Exploring the Fargo-Moorhead area? Don’t miss the Minnesota side! Moorhead offers rich Scandinavian heritage, cultural attractions, and access to the Red River’s outdoor fun. Whether you're visiting historic sites or enjoying college-town energy, Moorhead brings community charm and laid-back Midwest vibes.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Moorhead is during late spring to early fall (May–October). Warm temperatures make it ideal for outdoor festivals, river activities, and college-town events. Winter is cold but festive, with snowy charm and local holiday celebrations.

How to Get There

  • By Car: Located along I-94, Moorhead is just across the Red River from Fargo, ND and about 3.5 hours northwest of Minneapolis.
  • By Air: Hector International Airport (FAR) in Fargo is just 15 minutes away and offers regional and national flights.
  • By Train: Amtrak’s Empire Builder line stops daily in nearby Fargo.

Where to Stay

  • Courtyard by Marriott Moorhead – Modern hotel near downtown and college campuses with comfortable amenities and an on-site restaurant.
  • Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham – Budget-friendly option with easy highway access and free breakfast.
  • Travelers Lodge – Local, no-frills stay ideal for short visits or events at nearby universities.

Top Attractions

Explore Nordic History at The Heritage Hjemkomst Interpretive Center

Explore Nordic History at The Heritage Hjemkomst Interpretive Center

© The Heritage Hjemkomst Interpretive Center

  • What is the Heritage Hjemkomst Interpretive Center?
  • What is the Hjemkomst Viking ship?
    • The Hjemkomst, meaning "homecoming," is a full-sized Viking ship that replicates the Gokstad, a Viking ship discovered in 1880 in Norway.
  • When was the Hjemkomst ship built and sailed?
    • Construction of the ship began in 1974 and was completed in 1980. In 1982, it sailed from New York to Norway before being returned to the museum in Moorhead.
  • What is the Hopperstad Stave Church replica?
    • Built in 1998, the replica church is a full-scale reproduction of the famous 12th-century Hopperstad Stave Church in Norway.

Address: The Heritage Hjemkomst Interpretive Center, 202 1st Ave N, Moorhead, MN 56560, Phone: 218-299-5515

Relax With a Craft Pour at Junkyard Brewing Company

Relax With a Craft Pour at Junkyard Brewing Company

© Junkyard Brewing Company

  • What is Junkyard Brewing Company?
    • Junkyard Brewing Company is a small-batch craft brewery and taproom in Moorhead, specializing in experimental nanobrews.
  • How many beers are available on tap?
    • The taproom features 11 continually rotating taps, offering a diverse selection of craft beers.
  • What types of beers does Junkyard Brewing Company produce?
    • The brewery produces a variety of beers, ranging from dark and malty to hoppy and pale, as well as light Belgian and sour styles.
  • Does Junkyard Brewing Company host events?
    • Yes, the brewery hosts live music and dinner events, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere for visitors.
  • How often are special beer releases available?
    • Special can releases are distributed to the tri-cities area a few times each year.
  • Why is it called Junkyard Brewing Company?
    • The name Junkyard reflects the brewery’s experimental approach to beer-making and its casual, warehouse-based setting.
  • Who founded Junkyard Brewing Company?
    • The brewery was founded in 2012 by two brothers, Dan and Aaron, who started experimenting with homebrews while in college.

Address: Junkyard Brewing Company, 1416 1st Ave N, Moorhead, MN 56560, Phone: 701-936-5545

Spot Native Wildlife at Bluestem Prairie Scientific and Natural Area

Spot Native Wildlife at Bluestem Prairie Scientific and Natural Area

© Brandy McKnight/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Bluestem Prairie Scientific and Natural Area?
  • What wildlife can visitors see at Bluestem Prairie?
    • The area is home to prairie chickens and various native and migratory birds. Specially placed bird blinds allow visitors to observe these species in their natural habitat.
  • Are reservations required for bird blinds?
    • Yes, reservations are required for visitors wishing to use the bird blinds for wildlife observation.
  • How diverse is the plant life at Bluestem Prairie?
    • The area supports over 300 species of plants, including several that are designated as plants of special concern by the state of Minnesota.
  • What rare plant species can be found at Bluestem Prairie?
    • The fringed orchid, which is federally listed as a threatened species, is among the many rare plants thriving in the prairie.
  • Who protects and studies Bluestem Prairie?
    • The area is studied by neighboring universities and colleges and is protected in part by The Nature Conservancy.

