Fall in Love with Forks this Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching and if your plans are still a blank page, consider this your sign to relax. Whether celebrating with your sweetheart, your bestie or someone brand new, the Forks are overflowing with ways to make February 14 feel unforgettable. Here are six swoon‑worthy ideas to help you craft the perfect date night.

SHAKE RATTLE & ROMANCES

If your ideal Valentine’s date mixes great food with a little nostalgia and a whole lot of fun, this one hits all the right notes. Start your evening at Harry’s Steakhouse, where classic charm and elevated comfort food set the stage for a memorable night. Settle into a cozy booth and warm up with shareable starters like the sizzling maple glazed bacon or luscious crab cakes. For the main event, Harry’s perfectly grilled steaks, buttery lobster tails and velvety beef stroganoff make choosing almost impossible—in the best way. Pair your meal with a glass of wine or a handcrafted cocktail and enjoy the kind of unhurried dinner that feels made for lingering. Once you’ve wrapped up your feast, keep the night going with a short trip to the American Legion Club for an Elvis tribute show that brings all the swagger, sparkle and showmanship of the King himself. From hip‑shaking hits to heartfelt ballads, the performance is packed with energy and nostalgia, making it impossible not to smile.

HARRY'S STEAKHOUSE

A PICTURESQUE WINTER WONDERLAND

Kick off the date and afternoon with a few spins around Town Square outdoor ice rink. Even if your skating skills are questionable, that’s half the charm—laughter is practically guaranteed. Warm up with a handcrafted coffee or hot chocolate from Urban Stampede, then wander through Downtown’s eclectic shops and galleries. If you’re feeling bold, browse Diamonds on Demers or River City Jewelers and see if anything sparkly catches someone’s eye. Want to make the day historical? Download the Talking Trails Downtown Walking app and learn some fun facts about Forks along the way. Wrap up the night at Half Brothers Brewing Company with a piping hot pizza, a pint of Pink Fluffy Unicorns and a friendly pinball showdown. Go all “old school” and bring disposable cameras to capture your date—the photos will make adorable keepsakes.

URBAN STAMPEDE

STRIKING THE PERFECT CHORD

For a date night that blends flavor, flair and plenty of delight, settle in for an evening of vino and vibes that hit just right. Begin at HELIX, where the atmosphere is inviting, the wine list is thoughtfully curated and every dish is crafted to impress. Start your meal with one of their standout appetizers—perhaps the mango pork belly with its sweet‑savory balance, a beautifully arranged charcuterie tray or the popular braised beef tostadas piled high with queso, corn jalapeno relish, guacamole, cotija cheese and cilantro lime sour cream. When it’s time for entrées, the pillowy chicken gnocchi, perfectly pan roasted filet mignon and mediterranean mahi mahi are a trio of can’t‑miss favorites. Not sure which wine pairs best? HELIX’s knowledgeable staff will happily guide you to the perfect match. After dinner, take the night from smooth to spectacular with tickets to Tina: The Tina Turner Musical at the Chester Fritz Performing Arts Center. This electrifying production brings the Queen of Rock ’n’ Roll’s story to life with powerhouse vocals, high‑energy choreography and all the hits that make you want to dance in your seat. It’s the kind of show that leaves you buzzing long after the final bow.

TINA: THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL

DAYTIME DATE VIBES

A Valentine’s date that kicks off with lunch at Bernie’s sets the mood with zero effort and maximum charm. Food Network star Molly Yeh’s bright, playful café takes classic Midwestern comfort and gives it a deliciously creative twist. Slide into a cozy booth and start with their irresistible appetizer trio: croissant weenies, fried cheese curds and tots. From there, dive into favorites like the wonder sub, the pickle grilled cheese or a steaming bowl of creamy knoephla soup. It’s the sort of lunch that naturally stretches into extra time together, especially when you wander through Bernie’s adorable gift shop, pointing out quirky finds and picking out little treats “just because.” Once you’re perfectly full and feeling connected, stroll over to River Cinema 15 for a matinee that keeps the magic going. Whether you opt for a swoony romance, a laugh‑out‑loud comedy or something you can whisper playful commentary about, sharing a movie adds that spark only a dark theater and a bucket of popcorn can deliver. A late lunch at Bernie’s followed by an afternoon flick at River Cinema turns Valentine’s Day into something thoughtful, easygoing and genuinely fun — a date that feels sweet, memorable and completely your style.

