Midwest kindness in North Dakota's third-largest city
Sitting along the North Dakota-Minnesota border, Grand Forks just barely makes it as North Dakota’s third-largest city after Fargo and Bismarck. Home to about 59,000 people, Grand Forks comprises the western half of the Grand Cities, where East Grand Forks resides on the opposite side of the waterway. The Red River winds along the eastern side of Grand Forks, separating it from its counterpart and establishing the state border. Here on the western side of the river, Grand Forks represents North Dakota history and culture, featuring both the oldest university in the state and an art museum dedicated to North Dakota artists. Still, the city feels like a small town with plenty of local restaurants and a passion for university sports. “Everybody talks about Midwest kindness and everyone being neighborly, and we’re certainly not the exception to that,” says North Forks resident and Realtor Tim Bernhardt with Crary Commercial. “Everyone’s overly nice here.”
Grand Forks is North Dakota's third largest city by population.
The Red River separates Grand Forks from East Grand Forks.
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Riverside and seasonal recreation in Grand Forks
Along the banks of the Red River, the Greater Grant Forks Greenway offers over 2,200 acres of recreational space along the waterfront, from parks and golf courses to campgrounds. Residents can walk or bike through the 20 miles of trails, stop and fish along the shore or launch a canoe or kayak. “Some people would say the water’s murky,” Bernhardt says. “Sediment rich would be a better way to say it, but you won’t find kids swimming in the river.” The river also used to be prone to flooding, with a particularly bad surge in 1997. “We’ve got a dam system in place now,” Bernhardt says. “As long as you live within city limits, you don’t have to worry about that.” At University Park, 8,000 flowers bloom annually, attracting residents for family pictures and visits to the summertime splash pad or outdoor ice skating rink in winter.
Rotary Park offers beautiful views of the Red River.
Greater Forks Greenway was established after the Red River flooded in 1997.
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North Dakota's oldest and largest university is in Grand Forks
K-12 students generally attend Grand Forks Public Schools, which was awarded an A-minus from Niche and ranked the third-best school district in North Dakota. The University of North Dakota serves 15,000 students, making it the largest and the oldest in the state. Along with its law and medical schools, it is also known for its aerospace program. The university is also one of Grand Forks’ largest employers alongside the Grand Forks Air Force Base.
Valley Middle School serves kids in grades 6 through 8.
The University of North Dakota is the oldest institution of higher learning in the state.
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Grand Forks' active sports and art scene
With the university in the center of town, the community comes together to watch collegiate sports. “We don’t have professional sports here, so we rally behind the hockey team and follow them like they’re a professional team,” Bernhardt says. “And we’ve got an amazing arena that’s the pride of the community — it’s got all sorts of lavish finishes.” People can also head to Chester Fritz Auditorium on campus to see touring Broadway musicals. The North Dakota Museum of Art is also here, featuring contemporary and international collections.
Chester Fritz Auditorium is on of several performance centers Grand Forks.
North Dakota Museum of Art is located on the University of North Dakota Grand Forks campus.
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Fireworks over the river and summer art festivals
Art on the Red, also known as ArtFerst, showcases over 100 artists in an annual celebration that includes live music and food vendors. Every Independence Day, the Sertoma July 4th Festival and Fireworks offers 12 hours of live music and games, ending with a fireworks show over the river.
Historic homes around downtown and new houses along the south side
Grand Forks’ median housing price is about $117,000, though the single-family median price is a bit higher at about $350,000. Older American Foursquares and ranch-style homes mingle with contemporary condo and apartment communities around downtown. Along the southern side of the city, newer housing tracts feature split-level homes, Colonial Revivals and New Traditionals.
After a slight increase in property crimes and violent crimes in 2021, the rate of both fell in 2023; the most recent year crime data is available from the FBI. Bernhardt emphasizes that people feel secure here. “It’s very safe,” Bernhardt says. “It’s the type of place where you can be completely naïve because there’s really low crime.”
Two story homes are commonly found among established neighborhoods in Grand Forks.
Split level homes are common in newer builds in the Grand Forks area.
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Bar hopping through the Historic Downtown District in Grand Forks
The Historic Downtown District’s buildings date back to 1875, featuring plenty of local nightlife bars and pubs. Lights strung across the streets illuminate the nights, so people can bar-hop from location to location. The city prioritized protecting historic buildings since the 1997 flood, but the city has sought to revitalize downtown with luxury apartment complexes. The city also has a mall — Columbia Mall — located on the southwestern side of Grand Forks. In addition to retail shopping, residents can also stop at supermarkets, big box stores, and chains situated around the mall along 32nd Avenue.
