historic or scientific interest in federal ownership as national monuments. Where did you fly into and out of? Keeping with the agricultural theme, the huge chandeliers hanging overhead represent the head of wheat. Finding natural wonders in North Dakota is pretty easy.

FlexOffers Affiliate Disclosure Dang Travelers also participates in the FlexOffers affiliate network and uses links within our content to earn a commission. I-94 is a very very boring drive to me. Youre making us want to head to North Dakota for sure! Then head inside for free popcorn, coffee, and a few photo ops like shoving a foot down in the renowned woodchipper from the cult classic, Fargo. Totally wish I could have gone to the conference in Medora this year! The next 150 miles are mostly desert, sagebrush, farmland, and bluffs until you reach the riverfront city of Spokane.

There are great camping opportunities, and this would be a great place to spend the night if you want to sleep out in nature and get the full, true experience.

When exploring Theodore Roosevelt National Park book your stay in Medora, one of the 15 Best Small Towns to Visit, according to Smithsonian Magazine. Welcome! The North Dakota Highway Patrol said the crash happened along Hwy. Re: attractions along US-2 in North Dakota. From Columbia Falls to West Glacier, the highway is lined with a dizzying array of fun stops from souvenir shops, rafting companies, a huckleberry superstore and a zipline. Sleeping Buffalo Hot Springs in Saco offers travelers a place to soak their weary bones as 108-degree water bubbles up from the depths of an artesian well. And how cool is it that the National Park isnt busy?! The Enchanted Highway is one of North Dakotas quirkiest roadside attractions. Find more on the official website of, Our third stop is the Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence, where the Missouri River and the Yellowstone River meet. Walk around and soak in the authenticity and charm of this small town. Ashland is also home to the informative, David R. Obey Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center, where you can learn more about the natural and cultural history of the region.

Head north for a stop at the International Peace Garden before arriving in Minot. A visit to places like Chester and Inverness gives you a chance to get to know the people and history of this vast prairie. Farther down the highway Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge is a birders paradise. Boarders Inn and Suites by Cobblestone Hotels has a pool and its one of the more wallet-friendly options in town if you prefer cheap places to stay. Key Zooms in to 1-9 listings Zooms in to 10-100 listings Zooms in to 100+ listings For the next 50 miles, I managed to see 6 herds of elk, a dozen wild turkeys. About Us Contact Us Submit a Tip Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions Trip Planning Caution: RoadsideAmerica.com offers maps, directions and attraction details as a convenience, Doubt 8 and 10 year old boys would care unless you were there during spring or fall migration and happened to see flocks of over 100K snow geese. TIP: If you want to make the drive extra special, plan to spend the night in Regent at the Enchanted Castle, co-owned by the creator of the metal sculptures. WebDay 5 of North Dakota Spring - Softball Season - I just cant lay off those outside strikes. New Salem is rich in dairy farms and dang proud of it. Its adjacent to Chinatown, which is also worth exploring is. I never thought the words, slap my steak on that pitchfork would ever come out of my mouth but that was before I spent time in Medora North Dakota!

The North Dakotas Hall of Fame is where youll discover the whos who of notable people from the state and what theyve accomplished.

After driving all day across Washington and Idaho, I hadnt seen a single wild animal, but the minute I crossed the border into Montana I saw a deer in the road. If you forgo sleep and bathroom breaks you could take the Great Northern Road Trip in about 70 hours, but youll be missing out on some pretty spectacular experiences. The unique thing about this park is the driveway is in Montana and the building is in North Dakota, so you change time zones between the entrance and the visitor center! The Capitol Plaza Hotel is a great place to stay, especially if you want to take advantage of the excellent steak house on site. Even when I was doing my research, I didnt fully grasp what was out that way and just how beautiful it is. Some of our favorites were the Tin Family, Fishermans Dream, and Pheasants on the Prairie.. The map will take you to the Interpretation Center for it, which has a great view of the confluence as well as some interesting history on the area. Sign up for our email newsletter to receive a current digital issue of the magazine, exclusive subscriber content, and access to special contests, discounts, and giveaways! ROUTE 66 IS LINED WITH THEM! Thats a hard YES. Cloud (for me, I see the one big plus is being able to stop in Medora). Located on Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor is filled with brightly covered shops and restaurants, and the countryside is dotted with vintage bargain bins, one of the hidden gems of Maine. No time to stop for a meal?

Cherry Creek bridge location in McKenzie County? Follow along on I-94 as we discover all the best North Dakota attractions you should add to your trip itinerary when you decide to visit.

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