Fargo ND

Fargo, ND – The heart of the Northern Plains, Fargo blends small-town charm with a big-city buzz. From its lively downtown packed with arts and culture to its warm Midwestern spirit, Fargo welcomes visitors year-round. Whether you're exploring local history, catching a live show, or enjoying seasonal festivals, this vibrant city has something for everyone to enjoy.

• Population: ~130,000
• Weather: Four seasons; cold, snowy winters (0-25°F) and warm, sunny summers (60-85°F).
• Places To Visit: Fargo Theatre, Plains Art Museum, Red River Zoo, Bonanzaville USA, Lindenwood Park.
• Top Activities: Strolling downtown Broadway, biking along the Red River, attending Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks games, exploring local breweries, enjoying winter festivals and summer fairs.
• Famous Food: Hotdish, lefse, wood-fired pizza at Blackbird Woodfire, burgers at JL Beers, and Scandinavian pastries from Nichole’s Fine Pastry.

Fargo, North Dakota is a growing city with a strong economy driven by healthcare, technology, manufacturing, education, and logistics. As the regional hub for Eastern North Dakota and Western Minnesota, Fargo offers a variety of career opportunities for professionals in different industries. Below are some of the top in-demand jobs in Fargo.

Top 5 Jobs in Fargo, ND

Fargo, ND might not be as bustling as some larger cities, but it’s definitely got its own charm and unique spots for students. Whether you're into arts, nature, or just some good food, Fargo has plenty of places where students can relax and have a great time.

Trollwood Park – A perfect place for those who love the outdoors. You can take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or even enjoy some frisbee. It’s a great spot to forget about your studies for a while.

Downtown Fargo – Filled with quirky shops, cozy coffee shops, and local eateries, downtown Fargo is great for a relaxed day out. You can grab a cup of coffee, browse through the stores, and enjoy the local vibe.

Red River Zoo – For an affordable and enjoyable day, visit the Red River Zoo. It's a great place to see some cool animals and take a break from the usual routine.

Plains Art Museum – If you're into art, this museum is a must-visit. With its wide variety of exhibits, it’s a great place to soak in some culture and get inspired.

Theatre B – Catch a local play or performance at Theatre B. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the local arts scene and support talented performers.

Rooftop Bars – Check out places like the Boiler Room or Sidestreet Grille & Pub which offer great views, drinks, and an ideal setting to hang out with friends.

Lake Party Island – Just a short drive from Fargo, Lake Party Island is perfect for a quick getaway. You can relax by the water, swim, or have a barbecue with friends.

Fargo, ND is a growing educational hub in the Midwest, offering students a variety of public and private higher education institutions known for academic excellence and career-ready programs.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Fargo

North Dakota State University (NDSU) – As a leading land-grant public university, NDSU is known for its strengths in agriculture, engineering, health sciences, and business. With its strong research output, it attracts students from around the country.

North Dakota State College of Science – Fargo Campus – This two-year institution offers technical and academic programs in areas like health care, agriculture, IT, and skilled trades. It’s ideal for students seeking hands-on career training or a pathway to a four-year degree.

Lake Region State College – Fargo Training Center – Offering workforce training and technical programs, this community college helps students prepare for careers in areas such as nursing, law enforcement, and business management.

Bismarck State College – Online and Extension Services in Fargo – While headquartered elsewhere, BSC offers flexible online and extension learning in Fargo, providing students access to programs in energy, cybersecurity, and general education.

University of North Dakota – Distance and Satellite Programs in Fargo – Though based in Grand Forks, UND provides Fargo students access to select programs and courses through online and hybrid platforms, particularly in nursing, teaching, and aviation.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Fargo

Concordia College – Located just across the river in Moorhead, MN, Concordia is a respected liberal arts college with close ties to Fargo. Known for its programs in biology, business, music, and education, it offers a life-changing education in a supportive environment.

University of Mary – Fargo Campus – With a main campus in Bismarck, the University of Mary's Fargo location specializes in nursing, business, and graduate education. It is known for combining ethical values with academic training, especially in the healthcare field.

Rasmussen University – Fargo Campus – A private, career-focused university offering associate’s, bachelor’s, and graduate degrees in nursing, criminal justice, business, and information technology. It’s ideal for adults seeking flexible, job-oriented education.

Trinity Bible College and Graduate School – Fargo Courses – This private Christian institution offers theological and ministry-related coursework in Fargo, preparing students for leadership in faith-based communities and organizations.

The Salon Professional Academy – Fargo – While not a traditional college, this accredited beauty and cosmetology school provides highly regarded private education in fields like cosmetology, esthetics, and salon management, serving students seeking artistic career paths.

Fargo, ND, provides students with access to solid educational opportunities through both public and private institutions. The city offers a supportive learning environment with a focus on academic achievement and overall student development.