Downtown Grand Forks takes great pride in preserving historic buildings.
The streets of downtown Grand Forks are lined with unique places like Bonzer's Pub.
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An international airport and Amtrak station on Grand Forks' west side
Buses powered by Cities Area Transit run throughout Grand Forks, connecting residents with major shopping destinations and employers. U.S. Route 2 runs east to west, linking the city with Grand Forks International Airport and the Air Force base to the west. Those heading into Minnesota to East Grand Forks can cross the river at two spots — the Sorlie Memorial Bridge and the John F. Kennedy Memorial Bridge.
Interstate 29 cuts through the western side of the city, going south to Fargo and north into Canada. The Grand Forks Amtrak Station sits on the far western side of the city and connects to major cities like Chicago and Portland via the Empire Builder line. Because Grand Forks is so far north, the city can get significant snow in the winter. However, the city deploys plows, aiming to clear the streets within 24 hours after snowfall ends.
Written By
Caroline Ernst
Photography Contributed By
Brandon Rowell
Video By
Alex Jacobsen
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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an experienced agent in this area.
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4 stall garage and spacious 2-story home with a unique layout featuring 3 primary bedroom suites and plenty of room to spread out. The interior has been freshly painted and features hardwood floors throughout. The kitchen includes all new stainless steel appliances. The finished basement offers additional living space with a wet bar. New roof in 2025.
Very well maintained 4 bed, 2 bath split level in desirable neighborhood. Both bathrooms have been updated. Spacious rooms, ready to call home. Home has a radon mitigation system. Garage is finished and heated. Beautiful New maintenance free deck and fence installed in the past year. NO SPECIALS!!!!
Rhonda VanattaBerkshire Hathaway Homeservices Family Rea
4 stall garage and spacious 2-story home with a unique layout featuring 3 primary bedroom suites and plenty of room to spread out. The interior has been freshly painted and features hardwood floors throughout. The kitchen includes all new stainless steel appliances. The finished basement offers additional living space with a wet bar. New roof in 2025.
Updated and ready for its next owner! This Grand Forks home features low-maintenance steel siding, updated windows and exterior doors, and modern flooring throughout. Fenced backyard w/deck. Large 24x26 detached garage. Qualified veterans may be able to assume the seller's VA loan (subject to lender approval). Seller prefers 24 hr notice and June closing.
This lot has over 15,000 square feet. Located on a quiet street in a cul de sac near King Walk Golf Course. Only a few more homes can be built in this desirable area! Specials under $20,000.
Grand Forks' most stylish new construction featuring premium finishes and innovative design. Gourmet kitchen with custom cabinetry, GE Cafe appliances, and hidden walk-in pantry. Floor-to-ceiling Marvin windows, engineered hardwood, linear gas fireplace with stone wall. Spa-like primary bath with heated floors, walk-in shower, free-standing tub. Unique wellness room wired for sauna. Hidden
Affordable living in Columbia Heights Park! This 2-bedroom, 1-bath manufactured home features an office addition, enclosed entry, carport, and deck. Neutral colors throughout and a bright kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Refrigerator, dishwasher, and front-load washer and dryer were all new in 2024. Move-in ready and easy to maintain — a great opportunity at just $13,000. Lot rent $700/mo
This move-in-ready 1439 rambler offers 4 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and a layout designed for modern living. Vaulted ceilings elevate the open main living space, while the two-toned kitchen and corner pantry add both style and function. The finished basement features a large family room, two bedrooms with walk-in closets, and ample storage, providing flexibility for entertaining, relaxing, or
The 1439 Rambler 2-Stall plan has been thoughtfully designed around today's family. The vaulted foyer welcomes you into the inviting main level, guiding you to the great room off of a large kitchen. The natural light in the kitchen is complemented by an island, granite/quartz countertops, and custom cabinetry. Behind the kitchen, a mud room branches off to a conveniently located laundry room. The
The Ease Bi-Level floor plan reflects a relaxed, inspired, and comfortable space you’ll be happy to call home. Featuring a large, airy foyer, greet your guests in style as you welcome them to your new home! The upper level is bright and open with a lovely kitchen and living space. You'll find a master bedroom and Hollywood bathroom to round out the upper floor. The lower highlights another living
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom condo is located on the 3rd floor in a prime downtown location. With great finishes throughout, the unit offers a comfortable and modern living space. Enjoy the convenience of a heated garage spot, perfect for winter months. With its central location, you're close to local shops, dining, and entertainment. Condo is currently leased, great investment opportunity!
