What’s Cooler Today?

When you think of locations to take incredible photos, a million spots probably come to mind that may not immediately include Grand Forks. It definitely didn’t for me until I became a professional photographer and knowing those spots became my business. So if you’re itching to get out and make some art of your own, read on! I’ve lived in…

Whether you’re a seasoned Orchestra patron, or a student who loves country crooners, Grand Forks has lots of live music options for you. Orchestra Music Greater Grand Forks Symphony Orchestra (GGFSO) For anyone wanting to be moved by music, the Greater Grand Forks Symphony Orchestra is a treat! Each season, they deliver four breathtaking concerts featuring both classic and modern…

As the snow starts to melt and we feel the itch to get outside, breathe fresh air, and stretch our legs, why not try geocaching?  Not sure what geocaching entails? I’ve got you covered - let’s get into it!   What is geocaching? Geocaching gained momentum as a popular pastime in 2000 and since then it has taken the world…

Tired of doing YouTube workouts alone in your living room? Don’t fret, Grand Forks has you covered! There’s a plethora of group fitness classes that’ll get you out of the house and meeting new people. I’ll cover just a few of the options below, but also keep your eyes peeled for what the YMCA & Choice Fitness have to offer.…

Searching for a small event space to host a graduation party, baby shower, or business meeting can be a difficult task without looking in the right places around town. Many venues that are designed for weddings and other large groups can be too big or pricey for a small get-together. Listed below are eight different types of scaled-down venues in…

I'm old enough to remember my parents having 78 RPM records (yes, 78s) of hits such as Ernest Tubb's "Walking the Floor Over You"and "How Much is That Doggie in the Window?" by Patti Page. Spinning at near lightning speed, they were as fragile as glass--drop one and it's done. Time passes. When 33 1/3 LP (long play) records came…

Any activity could be a date, depending on the person and the call for adventure. Grand Forks is filled with tons of things to do to get you close and familiar with those you love. And remember—these dates do not have to be between two people who are romantically involved. It can be a date with friends, family, or even…

We all know Grand Forks is cool, but what about the surrounding community? The greater Grand Forks area is home to many small, but thriving, towns including Gilby, Thompson, Emerado, Manvel, Reynolds, and Larimore. Although each of these towns may lack in population, they make up for it with their charm, enthusiasm, and character. Whether it be shopping, entertainment, or…

Whether you are a beginner or a professional, these art activities in Grand Forks will be sure to *draw* you in and have your creativity flowing! 8 Art Opportunities in Grand Forks Floral Arrangement Classes Arts For Vets Oil Painting North Dakota Museum of Art - Family Days ArtWise Gallery & Creation Space Community Theatre Pottery Classes Community Choirs About…

The American cheeseburger – a common craving among children and adults alike. Most restaurants offer burgers on their menu, but which places do it right? Where can I get a quality, signature burger from a local restaurant instead of ordering another Big Mac? I sought to answer these questions by visiting a few burger joints in Grand Forks and putting…

As a student, studying is what occupies most of my day, even after the classes or during the weekends – it is my laptop and me against the world. But studying all the time can be a drag, and so I find different places to mix it up. As such, I categorized the Coolest places in Grand Forks into three…

Undoubtedly, pizza is one of America’s favorite foods due to the unlimited customizations with toppings, sauces, and add-ons. With National Pizza Day on February 9th, it only appropriate to share some of the region’s most popular pizzerias. If I have done my job right, you will be craving a slice by the end of this article. 7 Pizzeria's to Try…

So you say it's winter. You're cold. You're hungry. Probably you're a little depressed. What to do? What to do? It's nothing that a nice warm, freshly baked cookie can't make better. Luckily you are living in the right place at the right time. You see, there is something of a cookie movement going on in the country right now…

When the clock strikes midnight on the first day of the new year, many people have resolutions on their mind. If you're like most, however, those resolutions can fly right out the window if they're not nurtured. Fortunately, our region offers all you need to stay inspired, from spots serving up healthy eats, to fitness joints cheering you on, and…

Grand Forks may seem pretty still in the colder months, but I promise there’s more than what meets the eye! Here are five events that’ll be held in 2024 to get you out and about during our North Dakota winters! 5 Grand Forks Events to Look Forward to in 2024 The Rainbow Fish @ The Chester Fritz Auditorium Happy Harry’s…

