Rolla Travel Guide

Get ready to explore Rolla with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top places to visit, the best things to do, and helpful travel tips for your adventure.


Introduction to Rolla

Rolla, located in the Turtle Mountains in North Dakota, USA, is a charming small town that is perfect for a relaxing and peaceful getaway. The town is well-known for its beautiful natural scenery, rich history, and friendly locals who are always happy to welcome visitors.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit and the top things to do in Rolla. We’ll also provide you with helpful travel tips so that you have a memorable and enjoyable trip.

List of Places to Visit in Rolla

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Rolla Public Library: The Rolla Public Library is an excellent place to learn more about the history of the town and the surrounding area. The library has a large collection of books, photographs, and artifacts that showcase the town’s rich history.

  • Rolla Pioneer Village Museum: The Rolla Pioneer Village Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in history. The museum showcases the history of the town and the surrounding area through a collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits.

  • Dale and Martha Hawk Museum: The Dale and Martha Hawk Museum is another fantastic place to learn about the history of Rolla and the surrounding area. The museum has a large collection of artifacts, including antiques and farming equipment.

Natural Attractions of Rolla: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Metigoshe State Park: Lake Metigoshe State Park is the perfect destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors. The park has an extensive network of hiking trails that wind through the stunning natural beauty of the Turtle Mountains. The park also offers a variety of water activities, including swimming, boating, and fishing.

  • Turtle Mountain State Forest: The Turtle Mountain State Forest is a vast wilderness area that covers over 25,000 acres of land. The forest is home to an array of wildlife, including moose, black bears, and deer. Visitors can explore the forest on foot, by bike, or on horseback.

  • International Peace Garden: The International Peace Garden is a beautiful garden that spans over 2,300 acres and straddles the border between North Dakota and Manitoba, Canada. The garden features an array of plants, flowers, and sculptures that celebrate peace and friendship between the two countries.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rolla

Rolla has a variety of hiking and biking routes for visitors looking to explore the great outdoors. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Turtle Mountain State Forest Trails: The Turtle Mountain State Forest has an extensive network of hiking and biking trails that vary in difficulty. The trails offer excellent views of the surrounding wilderness and are a great way to experience the natural beauty of Rolla.

  • Lake Metigoshe State Park Trails: Lake Metigoshe State Park has over 8 miles of trails that wind through the park’s stunning landscapes. The trails offer a mix of flat and hilly terrain, making them suitable for hikers and bikers of all skill levels.

Best Things to Do in Rolla: Activities and Tours

  • Fishing: Rolla is home to some excellent fishing spots, including Lake Metigoshe and several nearby lakes and rivers. Visitors can rent boats and fishing gear from local outfitters and spend a relaxing day on the water.

  • Horseback Riding: The Turtle Mountains is an excellent destination for horseback riding enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the scenic wilderness on horseback and take in the stunning views of the surrounding area.

  • Sightseeing Tours: If you prefer a more guided experience, you can take a sightseeing tour of the area. Tours are available for both the natural attractions and the cultural landmarks of Rolla.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rolla

Day 1: Visit the Rolla Pioneer Village Museum and the Rolla Public Library.

Day 2: Spend the day exploring Lake Metigoshe State Park, hiking, swimming, and fishing.

Day 3: Take a sightseeing tour of the Turtle Mountains, explore the natural beauty of the area, and go horseback riding.

Day 4: Visit the Dale and Martha Hawk Museum and learn more about the local history.

Day 5: Explore the International Peace Garden and take in the beautiful scenery.

Day 6: Enjoy a day of fishing and boating at one of the nearby lakes.

Day 7: Take a relaxing day and enjoy the local food and drinks scene.

Food and Drink Scene of Rolla

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lefse: Lefse is a traditional Norwegian flatbread that is popular in Rolla. It’s made from potatoes, flour, and cream and is often served with butter and sugar.

