Rugby Travel Guide

Plan the perfect trip to Rugby, North Dakota with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and more.


Rugby, North Dakota is a small town situated in the heart of the Great Plains region of the United States. Known as the Geographical Center of North America, Rugby is a hidden gem that offers visitors a beautiful blend of modern convenience and rich history. Whether you’re a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, Rugby has something for everyone. From historical landmarks and museums to natural attractions such as parks and hiking trails, Rugby is the perfect destination for a unique and memorable vacation. Let’s take a closer look at what Rugby has to offer.

Introduction to Rugby

Rugby is a small town located in the north-central part of North Dakota. The town has a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s. It was founded in 1886 and named after the town of Rugby in England. Rugby is also known for being the Geographical Center of North America, which is marked by a stone monument in the town’s park.

List of Places to Visit in Rugby

Here are some of the must-see attractions that Rugby has to offer:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Pierce County Courthouse: This beautiful courthouse was built in 1905 and is a historical landmark in the town. It features stunning architectural details and is still in use today.
  • Prairie Village Museum: The Prairie Village Museum is a must-visit attraction for history buffs. It features over 20 buildings that showcase the history of the region, including a schoolhouse, post office, and bank.
  • Northern Lights Tower: This 69-foot steel tower offers visitors stunning panoramic views of Rugby and the surrounding countryside.

Natural Attractions of Rugby: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Rugby Riverside Park: This beautiful park is located along the banks of the Souris River and offers visitors a peaceful setting for picnicking and fishing.
  • Lake Metigoshe State Park: Located just a short drive from Rugby, Lake Metigoshe State Park is the perfect destination for hiking, camping, and fishing. The park spans over 1,500 acres and features stunning scenery, including forests, lakes, and scenic trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rugby

For outdoor enthusiasts, Rugby offers several hiking and biking trails for all skill levels. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Old Oak Trail: This 1-mile trail offers stunning views of the Old Oak Tree, which is estimated to be over 400 years old.
  • Souris River Bend Trail: This 3.5-mile trail winds through the trees along the Souris River and provides visitors with beautiful views of the water and surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Rugby: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re in the mood for a guided tour or a unique activity, Rugby has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Rugby:

  • Geocaching: Rugby is home to several geocaching sites, allowing visitors to explore the town and surrounding countryside while searching for hidden treasure.
  • Frontier Village Tour: Take a guided tour of the Frontier Village, which features over 20 historic buildings, including a church, schoolhouse, and blacksmith shop.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rugby

Day 1: Visit Pierce County Courthouse and Old Oak Tree Trail Day 2: Explore the Prairie Village Museum and lunch at Dakota Farms Day 3: Visit Northern Lights Tower and hiking at Souris River Bend Trail Day 4: Drive to Lake Metigoshe State Park and enjoy hiking and camping Day 5: Visit Frontier Village and geocaching Day 6: Picnic and fishing at Rugby Riverside Park Day 7: Explore the local shops and restaurants in downtown Rugby

Food and Drink Scene of Rugby

Rugby offers visitors a unique culinary experience that features traditional North Dakota dishes and local products. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Knoephla Soup: This traditional German soup is made with dumplings, potatoes, and cream and is a local favorite.
  • Chokecherry Jelly: Made from the fruit of the chokecherry tree, which is native to the region, this sweet jelly is the perfect souvenir to take home.

Local Beverages

  • Dakota Sunflower Coffee: This unique blend of coffee features sunflower seeds grown in North Dakota and is a must-try for coffee lovers.
  • Prairie Rose Mead: Made from honey produced by local bees, this delicious mead is a unique local beverage that will leave a lasting impression.

Where to Stay in Rugby: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Rugby offers visitors a range of accommodations to choose from, whether you’re looking for luxury hotels or budget-friendly options. Here are some of the best places to stay in Rugby:

  • Northern Lights Inn: A comfortable and affordable hotel in the heart of downtown Rugby.
  • Cabin 1 at Lake Metigoshe State Park: This cozy cabin is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peaceful time in nature.

What to Buy in Rugby: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

From unique local products to traditional North Dakota souvenirs, Rugby has plenty to offer visitors looking to bring home a piece of the town. Here are some of the best things to buy in Rugby:

  • Chokecherry Jelly: This sweet and unique jelly is the perfect souvenir to take home and share with friends and family.
  • Dakota Sunflower Coffee: Bring home a bag of delicious coffee featuring sunflower seeds grown in North Dakota.

Local Culture and Customs of Rugby

Rugby is a small town that prides itself on its friendly locals and laid-back culture. Visitors should expect to be greeted with a warm welcome and a friendly smile. Additionally, it’s important to respect the region’s Native American culture and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Rugby

The best time to visit Rugby is in the summer months, between June and August, when the weather is warm and dry, and many outdoor activities are available. However, if you don’t mind the cold, winter in Rugby can be a magical time, with snow-covered landscapes and a cozy, festive atmosphere.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rugby

Do:

  • Take a guided tour of the Prairie Village Museum to learn about the region’s rich history.
  • Hike the beautiful trails at Lake Metigoshe State Park.
  • Try traditional North Dakota dishes like Knoephla Soup and Chokecherry Jelly.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the region’s Native American culture and traditions.
  • Forget to bring warm clothing if visiting in the winter months.
  • Leave without visiting the Geographical Center of North America monument in Rugby’s park.

Safety and Health

Rugby is a safe and friendly town, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, visitors should take precautions when hiking or engaging in outdoor activities. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Rugby

  • Always follow trail markers and stay on designated paths when hiking.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and stay away from wildlife.
  • Avoid hiking alone, especially at night.

Health in Rugby

  • The tap water is safe to drink in Rugby.
  • Make sure you bring sunscreen and bug repellent during the summer months.
  • If you have any medical emergencies, the Heart of America Medical Center is located in nearby Rugby.

Getting to Rugby: Transportation Options and Logistics

Rugby is located in a remote part of North Dakota, but there are still several transportation options available. Here’s what you need to know:

Airports Near Rugby

  • Minot International Airport: Located approximately 90 miles from Rugby, this airport offers domestic flights to major cities, including Minneapolis and Denver.

Bus Stations Near Rugby

  • Rugby Bus Station: This small bus station is located in the heart of downtown Rugby and offers daily bus services to nearby towns and cities.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is a great way to explore the surrounding countryside and nearby attractions.

How to Get Around in Rugby

Rugby is a small town that is easy to navigate on foot or by car. Additionally, there are several hiking and biking trails throughout the town that allow visitors to explore the region at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Rugby: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider after visiting Rugby:

  • Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Located approximately 150 miles from Rugby, this stunning national park features beautiful landscapes, hiking trails, and wildlife.
  • International Peace Garden: Located just across the border in Canada, this beautiful garden spans over 2,400 acres and features stunning gardens, walking trails, and a unique peace tower.

Conclusion

Rugby, North Dakota, is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique blend of modern convenience and rich history. With its stunning natural attractions, delicious local cuisine, and friendly locals, Rugby is the perfect destination for a unique and memorable vacation. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or historical landmarks, Rugby has something for everyone.

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