Grand Forks is most alive during weekend nights. After all, we are a college town! Little do you know that there are some hidden gems around town where you can go drink and socialize that are beyond the downtown scene. As for me, I enjoy catching up with friends over food and drinks. I’ve been to 20+ bars in Grand…

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season upon us, it’s easy to get caught up in the spirit of giving. We make Christmas lists, shop, wrap, and send gifts, and get together with friends and coworkers, often putting others first. But let’s not forget to treat ourselves during the holiday season with a little self-care to prevent holiday…

Whether you’re a waffle lover, a pancake person, or interested in omelets, any of these restaurants are sure to satisfy that breakfast craving. Grab a friend and try out a new spot to start your morning! 5 Breakfast Joints in Grand Forks Darcy's Café The Spud Jr.  Scooter's Coffee The Happy Camper Coffee Bernie's About The Author Hi there! My…

Tucked between St. John’s Block and Level 10 in downtown Grand Forks, The Ember Coffeehouse is a spacious and modern coffee shop that has recently reopened. While you may have seen posts on Instagram or peered in the window passing by on the street, you may not know the building’s rich history and the business’s long-standing impact on the community…

I don't know that I'm that much of a Scrooge really, but still, most years I can use a little bit of a shove into the holiday season. Music always does the trick for me. There's no shortage of special holiday music and fun again this year in the Grand Forks area. Take a look at just a sampling of…

Grand Forks is an absolute winter wonderland for most of the year, and despite being one of the coldest cities in the United States, there are bountiful outdoor activities to jump into during those frigid evenings and weekends. As we approach the winter months, it becomes too easy to curl up in a robe on the couch in front of…

There are a lot of ways to stay active in Grand Forks.  My favorite is going to spin class at Choice Health and Fitness.  They have a spin class for people with disabilities and their friends.  This class is called Endless Possibilities in Cycling or EPIC.  The teacher is Karen Lauer.  The class is Mondays and Wednesdays at 4:30-5:00 PM. …

When you think of musical cities in the United States, there are probably a few places that come to mind: Nashville, New Orleans, Memphis, or maybe even Austin. It is undeniable that music is in the fabric that makes these cities what they are today. I know you might be thinking “There is no way that Grand Forks is even…

You know what time it is …. spooky season! Grand Forks is a lovely place to lean into all the festivities the season has to offer. From pumpkin spice lattes in the patch to the Rocky Horror Picture Show, our community has something for everyone to jump into the Halloween spirit! 5 Spooky Activities Trunk-or-Treat Pumpkin Patches GF Halloween House…

The season of pumpkin spice, ghouls and goblins, and sweaters is upon us, but as Grand Forkers, we know there’s more to fall than that! If you aren’t already partaking in the hunting or harvest season, you might have noticed that birds in all kinds of numbers, shapes, and sizes have been showing up recently, signifying that the fall migration…

Grand Forks has a lot of restaurants in town to eat at. Every restaurant has different menus and different choices to choose from. Some people want fish tacos. Some people want ribs. Some people want a burger. These are my top 5 favorite restaurants in Grand Forks. 5 Grand Forks Restaurants to Check Out Darcy's Charras and Tequila Ground Round…

As the summer wraps up and fall settles in, a few things are changing in Grand Forks other than the tree colors. The fall semester is underway at UND and the breath of life of the Grand Forks community has returned: the students. As a UND alumni, there was always something electric about that feeling of returning to Grand Forks…

If you’re anything like me and much of corporate America, you spend most of your weekdays sitting at a desk in front of a computer, often looking out the window at Grand Forks’ breezy, mild summer weather and wishing you could be outside. You only have so much time in the day and if you’re one of Grand Forks’ many…

Did you know? Grand Forks offers spaces, events, and community for LGBTQ+ folks of all ages. Check out 8 different ways to connect with welcoming affirming organizations and groups in Grand Forks: 8 Ways To Connect With Pride Grand Forks Pride Grand Forks Out and Proud BJ Armani's Cabaret GSAs UND Pride Center PFlag Forx Sugar Beaters Archives Coffee House…

Grand Forks has a lot of parks to go to. People can play at parks. They can have a picnic or a barbeque or hang out or get together at a park. Some people have weddings and receptions at a park. You could have a dance party at a park. Grand Forks has movies in some parks. These are the…

