Minot is a vibrant community in North Dakota’s north-central region, just 50 miles south of the Canadian border. The city lies along the scenic Souris River Valley and offers locally owned restaurants, shopping, arts, entertainment, museums, and family-friendly attractions.
Minot boasts a booming park scene, including splash pads, an outdoor pool, playparks, biking and hiking trails, and a new outdoor recreation area. Downtown Minot has hidden gems, including quirky bars, eclectic shops, and restaurants. Explore Minot and discover all that this beautiful city has to offer.
CONNECT WITH US
VisitMinot.org has everything you’ll need to plan your trip, including up-to-date information, city-wide hotel availability, local events calendar and more!
See who is having fun in Minot! Tag us in your photos or add #MAGICINMINOT to your caption for a chance to be featured. We love seeing the adventures you have while visiting Minot.
RESOURCES
See what’s currently going on in Minot with our events calendar:
4 Seasons: Unlimited Memories
From spring, summer, fall and yes, even winter, Minot offers a variety of outdoor and indoor activities anyone can enjoy.
FEED GIRAFFES & STAND UNDER A CATWALK
Home to over 160 animals and over 70 different species, Roosevelt Park Zoo is a picturesque spot for animal conservation and learning. Experience up-close encounters with the giraffes at the feeding station or watch as the big cats stroll across the overhead catwalk. Let the world surround you all year long.
Pro Tip & Accessibility:
The zoo is great for all ages, all year round, with a gift shop, concessions, plus wagons and wheelchairs for rent.
FALL FESTIVITIES & AUTUMN ACTIVITIES
When the leaves start to change, bring the whole crew to Berry Acres Pumpkin Patch to walk the cornstalk maze, shoot pumpkins from a cannon, play on the hay bale obstacles, and dive into the corn pit! At Angelic Gardens, stroll through the grounds in the summer and fall to hand-pick locally grown fruits and vegetables to take a piece of the season home.
SPLASH, SHOOT & SWING
There are plenty of places to chill out and escape the heat of a sunny summer day in Minot. The free public splash pads in Oak Park and Radio City Park are a favorite for children of all ages to cool off. Roosevelt Park Pool will have you splashing into summer fun with their two giant waterslides and pool areas for all swimming levels. Engage in some friendly competition among friends and family at Shots Fired Paintball , or take the family to Jack Hoeven Wee Links, a golf course designed for kids.
Pro Tip & Accessibility: Reserve your timeslot to guarantee entry. The facility offers sensory bags and has elevators.
OVER 150 EXHIBITS AT THIS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM FOR WHEN IT’S CHILLY OUTSIDE
Children can enjoy a 360-degree view from the custom-built 37-foot-tall climbable exhibit featuring a prairie dog crawl and an oil derrick with a B52 plane perched at the top. The Magic Climber exhibit is in the epicenter of the Magic City Discovery Center. This children’s museum and science center hybrid has 12 galleries of interactive spaces to learn about light, sound, and an entire floor dedicated to water. Great for all ages, take advantage of this fun family spot!
Get your golf on with a game of Glow-in-the-Dark Mini Golf, and then battle your friends to a plethora of games at the Board Game Café. Spend an evening beneath the blacklights and music during a round of Extreme Bowling.
Challenge yourself and your friends to crack the code at the escape room, which has six themed rooms. Step into the action-packed fun zone at the mall’s arcade featuring over 150 games, like bumper cars. Jump as high as you can or bounce into the foam pit at the trampoline park. Take it up a notch at the local pizza arcade with a round of laser tag.
Pro Tip & Accessibility:
The Talking Trail Tour App is great for learning in-depth display information. Open May-October. Most areas are wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Scandinavia Without the Flight History is Happenin’
Dive into the area’s Nordic roots. Learn all about the Scandinavian culture and feel like you’ve been transported across the globe.
