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.

As the first certified Blue Zones Community in North Dakota, Grand Forks has embraced the principles of longevity—natural movement, social connection, purpose, and healthier food choices—and infused them into the city’s design, businesses, and daily rhythms. What’s especially exciting is that these improvements don’t just benefit locals. Visitors feel the difference the moment they arrive.

What the Blue Zones Project Is All About

The Blue Zones Project is based on research by Dan Buettner, who identified global regions where people routinely live to 100. These communities share common lifestyle patterns that support long‑term well‑being. Grand Forks has adopted these principles and woven them into policies, community design, and partnerships with schools, workplaces, restaurants, and local organizations. This isn’t a short‑term wellness trend, it’s a long‑term investment in community vitality.

How Grand Forks Has Transformed

The project has sparked meaningful changes across the city:

  • Walkable neighborhoods that encourage natural movement.
  • Health‑minded restaurants and grocery options that make nutritious choices easy.
  • Community events and social programs that strengthen connection.
  • Workplace well‑being initiatives that support healthier daily routines.
  • Policy improvements that prioritize long‑term health and resilience.

And then there are the uniquely Grand Forks touches—creative, fun, and unmistakably local.

A City Full of Character: The Painted Hydrants

One of the most charming surprises for visitors is the collection of painted fire hydrants scattered throughout the city. Local artists have transformed these everyday fixtures into colorful characters, animals, and whimsical designs. They add personality to sidewalks and encourage people to explore on foot—perfectly aligned with the Blue Zones principle of natural movement. For visitors, the hydrants become a kind of informal scavenger hunt. Whether you’re strolling downtown or wandering near the Greenway, you’ll spot these little bursts of creativity that make the city feel warm and welcoming.

Cooking Up Community: Blue Zones Culinary Classes

A standout feature of the Blue Zones Project in Grand Forks is the hands‑on cooking classes offered throughout the year. These classes introduce participants to simple, plant‑forward recipes inspired by the world’s longest‑living cultures.

They’re fun, approachable, and designed for all skill levels. Visitors can join locals in learning how to prepare dishes that are flavorful, affordable, easy to recreate at home, and rooted in Blue Zones principles. It’s a delicious way to experience the community’s commitment to healthier living—and you head home with new recipes that feel like edible souvenirs.

Pedal‑Powered Perks: The Bicycle Benefits Program

Grand Forks also participates in the Bicycle Benefits program, a national initiative that rewards people for biking to local businesses. Cyclists purchase a small helmet sticker and, in return, receive discounts or special offers at participating shops and restaurants.

It’s a simple idea with big impact:

  • Encourages active transportation.
  • Reduces traffic and parking stress.
  • Supports local businesses.
  • Makes exploring the city more fun.

For visitors, it’s an easy way to experience Grand Forks like a local. Rent a bike, grab a sticker, and enjoy perks while you ride from coffee shops to boutiques to breweries. It’s movement, sustainability, and community engagement all rolled into one.

Why Visitors Benefit Too

Even if you're only in Grand Forks for a weekend, the Blue Zones Project enhances your experience in ways you’ll notice and appreciate:

  • A naturally relaxing atmosphere thanks to walkable streets, green spaces, and uplifting public art.
  • Health‑forward dining with local restaurants offering Blue Zones‑inspired dishes that make eating well both easy and delicious. Spots like Crisp & Green, Ely’s Ivy, Skies 322, and Smiling Moose Deli have all participated in Blue Zones initiatives—making it simple to enjoy flavorful meals that align with healthier living.
  • Plenty of ways to move, from bike paths and pedestrian‑friendly routes to the Bicycle Benefits program that rewards you for exploring on two wheels.
  • Unexpected local charm, including the city’s colorful painted hydrants that turn an ordinary stroll into a fun little treasure hunt.
  • Welcoming community events, with workshops, gatherings, and Blue Zones‑themed activities that invite visitors to join in and feel part of the local vibe.
  • Cleaner, healthier public spaces thanks to community efforts to reduce vaping in areas where families and visitors gather.

A Destination That Feels Good

The Blue Zones Project has helped Grand Forks become more than a place to visit—it’s a place to feel better. Whether here for business, a UND game, or a weekend getaway, the city’s commitment to well‑being enhances every part of your stay. If you are looking for a destination that blends Midwestern charm with a forward‑thinking approach to health, Grand Forks is quietly becoming one of the most inspiring places to explore.

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.

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.

Reeling in Adventure: Catfishing on the Red

Every day residents of Grand Forks and East Grand Forks pass over one of three bridges that crosses a little river called the Red. Many locals think nothing of it as they pass over or they remember it for the violent flooding that happens from time to time, 1997 in particular.

FORKSful of superb sips happen at Grape Mill

If you’ve ever dreamed of sipping wine while pretending to be a sophisticated sommelier (or just someone who knows the difference between Merlot and Moscato), Grape Mill Vineyard & Winery in East Grand Forks is your kind of place. Nestled in the scenic countryside of East Grand Forks, this charming little spot is where wine meets whimsy and trust me, it’s a grape time waiting to happen!

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.

Where to dine al fresco in Forks

Looking to raise your fork, in our two Forks, under grand summer skies? From large decks overlooking the river to small café tables dotting a downtown street and plentiful patios in-between, we have an array of ideal eateries eager to please. Listed below are some prime places to dine in the sunshine.

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.

Where to find FORKSful of fun for Fido

Greater Grand Forks is a fetching place for dog lovers, offering plenty of welcoming places humans and canines can enjoy quality time together. Whether looking for a cozy café, scenic park or pet-friendly store, our community always provides lots of fun for both you and your furry plus-one! Listed below are some of the top dog-friendly spots in Forks.

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.