Typically, I enjoy spending my days off lounging around my apartment trying to catch up on laundry, grocery shopping, and work. But recently I decided it was time for an adventure! Since I’m in the middle of my senior year at UND, I planned to check off the bucket list of places I wanted to explore in Grand Forks before I graduate. Let me tell you, there are PLENTY of things to do on your day off in this city. In case you’re looking to plan a day out and about, here’s a breakdown of my adventure!

1. Explore Downtown Forks

I have lived in Grand Forks for nearly four years now and I have never truly explored the downtown area, aside from its poppin’ nightlife. I definitely learned just how much I’ve been missing by skipping the daytime offerings. Some treasures I found downtown include:

Urban Stampede:

Although I’ve indulged in a cuppa at this cozy spot, it was my roommate’s first time visiting the coffee shop and she loved it! The atmosphere reminded us of our well-loved hometown coffee shop. Although it happens to be the oldest coffee shop in North Dakota, it’s got a hip modern artsy vibe. Also, it didn’t hurt that the coffee was very tasty.

Widman’s Candy Shop:

If you have not experienced the wonder of Widman’s, go – like now. Home of the chipper – a chocolate covered potato chip – this local treasure has the friendliest customer service and most delicious sweet treats. I got the peanut butter meltaway and it was DELIGHTFUL.

Downtown Art:

When you only venture downtown in the dark, it’s easy to miss the beautiful art found throughout downtown Forks. With colorful murals and the blue men heads, downtown Grand Forks has some amazing pieces on display. My personal favorite was the graffiti wall across from City Hall. Perfect for a photo op on a beautiful morning walk.

2. Visit Your Grand Forks Favorite Shops

During my time in Grand Forks, I’ve discovered stores where I truly love to spend time (and…okay money, too). I am always redecorating my apartment and looking for items to make it feel very homey. On my day off, I made sure to give each of them a quick stop.

Antiquing, Junking & Thrifting:

My mom and I always loved attending rummage sales and junk fests for repurposed items. Since moving to Grand Forks, I have been trying to keep the tradition alive. The pieces I have found for my apartment are things I still brag about. I have collected antique doorknobs, picture frames, and metal baskets that are currently all displayed in a gallery wall in my apartment. I also love to look for unique pieces that I can use in unconventional ways. I have this fabulous jar of buttons that I am using as a bookend.

All Seasons Garden Center:

I have a deep love for fresh-cut flowers, while my roommate is the definition of a plant mom. All Seasons is the best of both worlds. We love walking through the gorgeous displays of cactuses, succulents, hanging plants, and even Koi fish. I ended this stop with some gorgeous pink tulips while my roommate snagged one new cactus and one
succulent.

Columbia Mall:

How can you not stop at the mall when you explore Grand Forks on your day off? We wandered through Scheels and Bath and Body Works searching for great deals- which we found. I always say bargain shopping is smart shopping.

 

3. Chill with Friends at the Perfect Grand Forks Locale

COVID has made seeing friends difficult. Luckily, things are looking up! Whether it’s going out to eat or even buying a fish, friends make the experience so much brighter. When meeting up with friends try:

Eating in the Park:

Warmer weather arrived and I am loving it! Even with a little snow on the ground, a park is still a great place for lunch. Grab your food, grab your friends, and find a new place to enjoy each other’s company. You won’t regret it. We enjoyed lunch at Sertoma Park, but with 36 parks between Grand Forks and East Grand Forks to choose from, you can have a picnic pretty much anywhere.

Adopting a New Friend from PetSmart:

Owning pets is not for everyone. Even fish can prove to be challenging. That’s all I’m going to say.

Supper, Dinner, Whatever you Call It:

The best thing you can do on a day off is to eat out with your friends. I have been enjoying cooking lately, but there is nothing better than not having to do the dishes when your meal is done. Plus, the conversation is always more exciting when you have to yell over the restaurant’s speaker system.

Cosmic Bowling:

What better way to end the longest day off while I explore Grand Forks than to hit up Red Ray Lanes for cosmic bowling? I may be a terrible bowler, but I have the spirit of a champion. I never gave up even when I probably should have. My new title: Queen of the Gutter Ball.

 

The biggest takeaway from my adventurous (and LONG) day off was that I should have explored Grand Forks more during my first three years at UND. There are so many fun, local shops and activities that could make anyone’s time in Grand Forks more special and memorable. I challenge you to find your next adventure here in Grand Forks, because it’s called the Land of Opes and Dreams for a reason!

 

Be sure to check out my vlog and watch my adventure as I explore Grand Forks!