East Grand Forks MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near East Grand Forks, Minnesota.
1. Red River State Recreation Area
RIVERSIDE CAMPING AND RECREATION
The Red River State Recreation Area offers beautiful riverside camping and recreational opportunities along the banks of the Red River. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, and bird watching while experiencing the natural beauty of the area. The recreation area was developed after the devastating 1997 flood and now serves as both a recreational destination and a component of the city's flood protection system.
2. The Greenway
MULTI-USE OUTDOOR TRAIL SYSTEM
The Greenway is a vast 2,200-acre outdoor recreation space shared between East Grand Forks, Minnesota and Grand Forks, North Dakota. This expansive green corridor offers multi-use trails perfect for walking, running, biking, and rollerblading throughout all seasons. The Greenway also features camping areas, kayaking opportunities, and serves as a beautiful natural space for enjoying the brisk Upper Midwestern air.
3. Sherlock Forest Playground
MAGICAL COMMUNITY-BUILT PLAYGROUND
Sherlock Forest Playground is East Grand Forks' most popular playground, originally designed and built with help from local elementary schools and volunteers in 2003. After being largely destroyed by fire in 2011, the entire community rallied to reconstruct this beloved play space. Today, children can explore a magical castle, slay dragons, and enjoy a pastel-colored pirate ship in this surreal and imaginative playground.
4. Grape Mill Vineyard and Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING DESTINATION
Grape Mill Vineyard and Winery offers visitors a chance to sample locally produced wines in a charming setting. Wine enthusiasts can enjoy tastings, tours of the vineyard, and special events throughout the year. This family-owned establishment provides a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere for those looking to experience regional wine culture in East Grand Forks.
5. Sherlock Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR SPACE
Sherlock Park serves as one of East Grand Forks' premier public spaces for family recreation and community gatherings. The park features open green spaces, picnic areas, and the popular Sherlock Forest Playground, making it perfect for family outings. Located conveniently within the city, this park has become a central hub for outdoor activities and community events throughout the year.
6. VFW Arena
COMMUNITY ICE SKATING VENUE
The VFW Arena in East Grand Forks is a beloved community ice skating venue that hosts hockey games, figure skating events, and public skating sessions. This arena serves as a gathering place for winter sports enthusiasts and offers programming for skaters of all ages and skill levels. The facility plays an important role in the community's winter recreation scene and sporting culture.
7. Valley Golf Course
SCENIC RIVERSIDE GOLFING
Valley Golf Course offers golfers a picturesque setting along the Red River with well-maintained fairways and challenging holes. Players can enjoy the natural beauty of the riverside landscape while testing their skills on this public course. The course provides amenities including a clubhouse, pro shop, and practice facilities for golfers of all abilities.
8. East Grand Forks Heritage Village
HISTORICAL PIONEER SETTLEMENT RECREATION
East Grand Forks Heritage Village preserves and showcases the area's pioneer history through restored and relocated historical buildings. Visitors can step back in time while exploring authentic structures including a one-room schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, and pioneer homes. The village offers a tangible connection to the region's past through educational exhibits and special events that bring history to life.
9. East Grand Forks Swimming Pool
COMMUNITY AQUATIC CENTER
The East Grand Forks Swimming Pool provides refreshing summer recreation for residents and visitors alike with its clean, well-maintained facilities. Swimmers can enjoy various amenities including swimming lanes, diving areas, and shallow sections for younger visitors. This community pool offers a perfect way to cool off during hot summer days while enjoying healthy outdoor activity.
10. Frisbee Golf Course
DISC GOLF IN NATURE
The Frisbee Golf Course in East Grand Forks offers disc golf enthusiasts a challenging course set in beautiful natural surroundings. Players can test their skills across various holes designed to accommodate both beginners and experienced disc golfers. This recreational facility represents one of several disc golf options within The Greenway system that spans East Grand Forks and neighboring Grand Forks.
11. Campbell Library
COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTER
The Campbell Library serves as East Grand Forks' literary and cultural hub with its extensive collection of books, digital resources, and community programming. Visitors can participate in various events and programs designed for all ages, from children's story times to adult book clubs. This welcoming space provides educational opportunities, technology access, and a quiet place for reading and research.
12. Mendenhall Church of God
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
Mendenhall Church of God stands as a notable historic religious landmark in East Grand Forks with its distinctive architecture and community significance. The church continues to serve as both a place of worship and a gathering place for community events. Visitors interested in local history and architecture often appreciate the character and heritage represented by this longstanding institution.
13. Valley Corn Maize
SEASONAL AGRICULTURAL ATTRACTION
Valley Corn Maize transforms farmland into an intricate maze design each fall, creating a popular seasonal attraction for visitors of all ages. Guests can navigate the challenging corn maze, participate in various farm activities, and enjoy other autumn-themed attractions during the harvest season. This agricultural tourism destination combines outdoor fun with rural traditions, making it a perfect fall outing for families and groups.
14. Ralph Engelstad Arena
PREMIER HOCKEY VENUE
Ralph Engelstad Arena is an impressive hockey facility located just across the river from East Grand Forks in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Known for its exceptional design and amenities, this world-class arena hosts University of North Dakota hockey games and major sporting events and concerts. Visitors are often amazed by the arena's marble floors, granite bathrooms, and incredible attention to detail throughout the facility.
15. North Dakota Museum of Art
FINE ART CULTURAL INSTITUTION
The North Dakota Museum of Art showcases impressive collections including works by Picasso in neighboring Grand Forks, North Dakota. As the state's official art museum, it presents rotating exhibitions of contemporary international, national, and regional art in its beautiful gallery spaces. Visitors can enjoy the permanent collection, special exhibitions, educational programs, and the museum café during their cultural exploration of the region.