Grand Forks ND

Grand Forks, ND – Nestled along the Red River, Grand Forks is a charming mix of Midwestern warmth, outdoor adventure, and vibrant community life. Whether you're enjoying a stroll through downtown, catching a hockey game at the Ralph Engelstad Arena, or soaking up the natural beauty of its parks and trails, Grand Forks welcomes you with open arms and a small-town feel that’s full of big surprises.

• Population: ~59,000
• Weather: Cold winters with snow (0–25°F), warm summers (60–85°F); crisp autumns and breezy springs.
• Places To Visit: North Dakota Museum of Art, Ralph Engelstad Arena, Japanese Gardens, Sertoma Park, River Cities Speedway.
• Top Activities: Ice skating in winter, biking along the Greenway, shopping downtown, cheering on UND Fighting Hawks hockey, enjoying outdoor concerts and food festivals.
• Famous Food: Hot beef sandwiches at The Blue Moose, homemade pie at Darcy’s Café, hearty burgers at Red Pepper, and craft beer from Half Brothers Brewing Company.

Grand Forks, ND is a key economic center in northeastern North Dakota, home to a diverse economy driven by sectors such as education, healthcare, manufacturing, and military services. With the presence of the University of North Dakota and Grand Forks Air Force Base, the city offers a variety of stable and rewarding career opportunities.

Top 5 Jobs in Grand Forks, ND

Grand Forks, ND offers students a variety of places to unwind, engage in social activities, and enjoy different aspects of the city. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, arts, or delicious food, Grand Forks has plenty to offer.

University Park – This serene park near the University of North Dakota campus is perfect for a walk, a casual game of frisbee, or simply lounging on the grass with friends. The park’s vast green spaces and tree-lined paths create a relaxing atmosphere for students looking to escape their studies.

Town Square Farmers Market – Held on weekends, the market offers fresh local produce, handcrafted goods, and delicious food stands. It’s a great spot to meet friends, grab a bite, and enjoy the local community vibe.

Rhombus Guys Pizza – Known for its fun atmosphere and creative pizza options, this restaurant is a favorite among students. Whether you’re dining in or hosting a pizza party, Rhombus Guys guarantees a good time.

Ralph Engelstad Arena – Catch a University of North Dakota hockey game and experience the excitement and energy of the Ralph. The arena's impressive facilities make it a must-visit for sports enthusiasts.

Red River State Recreation Area – For the outdoor adventurer, this area provides trails for biking, hiking, and opportunities for kayaking. It’s an ideal escape for those who appreciate nature and activity.

Empire Arts Center – This cultural hub hosts a variety of performances, from plays and musicals to concerts. It’s a great place for those interested in the arts to enjoy some quality entertainment.

Half Brothers Brewing Company – Although it's a brewing company, they offer a welcoming space with live music and events. It’s a lively spot to hang out with friends and enjoy the local music scene.

Grand Forks, North Dakota is known for its excellent higher education opportunities, especially in aviation, engineering, and the liberal arts. Home to both public and private institutions, the city supports a diverse student population and vibrant campus life.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Grand Forks

University of North Dakota (UND) – As the oldest and largest university in the state, UND is a top public research institution. It is well known for its aerospace, engineering, medical, and law programs. The John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences is nationally recognized in aviation training and research.

Northland Community and Technical College (satellite campus) – While its main campus is in East Grand Forks, MN, this college serves the Grand Forks area by offering high-demand technical and vocational programs. It is particularly strong in healthcare, aviation maintenance, and industrial technology.

Lake Region State College (via distance and satellite opportunities) – Based in Devils Lake, ND, Lake Region offers online and satellite classes accessible to Grand Forks residents. It is a popular choice for students seeking affordable associate degrees and career training programs.

Turtle Mountain Community College (through collaborations) – Although located farther from Grand Forks, this tribal college partners with institutions like UND for conferences and shared educational programs. It supports native education with a cultural and academic mission.

Mayville State University (accessible to Grand Forks students) – Located about an hour west of Grand Forks, Mayville State is part of the North Dakota University System and attracts many students from the Grand Forks area. It offers on-campus and online degrees in education, business, and nursing.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Grand Forks

Rasmussen University – Grand Forks Campus – A private institution focused on career-ready programs, Rasmussen offers degrees in nursing, business, technology, and health sciences. It is known for flexible online and on-campus learning options, making it ideal for working adults and new students alike.

Trinity Bible College and Graduate School (nearby in Ellendale, ND) – While not located directly in Grand Forks, Trinity attracts religious studies students from across North Dakota, including Grand Forks. It offers bachelor’s, master’s, and seminary programs focused on leadership and Christian ministry.

University of Mary (satellite programs in Grand Forks) – Headquartered in Bismarck, University of Mary operates educational partnerships and offerings in Grand Forks. Recognized for programs in healthcare, business, and education, it provides flexible pathways for both undergraduates and continuing education students.

Park University – Grand Forks Air Force Base Campus – This private university serves military personnel and civilians in the Grand Forks area. Offering associate and bachelor’s degrees, it specializes in business, criminal justice, and management programs tailored for working adults.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Grand Forks Satellite Program – Known nationally for aviation excellence, Embry-Riddle partners with institutions in Grand Forks to offer specialized aviation and aerospace education. It caters primarily to students and professionals in the field of aeronautics and aerospace engineering.