Address: Bluestem Prairie Scientific and Natural Area, 17th Ave S, Glyndon, MN 56547, Phone: 218-739-7576

Attractions for Couples

Catch a Concert Under the Stars at Bluestem Amphitheater

Catch a Concert Under the Stars at Bluestem Amphitheater

© luckybusiness/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Bluestem Amphitheater?
    • The Bluestem Amphitheater is an outdoor music and entertainment venue located along the Red River north of Moorhead.
  • How many people can the Bluestem Amphitheater accommodate?
    • The venue, which is part of the Bluestem Center for the Arts, seats up to 3,000 guests among scenic grounds overlooking the grassy plains, river, and surrounding woodlands.
  • Is seating available at Bluestem Amphitheater?
    • Yes, seating is available, but guests are also welcome to bring blankets and enjoy the entertainment from the lawn.
  • What is the Summer Concert Series?
    • The Summer Concert Series is managed by the Trollwood Performing Arts School in partnership with Fargo Public Schools and the City of Moorhead.
  • When do shows take place at Bluestem Amphitheater?
    • Shows run from May through early October and feature nationally touring musicians, local artists, festivals, and events.
  • Who sponsors shows at Bluestem Amphitheater?
    • Performances and events are sponsored by local businesses, supporting the vibrant arts and entertainment scene in the region.

Address: Bluestem Amphitheater, 801 50th Ave S, Moorhead, MN 56560, Phone: 866-300-8300

Step Into Victorian Elegance at the Historic Comstock House

Step Into Victorian Elegance at the Historic Comstock House

© Paul Maguire/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Comstock House?
    • The Comstock House is a 19th-century Victorian home that once belonged to the Comstock family, who played a key role in bringing the railroad and educational opportunities to northern Minnesota’s Red River Valley.
  • Who restored the Comstock House?
    • The home has been restored by the Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County and features period furnishings and artifacts.
  • What style of furnishings are inside the Comstock House?
    • The house is furnished with Eastlake and Queen Anne-style furniture, along with historical tapestries and artifacts. Many of the furnishings are original to the home.
  • What does the Comstock House symbolize?
    • The home was established as a symbol of growth and prosperity in Moorhead, much of which was driven by the Comstock family's efforts to expand business and develop the town.
  • How significant was the Comstock House when it was built?
    • At the time of its construction, the 11-room home was the most expensive residence in the area.
  • When did the Comstock family donate the house?
    • The family lived in the house until 1965, when they donated it to the Minnesota Historical Society.

Address: Comstock House, 506 Eighth St. S, Moorhead, MN 56560, Phone: 218-291-4211

View Regional and Contemporary Works at Rourke Art Gallery

View Regional and Contemporary Works at Rourke Art Gallery

© jdoms/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Rourke Art Gallery and Museum?
    • The Rourke Art Gallery and Museum is a community arts institution dedicated to inspiring and educating visitors by presenting art and cultural traditions from around the world.
  • Who founded the Rourke Art Gallery and Museum?
    • The institution was founded in 1960 by brothers Orland and James Rourke.
  • What kind of exhibitions does the museum offer?
    • The museum features temporary exhibits celebrating artists from the Fargo-Moorhead region and a permanent collection of over 5,000 works representing 20th and 21st-century artists from around the world.
  • Where is the Rourke Art Gallery and Museum located?
    • The museum is housed in a nationally registered historic building, originally built in 1913 as Moorhead’s post office.
  • What is the architectural style of the museum building?
    • The building features a neoclassical design with a columned front portico and was restored in partnership with the Minnesota State Historical Society.

Address: Rourke Art Gallery, 521 Main Ave, Moorhead, MN 56560, Phone: 218-236-8861

Where to Eat

Savor Refined Flavors at Rustica Eatery and Tavern

Savor Refined Flavors at Rustica Eatery and Tavern

© Rustica Eatery and Tavern

  • What is Rustica Eatery and Tavern?
    • Rustica Eatery and Tavern is a restaurant and bar located in downtown Moorhead, offering a mix of American and European-inspired cuisine.
  • Where is Rustica Eatery and Tavern located?
    • The restaurant is housed in the historic Kassenborg Block building, which was built in 1898.
  • What is the atmosphere like at Rustica?
    • The interior features exposed brick walls, copper beer taps, and a wood-burning pizza oven, creating a warm and rustic ambiance.
  • What type of food does Rustica serve?
    • The menu includes exceptional pizzas and casual tavern fare, alongside the Eatery’s seasonal dishes made from fresh, local ingredients by Chef Eric Watson.
  • What are some signature dishes at Rustica?
    • Signature dishes include pork loin saltimbocca, duck breast pastrami, and cornmeal-dusted walleye topped with lump crab meat.
  • Does Rustica Eatery and Tavern offer Happy Hour?
    • Yes, Happy Hour specials are available from Tuesdays through Saturdays.
  • Does Rustica offer catering services?
    • Yes, catering is available for both on-site and off-site events.
  • Can Rustica Eatery and Tavern host private events?
    • Yes, the Eatery and Tavern can host up to 60 guests for special events.