VISIT ALL 5 NORDIC NATIONS IN THE HEART OF MINOT
LARGEST SCANDINAVIAN FESTIVAL IN NORTH AMERICA
A WEEKEND OF MERRIMENT AROUND A FIRE ON A POND
Pro Tip & Accessibility:
Expert guides are available from mid-May to September, from 9 am to 4 pm Mon-Sat and 12-4 pm on Sundays. Paths are accessible to wheelchairs, wagons, and strollers, but a few buildings have stair entrances.
Step into the enchanting Scandinavian Heritage Park to explore historic buildings and statues celebrating the heritage of area immigrants from Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, and Iceland. Stand in awe while viewing the Gol Stave Church, a wooden replica of a Norwegian church built without nails. The park is free to visit and will spark your imagination all year, with the buildings open during the warmer months.
Be fully immersed in Nordic Culture during Norsk Høstfest, a four-day autumn festival. Watch Vikings spar, enjoy world-class entertainment, and embrace Scandinavian heritage through cuisine, art, and educational classes. This jamboree is full of experiences like scavenger hunts, artisans, and Scandi chef demonstrations. Spot Norse creatures, like trolls roaming the grounds. Celebrate culture and learn new things at this event that preserves traditions for future generations.
ICONIC & RARE AIRCRAFT COLLECTION
This is nothing like your history class in school. Get real life experiences of those before you and see what life was like.
Create your own ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ moment next to the magnificent flying machines at the Dakota Territory Air Museum. Featuring displays of thousands of artifacts, numerous aircrafts, and public events bringing the region’s aviation history to life. View one of the largest collections of airworthy World War II aircraft in the Upper Midwest for an immersive historical experience. See everything from warbirds, like the extremely rare Hawker Hurricane and the P-47D Thunderbolt, to a wide variety of civilian planes.
Dance around the May Pole, sit in the steamy Finnish Sauna, or sit by the giant bonfire at the annual Midsummer Festival, with activities for all ages, food trucks, vendors, and fun! This event is in June, around the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. A cherished tradition in Scandinavia that celebrates the ushering in of light after the long, dark winters.
LIFE ON THE PRAIRIE A CENTURY AGO WHERE IT ALL BEGAN TAKE IN VIEWS ON A PRIVATE FLIGHT
Tour the historic buildings at Pioneer Village Museum to get an authentic taste of yesteryear. This free-will offering museum is just a 15-minute drive west of Minot. Take in local history and settler culture as you step back in time, walking through an old jail, blacksmith shop, a one-room schoolhouse, and more!
Take a glimpse into the past at the Railroad Museum of Minot, which is open every Saturday. Run a toy train along the thousand-foot model track. View the six interactive exhibits with over 100 years of regional railroad history, including trains, memorabilia, and more. Learn how the railroad was the engine behind Minot’s initial spark.
See the expansive prairie landscape and cityscape of Minot from above! Book a Scenic Flight Tour with Minot Aero Center for an exclusive experience and incredible photo opportunities.
Make Magical Moments
All over the city, magic is happening. Gather with your loved ones to enjoy a range of different events the area offers.
LARGEST EVENT IN THE STATE
Get ready for the ultimate summer adventure at the North Dakota State Fair! This 9-day event is jam-packed with thrilling rides, delicious food, and unforgettable experiences suitable for everyone. Enjoy big-name country music artists, rock concerts, auto events, NPRA bull riding, and ranch rodeos. Experience family fun at the state’s largest carnival and shopping spots while admiring adorable farm animals, with 300,000 visitors attending the fair annually. Now it’s really summer!
SUMMER SUNDAYS AT THE RACES
Add horsepower to your weekends by spending an evening at the Nodak Speedway. Hear the thunderous roars of the high-speed racing cars as drivers compete for glory on the 3/8-mile dirt track. Enjoy adrenaline-fueled entertainment watching stock, modified, and wingless sprint cars all summer long.
A DECADE OF MINOT’S COMIC EXPO
If you love comics, escape rooms, and pop culture, then iMagicon is the convention for you! This fan-based culture convention has something for everyone including gaming, anime, and celebrity speakers. Enjoy a wide variety of fandoms by cosplaying, LARPing, or purchasing memorabilia at a large vendor show.
KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE SKY FOR B52
BOMBERS
Minot Air Force Base consists of two central units: the 5th Bomb Wing and the 91st Missile Wing. These units have been serving the U.S. Military since the deployment of the B52 in 1954. The B52 bomber can cruise 650 miles per hour and flies around the Minot area frequently!
Eight seconds can feel like an eternity on the back of a bucking bull. Watch the best professional bull riders compete for the King of the North crown at the Minot Y’s Men’s PBR. You’ll be on the edge of your seat with two evenings of non-stop entertainment, including pyrotechnics, rodeo clown antics, and the crowning of a king.
MOST DANGEROUS SPORT ON DIRT WORLD CLASS COMPETITION RODEO
Grab your hat and boots to watch the best cowboys and cowgirls compete in various rodeo events, including roping, bullfighting, saddle bronc riding, and barrel racing. The Badlands Circuit Finals Rodeo PRCA brings three performances over three days to the North Dakota State Fair Center. This family fun weekend also includes food and lots of shopping at a western vendor tradeshow.
AGRICULTURE & HUNTING
Celebrate North Dakota’s agricultural and hunting heritage at small town local festivals. Watch as an actual threshing machine separates grain on the prairie and see an operational sawmill during the annual Makoti Threshing Show. Three days of festival fun for the whole family.
For the avid bird hunter, the Kenmare Goosefest is an action-packed 8-day hunting celebration at the Snow Goose Capital of North Dakota. Enjoy daily events like a chili cook-off, art show, clay shooting, free feeds, and live music!
Discover even more local cuisine & tavern options.
Take a Bite of What We Have to Offer
You’ll find the perfect spot to satisfy your taste buds in Minot.
WITH A VIEW
From handmade pasta to loaded burgers are plenty of dining options to explore in Minot. Start your evening with a handcrafted margarita and table-side guacamole restaurant downtown. Enjoy a southern twist overlooking the stunning country club golf course. In the summertime, catch the sunset at the rooftop bar also find several patios and outdoor dining options throughout the town.
PINTS & CORKS
fantastic eateries you’ll find in the Magic City.
LOCAL FARE
If you are a beer lover, you must visit the brewery that won a World Beer Cup gold medal to try their barrel-aged craft beers. And if you prefer wine, take the chance to taste award-winning rhubarb wine while enjoying the stunning view of the prairie. Try the downtown wine bar that serves tasty tapas and decadent desserts for a more intimate atmosphere. There are plenty of other bars to discover in Minot, so explore them all.
Lastly, don’t leave Minot without trying North Dakota’s state soup, knoephla. It’s a German chicken and potato dumpling stew that you can find at many restaurants in the area. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the twist on knoephla with Jamaican Jerk seasoning. Bite into an award-winning hot beef sandwich or enjoy a homemade shake; choose from 15 flavors at a retro diner. With so many dining options available, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings in Minot.
WALKING FOOD TOUR
Satisfy your taste buds with delicious bites from local eateries while learning fascinating stories about Minot. Book your party for the Taste of Minot downtown tour today. Come hungry!
Immerse yourself in the downtown scene.
“Oh, Fer Cute”
Our downtown is a mix of culture, eats, and unique experiences. Take a walk down the street and you’re sure to find something to take home.
CENTURY OLD FOUNTAIN ON MAIN STREET
Over a hundred years ago, Minot received a notable gift from the National Humane Alliance in New York City, a stone fountain. This grandiose structure once served as a water source for horses and dogs. Today, it stands as an iconic downtown landmark. The Alliance donated fountains to 100+ US cities, so there just might be one near your hometown!
HEART OF OUR CITY
Downtown Minot is a lively and bustling area widely known for its specialty shops, delicious dining options, quirky bars, and thriving local art scene. This historic neighborhood was the first part of the city to be developed as the Empire Builder railroad tracks were being laid.