Grand Forks, ND, is home to several well-regarded public and private high schools. These schools focus on strong academics, community involvement, and diverse extracurriculars that help students grow both personally and academically. Whether you’re looking for a public school with advanced placement courses or a private school with faith-based education, Grand Forks has something to offer.

Top Public High Schools in Grand Forks, ND

• Red River High School – Known for its Advanced Placement program and wide range of athletics and fine arts, Red River consistently ranks as a top-performing public high school in the region.
• Central High School – With a strong academic reputation and a commitment to student leadership, Central High offers a variety of college prep opportunities, including dual-credit courses.
• Grand Forks Alternative High School – Designed for students who benefit from a more flexible learning environment, this school provides individualized instruction and supportive programs.
• Community High School – A smaller public high school that offers personalized education support and helps students succeed through life skills training and academic mentoring.
• Red River Valley Area Learning Center – This specialized program supports students through alternative learning methods and career-readiness paths focused on succeeding beyond high school.

Top Private High Schools in Grand Forks, ND

• GFAFB Nathan F. Twining Middle/High School – Located on Grand Forks Air Force Base, this Department of Defense school combines personalized teaching with strong academic and community values.
• Riverside Christian School – A faith-based institution offering a Christ-centered curriculum with small class sizes, character education, and strong academic support.
• St. Michael’s School – Though known primarily as a K-8 institution, it often collaborates with area high schools to support continuing Catholic education in the region.
• Park Christian School (Fargo, ND area) – While technically outside Grand Forks, it serves many families in the area with a strong Christian curriculum and college-prep focus.
• Oak Grove Lutheran School (Fargo area) – Another top-ranked private school nearby that offers quality high school education, making it a viable option for students from Grand Forks.

Grand Forks, North Dakota, may be a smaller city compared to major metropolitan areas, but it has a deep sporting culture, especially at the collegiate level and in minor league hockey. While it does not have teams in the major professional sports leagues like the NFL or NBA, Grand Forks is passionate about its local teams and has strong ties to the sport of ice hockey.

🏒 Hockey – University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks (NCAA) & Minor League Hockey

• University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks – Although a college team, the Fighting Hawks men's ice hockey program is considered one of the most prestigious in the nation. With eight NCAA national championships to their name (most recently in 2016), they play at the Ralph Engelstad Arena, a world-class venue often compared to NHL arenas. Many UND players go on to successful careers in the NHL.
• Minor League and Junior Teams – Grand Forks has also been home to junior hockey programs like the Grand Forks Americans, and local junior leagues continue to foster young talent. While Grand Forks does not currently have a professional minor league hockey team, the sport remains a major part of the city’s identity.

🏈 Football – University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks (NCAA)

• University of North Dakota Football – The Fighting Hawks football team competes in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) as a member of the Missouri Valley Football Conference. With a competitive history and growing success, UND football garners strong local support. The team plays its home games at the Alerus Center, an indoor stadium that offers a great atmosphere for fans.

🏀 Basketball – University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks (NCAA)

• UND Men’s and Women’s Basketball – Both programs compete in the Summit League at the NCAA Division I level. While not nationally dominant, the teams have a dedicated fan base and produce competitive games at the Betty Engelstad Sioux Center. The university continues to invest in its athletic programs to raise their national profile.

⚾ Baseball – American Legion & Collegiate Summer Leagues

• Grand Forks American Legion Baseball – A staple of the local sports scene, Legion baseball gives high school players a chance to shine during the summer months. These games draw local community support and help develop future college athletes.
• Baseball Events and Support – While Grand Forks does not have a professional or minor league baseball team, it hosts various summer leagues, and residents often support regional teams in nearby cities like Fargo or attend UND club baseball events.

⚽ Soccer – Local Clubs & Youth Development

• Greater Grand Forks Soccer Club – This organization provides soccer development programs for youth of all ages. While there is no professional soccer franchise in Grand Forks, community participation in soccer continues to grow with expanded leagues, training camps, and tournaments throughout the region.

Grand Forks, North Dakota, may be a smaller city, but it's filled with charm, history, and interesting stories that make it a unique place to live and visit. From its freezing winters to its lively university life, here are some fun facts about Grand Forks:

1. College Town Vibe – Grand Forks is home to the University of North Dakota, one of the oldest universities in the state, founded in 1883.
2. Fighting Hawks Pride – UND’s hockey team, the Fighting Hawks, is one of the top college hockey programs in the nation and has won multiple national championships.
3. Record Cold – In January 1912, Grand Forks recorded a bone-chilling low of -43 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s among the coldest cities in the U.S.!
4. Flood of '97 – A major Red River flood in 1997 caused widespread damage and led to major changes in the city’s flood protection system and a new greenway system.
5. Red River Valley – Grand Forks sits in the Red River Valley, one of the flattest regions in North America, great for farming and stunning sunsets.
6. Art in Unexpected Places – The downtown area features murals, sculptures, and art installations, showing the city’s growing love for public art.
7. Sweet Tooth? – Grand Forks is one of the few places that still hosts a Sugar Beet Festival, celebrating the region’s sugar beet farming industry.
8. Air Force Neighbor – Just west of Grand Forks lies the Grand Forks Air Force Base, which plays a major role in the U.S. Air Force’s drone operations.
9. Best Tasting Water – The city once won an award for having the best-tasting tap water in North Dakota!
10. Friendly City – With its low crime rate and strong sense of community, Grand Forks ranks as one of the most family-friendly cities in the Midwest.