Your Grand Summer Getaway: A Fun‑Filled Forks Weekend Itinerary

A summer weekend in Greater Grand Forks practically writes its own story: sunshine, small‑town charm with big‑city flavor and a lineup of food, culture and outdoor adventures that make two days feel like a true getaway. Here’s a full, ready‑to‑use itinerary that blends your must‑dos with a few extra gems to make the weekend unforgettable.

WHERE TO STAY: THE OLIVE ANN HOTEL

Before diving into your weekend adventure, check into The Olive Ann Hotel, downtown Grand Forks’ newest boutique treasure. With its aviation‑inspired design, stylish rooms and walkable location near restaurants, shops and the riverfront, it’s the perfect home base for a summer escape. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail at the adjacent Skies Lounge or enjoying the skyline views, The Olive Ann sets the tone for a weekend that feels both elevated and effortless.

THE OLIVE ANN HOTEL

SATURDAY: MARKETS, MAKERS & MOUTHWATERING MEALS

9:00 AM // Wander the Town Square Farmers Market

Nothing says summer like the region’s best open-air shopping event: Town Square Farmers Market. Browse just-picked produce, handmade goods, baked treats, freshly brewed coffee and local art, while live music and the tantalizing smell of local food trucks float through the air. It’s vibrant, friendly and full of that “only-in-Forks” energy.

11:30 AM // Ease Into the Afternoon with Brunch at The Spud Jr.

Next stop is right down Third Street for a hearty brunch at The Spud Jr., where comfort food meets creative flair. Think stuffed French toast, loaded breakfast poutine, luscious biscuits smothered in sausage gravy and maybe even a bottomless Mimosa or Tower Bloody Mary if you’re feeling festive. It’s the kind of place that sets the tone for a relaxed, indulgent day.

1:00 PM // Shop the Unique Boutiques of Downtown

Downtown Grand Forks and East Grand Forks are a treasure trove of indie shops and stylish boutiques. Spend a couple of hours exploring places like:

  • The Silo Boutique & Pretty b. – modern, trendy apparel for women of all ages
  • Knick Knack PaddyWhacks – quirky gifts, cards and local goods
  • RH Standard – chic clothing and accessories, along with holding the exclusive rights to Antique branded fashions
  • Widman’s Candy – home of the famous Chippers (chocolate covered potato chips) plus tons more hand-dipped confections
  • Louie’s Mercantile – beautiful home décor, precious baby apparel and gifts galore
  • Badman Design – a premier maker of handcrafted metal jewelry, striking artwork and distinctive home/office décor
  • See Dick Run – high‑performance running shoes and apparel for every level of runner

This is the perfect time to pick up souvenirs, gifts or something just for you.

4:00 PM // Optional Afternoon Add‑Ons

If you want to keep the momentum going:

  • Visit the North Dakota Museum of Art, located on the University of North Dakota campus, for contemporary exhibits and eclectic permanent collections
  • Wander the gorgeous UND campus, taking in its impressive architecture, colorful floral gardens and the serene, winding English Coulee that makes every turn feel like a postcard moment
  • Grab a cool caffeinated beverage at Board Room or Urban Stampede Coffeehouse
  • Canoe, kayak or SUP the Red River for a refreshing adventure – rentals are available at Boathouse on the Red (101 Riverboat Road)

7:00 PM / Dinner at Harry’s Steakhouse

Cap off your Saturday with a refined dinner at Harry’s Steakhouse, where perfectly cooked steaks, fresh seafood, stellar sides and a vintage supper club ambiance have earned it numerous accolades plus a passionate local following. Whether craving a buttery ribeye, tender filet or the finest burger around, you’re in for a five-star treat.

TOWN SQUARE FARMERS MARKET

SUNDAY: WINE, VIEWS & RIVERFRONT VIBES

9:00 AM // Brunch with a View at Skies 322

Head up to Skies, perched on the second floor of The Olive Ann Hotel, for elevated views paired with equally elevated food. Their Sunday Champagne Brunch runs until 1 PM and features decadent standouts like Bananas Foster French Toast, Capicola Eggs Benedict and one muy delicioso Huevos Rancheros. It’s a slow, scenic start to the day, making it perfect for lingering over mimosas, coffee and conversation.

11:00 AM // Bike or Walk the Greenway

With miles of paved trails winding along the Red and Red Lake Rivers, the Greenway Trail System is a true summer essential. Rent a bike or take a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks, passing scenic overlooks, wildlife and plenty of photo‑worthy spots along the way. If you’re without wheels, the Grand Rides Bike Rental program can set you up with a free ride and guests of The Olive Ann Hotel can take advantage of complimentary bicycles right on site. It’s an easy, refreshing way to soak up the best of Greater Grand Forks outdoors.

2:00 PM // Sip & Savor at Grape Mill Vineyard & Winery

Spend your afternoon unwinding at Grape Mill Vineyard & Winery nestled in rural East Grand Forks. Enjoy a tasting flight, relax on the patio, take in scenic river views and soak in the sunshine. Their wines range from crisp whites to bold reds; so, there’s a vino for every palate. Tours are also available if booked in advance.