Address: Rustica Eatery and Tavern, 315 Main Avenue in Moorhead, MN, 56560, Phone: 218-227-5388

If You’re Craving Classic Comfort Food, Head to Grand Junction

If You’re Craving Classic Comfort Food, Head to Grand Junction

© Grand Junction

  • What is Grand Junction?
    • Grand Junction is a sub and sandwich shop specializing in grilled meat subs, with nine locations in the Fargo-Moorhead region.
  • What makes Grand Junction's sandwiches unique?
    • The sandwiches are made to order and served on preservative-free, fresh-baked French loaves.
  • What style of sandwiches does Grand Junction serve?
    • The shop offers East Coast-style sandwiches, paired with hand-cut French fries that are made fresh on-site.
  • What are some signature sandwiches at Grand Junction?
    • Specialties include the chicken cordon bleu, the Virginia honey ham, and the classic cheese steak.
  • Who founded Grand Junction?
    • The chain was founded in 1999 by Vu Trong, a Vietnamese refugee who came to the United States in 1981 at the age of ten.
  • What inspired the creation of Grand Junction?
    • After living in Philadelphia for five years, Vu Trong decided to bring the concept of the East Coast sub back to Fargo, where he opened the first Grand Junction shop.

Address: Grand Junction , 435 Main Ave, Moorhead, MN 56560, Phone: 218-287-5651

Local Events

  • Scandinavian Hjemkomst Festival (June) – Celebrate Nordic heritage with traditional food, crafts, and performances.
  • Frostival (January–February) – A multi-week winter celebration with sledding, snow sculptures, and outdoor fun shared with Fargo.
  • Greater Moorhead Days (September) – A week of community events, parades, and family-friendly festivities.

Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Moorhead, Minnesota

  • Fargo, North Dakota (5–10 min) – Explore downtown shops, the Plains Art Museum, breweries, and unique attractions like the Fargo Theatre.
  • Hjemkomst Center (5 min) – Visit a full-scale replica Viking ship and a Norwegian stave church celebrating the area's Scandinavian heritage.
  • Red River Zoo (15–20 min) – See red pandas, wolves, and bison at this well-kept, family-friendly zoo in Fargo.
  • Buffalo River State Park (25–30 min) – Swim, hike, or explore prairie trails and wildlife just east of Moorhead.
  • Comstock House (5 min) – Tour this restored 19th-century Victorian home and learn about Moorhead’s early days.
  • Downtown Moorhead (0–5 min) – Shop local, visit galleries, and catch events or live music at parks and community venues.
  • MB Johnson Park (10–15 min) – Enjoy riverside hiking and biking trails, picnic spots, and views of the Red River just outside town.
  • Rourke Art Gallery + Museum (5–10 min) – Browse contemporary and historical art in a former federal post office building in Moorhead.
  • Rustic Oaks (25–30 min) – Visit this beautiful rural retreat for seasonal events, weddings, or just a scenic country drive near Glyndon.

FAQ

  • Q: Where is Moorhead located?
  • A: Moorhead, Minnesota is the largest city in northwest Minnesota, located across the Red River from Fargo, North Dakota, the largest city in North Dakota.
  • Q: What is the relationship between Moorhead and Fargo?
  • A: Together, Moorhead and Fargo frame the Red River Valley.
  • Q: What can visitors explore in Moorhead?
  • A: Moorhead has a rich culture and history, with several historic sites open to visitors.
  • Q: What cultural activities are available in Moorhead?
  • A: Visitors can enjoy museums, several theaters, the Fargo-Moorhead Symphony, and the Trollwood Performing Arts School, which offer entertainment, arts, and culture.
  • Q: What outdoor activities are popular in Moorhead?
  • A: Outdoor activities in Moorhead include kayaking and fishing along the Red River, as well as hiking, biking, or cross-country skiing across the open prairies.

Moorhead, MN is 3 hr 30 min (236.3 mi) via I-94 W from Minneapolis.


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