There is nothing to show here! Slider with alias ballin-on-a-budget-5-things-to-do-in-grand-forks-under-5-dollars not found. Greetings, my fellow readers. How has your summer been? Grand Forks summers are always great in my opinion. With plenty of things to do, there is never a shortage of options to occupy your time. I know I got into my fair share of excursions and activities around…

Step outside of the city boundaries in the spring and fall, you will quickly notice that the prairies have come alive with migrating birds and other wildlife and their young. One of the greatest offerings that North Dakota has for people interested in the outdoors is its wildlife recreation, and Grand Forks is a great place to get involved. While…

I have been a Special Olympics athlete since I was 15 years old.  I’ve done a lot of sports like track and field, snowshoeing, basketball, bowling, volleyball, bocce, powerlifting, and soccer.  Special Olympics is a year-round thing that we train for every month. Special Olympics is where athletes can compete. You can help too by going to our website at…

I believe that Grand Forks is cooler than you think because it is a thriving, diverse community that welcomes a variety of people. One community-focused organization that you need to know about is the Global Friends Coalition. Here are four things to show you a little of what they're all about: 4 Things to Know About the Global Friends Coalition…

It's peak summer season which means Grand Forks is heating up, literally and figuratively. If you're like me, that means getting outside to enjoy it! The list of summertime activities in Grand Forks is extensive, but one thing that often gets overlooked is playing basketball. As a washed-up ball player, I like to get outside and ball with my bros,…

I’m originally from Minnesota, the land of 10,000 lakes. Like so many others from Minnesota, fishing was a favorite pastime of mine growing up. We were lucky to have a ton of lakes nearby to fish from, whether it was Leech Lake, Mille Lacs Lake, Woman Lake, or Lake Minnetonka—and that only names a small few!  I had never fished…

All of my blog posts were fun to write, but this one is probably my favorite. Back in April, my boyfriend of five-and-a-half years proposed to me! We have been talking about getting married in the Grand Forks area for a while, so this blog is one part fun to write and another part personal research. My quest to find…

Summer is here, and there’s no better time to soak up the perfect weather we experience in the region. Something about warm summer days with crisp evenings by the crackling fire and sparkling northern lights makes sleeping under the stars a remarkable experience. Scroll on to read about eleven of my favorite camping ideas for nature lovers near Grand Forks…

Just like many fellow folks in the area, I live and breathe University of North Dakota hockey. A season ticket holder, and destination game traveler, I pour a lot of time and energy into that team. Regardless of the number of playoff overtime games I see, I’m there every step of the way. During the offseason, and even during the…

Few things excite me more for summer than a beautiful day enjoying delicious food truck fare. What’s more exciting yet - is the pursuit of finding where these eateries are landing next! The Greater Grand Forks area has no shortage of deliciousness with a fantastic variety of cuisines - so buckle up and get out there this summer to sample…

As people become more health conscious, the demand for mocktails – non-alcoholic drinks with the flavor and sophistication of cocktails – is on the rise. The popularity of mocktails has grown significantly in recent years, and with it has come a whole new range of creative and exciting mocktail recipes. From simple blends of fresh fruit juices to more elaborate…

I love traveling, exploring new cities, and collecting one of those souvenir Starbucks mugs anywhere I go. However, these past few years, I have learned that you don’t need to travel across the world to have an adventure. I’ve rounded up some of my favorite staycation ideas in the Greater Grand Forks region (or within a day's trip away). Read…

Last October I went to an Open Mic Comedy night with a friend. Watching eight different folks from our community get up and give comedy a shot had us feeling inspired. Fast forward one month and there we were – giving a stand-up comedy our first try. Since then, I have been an open mic regular and love seeing what…

The days are getting longer, the grass greener, and the temperatures warmer, which can only mean one thing: SUMMER! As schools close their doors and speakers blast Alice Cooper’s “School’s Out for Summer”, kids across the region are bouncing off the walls while parents and guardians feel a wave of existential dread wash over them. Okay, maybe that’s a bit…

Learning new skills or more about yourself isn’t just for the days spent in Nistler Hall at the University of North Dakota. It is something you can do every day. Here in Grand Forks, many  organizations and groups provide educational lessons and training to businesses, schools, and  individuals. 3 Classes and Trainings in Grand Forks Green Dot Blue Zones Project…

