Under 21 Equals Fun: 5 Fun Places for Minors in Grand Forks

On my 18th birthday, I felt as if the world was my oyster. I was finally considered an adult in the eyes of the law. But sometimes it feels like nothing has changed since your 16th birthday. Although we’ve got three years until we can feel like we are on top of the world, there is still so much to do while we are young and pretty. So, get your vertical ID and hit the town, at least before 10 PM.

The one thing that fulfills me as a 20-year-old is when someone checks my ID. Grand Forks offers a variety of concerts and shows that allow you to show it off! During October, Wild & Untamed Things put on their annual “Rocky Horror Picture Show” at the Empire Arts Center. They have a showing for the general public in the early evenings, but at midnight it turns into a rockin’ Rated- R, 18+ show! It’s so much fun, and I definitely recommend going when they come to town!

Grand Forks Drag Shows are another great opportunity to catch a fabulous performance. Head to the East Grand Forks American Legion for a spectacular show. Check out B.J. Armani’s Facebook page for more details.

Every growing adult needs nutritious and delicious calories. With your newfound freedom, go out and enjoy some classy restaurants. Check out The Crooked Pint, Blue Moose Bar & Grill, or be fancy and get brunch at Bernie’s. If you’re not feeling fancy, you can always hit Up North or Spud Jr. Looking for some good hot dogs and all the vibes? Check out DogMahal DogHaus! They have some cool stuff like vinyl records and comic collectibles, and their food is delicious. If your older friends are planning on going to the bars, you can hang out with them until the clock strikes 10 at some bars in North Dakota (make sure to check websites before going).

Coffee is the fuel in our engines. Grand Forks has amazing coffee shops all over town. We have Bully Brew, Urban Stampede, Archives Coffee House, Scooters, and more. My personal favorite is Urban Stampede, I enjoy their signature salted caramel latte. They also sell Sandy’s Donuts, so definitely add that to your coffee order when you visit. A new coffee shop just opened called Happy Camper Coffee. This cute mobile coffee shop is all around town, they move around in their camper and spread caffeinated cheer to their customers. Follow them on social media to see where they’re parked.

Although art is for all ages, we are older now and can craft some more advanced creations… maybe. Muddy Waters Clay Center offers pottery and clay classes. You can take your friends and host a special class just for you, or sign up for a weekly course to become a master of the wheel. If pottery isn’t your thing and you want to become a well-caffeinated painter, keep your eye on Archives Coffee House because they host painting events and classes!

Now that you’re an adult, your parents can’t tell you to stop spending your money. Or if you’re like me, they still do. Go to the mall or go downtown and buy yourself something you love. Grand Forks has so many boutiques, shops, and hidden gems. Love Heart boutique in the Columbia Mall has many on-trend clothes and a great vibe. Silo Boutique downtown also has some good finds. For those trying to find business casual clothes that are both stylish and professional, downtown boutiques are the way to go. Or you could always check out the clothing selection at Scheels or Target for a more mainstream chain experience.

I hope this list will help you find some fun during your eighteenth through twentieth years of life. Whatever brings you happiness is what makes you an adult. It doesn’t matter if you love painting, chugging coffee, or spending your last paycheck. You’re an adult now, so own it! And remember, you can be tried in the court of law as an adult too, so stay out of trouble.