While strolling through the art-lined alleyways of the city, be sure to visit locally-owned stores, such as boutiques, antique shops, home decor stores, and hobby shops. You can find hidden gems while enjoying a vibrant atmosphere.
A NIGHT ON THE TOWN
Spend an evening out enjoying entertainment in downtown Minot. Hit the bullseye while axe-throwing at Up Your Axe or sink the 8-ball at The Spot , score a hole-in-one on golf simulators at Whiskey Nine. Sip specialty cocktails or savor hometown flavors, global cuisine, or snack on a sweet treat as you enjoy exceptional localities!
Several seasonal celebrations are hosted in downtown Minot that make for a perfect afternoon, day, or weekend of fun. Annual events include Wine Walks, Fall Festival, Christmas Tree Lighting, and much more. There’s something fun around every corner!
Did Someone Say Sale?
No matter what you’re looking for, Minot is sure to have it somewhere. You’ll find hidden treasures as well at the local shops.
FRESH FINDS & SPECIALTIES
Score the best variety of fresh produce and handmade goods at our local farmers’ markets! Gather everything from fresh baked goods, locally grown foods, and handmade specialty gifts. North Prairie Farmers Market is centrally located along Broadway.
The Minot Farmers Market is at serene Oak Park. Stop by and support 35+ local farmers, bakers, and makers three days a week.
Check out locally owned shops from boutiques, vintage, and thrift stores scattered around town. The Foundry is a one-stop shop for handmade homewares from 50+ local makers. Check out The Market on the 4th for home decor, crafts, and plants. Explore Scandinavian goodies and all things Hygge at Koselig: The Cozy Shop. You’ll enjoy tons of fabulous one-of-a-kind finds in the Magic City!
SHOP TILL YOU DROP
Dakota Square Mall is home to over 70 stores and vendors and provides many options for all kinds of shoppers. Find your favorites at Target, JC Penney, and a recently expanded Scheels. Locally owned businesses can also be found throughout the mall. Nearby, you’ll also find Best Buy, TJ Maxx, HomeGoods, and Crumbl Cookies.
A GIFTERS PARADISE
THE BIG ONE Art & Craft Fair is the place to find handcrafted items for yourself, your home, and your friends. Shop from over 250 vendors in the spring and fall, showcasing handmade gifts, décor, baked goods, soap, and more.
Plan your next shopping adventure.
Pro Tip:
VIBRANT ART SCENE
We are a city full of creativity! See the local artistic flair and expression with over 25 unique murals and various displays of street art, with new additions popping up frequently.
Check out the street art map.
Minot: a Creative Canvas It’s Show Time!
Immerse yourself in artistic beauty all around the city. You’re sure to find delight in it’s artful charm.
GALLERIES, ART SPOTS & HIP HAPPENINGS
Explore the rotating and permanent exhibits at the Taube Museum of Art. This free-admission museum is in a former 1920s-era bank building and features pieces by local artists and the new Sketchbook Project exhibit.
Take in free summertime concerts at Thursdays Downtown and Sundays in the Park. These Arts in the City events are chock-full of familyfriendly fun with various activities, art vendors, food trucks, and interactive public art pieces.
Spot North Dakota’s largest mural, Union Silos, in downtown Minot when the summer 2024 installation is complete. Australian artist Guido Van Helten will capture the essence of our community with a larger-than-life public art project painted on the massive grain silos.
NATURE AT WORK
On the coldest days, you can spot sundogs in the skies. These halos, or ‘mock suns,’ are an optical illusion created by light scattering on ice crystals. Capture this sight on your camera; be sure to bundle up.
Find musical magic at a local show. From the theatre, to the opera, to the orchestra, you’re in for a spectacle of a performance.
OPERA & ORCHESTRA EXPERIENCES THEATRICAL PERFORMANCES
Be transported on a melodic journey with the Minot Symphony Orchestra during their incredible six annual performances. Listen as remarkable local talent brings classic and modern musical pieces to life, with some performances accompanied by film imagery. Take in the sights and sounds of passion and talent during a Western Plains Opera company production.
SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS NEAR MINOT
Drive into the country, like the Outdoor Recreation Area; to escape the city’s light pollution and view the Aurora Borealis. The best time of the year to see this magical light show is November through March, 2-3 hours after sunset. Check if any solar flares are occurring, which spark the lights to dance in the night sky.
Catch outstanding performances outdoors at MSU Summer Theatre’s Amphitheater, complete with concessions and a beer and wine garden seating area. And for year-round entertainment, check out Mouse River Players, Minot’s oldest community theatre located in cozy downtown Minot.
Plan your night out.
Explore downtown’s best street art with our map and capture fantastic photo ops.
runs and enjoy a top-notch baseball experience that’s fun for the whole family at Corbett Field. Cheer on the players, and enjoy theme nights and between-innings entertainment, all while indulging in some delicious tater tot hotdish.
women’s sports. You can take in high-quality softball and entertainment at Corbett Field this summer, watching the country’s top female collegiate softball players compete in this first-of-its-kind league.
HOCKEY & FUN FOR ALL CATCH A COLLEGE GAME
Watch as the Minot Minotauros, a Tier II American junior ice hockey team, tear up the ice at Maysa Arena. The team has entertained fans since 2011 with fast skating, hard hits, and skilled stickhandling. Alongside the on-ice action are interactive games such as Chuck-APuck, a giant mascot named Tank, concessions, and ice-cold beer.
There is almost always a game at Minot State University; with eight men’s and nine women’s teams, you’ll always have a team to cheer on. This university is home to NCAA Division II athletic teams like football, ACHA hockey, and basketball. Build the dam at these engaging MSU Beaver games.
Fun Under the Sun (or Snow)
Embrace adventure or take it slow and enjoy the scenic beauty Minot boasts.
A DAY ON THE GREEN TAKE A HIKE
From country clubs to public courses, Minot has many places to golf. The area has seven courses, complete with rolling hills, stunning views, and beautiful straights. Take in the meticulously groomed greens at Souris Valley Golf Course, admire the premier design of the Vardon Golf Club, and marvel at the many wondrous experiences that Minot’s golf courses have to offer.
Try footgolf, a combination of soccer and golf, at Apple Grove Golf Course.
Set a tee time.
Embark on nearby trails or take in our thriving local parks with various activities like playgrounds, paved accessible paths, and places to let fido run amok. Play a round of pickleball at Hammond Park, stroll along a riverside path at Oak Park, and enjoy many fun features of several local parks.
Hike or bike the Bison Plant Trail, and search for wildlife amongst the trees at Woodland Trail.
Admire the beautiful prairie landscape at the Outdoor Recreation Area, with two miles of trails for hiking, biking, and more. Take in captivating views across town at various vantage points and nature settings.
Golf Course, and snowshoeing in a local park. Lace up your skates at outdoor rinks like Citizen’s Alley Pocket Park, Roosevelt Park, and Polaris Park. Enjoy wintry views while driving a snowmobile on local trails.
Uncover more activities.
Catch a game.
What a Catch
Unlock your inner North Dakotan with outdoor sports for every season.
LOCAL LANDMARK FULL OF HISTORY
The Gassman Coulee Trestle, built initially with wooden beams and rebuilt in 1898 with a steel frame, is an iconic functioning railroad bridge just ten minutes west of Minot. It is a majestic sight as its large beams burst from the prairie and connect two hills—an excellent spot for railroad enthusiasts and photographers.
Home is Where the Magic is
If you loved exploring the Magic City, why not make it home?
MAKE MINOT YOUR HOME
North Dakota has the most wildlife refuges of any state, with six of these within an hour and a half from Minot. Discover places to go hiking, birding, fishing, biking, kayaking, and more just a short drive from the city.