I have been a vegetarian (and even vegan!) off and on since moving to the Grand Forks area, and I have to tell you. I don’t consider myself a picky eater per-se, but when I sit down to a vegetarian feast it better be packed with flavor and leave me already craving the next visit. Greater Grand Forks continues to…

How should you spend your day in Grand Forks? What's your perfect match? Find fun in greater Grand Forks! Start quiz How long have you lived in greater Grand Forks? Somewhere in between forever and yesterday. All my life! Just got here. What's your favorite part about our region? Spacious plains and green grasses Supportive community full of opportunity Top-notch…

One thing I love about the Greater Grand Forks region is the seasons. We experience it all here: misty spring days with blooming flowers, hot summer days by the pool, crisp fall walks, and a winter wonderland (my personal favorite!). There are many winter activities in Grand Forks, ND. We have countless outdoor activities for the cooler months in our…

It's time to shake off the short, cold, blustery winter days and celebrate spring thaw. But winter doesn't have to mean hibernation. Grand Forks has so much to offer young professionals who are seeking a vibrant community full of opportunities. Here are some great activities for winter and early spring. 5 Things to Do as a Young Professional During the…

Grand Forks may not be the first choice on the dream sheet of every U.S. military member. If you’re like me, you didn’t even know that the base existed before you got your orders. If you ask around about North Dakota to people that have never been to North Dakota, you’ll hear the horror stories – it’s cold, it’s far,…

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…

Are you a beginner to the brew, a nitro novice, or inexperienced in espresso? Me too, I must admit, for years I avoided coffee, but after having 3 kids, I changed my tune for special occasions. That being said, I love a good cup of coffee filled with all the yummy add ins, bonus points for fun out of the…

The start of a new year is a time for reflection, goal setting, and 12 months of new adventures. To help you get a start, below are some of the new places in Grand Forks to explore and play. 7 New Places & Things in Greater Grand Forks Bernie's Play It! Multi-sports Complex Midtown Marketplace The Happy Camper Coffee Sierra/…

So, you’re looking to start fresh somewhere new. Maybe you’ve just finished school and are looking to make a name for yourself in a new city. Maybe you’ve started a family and you’re looking for a cheap place to live that has plenty of opportunities for a career path that’ll support your new lifestyle. Maybe you live for the grind…

Fortunately, we don’t have to do much foraging for food in the Forks. (Gawd, I love me some alliteration!) However, sometimes we need to go off the beaten path to find some tasty adventures. While Grand Forks has an abundance of locally owned businesses as well as franchises, today I want to introduce you to six places to get some…

Our awesome downtown makes Grand Forks the city I know and love. There are so many great daytime restaurants that quietly transition to serve as great hangout bars once the sun goes down. However, there is a quieter, more local side to Grand Forks that requires a trip off the beaten path to find. I’m talking dive bars. Between the…

I didn’t win any superlative contests in high school, but in my house I’ve earned the title. I pride myself in trying to constantly grow myself to be the best me I can be. A huge part of that is keeping motherhood fun for me and engaging for the kids. I’ll share some things that help me and my mom…

Zen: “The term Zen is derived from the Japanese pronunciation of the Middle Chinese word 禪 (Chan) which traces its roots to the Indian practice of dhyāna ("meditation").  It can be translated as “contemplation” or “absorption” or “meditative state”. I am continually surprised when people ask, “Is there anything going on this week?”  Hello?!  There is so much going on…

On the first day of snowfall, North Dakota gave to me a day off from school and work! Okay folks, the snow is coming down, and the year is almost over! In the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, I often find it hard to take time to have some fun. Forget the shopping lists, the stress of finals,…

Are you dating? Engaging in romantic courtship? Playing the field? In a situationship? Whatever you call it, if you want to take it to the next level, planning fun and memorable activities to do with your partner is an important part of the process. Dating can be a pathway to deeper relationships, lasting memories, and intimacy. It can be intimidating…

Born and raised in Grand Forks, I take pride in knowing a lot about the community and sharing that knowledge with others. But as the old adage says, one never stops learning, and there are always hidden gems, even for this local. 7 Hidden Gems in Greater Grand Forks Labyrinths Grand Forks County Courthouse Mural Fertile Sand Hills Myra Museum…

