North Dakota, the Peace Garden State, is a land of vast prairies, rugged badlands, and unexpected quirks. Its cities, like Fargo and Bismarck, blend modern amenities with a deep appreciation for the state’s history and culture. Fargo, immortalized by its namesake film, is home to the quirky Fargo Woodchipper Exhibit and a thriving arts scene, while Bismarck, the state capital, boasts landmarks like the North Dakota Heritage Center and the iconic Capitol Building. Grand Forks, with its vibrant university town vibe, adds even more charm to this northern gem.

For those drawn to the strange and mysterious, North Dakota offers plenty to explore. The Enchanted Highway, a 32-mile stretch near Regent, is dotted with enormous metal sculptures like “Geese in Flight” and “Grasshoppers in the Field.” The Pyramid on the Prairie, part of an abandoned Cold War missile defense system near Nekoma, stands as a hauntingly futuristic relic. Nature lovers can’t miss the Theodore Roosevelt National Park, where the eerie silence of the badlands contrasts with the lively bison and wild horses. Add to that the legend of the White Lady of Fort Totten and the rumored UFO sightings in the tiny town of Medora, and you’ll find North Dakota is anything but ordinary.

Landmarks:

The Enchanted Highway