Blanchard Travel Guide

Uncover the best places to explore, eat, stay, and shop in Blanchard, North Dakota. Experience breathtaking outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and delicious local cuisine.


Blanchard Travel Guide: Discover the Hidden Gem of North Dakota

Are you searching for a destination off the beaten path with plenty of adventure and culture? Then, Blanchard, North Dakota, could be the place for you! Located in the heart of the Great Plains, the lush rolling hills offer scenic views for miles. From outdoor activities like hiking and biking to exploring museums, there are plenty of things to do in Blanchard.

List of Places to Visit in Blanchard

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Blanchard boasts a rich cultural history, and museums showcase some of the area’s most significant artifacts and stories. Check out these culturally important attractions:

  • The Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence Interpretive Center: A museum that educates visitors on the history of the area’s rivers and the people that have lived along them.
  • Fargo Air Museum: A museum dedicated to aviation history and preserving historic planes. It has a restored World War II P-51D Mustang named “Gunfighter.”
  • Bonanzaville: A historical site featuring 43 buildings with art galleries, shops, and exhibits showcasing the region’s pioneer days.

Natural Attractions of Blanchard: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The beauty of Blanchard lies in the vast wilderness that surrounds the area, and there are plenty of natural wonders to explore. Here are some must-see outdoor attractions:

  • Red River State Recreation Area: A park that offers a peaceful retreat with walking trails, picnic areas, and campsites.
  • Turtle River State Park: A natural treasure with seven miles of trails, campgrounds, and a chance to see the state flower, the Wild Prairie Rose.
  • Gooseberry Mound Park: A park with stunning overlooks of the Red River that offers excellent hiking, birdwatching, and fishing opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Blanchard

Blanchard is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, and there are numerous routes for hikers and bikers of all skill levels. Here are some recommended trails:

  • Gooseberry Mound Trail: This 4.7-mile loop winds through a prairie landscape filled with wildflowers, wildlife, and impressive vistas.
  • Maah Daah Hey Trail: A 144-mile hiking and biking trail that takes you through Badlands and along the Little Missouri River, offering breathtaking views and challenging terrain.
  • Sundance Trail: This 11-mile trail is a haven for mountain bikers with some technical features and steep descents.

Best Things to Do in Blanchard: Activities and Tours

Blanchard offers visitors an array of exciting activities and tours that promise a fantastic experience. Here are some great things to do:

  • Red River Market: A farmers market that features farm-fresh produce, baked goods, and locally made crafts.
  • Zip Lines Fargo: This high-speed zip line tour takes you over the Red River and offers breathtaking views of the city.
  • Red River Zoo: The Red River Zoo has over 600 animals in natural habitats, including rare and endangered species like Red Pandas and Amur Leopards.

Week-Long Itinerary for Blanchard

A week is the perfect amount of time to explore the natural beauty and cultural attractions of Blanchard. Here’s an itinerary:

  • Day 1-2: Hike and explore the gorgeous Maah Daah Hey Trail and experience the beauty of Badlands and Little Missouri River.
  • Day 3: Visit Bonanzaville and learn about the region’s history followed by a tranquil picnic at Red River State Recreation Area.
  • Day 4: Explore the Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence Interpretive Center and then head over to the Fargo Air Museum.
  • Day 5: Visit Gooseberry Mound Park and hike its namesake trail for stunning overlooks of the Red River. End the day with an adrenaline-pumping zipline tour of the city.
  • Day 6: Spend the day at the Red River Zoo and discover over 600 animals, including rare and endangered species.
  • Day 7: Take a leisurely bike ride along the Sundance Trail, followed by a refreshing drink at a local brewery.

Food and Drink Scene of Blanchard

Must-Try Dishes

Blanchard’s cuisine scene is known for its farm-to-table approach, highlighting fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Walleye fillet: A popular fish in North Dakota that offers a mild, flaky taste.
  • Knoephla Soup: A traditional German comfort food soup made with dumplings, potato, chicken, and cream sauce.
  • Bison Burger: A leaner and healthier alternative to beef that offers a unique flavor.

Local Beverages

North Dakota is known for its hearty beers, refreshing ales, and vibrant cocktails. Some must-try libations include:

  • Dakota Sunset: A refreshing cocktail made with vodka, orange juice, and grenadine.
  • Souris River Brewing: A microbrewery using locally sourced ingredients that offer a unique flavor and quality.
  • Wild Hare Beer: A microbrewery that creates handcrafted beer using only the finest ingredients, with a unique blend of hops and grains.