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! It's getting colder which may cause some winter blues, but there’s one thing that makes it all better: HOCKEY! Here in Grand Forks, we know hockey, we love hockey, and we breathe hockey. When you bundle up and head into the Ralph Engelstad Arena to watch the face-off on the ice, make…

Places, please – and . . . Curtain up! Do you break into show tunes abruptly? Do you know who Godot is waiting for? Are you – yikes -- a thespian? Well, join the club! There’s no shortage of venues in the greater Grand Forks area in which to indulge your passion for live theatre. 5 Stages in Grand Forks…

If you’re anything like me, the cooler weather and seasonal decor has got you thinking of the quickly approaching holiday season. Gift giving is really big in our family, we enjoy spreading smiles and seeing the excitement when someone opens a thoughtful and unique gift during the holiday season. However, the list of people to shop for never gets shorter,…

Making new friends can be difficult, especially if you hate leaving the comforts of home, like I do. It’s casting a wide net into the sea, hoping that at least one of the beautiful fish you reel in is just as awkward and weird as you are. You’ll meet countless people in your lifetime, many of whom will come and…

November 13th was National World Kindness Day, and it was a great day to recognize the importance of being kind to yourself, to others, and to the world. Below are just a few ways you can showcase North Dakota Nice throughout the year. 5 Ways to Celebrate North Dakota Nice in Grand Forks Volunteer Your Time Donate Books to a…

North Dakota – it’s rough, rugged, and rural - the perfect place for a sportsman. With its winter climate, the region offers unique opportunities to get out of the house and take advantage of activities you may not find everywhere else. Whether your forte is hunting, shooting, or competing in actual sports, greater Grand Forks has something for everyone! 5…

Grand Forks is a regional hub for retail – residents in the surrounding bedroom communities and as far as Canada come to “Forks” to purchase clothes, groceries, furniture, and anything else in between.  And while retail stores are aplenty, treasures (and deals) can be found around town in a number of thrift shops. So, come with me and let’s see…

As a mom in the greater Grand Forks Area, I am always exploring new activities for our family to stay entertained and active as the temperatures decrease. If you're looking for weatherproof activities that don't skimp on the fun, I'll share some of my top spots and a few we hope to check out this year now that our kids…

Am I excited about the opportunity to write about a few of my favorite places in our incredibly vibrant beer scene in the Grand Forks region? Absolutely, yes. Am I excited to talk about some of my favorite people doing brilliant, innovative things with that sweet, sweet grog? Also, yes. Am I excited about getting complaints via email about how…

Welcome back to school UND students! If you are anything like me, right now, your focuses are work, school, and trying to eat three meals a day. I know it's easy to get caught up with the chaos around you, but it's good to take a step back and explore the city around you. When I came to Grand Forks…

Imagine this – it’s a beautiful Friday afternoon. The sun is shining. The sky is blue. There’s no wind, but it’s not quite hot enough to break a sweat. You cut out from work a little early, but it doesn’t matter because your boss did too. You just met three of your best friends at the pro shop and you’ve…

Whether you’re in the mood to discover new, local talent, hop on the nostalgia train to your youth, enjoy timeless classics, or dance the night away, Grand Forks offers plenty of unique venues to enjoy live music. 7 Places to Enjoy Music in Greater Grand Forks North Dakota Museum of Art The Empire Arts Center Half Brothers Underground DogMahal DogHaus…

Ernest Hemingway once said, “My only regret in life is that I did not drink more wine.” Well, I am a true believer of living life with as few regrets as possible. So, I will drink the wine. Red, white, pink, or blue (yes blue), I am a fan of it all. I would not consider myself a professional sommelier,…

As I’m writing this, my husky mix Stevie Buscemi is celebrating one full year of life – 10 months of which have been in the Cusack household. Her puppy-level excitement for new people has not died down over 365 days, which means taking her to crowded places can be a chore. Did I say chore? I meant minor nightmare. Fortunately,…

My first experience with fall was back in 2009 when I went to Korea for school. Coming from a tropical weather country I thought winter would be my favorite season but nope. Fall it is! The color of leaves changing with perfect breeze and not-so-cold weather is something only fall can deliver. The smells of pumpkins and apple cider that…

