10 Fun Things To Do Near West Fargo, North Dakota (Cass County Travel Guide)
If you’re planning a trip to
West Fargo, North Dakota, you might be wondering, “What is there to do around here?”
The good news: a lot more than you might think.
West Fargo sits right next to
Fargo, and together they create a small but lively metro area with museums, local food, outdoor fun, and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re road-tripping across the Midwest or visiting friends and family, this guide will walk you through
10 fun things to do in and around West Fargo.
1. Explore Bonanzaville, USA – Step Back in Time
If you only pick one thing to do in West Fargo, make it
Bonanzaville, USA.
This pioneer village and museum complex, run by the Cass County Historical Society, is like walking into a living history book. There are over 40 historic buildings, including:
- Old homes and a schoolhouse
- A church and general store
- Train depot and railroad cars
- Fire station and jail
You can wander through the buildings, peek into rooms, and imagine what life was like on the prairie more than 100 years ago.
On my first visit, I spent way longer than planned in the telephone museum section, surprised at how quickly technology changed—from switchboards to the smartphones in our pockets today. If you’re a history buff or you’re traveling with kids, plan at least 2–3 hours here.
SEO tip for travelers: If you’re searching for things to do in West Fargo, “Bonanzaville West Fargo” and “Cass County Historical Society museum” are great keywords to keep in mind.
2. Catch Events at the Red River Valley Fairgrounds
Right in West Fargo, the
Red River Valley Fairgrounds is the place to be when something big is happening.
Depending on the time of year, you might find:
- The Red River Valley Fair (usually in summer)
- Concerts and live shows
- Rodeos and motorsports
- Expos, craft shows, and seasonal festivals
If you like classic fair food—think corn dogs, funnel cakes, and lemonade—this is your spot. The fairgrounds are also a great way to experience a slice of local North Dakota culture, especially during the big annual fair.
Travel tip: Check the fairgrounds website or social media before your trip so you don’t miss any special events during your stay in West Fargo.
3. Enjoy the Outdoors at Rendezvous Park
Need a breather from driving or sightseeing? Head to
Rendezvous Park in West Fargo.
This big community park offers:
- Walking and biking paths
- Ponds and green space
- Playgrounds for kids
- Sports fields and open areas to toss a frisbee or football
On a warm summer evening, the park fills with walkers, joggers, and families. It’s a simple, relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors without leaving town.
If you’re traveling with kids, this is an easy stop to let them burn off some energy. If you’re solo, grab a coffee, find a bench, and just enjoy some quiet Midwest scenery.
4. Cheer at a Game at Essentia Health Mustang Stadium
If you’d like a taste of local sports culture, check the schedule at
Essentia Health Mustang Stadium, home to the West Fargo Sheyenne Mustangs.
High school sports are a big deal in many small and mid-sized towns, and West Fargo is no different. On game nights, the stadium buzzes with energy—students, parents, alumni, and community members all come together.
You might catch:
- Football games in the fall
- Track meets in the spring
- Other school sporting events
You don’t need to know anyone on the team to enjoy it. Just show up, grab some concessions, and soak in a genuine local experience you won’t find on a typical tourist checklist.
5. Explore Downtown Fargo – Just Minutes from West Fargo
From West Fargo, you’re only a short drive—about 10 to 15 minutes—from
downtown Fargo. Think of Fargo as West Fargo’s lively neighbor, packed with restaurants, shops, and nightlife.
Downtown Fargo is walkable and full of character. You can:
- Stroll along Broadway and wander into local boutiques
- Grab coffee at a cozy café
- Check out murals and street art for photo spots
- Visit local breweries and pubs
If you’re coming from a big city, Fargo’s downtown may feel small but charming. If you’re from a smaller town, it might feel like a fun little urban escape.
Tip: Look up “things to do in Fargo ND” for even more options, then use West Fargo as your home base.
6. See a Show at the Historic Fargo Theatre
While you’re in downtown Fargo, don’t miss the
Fargo Theatre, about 15–20 minutes from much of West Fargo.
