Moorhead MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Moorhead, Minnesota.
1. Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County
LOCAL HISTORY AND HERITAGE
The Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County is housed in the Hjemkomst Center, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the Upper Midwest's local history and culture. Visitors can explore the impressive Hjemkomst Viking Ship, which actually sailed from Minnesota to Norway, and the meticulously crafted Moorhead Hopperstad Stave Church replica. The museum also features rotating exhibits on topics ranging from vintage holiday décor to Indigenous American portraits and local cultural landmarks.
2. Bluestem Amphitheater
OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
Bluestem Amphitheater is a premier outdoor entertainment venue in Moorhead that hosts a variety of performances throughout the warmer months. The amphitheater provides a picturesque setting for concerts, festivals, and cultural events with its open-air design. Visitors can enjoy performances from both national touring acts and local talent in this beautiful outdoor space.
3. Junkyard Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Junkyard Brewing Company is a popular craft brewery in Moorhead known for its innovative and experimental beer offerings. The taproom provides a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can sample a rotating selection of unique brews while often enjoying live music or food trucks. Beer enthusiasts appreciate the brewery's commitment to small-batch brewing and creative flavor combinations.
4. Comstock House
VICTORIAN HISTORIC HOME
The Comstock House is a beautifully preserved Victorian home built in 1883 by Solomon G. Comstock, showcasing the popular architectural styles of the era with its blend of Queen Anne and Eastlake designs. Visitors can step back in time through guided tours of this historic residence, which offers insight into the life of one of Moorhead's founding families. The house features period-appropriate furnishings and décor that illuminate the domestic life of prosperous late 19th-century Midwesterners.
5. The Rourke Art Museum
REGIONAL ART COLLECTION
The Rourke Art Museum is housed in a historic former post office building, featuring striking architectural elements including a column-lined front porch and grand marble staircase. The museum focuses on showcasing works by Upper Midwest artists such as ceramicist Richard Bresnahan, photographer Wayne Gudmundson, and painters Susan Morrissey, Zhimin Guan, and Charles Thysell. Visitors can enjoy both the permanent collection and special exhibitions, including the playful annual Halloween show called Art Ghoullery.
6. The Original Moorhead Dairy Queen
HISTORIC ICE CREAM STAND
The Original Moorhead Dairy Queen stands as one of the most iconic and beloved dessert destinations in the area, serving classic treats since its establishment. This historic ice cream stand operates seasonally and is known for its traditional walk-up service window and nostalgic atmosphere. Visitors flock to this Dairy Queen location to enjoy classic soft-serve ice cream treats while experiencing a piece of local culinary history.
7. Swing Barrel Brewing
LOCAL CRAFT BEER EXPERIENCE
Swing Barrel Brewing offers craft beer enthusiasts a welcoming taproom experience in Moorhead with a selection of house-brewed beers. Visitors can sample a variety of beer styles while enjoying the comfortable atmosphere and often live entertainment or events. The brewery has become a popular gathering place for both locals and tourists seeking quality craft beverages in a friendly setting.
8. Bluestem Prairie Preserve
NATURAL TALLGRASS ECOSYSTEM
Bluestem Prairie Preserve offers visitors a chance to experience one of the few remaining native tallgrass prairie ecosystems in Minnesota. The preserve spans hundreds of acres where hikers can observe diverse prairie plants, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Nature enthusiasts particularly appreciate visiting during different seasons to witness the changing colors of native grasses and wildflowers that once dominated the region's landscape.
9. M.B. Johnson Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
M.B. Johnson Park provides a scenic recreational area along the Red River with amenities for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, fishing spots, picnic areas, and beautiful river views throughout the changing seasons. The park serves as an important natural space within Moorhead, offering opportunities for both active recreation and peaceful nature appreciation.
10. Gooseberry Mound Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR SPACE
Gooseberry Mound Park is a popular recreational area in Moorhead featuring well-maintained bike trails and family-friendly amenities. Visitors can enjoy cycling, walking paths, playground equipment, and picnic facilities in this community park. The park's accessible location makes it a favorite spot for local families and visitors seeking outdoor activities within the city.
11. Rustica Eatery and Tavern
LOCAL CULINARY DESTINATION
Rustica Eatery and Tavern offers a refined dining experience in Moorhead with a menu featuring pizza, American classics, and vegetarian options. The restaurant combines quality ingredients with creative preparations in a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to both casual diners and food enthusiasts. Visitors appreciate the establishment's commitment to flavor and service, making it one of the area's standout culinary destinations.
12. Crazy Tree of Concordia College
UNIQUE NATURAL LANDMARK
The Crazy Tree of Concordia College is a distinctive natural landmark on the college campus that has become a quirky attraction for visitors. This unusual tree has developed a unique growth pattern that makes it stand out among the campus greenery. Visitors often stop to photograph this natural oddity while exploring the grounds of Concordia College in Moorhead.
13. Bonanzaville, USA
PIONEER VILLAGE MUSEUM
Bonanzaville, USA is an immersive pioneer village museum complex located near Moorhead in West Fargo, featuring over 40 historic buildings that preserve the region's pioneer heritage. Visitors can explore authentic structures including a schoolhouse, church, and various shops that have been relocated to create a comprehensive historical experience. The museum offers a glimpse into prairie life from the 1800s through the early 20th century through its extensive collection of artifacts and regular educational programs.
14. Fargo Air Museum
AVIATION HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Fargo Air Museum, located near Moorhead in neighboring Fargo, showcases an impressive collection of aircraft ranging from vintage models to modern flying machines. Visitors can view both static displays and actively flying aircraft while learning about aviation history through interactive exhibits and knowledgeable volunteers. The museum regularly rotates its collection and hosts special events that appeal to aviation enthusiasts of all ages.
15. Drekker Brewing Company
VIKING-THEMED CRAFT BREWERY
Drekker Brewing Company offers a Viking-themed craft beer experience in neighboring Fargo, just minutes from Moorhead. Visitors can enjoy innovative craft beers in the brewery's atmospheric taproom, which often features live music and food vendors. The brewery's Brewhalla location has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking quality craft beverages in a unique setting inspired by Norse mythology.