If you ever find yourself with $1 million in cash, I strongly recommend playing travel darts. Get a world map. Get darts. Throw darts at the map and fly where they land. We fly high. No lie. (Balling.)   Since I’m not a millionaire, I do the next best thing. I try to find restaurants in Grand Forks from the…

One of my favorite and most accurate cliches is the term “Midwest Nice”. Here in greater Grand Forks, we truly live up to the term. We know that to have a successful and fulfilling life we must give back and help others live their best lives. If you’re looking to find your volunteering niche, I’m here to share my favorite…

Making friends as an adult is not easy. Especially when you move to a new place without any connection. It feels like you’ve been thrown back to your playground days. I remember when I first moved to Portland (North Dakota, not Oregon) with my husband in 2013, it was my first time moving somewhere without any other people I knew.…

While many outsiders picture Grand Forks as an ever-frozen city with winters only rivaled by those “Beyond the Wall” in Game of Thrones, the truth is far different.  The summer months offer long days with temperatures that can creep as high as our way-up-northern latitude.  Fortunately, our community has an abundance of water activities for the young (and young at…

Anyone who knows anything about me knows how much I love tacos. I could literally eat tacos for every meal. If you want to encourage me out of the house on a cold winter day a simple, “Let’s have tacos.” will do the trick. Since people in the Midwest tend to shy away from things that are too spicy, you…

H2O-MG! Greater Grand Forks water activities are way cooler. Water you know? Test your knowledge of all things water in greater Grand Forks! 1. Grand Forks or "Les Grandes Fourches" was named by French traders who traveled on this river. Which direction does the Red River flow? North South East West 2. Sometimes, we just want to splash around, luckily…

Readers, I love books. I love them hard. Growing up as the only kid on a farm, entertainment was either playing in the trees of the shelterbelt (here’s a handy resource for those non-Midwestern-born who are wondering what on earth a shelterbelt is) or curling up with a novel. I did a lot of both, but reading is a more…

Do you have a sweet tooth like me? Whether you’re a cake lover, an ice cream fanatic, or a crepe connoisseur, Grand Forks has everything you need to tackle your sugar cravings. In this article, I’ll share the fancy dessert shops and restaurants that offer the best after-dinner delights and should definitely be on your bucket list. 5 Places in…

Some people might say the land around here is so flat around you can literally watch your dog run away for three days, but the wide-open prairie also boasts some breathtaking beauty. If you’ve never experienced a North Dakotan sunset or the landscape swirling with the colors of the Northern Lights, you’ve never known true beauty. There’s plenty to do…

Whether paint on canvas, live music, sculpture, or other creative outlets, I have always envied the immense talent of the artistic community. I, being the closeted creative type, decided to adventure forth into the Grand Forks region to see if I could learn from some of these talented humans. I found an amazing community of people willing to not only…

This past May, a Grand Forks resident and UND graduate named Vincent Ledvina was written up in Newsweek for a stunning graduation photo he took on the night of the lunar eclipse. Vincent stands in the dead center of the photograph, with UND honors and regalia around his neck and a blood-red moon hanging above his head. Vincent, who I…

A twenty-something office colleague recently told me she had once been referred to jokingly as a “geriatric millennial.” I, being the nearly geriatric millennial that I am, had no idea what she was talking about – a millennial is a millennial, right? I did some research, and here’s what I found: Millennials are those born within the timeframe of 1981-1996.…

You probably remember your first bike.  Mine was Wonder Woman-themed (long story) and it was AMAZING! As a kid, your bike gave you freedom to travel around your neighborhood, explore new places, and spend quality time with your friends and family. But at some point, most of us set our bikes aside and started driving... which is faster, but waaaaayyyy…

Passersby may drive through our region of the world and see no more than the naturally flat land laid out in uniform mile by mile grids on their way to the destination somewhere else. To us, these exceptionally fertile fields provide the income for our families, our sense of environmental stewardship, and a source of pride for the area farm…

Long daylight hours, fabulous sunsets, and outdoor fun in Grand Forks - nothing says summertime quite like patio dining! Join us as we explore some of the unique local and big chain venues offering outdoor patio or deck food and drinks around the Forks. Grab your sunglasses and get ready to feel the breeze! 6 Outdoor Patios in Greater Grand…

