A Perfect Day Trip from Minneapolis: Exploring Fargo, North Dakota 2024
In June 2024, I decided to break up my usual routine with a spontaneous day trip from Minneapolis to Fargo, North Dakota. It’s about a 3½-hour drive each way, so while it made for a long day, it was absolutely worth it. Sometimes, the best adventures are the ones you don’t overthink — just jump in the car and go!
Hitting the Road
I left Minneapolis early in the morning, just after sunrise. The drive along I-94 West was smooth and scenic, passing through rolling fields and small towns that gave me that calming Midwest vibe. I made a quick coffee stop in St. Cloud, but otherwise, it was a straight shot to Fargo.
First Impressions of Fargo
By mid-morning, I rolled into Fargo, and the first thing I noticed was how lively downtown felt — a charming mix of old-school Americana and modern flair. Broadway Square was bustling with locals enjoying the mild weather, and there were murals and sculptures at almost every corner. Fargo feels fresh but proudly rooted in its history.
Things I Did in Fargo
1. Fargo Theatre
My first stop had to be the iconic Fargo Theatre. The historic 1926 art deco building, with its glowing marquee, is a true symbol of the city. I didn’t catch a movie, but I did pop inside to admire the vintage interiors. It’s one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve traveled back in time for a minute.
2. Downtown Wandering
I spent a couple of hours just strolling downtown Fargo. I browsed through locally-owned shops like Zandbroz Variety (part bookstore, part quirky gift shop) and Unglued (a haven for handmade goods and local art). Every block seemed to offer something unique.
3. Lunch at Jay Smoking BBQ
For lunch, we stopped at Jay Smoking BBQ, and let me tell you — it was worth the stop. The aroma of smoked meats was irresistible as soon as we walked in. I opted for one of their beef options, and it did not disappoint. The flavors were smoky, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. They had a great selection of sides too, and the mac ‘n’ cheese paired perfectly with the BBQ. If you’re a fan of classic, mouth-watering barbecue, this is definitely the place to go!
4. Fargo Air Museum
After lunch, I made my way to the Fargo Air Museum, located right next to the Fargo Airport. This was definitely a highlight of my day. The museum has an incredible collection of historic aircraft — from early vintage planes to military jets. Some of them are still flight-worthy, which made the experience even more exciting. The staff were super friendly, and I loved hearing stories about North Dakota’s aviation history. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone even remotely interested in planes or history!
5. Plains Art Museum
Next, I headed to the Plains Art Museum. It’s a small but beautifully curated museum that focuses a lot on local and regional art. The exhibitions had a great blend of contemporary and Native American influences, giving me a deeper appreciation for the area’s cultural landscape.
6. Walk Along the Red River
Before heading back, I took a peaceful walk along the Red River, which separates Fargo from its twin city, Moorhead, Minnesota. The parks along the river were perfect for an afternoon stroll, and I loved seeing families, joggers, and even a few people kayaking.
Heading Back to Minneapolis
After grabbing a quick coffee for the road at Atomic Coffee, I made my way back to Minneapolis. Driving through the golden hour light across the open plains was just the perfect way to end the day. I got home a little before 10 PM — tired but feeling so refreshed by a change of scenery.
Final Thoughts
Fargo might not be the first place that pops into mind for a day trip from Minneapolis, but honestly? It should be. The city has so much personality packed into its small footprint. If you’re looking for a relaxed day filled with art, history, great food, friendly faces, and a bit of classic Midwest charm, Fargo is a fantastic choice.
Tip for Next Time: I’m already thinking about coming back for one of their big events — like the Fargo Street Fair or Frostival!