You can explore different terrains at area refuges, including woodlands at Denbigh Experimental Forest, wetlands at Audubon and J. Clark Salyer, grasslands at Upper Souris, and wild prairie landscape at Lostwood. The latter is known for having the highest population of sharp-tailed grouse in the nation, but you can also spot snow geese, bald eagles, and the endangered piping plover.
YOUR NEXT FAVORITE OUTDOOR SPOT HUNDREDS OF BIRD SPECIES FLOCK HERE
Nestled in the scenic Souris River Valley, Minot has something for every outdoor enthusiast. Bring your gear and enjoy a day on the water with many summer fishing spots surrounding Minot. Or drill a hole and enjoy some of the area’s best ice fishing. Bring home a walleye, pike, or smallmouth bass trophy.
Discover your next outdoor adventure.
Our history: In 1886, Minot was founded when the Great Northern Railway stopped for the winter. A tent town quickly emerged, reaching 5,000 people in five months, earning it the nickname “The Magic City.” It was officially named after Henry D. Minot the following year.
Quality of life: Minot is considered a safe city with a low crime rate and an average cost of living. The community frequently rallies together, and we are known for our friendly residents and welcoming atmosphere. There are many healthcare and educational facilities along with various industries and shopping opportunities. Minot is now classified as a metropolitan area after exceeding 50,000 in population last year.
Learn more about our magic.
instructor support. Minot State University prides itself on providing collaborative experiences tied to programs of study, which plays a significant role in an impressive 96% of graduates continuing education or being employed.
ORDERS TO MINOT AIR FORCE BASE
Only the Best Come North is the motto for the Minot Air Force Base, and it could not be more accurate! Established in 1955, Minot Air Force Base is its own little community. Airmen and their families can enjoy a grocery store, gas station, and Base Exchange, which includes several businesses, restaurants, and recreation centers.
From Wheels to Wander
Enjoy the scenic drive while discovering local gems, memorable history, and magic at every stop.
YOUR NORTH DAKOTA ROAD TRIP
Get off the beaten path and travel into the heart of North Dakota! Plan your epic road trip through North Dakota with routes in blue and orange.
BY ROAD BY AIR
Non-stop service to Minneapolis, Denver, Mesa, Orlando & Las Vegas. Airlines: United, Allegiant, Delta
BY RAIL
From Seattle to Chicago by way to Minot
WANT TO SET UP CAMP?
You’ll be a happy camper with all the outdoor opportunities waiting for you! Set up your tent or RV at a site at many campgrounds nearby and in Minot.
Mellow Moose Campground
Roughrider Campground
Minot Airforce Base Famcamp
Berthold Cenex RV Park
Park
City Park Campground
Settlers Park
RV Park
Settle
in & Stay Awhile?
It’s hard to fit so much into one day, so you better just plan to stay!
HOTELS
116
84
GRAND HOTEL 701-852-3161 221
HAMPTON INN & SUITES MINOT AIRPORT 701-838-1400 86
HAWTHORN SUITES BY WYNDHAM 701-858-7300 136
HIGHLAND SUITES 701-837-7900 91
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES 701-837-1200 66
HOTEL REVEL 701-852-4300 100
HYATT HOUSE MINOT 701-838-7300 130
MAINSTAY SUITES 701-852-6246 75
MICROTEL INN & SUITES 701-839-2200 94
MOTEL6/STUDIO 6 701-852-2201 136
QUALITY INN 701-390-1820 65
SIERRA INN 701-837-1800 87
SLEEP INN & SUITES 701-837-3100 176
SONESTA ESSENTIAL MINOT 701-838-5200 102
STAYBRIDGE SUITES 701-852-0852 102
SUPER 8 701-852-1817 59
SURESTAY PLUS HOTEL BY BEST WESTERN 701-838-2424 61
WELCOME SUITES MINOT EXTENDED STAY HOTEL 701-838-2300 64 *
KEMARE QUILT INN (Ward County) 701-385-4100 41
BED & BREAKFAST
You’ll Always Find Your Place
There’s a spot for you in Minot! Uncover your magic moments here.