BERNIE'S

FIRST CLASS ROMANCE

If you want to pull out all the stops, treat your special someone to a night at The Olive Ann Hotel—Grand Forks’ only boutique hotel and a love letter to the region’s aviation heritage. Inspired by aviation pioneer Olive Ann Beech, the hotel blends sophistication, artistry and quiet luxury in a way that feels both timeless and intimate. From the elegant décor to the impeccable service, every detail is designed to make guests feel cherished. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, savor the moment and create memories that linger long after checkout. And since your stay just happens to roll into Sunday, don’t miss the chance to elevate the experience even further with champagne brunch at Skies 322. Mere steps from your room, this inviting restaurant serves a brunch that feels like a celebration in itself. Think fluffy filled omelets, perfectly crisped parmesan potatoes, decadent brioche French toast and signature cocktails that make the morning feel extra special. Whether you’re sipping mimosas, sharing bites or simply enjoying the second story view of Downtown, it’s the perfect way to cap off a first‑class getaway.

THE OLIVE ANN HOTEL

AXE MARKS THE SPOT

A Valentine’s date at Downtown Axe brings a whole different kind of spark — the fun, flirty, slightly competitive kind that turns into inside jokes for weeks. Instead of the usual roses‑and‑reservations routine, you’re stepping into an evening that’s loud, lively and full of adrenaline in the best way. Start with a quick lesson from the coaches, then take turns hurling axes and cheering each other on. Whether you’re nailing bullseyes or laughing at the wild misses, the energy is contagious. It’s the perfect setup for playful banter, bragging rights and maybe a cute wager or two. Once you’ve hit the bullseye, shift into date‑night mode with dinner at The Toasted Frog. Known for its lively atmosphere and creative cuisine, it’s the perfect place to unwind and celebrate your victory. Start with their famous fried cheesy pickles—crispy, crave‑worthy and perfect for sharing. For dinner, fan favorites like the prime flat iron, grilled fish tacos, wood‑fired pizzas or one of their inventive sandwiches make choosing a delight. When dessert rolls around, The Frog’s decadently delicious flourless chocolate cake—paired with an espresso martini chaser—is one sweet way to end the evening.

THE TOASTED FROG

Whether you’re spinning around Town Square, savoring a five-star feast or singing along to a Tina Turner classic, Valentine’s Day in Greater Grand Forks offers countless ways to celebrate in style. Each experience—big or small—becomes a chance to laugh, connect and create the kind of memories that linger long after the night winds down. No matter which adventure you choose, you’re set for a date that feels thoughtful, fun and uniquely grand.

CREATE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE

Uniquely Forks Annual Events Worth the Trip

Greater Grand Forks has a way of surprising people. What looks like a quiet college town on the prairie turns into a lively, culture‑rich destination once you tap into its annual events. Whether you’re into art, food, sports or festive winter magic, the region offers anchor‑worthy happenings that make planning a getaway incredibly easy. Each celebration brings its own flavor, crowd and energy — and together they paint a picture of a place that knows how to have fun in every season.

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.

Feeling Grand in Forks: Your Blue Zones Escape

Grand Forks has been quietly building something remarkable—something that’s reshaping daily life for residents and offering a refreshing, health‑centered experience for anyone passing through. The Blue Zones Project, a community‑wide well‑being initiative inspired by places around the world where people live the longest, healthiest lives, has taken root here and is already transforming the city’s culture and environment.

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.

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.

Chasing the Northern Lights: Best Regional Spots to Catch the Aurora

There’s something magical about watching the sky come alive with dancing waves of green, purple and red. If you're hoping to witness the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis), you don't have to travel to Iceland or Alaska. Northeastern North Dakota just so happens to be one of the best-kept secrets for aurora chasers in the continental United States!

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.