This beautifully restored 1920s theater is known for:
- Its iconic marquee sign (great for photos)
- Independent films and special movie nights
- Live performances, concerts, and comedy shows
Walking inside feels like stepping into another era, with its classic design and old-school movie palace vibe. If the weather is chilly (and in North Dakota, it often is), an evening show here is a cozy way to end the day.
7. Visit the Plains Art Museum
If you enjoy art, or you’re just curious, the
Plains Art Museum in Fargo is worth a visit. It’s one of the largest art museums in the region and is only a short drive from West Fargo.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Rotating exhibits featuring local, regional, and national artists
- Native American art and cultural pieces
- Interactive and family-friendly programs on certain days
You don’t need to be an art expert to enjoy it. Take your time, walk through the galleries, and see what catches your eye. The museum is also a good rainy-day or winter activity when you want something indoors.
8. Check Out the Fargo Air Museum
Love planes, history, or both? Put the
Fargo Air Museum on your list. It’s located near Hector International Airport, still an easy drive from West Fargo.
Here you’ll find:
- Historic aircraft, some fully restored
- Exhibits on aviation history and military planes
- Hands-on displays that kids tend to love
Many of the aircraft are kept in flying condition, which adds an extra layer of “wow” compared to static displays. If you’re traveling with someone who geeks out over engines, flight, or World War II history, this stop will make their day.
9. Walk Across State Lines at Lindenwood Park & Gooseberry Park
Want a fun little “I did this” moment? Head to
Lindenwood Park in Fargo and
Gooseberry Park in Moorhead, Minnesota.
These two parks sit along the
Red River of the North, which forms the border between North Dakota and Minnesota. A pedestrian bridge connects them, so you can literally walk from one state to the other in just a few steps.
In the area you’ll find:
- Walking and biking trails
- Playgrounds and picnic areas
- Shaded spots to relax by the river
On a nice day, this is one of the best free things to do near West Fargo. Pack a simple picnic, enjoy the river views, and check “walked from North Dakota to Minnesota” off your list.
10. Sample Local Food and Craft Beer Around West Fargo
Exploring
local food in West Fargo and Fargo is an attraction all on its own.
Options change over time, but you can expect to find:
- Cozy diners serving hearty Midwestern comfort food
- Barbecue joints and burger spots
- Local breweries and taprooms pouring North Dakota craft beer
- Family-friendly restaurants with plenty of American classics
If you’re not sure where to start, ask a local at your hotel or coffee shop: “Where do you like to eat around here?” In smaller metro areas like Fargo–West Fargo, you’ll usually get honest, specific answers—and maybe even a few “you have to try this” dishes.
Planning Your West Fargo Trip: Quick Tips
To make the most of your time in and around West Fargo, keep these tips in mind:
- Best seasons: Late spring through early fall offers the most outdoor options. Winters can be very cold and snowy, but beautiful if you’re prepared.
- Getting around: You’ll want a car. Distances are short, but public transit is limited, and attractions are spread around Fargo, West Fargo, and Moorhead.
- What to wear: Layers. North Dakota weather changes fast, even in one day.
- Trip length: A weekend is enough for the highlights, but 3–4 days gives you time to explore at an easier pace.
Final Thoughts: Why West Fargo Is Worth a Stop
West Fargo might not be the first city that pops into your head when you think of travel in the USA, but that’s part of its charm. It’s relaxed, friendly, and gives you a real sense of life in the Upper Midwest.
From
Bonanzaville’s pioneer history to
downtown Fargo’s arts and food scene, and from riverfront parks to local fairs and festivals, there’s plenty to fill a weekend—or a road-trip stop—without feeling rushed.
If you’re planning a North Dakota road trip, or driving along I‑94, consider using
West Fargo as your base to explore
Cass County and the Fargo area.
Share Your West Fargo Experience
Have you been to West Fargo or the Fargo–Moorhead area?
- Which attraction was your favorite?
- Did you discover a local restaurant or hidden gem that should be on this list?
Drop your stories, tips, and questions in the comments—your experience can help other travelers plan their own trip.
And if you found this guide on
things to do near West Fargo, North Dakota helpful, please
share it with a friend, pin it for later, or post it to your favorite social platform. It might just inspire someone else to explore this underrated corner of the Midwest.
Comments
Post a Comment