Leaves changing colors, a cool breeze in the air, it’s about to be my favorite season of the year – fall! Some of my favorite things about the fall season happen to be the array of festivities and things to do in the Grand Forks area. Get out your calendar and inking up some plans in August and September! 7…

Finding LGBTQIA inclusion in Grand Forks is not as difficult as you might think. When I moved to Grand Forks, one of the first things that was important to me was finding a sense of community. We have some really great visible leaders in the community who are making a difference every day and continue to promote inclusion. In the…

Since North Dakota is home to 1 motorcycle per 19.4 people, you can be assured the area welcomes the familiar sight of motorcyclists passing through their towns and restaurants on tours through the plains. As an avid biker myself, I’ve assembled a list of five regions and destinations within a day’s ride of the Grand Forks area for your rubber to…

Your Saturday mornings may consist of many different things - a cup of coffee, sleeping in, cleaning, or even a workout. But there’s one event you aren't going to want to miss on Saturday mornings this summer: the Town Square Farmer’s Market. 7 Farmer's Market Vendors to Check Out in Grand Forks 1. Ghana Crazy 2. Two Sisters Bagels 3.…

A great way to take a break from work and the hustle and bustle of everyday life is to get outside and take a hike. The Grand Forks and surrounding area has some really great trails that can be enjoyed by you; your family and friends; and of course, your pets!  I spend a lot of time on the Greenway…

Every small town carries its own culture, quirky traditions, and community pride. And the festivals held in these places shine a light on all the area offers – from local culinary treats, to historic main streets, to the helping hands of neighbors working together. 4 Summer Festivals to Check out in Greater Grand Forks 1. Thompson Days | July 8-11,…

4 Ways to Bring Out Your Green Thumb 1. Plant a Patio or Container Garden 2. Grow an in-ground or raised bed 3. Join a Community Garden 4. Visit Parks and Gardens around Grand Forks Have you ever planted a seed and watched it grow?  That tiny seed, when cared for and nurtured properly, grows and blossoms into something beautiful. …

There is truly nothing better than bringing along your furry friend for a day full of fun, and summertime offers some of the best pet-friendly activities in Grand Forks. Grab a leash and your furry friend and tag-along with me and my best friend Archie as we explore Grand Forks’s four-legged recreation. 7 Pet-Friendly Activities in Grand Forks 1. Dog…

In my youth, I was an active athlete but after graduating high school, I did not make time or space for exercise. With the demands of work, graduate school, and caring for my family, it was hard for me to make time for myself. After a trip to the emergency room for sciatica pain, I knew that I needed to…

7 Walkable Adventures in Greater Grand Forks 1. Downtown Grand Forks 2. Grand Forks Greenway- Downtown 3. Grand Forks Greenway- Kannowski Park Untaken Trail 4. Turtle River State Park 5. Rydell Wildlife Refuge 6. University Park 7. Sertoma Park   It turns out, when you’re a kid, you can’t drive a car. But even without four wheels, there are a…

5 Ways to Shake Off The 9-5 1. Escape Room 2. Dart/Pool Leagues 3. Axe Throwing 4. Fishing the Red River 5. Bingo People tend to get lost in the 9-5 shuffle every day. To combat this, I like to invite some friends and family out to do things that help tip that work-life balance back in the right direction.…

Grand Forks is Way Cooler Than You Think! How much do you know about Grand Forks? Take this quiz to find out! 1. True or False? - The University of North Dakota was founded before the state of North Dakota was established? True False 2. In the spring of 1997, Grand Forks experienced a historic flood that has now become…

If you’re from North Dakota—or heck, just know a North Dakotan—you’ve likely experienced the anticipation for summer to arrive after a long, cold winter. Locally, we are privileged to be surrounded by an abundance of lakes and small-town festivities to celebrate the warm weather and all the joy sunshine brings. While some activities can be done in an afternoon or…

My love for public art is inherent as I have a family full of artists that never cease to amaze me with their talents. This appreciation for public art was cultivated as I worked in the North Dakota Museum of Art café during my undergraduate career. But my appreciation does not make me an expert, so I sat down with…