Top Public High Schools in Fargo, ND

• Fargo North High School – Known for its strong academics, arts programs, and dedicated staff. It consistently prepares students well for college and the workforce.
• Fargo Davies High School – Offers a wide variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses and extracurricular activities, with a strong focus on student success and well-being.
• Fargo South High School – A diverse school with a strong athletics program and multiple pathways for college and career readiness.
• West Fargo High School – Located just outside Fargo, this school is noted for its academic excellence, supportive staff, and a wide range of clubs and sports.
• Sheyenne High School – Offers a modern learning environment with state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on STEM education and real-world skill development.

Top Private High Schools in Fargo, ND

• Oak Grove Lutheran School – A respected private Christian school offering strong academics, values-based education, and a supportive community atmosphere.
• Shanley High School – A Catholic high school focused on faith, learning, and service. It offers college prep curricula and a variety of sports and clubs.
• Park Christian School – Located nearby in Moorhead, MN, this school serves Fargo-area families with a strong academic program rooted in Christian values.
• Grace Lutheran School – A small, faith-based school that emphasizes individualized instruction and character development in a close-knit setting.
• Trollwood Performing Arts School – While not a full-time high school, this program offers exceptional arts education that complements students' primary academic schools.

Fargo, North Dakota, may not have major league professional sports teams like bigger cities, but it has a passionate sports culture supported by minor league and semi-professional teams. The city also serves as a hub for sports development and community engagement through athletics.

🏈 Football – Fargo Invaders (Semi-Pro)

• Fargo Invaders – The Invaders are a semi-professional football team competing in the Northern Elite Football League (NEFL). Founded in 2012, the team has won multiple league championships and provides post-collegiate opportunities for athletes looking to continue their football careers. They play home games at Moorhead High School and support strong community involvement.

⚾ Baseball – Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks (American Association of Professional Baseball)

• Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks – A cornerstone of Fargo’s sports scene, the RedHawks compete in the American Association of Professional Baseball, an independent league. Since their founding in 1996, the team has won multiple league championships and plays home games at Newman Outdoor Field, a facility known for its top-tier fan experience and hosting Division I baseball for North Dakota State University.

🏒 Hockey – Fargo Force (USHL)

• Fargo Force – Competing in the prestigious United States Hockey League (USHL), the Force serve as a stepping stone for players aiming for college scholarships and NHL careers. Founded in 2008, the team won their first Clark Cup Championship in 2018. They play at the Scheels Arena, which frequently sells out thanks to the team’s loyal fanbase.

🏀 Basketball – No Major or Semi-Pro Team

• While Fargo does not currently have a professional basketball team, the city supports strong high school and college basketball programs, especially at North Dakota State University (NDSU), where the Bison men’s basketball team has made multiple NCAA Tournament appearances. Their success energizes the local sports scene.

⚽ Soccer – Dakota Fusion FC (NPSL)

• Dakota Fusion FC – A semi-professional soccer club based in the Fargo–Moorhead area, the team competes in the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL). Founded in 2016, Dakota Fusion provides aspiring soccer players with a chance to develop their game at a competitive level. Matches are played at the Jim Gotta Stadium in Moorhead.

🎿 Additional Sports Culture

• Fargo also fosters a strong tradition in college sports courtesy of North Dakota State University (NDSU). The Bison football program is a national powerhouse in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), having won nine national titles since 2011. This success puts Fargo on the national sports map despite not housing major league franchises.

Fargo, North Dakota is known for more than just cold winters and flat landscapes. This charming Midwestern city has a quirky side, a growing arts community, and some truly unique stories. Let’s explore some fun facts about Fargo, ND:

1. Hollywood Fame – The cult film Fargo was named after the city, but fun fact: most of it wasn’t actually filmed in Fargo!
2. Biggest City in North Dakota – Fargo is the largest city in North Dakota by population, home to over 125,000 people.
3. The Real Woodchipper – Visitors to Fargo can see the famous woodchipper prop from the movie Fargo at the Fargo-Moorhead Visitors Center—and even pose with it!
4. Home of NDSU – Fargo is where you’ll find North Dakota State University, known for its powerhouse football team, the Bison.
5. City of Bridges – Fargo and neighboring Moorhead, Minnesota are linked by seven vehicle bridges that cross the Red River.
6. Frosty Winters – Fargo often ranks as one of the coldest cities in the U.S., with average January temps well below freezing.
7. Growing Tech Scene – In recent years, Fargo has seen a rise in technology and startup businesses, gaining attention as a hub for innovation in the Midwest.
8. Lots of Livability – Fargo regularly makes “Best Places to Live” lists thanks to its friendly vibe, low crime rate, and affordable living.
9. Outdoor Fun – Despite the cold, Fargo has more than 2,100 acres of parkland with hiking trails, fishing spots, and festivals year-round.
10. Thriving Theater Scene – Fargo is home to the historic Fargo Theatre, a restored 1926 cinema known for indie films, concerts, and stunning Art Deco architecture.