  • Knoephla Soup: Knoephla Soup is a creamy soup made with potatoes, dumplings, and vegetables. It’s a hearty and delicious dish that is perfect for a cold day.

Local Beverages

  • Kolache: Kolache is a traditional Czech pastry that is popular in Rolla. It’s a sweet bread roll filled with fruit, cheese, or sausage.

  • Beer: North Dakota has several local breweries, and many bars in Rolla serve a variety of local and regional craft beers.

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

Rolla has several accommodation options for visitors. Here are some of the best:

  • Nordic Inn: The Nordic Inn is a cozy hotel located in the heart of Rolla. The hotel has comfortable rooms, a pool, and a hot tub for guests to enjoy.

  • Lakeview Lodge: Lakeview Lodge is a beautiful lakeside hotel located in Lake Metigoshe State Park. The lodge has comfortable rooms and offers a range of outdoor activities for guests.

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

  • Rolla T-Shirts: There are several gift shops in Rolla that sell Rolla-branded t-shirts and other souvenirs.

  • Potato Flour: Potato flour is a popular ingredient in Scandinavian and Nordic cuisine and is widely available in Rolla.

Local Culture and Customs of Rolla

Rolla is a friendly and welcoming town, and visitors are encouraged to embrace the local culture and customs. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Friendliness: Locals in Rolla are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Don’t be surprised if someone strikes up a conversation with you in the local diner or coffee shop.

  • Respect for Nature: Rolla is a town that values the natural world, and visitors should be respectful of the environment and the local wildlife.

Best Time to Visit Rolla

The best time to visit Rolla is between June and September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the outdoor activities are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rolla

Do:

  • Enjoy the Outdoors: Rolla is a town that values the natural world, and visitors should take advantage of the many outdoor activities available.

  • Try the Local Cuisine: Rolla has a rich culinary history, and visitors should take the opportunity to try local dishes and ingredients.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Visitors to Rolla should be respectful of the environment and dispose of garbage properly.

  • Disrespect Local Customs: Visitors to Rolla should be respectful of the local culture and should avoid behavior that may be considered offensive to locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Rolla

Rolla is a safe town, and visitors should take standard safety precautions, such as locking doors and windows and avoiding walking alone at night.

Health in Rolla

Visitors to Rolla should be aware that healthcare facilities in the area may be limited. It’s essential to bring any necessary medications and be prepared for any medical emergencies.

Getting to Rolla: Transportation Options and Logistics

Rolla is accessible by several transportation options, including:

Airports Near Rolla

  • Hector International Airport (FAR): Located in Fargo, North Dakota, Hector International Airport is the closest major airport to Rolla, approximately 200 miles away.

  • Minot International Airport (MOT): Located in Minot, North Dakota, Minot International Airport is approximately 90 miles away from Rolla.

Bus Stations Near Rolla

  • Greyhound: The closest Greyhound station to Rolla is in Minot, North Dakota, approximately 90 miles away.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Visitors to Rolla can rent a car from one of the several car rental companies located in Fargo or Minot.

  • Private Car Service: Visitors to Rolla can hire a private car service to transport them to and from town.

How to Get Around in Rolla

Visitors to Rolla can get around the town by:

  • Driving: Visitors can rent a car or drive their own vehicle to get around town.

  • Biking/Walking: Rolla is a small town that is easy to navigate on foot or bike.

Where to Go Next from Rolla: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Rolla can explore several nearby destinations, including:

  • Minot: Located approximately 90 miles away from Rolla, Minot is a larger town that offers a range of activities, including shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.

  • Fargo: Located approximately 200 miles away from Rolla, Fargo is a larger city that offers a range of cultural attractions and entertainment options.

Conclusion

Rolla is a beautiful and charming town that is perfect for a relaxing getaway. Visitors can enjoy the town’s stunning natural scenery, rich history, and friendly locals. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your visit to Rolla and that you have a memorable and enjoyable trip.