Harvest some fun in the Forks
Cooler weather is here but never fear…you’re sure to fall in love with all the grand autumn to-dos in our Forks! Here are the top five ways to embrace the shorter days.
TWO WHEELING
Bust out the bicycle and start peddling toward the river! The Greenway of Greater Grand Forks features 20 miles of groomed trails and 2,220 scenic acres of outdoor space for biking, walking, inline skating, golfing, fishing, wildlife observing and more. My favorite spot to access the trail system is Riverside Park, with the end destination being near Restaurant Row in East Grand Forks. It’s a perfect place to relax and refuel with a marvelous meal and some cool cocktails on The Blue Moose Bar & Grill deck overlooking the Red. No wheels, no worries; Grand Rides Bike Share offers up rentals to be found all around town.
AMAIZING TIMES
Bring the whole family out for a day of fun 'n games at Valley Corn Maize! In addition to the 10-Acre Corn Maze and Kids Straw Maze, other attractions include a giant corn box, straw climbing pyramid for children and adults, corn cannons and a grain-train to ride on. They also sell snacks and beverages. Valley is open early September through late October, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday (4 to 7 PM/10 AM to 7 PM/1 to 6 PM). Some of their special annual events include Canines in the Corn, Hometown Heroes Weekend and Flashlight Dash Night, which will close out the season on October 24. Valley Corn Maize is located 5 ½ miles east of East Grand Forks, just off the Hwy 2 curve.
GO GREEN
Fall around these parts means the start of University of North Dakota Athletics and our Fighting Hawks always deliver lots of Division I excitement! With several national championships under their belts, these topnotch programs draw talented athletes from around the country and world, many of whom go on to play professional sports. UND also serves up some of the best venues around in which to take it all in. Friday hockey night at Ralph Engelstad Arena, complete with a Red Pepper Grinder and some Far Out Nuts, is a must experience. One favorite way to enjoy a Saturday is football at the Alerus Center, followed by pizza on the Rhombus Guys rooftop patio. When it comes time for tipoff at The Betty, I recommend a meaty and delicious pregame dinner at nearby Speedway 805 Bar & Grill.
LEAF PEEPING
Pick up lunch from your favorite Forks sandwich shop, then take a short trip to Turtle River State Park! Located 20 miles west on Highway 2, Turtle River features 12 miles of trails carved through beautiful forested hills, a trout-stocked stream and several spots ideal for picnicking. Make sure to wear some comfy hiking boots or walking shoes, so you can fully explore all the scenic pathways.
STOCKING UP
The holiday season is fast approaching and one great place to find unique gifts galore is the 2021 Grand Forks Harvest Showcase! Taking place October 29 & 30, at the Alerus Center, this annual event draws shoppers from around the region. While here, you’ll find an abundance of original Pride of Dakota products including gourmet food, art, books, jewelry, sporting goods, apparel, home décor and much more. Admission is free. Hours are 4 to 9 PM on Friday and 9 AM to 5 PM on Saturday.
If you’d like additional information on any of these activities, along with other awesome attractions and events, click on VisitGrandForks.com. We also invite you to follow Visit Grand Forks on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.