Places to visit in Minot, ND.
There are many great things to do in Minot, North Dakota. You’ll have much to do, from exploring nature to checking out the local art scene. But don’t worry, if you don’t feel like leaving the town, you can explore the surrounding area too.
If you plan a trip to beautiful Minot, North Dakota, you will want to find out what attractions are available. There are several attractions to choose from, including the Dakota Territory Air Museum and the Scandinavian Heritage Park.
Scandinavian Heritage Park
Scandinavian Heritage Park is a historical and cultural site that features buildings and statues from the five Nordic countries of Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, and Iceland. It is located in Minot, North Dakota, and was built to honor these countries’ rich history and culture.
In addition to the park, Minot also hosts the annual Norsk Hostfest, a Nordic festival that promotes the traditions of these five cultures. The festival includes many attractions and events, including the Scandinavian-American Hall of Fame and several headliner acts.
One of the most famous buildings in the park is the Gol Stave Church. This church is a full-sized replica of a medieval wooden church from Norway. You can take a tour of the church for free. In addition, there are dozens of displays inside and outside the museum.
Other buildings in the park include a 240-year-old Norwegian log home known as the Sigdal House and a genuine Finnish sauna. Also, there are numerous statues and monuments. Guided tours are available if you want to learn more about these countries’ history.
Roosevelt Park Zoo in Minot
The Roosevelt Park Zoo in Minot, North Dakota, is a 19-acre zoo with a wide variety of animals. It was established in 1920. About 200 animals and birds are in the zoo, including African penguins, a large population of reptiles, and some interesting animal-themed exhibits.
A zoo is a fun place for kids and adults alike. In addition, there are several places to eat, stores, and coffee shops nearby.
You can do many things at the zoo: pelican feedings, a giraffe feeding station, and a zoo camp. Also, the zoo is an excellent destination for birthdays. You may want to visit the zoo with your child or grandchild for the best in zoo fun.
One of the most impressive features of the zoo is its interactive lion exhibit. Kids can take a ride in the lion’s paw and learn about the nuances of these majestic animals.
The Putt District
The Putt District is a family fun venue located in Minot. It is a mini-golf course. However, unlike other mini-golf courses, it features a clubhouse, lounge area, and games for the entire family. Its signature attraction is the glow-in-the-dark mini-golf.
The Putt District is open daily at 17 South Main Street, Suite A. Aside from its plethora of miniature golf holes, there are arcade games, video games, and pizza from Papa John’s. Although the company was a no-show during the COVID-19, the putt-shaped door is now open for business. The Putt District also offers a 14-hole glow-in-the-dark miniature golf course.
The Putt District is undoubtedly the best mini-golf course in North Dakota. The owner, Eric Thoemke, said he’s been “astounded by mini-golf popularity in the Minot area.” He emphasized that he plans to keep the facility up and running for the foreseeable future.
Dakota Territory Air Museum
The Dakota Territory Air Museum is a great place to learn more about aviation history in North Dakota. It was founded in 1986 and showcased World War I and II military aircraft. It includes two hangars and an outdoor display.
In addition to aircraft, the museum also features memorabilia and photographs. A full-scale replica of the Wright Flyer is a testament to the birth of the air movement in America.
The museum is located near the Minot International Airport. The museum has several hangars filled with military and civilian aircraft. Some aircraft on display include the Messerschmitt 109, a prime fighter aircraft during the Second World War.
Another plane that is on display is the TBM Avenger, a torpedo bomber that served during the Battle of Midway. Former President George H.W. Bush autographed this aircraft.
Taube Museum of Art
The Taube Museum of Art in Minot, North Dakota, is the region’s first museum. Previously known as the Minot Art Gallery, this venerable institution is the brainchild of an organization formed in 1970. Today, it has two galleries and an ever-growing gift shop.
Its newest location is the historic Union National Bank building at 2 North Main Street. Initially built in 1909, the bank was destroyed by fire in 1923. In response, the bank made an annex for retail stores and offices.
Aside from its impressive art collection, the museum offers free tours and a small fee for an art activity. In addition, children’s art supplies and original art by North Dakota artists are also available.
The museum’s newest acquisition is an artist-in-residence program, where a local artist can live and work in the museum. This will allow the community to get close and personal with the latest and greatest in the arts.
Norsk Høstfest in Minot
The Norsk Høstfest is one of North Dakota’s most popular festivals. It features traditional Scandinavian foods, music, and crafts. Visitors come from all over the world to experience Nordic traditions and lifestyles.
The festival is held in Minot, North Dakota, and includes over 30 free shows. In addition, you can expect music from a wide variety of artists, crafts, Viking fights, parades, and a Viking Village. There is also plenty of shopping to do.
The annual event has been going on since 1978. However, two years ago, the festival was forced to take a break due to a pandemic that swept across the country. The festival is now returning with a new set of entertainment and activities.
Country superstars Brantley Gilbert and Big and Rich will perform at the festival. In addition, country music star Daniel O’Donnell will also be performing.
Best Things to Do in Minot, North Dakota
Places to visit in Minot, ND:
- Scandinavian Heritage Park
- Roosevelt Park Zoo in Minot
- The Putt District
- Dakota Territory Air Museum
- Taube Museum of Art
- Norsk Høstfest in Minot