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

Blanchard offers an array of accommodation options, from affordable to luxury. Here are some recommended places to stay:

  • Delta Hotels by Marriott: A sophisticated hotel located in downtown Fargo, with a modern vibe and comfortable amenities.
  • Homewood Suites by Hilton: A hotel with an indoor pool and delicious hot breakfast that’s perfect for families.
  • Hotel Donaldson: A boutique hotel with a modern twist and unique style, located in the heart of downtown Fargo.

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

Blanchard has a vibrant community of local artisans, offering handmade products. Here’s what to buy:

  • Bison Leather Goods: A North Dakota specialty, bison leather is perfect for purchasing as a high-end keepsake.
  • Pottery: Regional pottery is a beautiful reminder of the area’s cultural history and a great way to add some local art to your home.
  • Jewelry: Unique and one-of-a-kind handcrafted jewelry from local designers make for a perfect souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Blanchard

North Dakotans are known for their friendly demeanor and a deep pride in their state and community. So be ready to strike up a conversation with locals, and they’ll likely be happy to share tips on things to do and see in the area. North Dakotans also take their outdoor recreation seriously, so don’t hesitate to join activities or ask locals for their favorite trails and spots for fishing and hunting.

Best Time to Visit Blanchard

The best time to visit Blanchard is during the summer (June to August) when the weather is mild, and there are plenty of outdoor events and activities. Fall (September to November) is also an excellent time to visit when the trees change colors, and the air is crisp. Spring is typically mild with blooming wildflowers and a chance for some snow lingering at the beginning of the season. Winter can be very cold and snowy, but outdoor activities such as cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are still popular, and there are some great indoor activities that can keep the whole family entertained.

Do’s and Don’ts of Blanchard

Do:

  • Respect the environment and leave no trace.
  • Take advantage of local outdoor activities and cultural sights.
  • Buy locally made crafts and products to support the community.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local wildlife.
  • Ignore safety measures when participating in outdoor activities.
  • Overlook cultural attractions, museums, and historical sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Blanchard

Blanchard is a relatively safe area with a low crime rate. Visitors should remain vigilant and avoid leaving valuables inside cars or in public places. Also, beware of the weather changes and bring appropriate gear. Check the local weather forecast before venturing out for longer hikes or other outdoor activities.

Health in Blanchard

Blanchard has a good healthcare system with various healthcare facilities, including clinics and hospitals. There are also many pharmacies in the area, so visitors can refill prescriptions. It is always a good idea to bring a medical kit with basic supplies such as painkillers and bandages.

Getting to Blanchard: Transportation Options and Logistics

Blanchard is a small town located about 10 miles north of West Fargo. Here are some transportation options to take to get there:

Airports Near Blanchard

  • Hector International Airport in Fargo, ND (14 miles)
  • Grand Forks International Airport, ND (80 miles)

Bus Stations Near Blanchard

  • Greyhound lines in Fargo, ND (10 miles)
  • Jefferson Lines bus in Fargo, ND (10 miles)

Other Options

  • Train: There is no direct train service to Blanchard, but the Amtrak operates service from Fargo (10 miles south of Blanchard).
  • Car: Blanchard is located off of Interstate 94 and North Dakota Highway 18, making it an easy driving destination for those coming from nearby regions.

How to Get Around in Blanchard

The best ways to get around Blanchard is by car or foot. Visitors can also use local taxi services to get around the area. It’s best to rent a car to explore the surrounding natural attractions and to have more flexibility in the itinerary.

Where to Go Next from Blanchard: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some other nearby destinations to visit after experiencing Blanchard’s natural beauty and cultural attractions:

  • Fargo: The largest city and commercial hub of North Dakota, Fargo, boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, delicious restaurants, and world-class museums.
  • Grand Forks: A college town located on the banks of the Red River, Grand Forks offers a vibrant nightlife, outdoor activities like hiking and skiing, and a heritage streetcar tour.
  • Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Visit this breathtaking National Park in North Dakota that offers stunning views, diverse wildlife, geologic wonders, and the rugged Badlands terrain.

Conclusion

Blanchard, North Dakota, is an undiscovered gem located in the heart of the Great Plains of the United States. With natural attractions like Turtle River State Park and outdoor adventures on Maah Daah Hey Trail, museums like the Fargo Air Museum, and a vibrant food and drink scene, there is something for everyone in Blanchard. So, pack your bags, bring your hiking boots, and come experience the unique beauty and heritage of Blanchard.

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