Chill Thrills: Forks’ Coolest Winter Activities

Winter in Greater Grand Forks isn’t something to endure — it’s something to embrace. When the temps drop, the fun ramps up and our community transforms into a playground of cool experiences, cozy escapes and memory‑making adventures. Whether you’re a thrill‑seeker, a foodie, a culture buff or someone who simply loves a good time with good people, these winter to‑dos will keep your spirits high all season long.

FUN UNDER SUN DOGS

Downtown’s Town Square Ice Rink is the perfect spot to glide, spin or join a friendly pick‑up hockey game. Prefer something a little different? Give broomball a shot — it’s frantic, funny and the kind of chaos that turns into great memories. The Greenway Trail System offers 20 miles of groomed paths ideal for sledding, skating, skiing, snowshoeing and ice fishing. Be sure not to miss Greenway Snow Day, February 7, at Lincoln Drive Park. Running from 10 AM to 4 PM, this is a free, family‑friendly celebration featuring cross-country skiing, sleigh rides, cardboard sled races and plenty of outdoor fun. Complimentary equipment is available while supplies last. Warm up afterward with a craft brew at Half Brothers or a cozy cappuccino from Urban Stampede.

Bonus ideas:

  • Try fat‑tire biking on the Greenway’s winter‑ready trails.
  • Visit Turtle River State Park for some of the area’s best sledding hills.
  • Download the Talking Trails Self-Guided Walking Tour and wander your way through winter wonder—just don’t forget to snap plenty of frosty, frame‑worthy pics along the route.

RETAIL THERAPY WITH A GRAND TWIST

When the wind howls and skies turn gray, Scheels is an ideal indoor space to shop, dine and play. This 120,000‑square‑foot megastore is packed with fashion, sports gear, UND merch and specialty shops for outdoor enthusiasts. Refuel at Ginna’s Café with fresh sandwiches, soups, salads and 24 flavors of homemade fudge. Then unleash your competitive side with the nostalgic shooting gallery, Big Buck Hunter, mini bowling or the 5‑sport simulator.

Bonus idea: Turn it into a full‑on Southside shopping spree — wander through charming local boutiques, sip a warm latte or a chilled cocktail and treat yourself to a well‑earned mani/pedi while you’re at it.

FROM FACEOFF TO FIREWORKS

Hockey isn’t just a sport here — it’s a way of life. A night at Ralph Engelstad Arena is electric, from the first puck drop to the final horn. Watch future NHL stars in UND green and white fly across the ice while thousands of fans roar in unison. Between periods, explore the stunning $150+ million, 400,000‑square‑foot arena and grab a snack or beverage from one of the many concession stands serving up crowd‑pleasing eats.

Upcoming home series

  • February 13-14 vs. Miami
  • February 20-21 vs. St. Cloud State
  • March 6-8 vs. NCHC Quarterfinals Opponent TBD

Bonus idea: Catch a UND Women’s Basketball or Men’s Basketball game at the Betty Engelstad Sioux Center — the energy is just as contagious.

ESCAPE THE USUAL

For a night out that’s anything but ordinary, gather your crew and head to the Grand Forks Escape Room. Solve puzzles, crack clues and beat the clock in immersive themes like O’Malley’s Revenge, Oz Has Alice, The Haunting and Trapped in the 80s. After your great escape, celebrate (or regroup) over delicious food and drinks at nearby Brick & Barley, Joe Black’s, Bonzers or The Hub Pub. If you feel like dining upscale Downtown, spots like The Toasted Frog and Harry’s Steakhouse are sure winners.

Bonus ideas:

  • Treat yourself to a stay at The Olive Ann — a boutique hotel where stylish rooms, top‑tier amenities and incredible onsite dining turn an ordinary night into a mini getaway.
  • Enjoy a food and wine tasting event at Skies 322, Ely’s Ivy or HELIX.

