Minot Travel Guide

Bouncing back from the floods that tore through the city in 2011, Minot is buzzing with life. Fueled by the energy boom of the Bakken oil fields, the city has turned into one of the leading North Dakota tourist destinations, offering everything from modern art to historic buildings and museums, and of course -- an abundance of new friends waiting to be discovered.

Things to Do in Minot

To start your trip off with a bang, Minot’s visitors can spend time at any of the city’s public parks. Watch the ducks swim in Oak Park’s fountains, go swimming in the pools of Roosevelt Park, go golfing at Souris Valley Golf Course, or take a scenic walk along the river on the Riverwalk of Minot. Visitors can also explore Minot’s heritage and history at the Scandinavian Heritage Park, which features Scandinavian-style houses, churches, and other buildings, as well as a gift shop and informational plaques. Alternatively, tour the Dakota Territory Air Museum, Taube Museum of Art, or Old Soo Depot Transportation Museum.

Shopping is a great way to pass time in between outdoor activities, as Minot is home to the Dakota Square Mall and Arrowhead Shopping Center, as well as independent stores like 52 West which specializes in Western attire, Bernina Plus -- a quilt shop, and Restore Thrift Store -- Minot’s most popular secondhand shop.

Best Places to Stay in Minot

Minot is a great place to rent a vacation home each year. The city has dozens of vacation rentals to offer. Each one is stylish and updated, with modern appliances and amenities such as internet access, and cable TV. One of the most popular areas to book a rental in is the general downtown area, as it puts visitors close to all of the action that takes place from dawn to dusk each day.

Best Time to Visit Minot

The best time to visit Minot is mid July if you’re looking to experience the city’s hottest summer weather.

Best Events in Minot

Celebrating the city’s Scandinavian heritage, Minot hosts Norsk Hostfest annually. Norsk Hostfest features Scandinavian cuisine, Norsk merchandise, live entertainment, and cultural displays from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, and Iceland.

Imagicon caters to video game lovers, offering cosplay contests, board and video games, shopping, LAN parties, artists, and tasty treats among many other fun activities. A few other noteworthy events include the Evening to Paws Gala, Minot Taco Fest, and the Spring Gun Show.

Things to Do for Families in Minot

The Magic City Discovery Center is a great place for families with small children, as the center offers a variety of interactive playgrounds, exhibits, creative classes and experiences, and a team of highly professional staff that love to teach.

The Roosevelt Park Zoo is another extremely popular family destination, featuring a petting zoo and animal feeding, informational plaques and flashy signage, and of course -- dozens of beautiful creatures to admire. Families can also enjoy a live production at Mouse River Players.