The 2180 Bi-Level 2-Stall plan features an open foyer with vaulted ceilings and plenty of natural light. The entryway closet adds extra storage for the active family. This home features an open kitchen, breakfast bar, dining & living room space, and 4 bedrooms and 2 baths. The kitchen is the highlight of this home with custom cabinets, granite countertops, and ample counter space for the avid
The Ease Bi-Level floor plan reflects a relaxed, inspired, and comfortable space you’ll be happy to call home. Featuring a large, airy foyer, greet your guests in style as you welcome them to your new home! The upper level is bright and open with a lovely kitchen and living space. You'll find a master bedroom and Hollywood bathroom to round out the upper floor. The lower highlights another living
The 2180 Bi-Level 2-Stall plan features an open foyer with vaulted ceilings and plenty of natural light. The entryway closet adds extra storage for the active family. This home features an open kitchen, breakfast bar, dining & living room space, and 4 bedrooms and 2 baths. The kitchen is the highlight of this home with custom cabinets, granite countertops, and ample counter space for the avid
Welcome to Forest Park Apartments, where the apartment homes are warm and comfortable and feature the amenities you need to cozy into your new apartment home. Situated just off the main thoroughfares of the city, you'll have easy access to everything Grand Forks has to offer.
Space for lease-perfect for business, Contractor, warehouse or hobby shop etc. 12 x 14 garage door, LED lighting, ceiling fans & floor drains. On Columbia & North Washington Street.
Experience The Pinnacle Of Urban Living At Franklin On 4th, Opening August 2024. Located In Dynamic Downtown Grand Forks, Franklin On 4th Combines Modern Sophistication With Classic Charm. Immerse Yourself In A World Of Convenience And Style. Enjoy The Exceptional Amenities Such As A Heated Outdoor Spa, A Community Fireplace In The Elevated Courtyard, A Cutting-Edge Fitness Facility, And A
This highly visible commercial space along Washington Street offers an exceptional opportunity for retail, office, or showroom use. The property features an inviting reception area, a versatile open layout suitable for product display or professional workspaces, and a well-appointed breakroom complete with a full kitchen. Its prominent location provides excellent exposure and easy access, making
Live a life of comfort and convenience that youve been dreaming at Valley Park Apartments. Youll love being close to local attractions and conveniences such as Columbia Mall, Bringewatt Park, Washington Street and the local Walmart. Explore our community today and start enjoying affordable living.
32nd Avenue end cap drive-thru suite for lease. Featuring fully operational: 50''x62'' kitchen hood, walk in cooler and freezer, drive thru window and menu board.Available today.CAM estimated at $6.00/sf for 2026.Tenant pays all separately metered utilities.3-phase power. 630,000 BTU natural gas capacity.
SOCO is a new, modern professional park conveniently located in south Grand Forks. The office park consists of two buildings ready for occupancy immediately. The location provides convenient and quick access from multiple directions. We have three Suites coming available currently occupied by Bell Bank ranging in size: 2,754 Sq. Ft., 2,075 Sq. Ft., and 1,275 Sq. Ft.
McEnroe Place offers pet friendly apartments with a variety of studio, one, two, three and four bedroom apartment layout options. McEnroe Place Apartments feature light maple cabinetry, durable vinyl plank flooring with the comfort of wall to wall carpeting. Enjoy neutral finishes that work well with a variety of décor and are the perfect foundation for you to add your own touch of style. Washer
SOCO is a new, modern professional park conveniently located in south Grand Forks. The office park consists of two buildings ready for occupancy immediately. The location provides convenient and quick access from multiple directions. We have three Suites coming available currently occupied by Bell Bank ranging in size: 2,754 Sq. Ft., 2,075 Sq. Ft., and 1,275 Sq. Ft.
Discover modern living at its finest at Blackmore Flats! Our spacious, stylish apartments offer contemporary interiors designed for comfort and convenience. Enjoy exclusive access to our clubhouse, featuring a complimentary coffee & espresso bar, a fully equipped fitness center, a vibrant clubroom, an outdoor fire pit, grilling stations, and even a pool table for endless
SOCO is a new, modern professional park conveniently located in south Grand Forks. The office park consists of two buildings ready for occupancy immediately. The location provides convenient and quick access from multiple directions. We have three Suites coming available currently occupied by Bell Bank ranging in size: 2,754 Sq. Ft., 2,075 Sq. Ft., and 1,275 Sq. Ft.
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