BOUNCE, BATTLE, RACE, REPEAT

Northern Air Action Park is the ultimate indoor playground for all ages. The 10,000‑square‑foot trampoline zone, dodgeball courts, foam pit and dunk station deliver nonstop action. Throw in a 30+ game arcade, heart‑pounding laser tag, immersive Hologate VR and the region’s largest multi‑level indoor karting track and you’re looking at nonstop, hours‑deep entertainment. Those 21+ will enjoy the axe‑throwing area, complete with snacks and beverages. Afterward, cruise over to Pizza Ranch for heaping comfort‑food goodness, a fresh round of arcade showdowns and a kick-back kind of feel.

Bonus idea: Stop by Choice Health & Fitness for indoor tennis, fast‑paced pickleball or a warm‑weather escape in their aquatics center — the perfect way to keep the fun going no matter the season.

SHOWS WORTHY OF STANDING O'S

The Chester Fritz Performing Arts Center brings world‑class entertainment to the region all winter long. From Broadway tours to famous comedians to international productions, the Fritz stage shines bright. Before or after the show, stroll the hallways to admire decades of signed posters from legendary performers who’ve graced the stage.

Upcoming highlights

  • Motown Magic featuring The Shades of Blue – February 7
  • Tina: The Tina Turner Musical – February 14
  • Hadestown – March 17
  • Brad Williams Tall Tales Tour Hadestown – March 27
  • World Ballet Company presents Cinderella – March 29

Bonus ideas:

  • Catch a local production, concert, classic flick or comedy show at the Empire Arts Center.
  • Enjoy live music nights at Ely’s Ivy, Half Brothers, Sin Bin and Southgate.

KNOTTY FEELS NICE

Start your evening at The Blue Moose Bar & Grill, a local favorite known for its Up North cabin vibe and classic Midwestern dishes. Whether you’re diving into their famous fried walleye, tackling a perfectly crafted burger or sharing a mountain of fall-off-bone-ribs, The Moose has a way of turning even the coldest winter night into pure, cozy comfort. It’s the kind of place where you can thaw out, linger over dinner and enjoy the buzz of a lively dining room. Once you’re warmed up and well fed, head across the street to River Cinema for a movie night that hits all the right notes. With plush, heated recliners that wrap you in instant comfort, the theater becomes a perfect place to settle in with popcorn and get swept up in the latest blockbuster.

Bonus idea: For one sweet finale, swing by Insomnia Cookies, where warm, gooey treats roll out of the oven late into the night. Craving a classic chocolate chunk, a decadent deluxe cookie or a build‑your‑own ice cream sandwich? It’s the perfect stop to keep the delicious fun going.

For even more ideas, events, restaurants and winter happenings, explore VisitGrandForks.com and follow Visit Greater Grand Forks on Facebook and Instagram.

CREATE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE

Northern Air Action Park

If you’re looking for a place in Grand Forks where excitement lives around every corner, Northern Air Action Park is the spot locals and visitors rave about. This massive indoor entertainment center has evolved far beyond a simple trampoline park—today, it’s a full-blown action playground packed with high-speed thrills, immersive games and family‑friendly adventures.

Boutique bliss with a Wild Bergamot twist

If you’re looking for a boutique that blends rustic charm with artisan flair, Wild Bergamot is a hidden gem worth discovering. Located at 3750 32nd Avenue South, this locally owned shop is more than just a place to browse – it’s a celebration of creativity, sustainability and the spirit of Grand Forks. The layout is cozy and inviting, encouraging you to take your time and explore.

10 spots to find FORKSful of flavor & a shuttle to the Ralph for hockey night

Homegrown Goodness: Where to Find Uniquely Forks Products

Nestled in the heart of the Red River Valley, Greater Grand Forks isn’t just a community of college pride and prairie sunsets; it’s a quietly flourishing hub of culinary creativity, agricultural expertise and entrepreneurial drive. From gourmet treats and craft beverages to handmade spa essentials and stylish apparel, the region turns out an impressive variety of goods that reach far beyond state lines. If you’re hungry for local flavor, here’s a taste of what our Forks bring to the table.

Downtown Grand Forks self-guided walking tour: Take a legeNDary expedition to the past

Have you ever wandered the streets of Downtown Grand Forks and wondered about the stories behind its historic buildings, public art, and riverfront landmarks? The Downtown Talking Trail Walking Tour is your passport to the past, a self-guided audio experience that brings the city’s rich history and vibrant culture to life!

