Girls Just Wanna Have Forks: The Ultimate Girls’ Getaway in Greater Grand Forks

Looking for something a little more hands-on?

All Seasons Garden Center regularly hosts creative workshops ranging from floral arranging and seasonal décor to charcuterie-building classes. It's a fun way to learn something new, get creative and spend quality time with your girlfriends.

Afterward, head over to Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea for a handcrafted latte, specialty tea, smoothie or light bite. Its cozy atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to relax, catch up, and plan the rest of your day.

Once you're fueled up, indulge in a little retail therapy at some of Grand Forks' favorite locally owned boutiques. Browse the latest fashions and accessories at Mainstream Boutique, discover rustic-chic style and home décor at Northern Roots Boutique, find unique gifts and trendy apparel at Key Bliss Boutique and explore the thoughtfully curated lifestyle goods, wellness products and artisan gifts at Wild Bergamot.

Whether you're hunting for the perfect outfit, a one-of-a-kind gift or simply enjoying an afternoon of shopping with your best friends, this corner of Forks serves up plenty of opportunities to treat yourself.

Feeling adventurous?

Start with a shopping stop at Boot Barn, where you can browse everything from stylish boots to trendy western-inspired fashion.

Then head to Parrot's Cay, a longtime local favorite known for its legendary Shark Wings, flavorful jambalaya and laid-back tropical vibe. Grab a cold drink, share a few appetizers with the girls and soak up the fun atmosphere before a night on the town.

Looking for the perfect girls' night out? Time your trip around the Whistle & Whiskey Tour on February 6, 2027, at the Alerus Center, where global superstar Flo Rida joins multi-platinum country hitmaker Mitchell Tenpenny for an unforgettable evening of music. The tour combines Flo Rida's chart-topping party anthems with Tenpenny's country hits, while Jay Webb kicks off the night. It's a unique blend of country, hip-hop and high-energy entertainment that was practically made for a weekend with your besties.

If your visit doesn't coincide with the concert, be sure to check the Alerus Center event calendar for additional concerts, comedy shows, sporting events and special performances throughout the year. You can also catch live entertainment at the historic Empire Arts Center, enjoy intimate community productions at Fire Hall Theatre or take in a Broadway show, concert or nationally touring performance at the Chester Fritz Performing Arts Center. With so many entertainment options across Greater Grand Forks, you'll find plenty of reasons to keep the celebration going long after dinner.

If you have extra time, add a few more Forks favorites to your itinerary:

• Explore the vibrant Downtown Grand Forks shopping district, where you'll find everything from trendy fashion and accessories at The Silo Boutique, Pretty b. and RH Standard. Browse handcrafted jewelry and locally inspired gifts at Badman Design, discover unique home décor and specialty items at Louie's Mercantile and don't leave town without stopping at Widman's Candy Shop for a box of their famous Chippers, the chocolate-covered potato chips that have become a local legend.
• Attend seasonal favorites like Art Fest, the Town Square Farmers Market and the Downtown Street Fair, where local vendors, artists, food trucks and live entertainment create a lively community atmosphere.
  
• Gather your crew and tour the iconic Ralph Engelstad Arena, a Greater Grand Forks landmark. Better yet, plan your visit during UND hockey season and experience a game for yourselves. Between the electric atmosphere, beloved traditions and passionate fans, it's a surprisingly fun girls' night out, even if you don't know the difference between a slap shot and a hat trick.
• Visit the North Dakota Museum of Art for an inspiring cultural stop featuring regional, national and international exhibitions.
• Snap photos along the Greenway and downtown riverfront, where scenic views, public art installations and picturesque walking paths provide plenty of Instagram-worthy backdrops for your girls' getaway.