10 Grand Forks Kids Activities for Spring 1. Sky Vu Drive-In 2. Riverside Pool 3. Artwise Art Show 4. Fishing at Ryan Lake 5. Puddles 6. Sertoma Park 7. Northern Air 8. Recitals 9. Grand Forks Rocks 10. UND Art Camp About The Authors Mairi and Jonas Ferguson are lifelong residents of Grand Forks. Mairi is in middle school and…

With bright blue eyes sparkling with humor, and brusque but efficient work style, Jenny Barnes has all the attributes of a perfect office administrator. A 5-year employee of Cirrus Aircraft, mother of two children, and avid horsewoman, Jenny mans the central command station at Cirrus’s Grand Forks location. 6 Reasons Why it's Awesome to Work at Cirrus 1. The Culture…

Grand Forks and the surrounding areas offer an abundant array of activities to do at all seasons of the year. One activity that can be enjoyed year round – no matter the season – is the fine arts! In our area you will find many opportunities to take in a live theatre production, live music (indoors and outdoors), an art…

May, a glorious month for so many reasons! Typically, it is the beginning of a beautiful North Dakotan summer – sunshine, flowers, and some rain showers. For young adults like myself, May begins the countdown to SUMMER VACATION! With warmer weather and vacation days ahead for students and the working masses alike, you will likely find yourself brainstorming what to…

Summer in Grand Forks is an amazing time of year. One of the best ways to enjoy the warm weather and sunshine is by playing a round of golf with your friends and family. I personally try to get out on the course as much as possible. It’s on my bucket list to play every course in North Dakota, so…

If you’re looking for something to do, a chance to meet new friends, and a way to stay active, joining an adult sports league covers all the bases. Since moving to Grand Forks for school and staying for a career, I’ve found that many of these leagues are a great way to liven up the week. There are tons more…

7 Kid-Approved Things in Greater Grand Forks 1. Tea & Crepe 2. All Seasons Garden Center 3. Nelson's Pumpkin Patch 4. Grand Forks Greenway 5. Widman's Candy Shop 6. Choice Health and Fitness 7. Grand Forks Escape Room 1. Tea & Crepe Tea & Crepe is a fun downtown café with… well… tea and crepes! These crepes are anything but…

As quickly as the spring semester comes – poof! it’s gone. For my fellow college students, one word dominates the end of a semester: finals. When facing the plethora of exams, papers, presentations, and projects, it’s vital to change up the way you might study by finding a new location conducive to your finals needs. Or, you may want to…

As a “boomerang” back to Grand Forks after going out of town for college, I began to see the city where I grew up through a new lens. Coming back as a working professional and graduate student, I found myself wandering through parts of the city unseen by my childhood eyes. In spring 2020 when I was on the hunt…

We are in “Fool’s Spring” in Grand Forks as temperatures start to creep above 40 degrees. But we are anything but fools to live here and what makes us cooler in the Greater Grand Forks area is the abundance of outdoor activities to suit any age. 4 Greater Grand Forks Parks Worth Exploring 1. The Greenway 2. Sertoma Park &…

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 would say with confidence that we’ve all frantically waved goodbye to 2020. Although we pride ourselves on tenacity and grit here in the Midwest, we’ve been hit hard and faced some unique challenges, especially when it comes to parenting. This is my first assignment as a “Cooler Mom” writer and things I would “normally” be doing with my kids…

When it gets cold enough, for long enough, many of us from the area venture out to walk on water and try to catch some fish. Ice fishing is my personal favorite winter pastime because it offers tons of variety. Locations, fish species, techniques, and weather all vary from trip to trip making each outing its own unique experience. Bring…

Ah, pizza, what’s not to like? It’s the Friday night meal of choice 9 times out of 10. These days, most companies offer the beautiful service of delivery — which is perfect for the days when you swear mother nature has mistaken North Dakota for the North Pole. For a college student like me, it’s a wonderfully economical choice: order…

I know first dates can be nerve-wracking (to say the least). As a singleton who’s had her fair share of first dates, let me make your life easier by sharing some great locales to help you experience some of the coolest places and food greater Grand Forks has to offer – no matter what season of the year! Love At…

There’s no doubt about it, living in Grand Forks is pretty cool – literally. In the winter, temperatures get pretty frosty. But life doesn’t stop when the thermometer dips below zero, you just put on a few more layers and presto! spending time outside becomes a breeze (again literally… it’s definitely windy). We are a pair of siblings growing up…