Downtown East Grand Forks self-guided walking tour: Enjoy a MiNny stroll through history

Nestled along the banks of the Red River, East Grand Forks offers more than scenic views and cozy eateries – it’s a town steeped in stories waiting to be discovered. The Downtown East Grand Forks Walking Tour is your passport to the past, blending history, architecture, and local lore into a delightful 1.1-mile stroll through the heart of the city.

Where to find FORKSful of GRAND public art

Greater Grand Forks is a place where creativity thrives in communal spaces, transforming streets, parks and even utility boxes into a vibrant outdoor gallery. Public art here is not just decorative; it’s a celebration of history, culture and resilience. It serves as a reminder of the power of ingenuity to inspire and unite people from all walks of life. Whether you’re a resident or visitor, these artistic installations provide a unique way to experience our community’s story.

FORKSful of fabulous sips worth savoring

Greater Grand Forks may be known for its friendly community and charming Midwestern vibe but it’s also home to a vibrant cocktail scene. Whether a seasoned mixology enthusiast or someone who simply enjoys a good stiff drink, the city offers a variety of NA and alcohol infused creative concoctions that are sure to delight your taste buds. Let’s take a tour of some standout spots and their signature sips offering up FORKSful of flavor.

Discover Unique, Locally Owned Shops in Grand Forks: Your Ultimate Shopping Guide

From elegant and chic to eclectic and unique, our two Forks have a wide array of grand stores and boutiques. You’ll find everything from exclusive fashions and décor to equally awesome purchases that are easier on the pocketbook. Following are some of the most popular locally owned spots to shop for good buys galore!

Make Canad Inns your destination for FORKSful of fun

FORKSful of fun for the whole family awaits when vacationing or staycationing at Canad Inns Destination Centre! In addition to inviting, spacious rooms (including regular and theme suites) Canad features several onsite restaurants and bars, plus the wet 'n wild Splasher's of the South Seas Water Park. It makes for one GRAND stay while here to play!

Grand spots to get pickled in Forks

For those who enjoy a little tang in their life, Greater Grand Forks really hits the spot! Whether it be in food, drink or game form, our two towns have plenty of places for you to get your pickle on.

11 heavenly spots to find FORKSful of stellar sweet treats

You’ve heard the saying “sweets for the sweet”. Well, Greater Grand Forks offers our sweet visitors and residents lots of options to deliciously appease their sugar cravings. Between both Forks, there are plentiful places dishing out scrumptious desserts and while hard to narrow it down, here are my top spots to get a sugar rush.

FORKSful of travel tools to use when visiting our GRAND cities

Getting to and around our two towns is both quick and convenient. Locals joke that everything is less than five miles and fifteen minutes away (it really is true, though). Let the following resources be your guide to one GRAND time in FORKS!

Albatross offers FORKSful of indoor golfing fun

Seeking the best spot in town to play a round with your partner and have one truly great date? At Albatross Indoor Golf Club, everyone can take a swing at some of the world's most famous courses without ever leaving Grand Forks!

Discover FORKSful of fabulous sweet treats at Widman’s

Situated in the heart of Downtown Grand Forks, the legendary Widman's Candy Shop is a locally owned and operated business that began back in 1949. Beloved patriarch George sadly passed away several years ago; however, the Widman Family continues his tradition of making amazing homemade confections.

Enjoy 7 days of happier hours in Forks

Each day of the week, our local establishments set aside hours to help make everyone happy. While it’s nearly impossible to list them all here, below is a sampling of Forks’ most fabulous food and adult beverage $pecials.

7 restaurants dishing up FORKSful of international flavor

When it comes to dining out, our two Forks offer lots more options than just hearty Midwestern meat and potato dishes. Although, we really do make a mean hotdish around these parts! There are actually several locally owned eateries serving up some of the best global fare to be found anywhere. Here is a half dozen plus one of my favorites.

10 popular spots serving up FORKSful of flavor

Visit Greater Grand Forks was interested in learning more about what our Facebook Friends' FORKS Favs are when it comes to dining out. What better way to find out than doing an unscientific poll offering a chance to win a $50 gift card to the local eatery of their choice?! Listed below, in no particular order, were the Top 10 vote getters.