Grand Forks
Traditionally a meeting place because of its location at the fork of two rivers, Grand Forks was a trade site for Native Americans long before oxcarts, steamboats and railroads took advantage of the location to transport goods.
Grand Forks also is the home of the University of North Dakota, the state's oldest and largest institution of higher education. On campus is the Center for Aerospace Sciences, which has a notable pilot training program. Collegiate football, family shows, concerts, conventions and sporting events take place at the Alerus Center, 1200 42nd St. S.; phone (701) 792-1200.
Considered to be one of the finest hockey facilities in the world, the Ralph Engelstad Arena, 1 Ralph Engelstad Arena Dr., is home to the University of North Dakota hockey team and hosts many family shows, ice events and concerts. Tours are given Monday through Friday at 1:30; phone (701) 777-6636.
The Greenway, which borders the banks of the Red and Red Lake rivers, comprises 2,200 acres of trails and parks where residents and visitors have opportunities to walk, bike, skate, bird-watch, canoe, fish, golf, camp and picnic; phone (701) 738-8746. Sertoma Park, at 11th Avenue and 34th Street, contains a Japanese Garden that is open daily 10 to 9:30; phone (701) 746-2750.
River Cities Speedway, 2300 Gateway Dr., is the scene of auto racing April through September; phone (701) 780-0999.
Visitor Centers
Greater Grand Forks Convention and Visitors Bureau 4251 Gateway Dr. Grand Forks, ND 58203. Phone:(701)746-0444 or (800)866-4566
Self-guiding Tours
Maps outlining driving and walking tours of the city's historic area are available from the convention and visitors bureau.
Shopping
Columbia Mall, I-29 exit 138, features anchor stores JCPenney and Scheels. From late June through September the Town Square Farmers Market, downtown at Third Street and Demers Avenue, offers fresh produce, baked goods, handmade crafts, musical entertainment and concessions every Saturday from 9 to 1:30. Downtown Grand Forks has shops selling funky clothes, jewelry, chocolates, pastries and other merchandise.