Williston ND

Williston – Tucked in the heart of North Dakota's oil country, Williston is a city where opportunity meets rugged charm. Known for its booming energy industry, beautiful prairie landscapes, and friendly community, Williston offers a unique blend of small-town warmth and big dreams. Whether you're exploring the great outdoors, learning local history, or enjoying the growing downtown, there's something in Williston for everyone looking for adventure or a new beginning.

• Population: ~27,000
• Weather: Cold winters and warm summers (5°F to 85°F); snowy winters and sunny summers.
• Places To Visit: Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site, Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence Center, Lake Sakakawea, James Memorial Art Center.
• Top Activities: Fishing, hunting, hiking, attending local rodeos, golfing at Eagle Ridge Golf Club.
• Famous Food: Bison burgers, hearty Midwestern stews, fresh walleye, and classic diner breakfasts at local favorites like Smiling Moose Deli and Meg-A-Latte.

Williston, North Dakota, is known for its role in the Bakken oil boom, which has driven economic growth. The city offers strong job opportunities in energy, transportation, construction, and healthcare. Below are some of the most in-demand careers in Williston.

Top 5 Jobs in Williston

Williston, ND, may be a small city, but it offers several fantastic places where students can unwind, relax, and enjoy some fun activities. Whether you enjoy sports, food, or a bit of nature, Williston has a spot for you.

Spring Lake Park – This scenic park is perfect for students looking to escape the hustle and bustle. You can enjoy picnics, walking trails, or simply relax by the lake. The serene environment makes it an ideal spot to clear your mind.

Williston ARC – The Williston Area Recreation Center offers a variety of activities, including swimming, basketball, and an indoor playground. It's a great place to stay active and mingle with other students.

Harmon Park – Known for its beautiful green spaces and tennis courts, Harmon Park is a great place to hang out with friends or play a match. With its open areas, it's a perfect location for a casual outdoor study session as well.

James Memorial Art Center – If you have an artistic side, checking out the exhibitions at the James Memorial Art Center can be both relaxing and inspiring. It's a creative gem in the heart of the city.

Downtown Williston – This area offers a mix of cafes, shops, and eateries, ideal for students looking to grab a cup of coffee or a bite to eat. The charming atmosphere provides a relaxed vibe for catching up with friends or taking a study break.

Frontier Museum – Learn about local history while having a fun day out. The museum provides a fascinating look into North Dakota's past, perfect for anyone looking to combine leisure with a bit of learning.

Williston, North Dakota, may be a small city, but it offers access to quality higher education through both public and private institutions. These schools provide students with academic, technical, and career-focused programs that serve the local community and beyond.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Williston

Williston State College – A member of the North Dakota University System, this two-year public college offers associate degrees, certificates, and transfer options. Known for its affordability and strong nursing, business, and technical programs, WSC serves as a gateway to four-year universities.

North Dakota State University (Extension in Williston) – Though headquartered in Fargo, NDSU maintains a Cooperative Extension office in Williston, providing continuing education, agriculture, research, and youth development programs to meet local needs.

University of North Dakota – Williston Area Programs – UND partners with Williston State College to offer distance and online degree programs, especially in education, nursing, and business, giving local students access to a four-year university experience without leaving town.

TrainND Northwest (at Williston State College) – This workforce training center is funded through the North Dakota University System and offers public programming in areas like CDL training, oil and gas safety, healthcare, and IT certifications.

Dickinson State University (Limited Outreach in Williston) – While based in Dickinson, DSU provides remote classes and collaboration with WSC for students interested in education, liberal arts, and business programs.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Williston

University of Mary – Watford City/Williston Programs – This private Catholic university based in Bismarck offers satellite and online courses in Williston. Known for its values-based education, the University of Mary provides nursing, education, and business degrees tailored to working adults and nontraditional students.

Park University (Online Servicing Williston) – A private nonprofit university with over 40 campus centers nationwide, Park University offers flexible online degrees in criminal justice, business, and IT. Many Williston residents use their remote programs to earn bachelor's and master's degrees while maintaining jobs.

University of Jamestown (Online Programs Reaching Williston) – While located in eastern North Dakota, UJ delivers online bachelor’s and graduate programs in areas like leadership, education, and RN to BSN, available to students in Williston and other rural parts of the state.

Rasmussen University (Online Access in Williston) – This private, regionally accredited university provides fully online degrees in healthcare, business, and technology, supporting Williston learners with career-centered coursework and support services.

Capella University (National with Online Reach in Williston) – Although based outside the state, Capella is a recognized online private institution offering competency-based education. Many Williston students pursue Capella’s degrees in psychology, education, and public administration due to its flexibility and accreditation.

Williston, North Dakota, may be a small city, but it’s home to some great high schools that help students succeed academically and personally. Whether you’re looking at public or private options, families in the area have schools that emphasize college readiness, skilled trades, and stronger communities through education.