4:00 PM // Optional Sunday Add‑Ons

If you’re not ready to slow down yet:

7:00 PM // Dinner at The Blue Moose

End your weekend with dinner at the iconic Blue Moose Bar & Grill. With its cozy lodge vibe, expansive riverside deck, lively Back Forty Bar and a menu full of favorites like fried walleye, loaded burgers, mouthwatering ribs, hearty pastas and more, it’s the perfect finale before heading home or settling in for night two at your hotel.

GRAPE MILL VINEYARD & WINERY

WRAP UP: A WEEKEND THAT FEELS LIKE A MINI-VACATION

Our two Forks truly shine in the summer, bursting with vibrant markets, picturesque riverfront trails and delightful surprises around every corner. From boutique shopping to memorable meals, this itinerary blends relaxation, exploration and local flavor into a weekend that feels refreshing, memorable and… uniquely grand.

CREATE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE

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.

Springing Back to Life on the Greenway: Forks’ Favorite Playground

Spring on the Greenway of Greater Grand Forks is one of those seasonal shifts that feels like a collective exhale. As the snowpack melts and the Red and Red Lake Rivers open up, the entire 2,200‑acre corridor transforms from a quiet, white‑blanketed stretch into a vibrant playground of color, sound and motion. Suddenly the trails fill with birders scanning the treetops, cyclists eager for dry pavement, inline skaters chasing that first smooth glide, walkers soaking in the fresh air and anglers lining the riverbanks. If you’ve been waiting to feel the sun on your face again, spring on the Greenway is your season.

Forks Unforecasted: Surprising Fun on Not‑So‑Sunny Days

Rainy days in Greater Grand Forks don’t have to mean boredom, cabin fever or watching kids ricochet around the house like caffeinated squirrels. Our two towns are packed with indoor gems that turn gloomy weather into a chance to explore, unwind and actually enjoy being inside. Whether you’re craving art, adrenaline, puzzles, pastries or a warm place to wander, the area has a surprisingly deep lineup of things to do when the skies open up and the fun moves indoors.

FORKSful of Fury: Rev Up Your Night at River Cities Speedway

Ever wondered what makes automobile racing one of the most electrifying spectator sports on the planet? You won’t find the answer by flipping channels at home. To feel that real adrenaline surge—the kind that shakes the bleachers and sends dust swirling into the sky—you’ve got to be there, up close, where the engines roar and the ground trembles.

10 Grand New Forks Finds: Fresh Faces, New Spaces, Big Flavor

Think you’ve seen everything our community has to offer? Not quite—there’s a fresh batch of new businesses opening their doors and adding even more flavor to the local landscape. It’s the perfect excuse to plan a little getaway and explore what’s new, exciting and uniquely Forks. Dive in and discover the latest spots ready to welcome you.

Forksful of Culture: From Local Flavors to Creative Layers

A day spent exploring our two Forks feels naturally varied, with creativity appearing in places both expected and surprising—whether it’s a tucked‑away gallery, the character of a historic brick building, a thoughtfully curated shop, an iconic spot to grab a bite or the energy of a theatrical stage gearing up for a show. The arts don’t stay in one lane here; they weave through everyday settings in a way that gives the city an easygoing, eclectic feel and turns each stop into its own small discovery.

Grand Shopping in Forks: Your Guide to Warm, Welcoming and Wonderfully Local

From elegant and chic to eclectic and unique, our two Forks have a wide array of grand stores and boutiques. You’ll discover everything from exclusive fashions and standout décor to fabulous finds that are friendly on the wallet. If you love discovering spots with heart, character and a whole lot of style, you’re in the right place. Below are some of the local favorites where browsing feels like exploring and every stop has its own story to tell.

Around the Culinary World in Eight Flavorful Forks Stops

Craving something beyond the usual meat‑and‑potatoes comfort of the Upper Midwest? Don’t get me wrong—we make a legendary hotdish around here—but Greater Grand Forks is home to a whole world of flavors waiting to be explored. Tucked between familiar favorites are locally owned gems serving up some of the most exciting global cuisine you’ll find anywhere. Here are eight great spots that always keep my taste buds traveling.

Big Fun for Little Ones: Forksful of Budget‑Friendly Adventures

Finding fun things to do with kids doesn’t have to drain your wallet — especially in Greater Grand Forks, where family‑friendly adventures are practically everywhere you look. Whether your crew loves exploring the outdoors, getting creative, or burning off energy indoors, the Grand Forks/East Grand Forks area is packed with budget‑friendly gems. Here’s your go‑to guide for making memories without breaking the bank.

Forksful of Happy Hour Fun that Runs All Week

Happy hour in the Forks isn’t just a quick stop between work and dinner—it’s a seven‑day celebration woven into local life. Every afternoon and evening (sometimes mornings, too) brings a fresh excuse to wander into a new corner of Grand Forks and East Grand Forks. Whether you’re chasing that perfect post‑shift pint, meeting friends for a midweek mood‑boost or hunting down the tastiest appetizer deals in town, there’s always something pulling you out the door. From cozy neighborhood pubs to lively downtown clubs patios, each day brings its own flavor.

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.

Only 24 hours in Grand Forks? Do it Downtown!

From mouthwatering meals to sumptuous stays, plus soul-satisfying retail therapy and even a little art mixed in for good measure, Grand Forks always delivers. But what if you only have 24 short hours to explore this river city? That’s not a problem. Do it downtown! One of our favorite Canadians (and we have plenty) shows us how it’s done.