Fordville North DakotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Fordville, North Dakota.
1. Ford Theatre
HISTORIC MOVIE HOUSE
The Ford Theatre is a beautiful brick building established in 1948 by Hub (Hulbert) and Richard Casement. This historic landmark showed its first movie, "Little Mr. Jim," on March 19th, 1948, and though it closed in the early 1960s, there are restoration efforts underway to preserve this piece of Fordville history.
2. Fordville Dam Recreation Area
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
The Fordville Dam Recreation Area and RV Park is located just 2 miles south, 1 mile east, and 1 mile south of Fordville. The recreation area offers 23 camper sites with 19 having sewer hook-ups, plus 24 primitive sites with water access. Visitors can enjoy amenities including a swimming beach, fishing docks, shower houses, picnic shelters, and playground equipment.
3. St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS SITE
St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church is a highly-rated religious landmark in Fordville. The church serves as both a spiritual center for the community and a historical point of interest for visitors. Its architecture and history make it a noteworthy stop for those touring Walsh County.
4. Saint Stanislaus Church
SPIRITUAL HERITAGE SITE
Saint Stanislaus Church is a well-regarded religious landmark in the Fordville area. The church is known for its architectural features and has earned positive reviews from visitors. It represents an important part of the region's cultural and spiritual heritage.
5. Bylin Dam
SERENE WATER RECREATION
Bylin Dam offers a peaceful setting for outdoor recreation near Fordville. Visitors can enjoy fishing, wildlife viewing, and relaxing in nature at this local water feature. The dam provides a quiet alternative to some of the busier recreation areas in the region.
6. Larimore Golf Course
SCENIC GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Larimore Golf Course is a nearby recreational facility offering golfing opportunities for visitors and locals. The course provides a scenic setting for golfers of various skill levels. Its proximity to Fordville makes it a convenient option for those looking to hit the links while in the area.
7. Painted Canyon Overlook
BREATHTAKING BADLANDS VISTA
Painted Canyon Overlook is one of North Dakota's most spectacular viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the Badlands. Visitors can experience the dramatic landscape with its colorful striations and unique rock formations that showcase millions of years of geological history. The overlook serves as a perfect introduction to Theodore Roosevelt National Park's magnificent terrain.
8. Enchanted Highway
GIANT METAL SCULPTURES ROUTE
The Enchanted Highway is a unique 32-mile stretch of road featuring enormous scrap metal sculptures created by artist Gary Greff. These impressive roadside attractions include themed sculptures spaced several miles apart, culminating in Regent where visitors can find a castle-shaped hotel, restaurant, and visitor center. Each sculpture has its own theme and small parking lot, some with covered picnic benches for travelers to enjoy.
9. Theodore Roosevelt National Park South Unit
HISTORIC WILDERNESS AREA
The South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers visitors a chance to explore the landscape that shaped President Theodore Roosevelt's conservation ethic. The visitor center provides excellent educational resources, including an informative movie, knowledgeable rangers, and a small but comprehensive museum. Travelers can experience amazing views, wildlife sightings, and hiking opportunities throughout this portion of the park.
10. Badlands Overlook
STUNNING NATURAL VISTAS
Badlands Overlook provides visitors with breathtaking views of North Dakota's unique eroded landscape. The overlook offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to witness the ever-changing colors of the Badlands throughout the day. Visitors frequently cite this location as a must-see destination when exploring North Dakota's natural wonders.
11. Red River South - West Loop
SCENIC RIVER TRAIL
Red River South - West Loop is a scenic trail route that connects to the Fordville area. The trail provides opportunities for hiking, nature observation, and outdoor recreation along the Red River system. Visitors can experience the natural beauty of eastern North Dakota's river landscapes while exploring this route.
12. Ramsey County Courthouse
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
The Ramsey County Courthouse stands as an architectural landmark in the region near Fordville. This historic government building showcases early 20th century design and continues to serve as an important administrative center. Its distinctive architecture makes it a point of interest for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.
13. Frost Fire Summer Theatre
SEASONAL PERFORMING ARTS
Frost Fire Summer Theatre offers seasonal performing arts entertainment near the Fordville region. The theater presents musicals and theatrical productions in a unique outdoor setting nestled in the Pembina Gorge. Visitors can enjoy quality performances while experiencing the natural beauty of northeastern North Dakota.
14. Icelandic State Park
HERITAGE AND RECREATION
Icelandic State Park preserves the heritage of Icelandic pioneers while offering recreational opportunities within driving distance of Fordville. The park features historic buildings, including the Gunlogson Homestead and Pioneer Heritage Center, where visitors can learn about early settlement life. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy camping, hiking trails, fishing, and swimming along the shores of Lake Renwick.
15. Pembina State Museum
BORDER HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Pembina State Museum chronicles the rich history of North Dakota's oldest European-American settlement. Visitors can ascend a seven-story observation tower for panoramic views of the Red River Valley where North Dakota, Minnesota, and Manitoba meet. The museum's exhibits detail the region's fur trade era, Native American heritage, and the development of the U.S.-Canadian border.