Living in Grand Forks: Neighborhood Picks, Eats & Home Tips
Grand Forks holds a special place in my heart, not just as the place I call home, but as a community that has welcomed us with open arms. What makes this city unique is the genuine warmth of its people and the rich variety of experiences it offers year-round.
One of my absolute favorite spots in the city is Sertoma Park. During the summer months, we love spending afternoons there, whether it's having a picnic with friends, taking long walks, or simply watching our kids playing on the playground.
Hockey has always been a huge part of our Grand Forks experience in the winter season, and attending games at the Ralph Engelstad Arena is a must for any newcomer. The energy in that arena is absolutely electric. There's something unique about the passion people have for hockey here, and being part of that crowd, cheering alongside other fans, has given our family memorable nights. The Ralph isn't just a sports venue, it's the beating heart of Grand Forks hockey culture. Every game I attend reminds me why this sport is so deeply rooted in the fabric of this community. The traditions, the chants, the collective excitement, it all contributes to an atmosphere that you simply can't find anywhere else.
For family-friendly fun, Splashers has been a consistent favorite. What I love about this water park is how it brings all ages together while maintaining that welcoming, local community feel. We spend countless memorable days enjoying both the water activities, the fun atmosphere and celebrating our kids' birthdays. It’s wonderful that Grand Forks has such an exceptional year-round facility for families to enjoy. Another great place for families is the Grand Forks Public Library, our kids have found the perfect combination of play and learning, with plenty of space to have fun and an extensive variety of books and games to choose from.
Perhaps what I treasure most about living in Grand Forks is experiencing Feast of Nations. This annual celebration perfectly encapsulates the cultural richness that makes this city special. Despite what outsiders might assume about a smaller Midwestern city, Grand Forks is home to people from all over the world, and Feast of Nations gives everyone a chance to share their heritage and learn about others. I've tried different foods, learned about traditions from cultures across the globe, and met people whose stories have enriched my own understanding of what community means.
What makes Grand Forks truly special to me is how all these experiences interconnect. The same families I see at Sertoma Park are often the ones cheering at hockey games. The friends I met at Feast of Nations are part of the same community that comes together during harsh winter storms to help neighbors and support local businesses.
Living in Grand Forks has taught me that a city's value isn't measured by its size, but by the quality of life it offers and the connections it fosters. What excites me most is discovering new reasons each day why I'm grateful to be part of such a beautiful community.