Top Public High Schools in Williston, ND

• Williston High School – The largest public high school in the region, Williston High offers a wide range of AP courses, career and technical programs, and athletics. It prepares students for both college and the workforce.
• Trinity Christian School (Public Charter Division) – Although known for its faith-based private programs, Trinity also offers a public charter option focusing on strong academics in a nurturing environment.
• Watford City High School – Located nearby, this school is part of the McKenzie County district and provides modern facilities, STEM-focused programs, and solid student support services.
• Grenora Public School – A small K-12 school in nearby Grenora, this public school offers high school academics with low student-to-teacher ratios, allowing personalized attention for success.
• Ray Public School – Another strong school serving rural areas around Williston, Ray offers a tight-knit educational environment with academic and extracurricular opportunities for high school students.

Top Private High Schools in Williston, ND

• Trinity Christian School (Private High School Division) – This well-established private institution combines academic excellence with spiritual growth. It offers small classes, college prep courses, and a values-based education.
• CrossRoads High School – A private Christian school that focuses on personalized learning and faith-centered education, perfect for families looking for a supportive alternative to large public schools.
• St. Joseph Catholic School (Middle to High School Levels) – While traditionally serving grades K-8, some Catholic schools in Williston and nearby areas are expanding to offer high school tracks with a strong moral and academic base.
• Cornerstone Christian School (Minot) – Located about two hours from Williston, this school is an option for families willing to commute or relocate, offering comprehensive private Christian education in a high school setting.
• Prairie View Adventist School – Although smaller and faith-based, Prairie View emphasizes strong academics, character development, and well-rounded education in a Christian environment.

Williston, North Dakota, is a growing city in the state's northwest region, known more for its energy industry and outdoor lifestyle than professional sports. However, while Williston does not currently host any major league professional sports teams, it does strongly support amateur, collegiate, and semi-professional sports through local franchises and community enthusiasm.

⚾ Baseball – Williston Keybirds (American Legion Baseball)

• Williston Keybirds – The Keybirds are an American Legion Baseball team that has represented the city for several decades. Comprising high school athletes, this team offers young players the chance to compete regionally and nationally. They play their home games at the Ardean Aafedt Stadium, a historic ballpark known for its close-knit community setting and passionate fan base.

🏒 Hockey – Williston Basin Speedway Youth & Amateur Leagues

• Williston Hockey Association – Though not part of the NHL, local hockey thrives in Williston. The Williston Hockey Association supports youth teams ranging from beginners to high school levels. Hockey is a major winter sport in the region, and games often draw fans from across the city.

🏈 Football – Williston State College Tetons (NJCAA)

• Williston State Tetons – While they do not have a football program, Williston State College competes in other sports like basketball, baseball, and hockey through the National Junior College Athletic Association. The Tetons offer student-athletes a chance to develop their skills and represent the community at a collegiate level.

⚽ Soccer & Other Sports – Community and Youth Leagues

• Williston Parks and Recreation District – Soccer is gaining popularity in Williston through local youth and recreation leagues. The Williston Parks department organizes year-round programs in multiple sports including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and softball for residents of all ages.

🏀 Basketball – Williston State College Tetons (Men & Women)

• WSC Tetons Basketball – The men’s and women’s basketball teams at Williston State College play in the NJCAA. These teams often compete against strong regional programs and play a vital role in the town’s sports scene. Home games bring in students, families, and locals to cheer on the athletes.

Though it may not have any franchises in the NFL, NBA, MLB, or NHL, Williston, ND, maintains a proud sports culture centered around community involvement, youth development, and college athletics. The city's passion for sports is evident in its consistent support of local teams and dedicated fan attendance at games across all levels.

Williston, North Dakota, might be a small city, but it’s full of charm, history, and unique facts that make it a great place to explore. Located in the northwest corner of the state, it has seen rapid growth and offers some cool stories you might not expect. Here are 10 fun facts about Williston:

1. Oil Boom Town – Williston became famous nationwide due to the Bakken oil boom, which brought thousands of new residents and massive economic growth in the 2000s.
2. Gateway to the Missouri River – The city lies along the mighty Missouri River, one of the longest rivers in North America and a key part of local recreation.
3. Dinosaur Country – Williston is close to some of North Dakota’s richest dinosaur fossil beds, with many ancient finds unearthed nearby.
4. Home of Fort Union – Just a short drive from the city is historic Fort Union Trading Post, a major stop for fur traders in the 1800s.
5. Sky's the Limit – With its wide-open plains and big skies, Williston offers incredible stargazing—perfect for spotting the northern lights in winter!
6. Big on Golf – Williston is home to the scenic Links of North Dakota, a top-rated golf course nestled near Lake Sakakawea.
7. Cold but Beautiful – Winters can be freezing, but the city often enjoys over 200 sunny days per year, making for bright, snowy landscapes.
8. Aviation History – Williston’s airport is named after Sloulin Field, a tribute to aviation pioneer Edward Sloulin who helped put the city on the flying map.
9. Fishing Hotspot – Lake Sakakawea, just south of Williston, is one of the best places for walleye and pike fishing in the Midwest.
10. Thriving Arts Scene – The James Memorial Art Center in downtown Williston showcases local artists and hosts a variety of cultural events year-round.