Moorhead Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Moorhead with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat and stay, and more.


Introduction to Moorhead

Moorhead is a charming city located in northwestern Minnesota, in the Midwest region of the United States of America. Nestled along the Red River, it is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to hike, bike, fish, or canoe in the picturesque surroundings. Moorhead has a rich cultural heritage, with several museums and art galleries showcasing local art, history, and culture. The city is home to several college campuses, which adds to its vibrant atmosphere.

List of Places to Visit in Moorhead

If you’re planning to visit Moorhead, make sure to add these places to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Moorhead is home to several museums and historical places that showcase its rich heritage. Some of the must-visit places include:

  • Hjemkomst Center: It features the famous Hjemkomst Viking Ship, which is a replica of a Norwegian Viking ship that sailed across the Atlantic in 1982.
  • Rourke Art Museum: It showcases modern and contemporary art from across the globe and is a must-visit for art lovers.
  • Heritage Hjemkomst Interpretive Center: It showcases the history of the Hjemkomst Viking Ship and features several exhibits highlighting the Scandinavian heritage of the region.
  • Comstock House: It is a beautiful 19th-century mansion that offers a glimpse into the life of one of Moorhead’s founding families.

Natural Attractions of Moorhead: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Moorhead is blessed with several natural attractions that offer ample opportunities for outdoor adventures and scenic views. Some of the popular spots include:

  • Buffalo State Park: It is a beautiful park that offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and gorgeous views of the nearby hills and river.
  • Bluestem Prairie Preserve: It is a vast grassy prairie that is home to several species of birds, animals, and plants.
  • Red River Trail: It is a popular trail for hiking and biking that spans across several miles and offers stunning views of the Red River.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Moorhead

If you’re an outdoorsy person, you’ll love the hiking and biking routes in Moorhead.

  • The Bluestem Trail: This 5.3-mile trail starts at the Visitor Center at the Bluestem Prairie Nature Preserve and offers breathtaking views of the prairie and its wildlife.
  • The Red River State Recreation Trail: This 5.2-mile paved trail runs along the Red River and showcases the natural beauty of the area.
  • The Arrowhead Trail: This 12-mile gravel bike trail meanders through forests and fields and offers a challenging ride to advanced cyclists.

Best Things to Do in Moorhead: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do when in Moorhead:

  • Go fishing on the nearby rivers and lakes.
  • Visit the Farmer’s Market, which offers fresh produce, handicrafts, and live entertainment.
  • Take a guided tour of the Hjemkomst Viking Ship or the Comstock House.
  • Attend a performance at the historic Fargo Theatre, located in downtown Fargo.
  • Explore the adjacent city of Fargo, which is known for its vibrant food and drink scene, unique shops, and popular events such as the Fargo Film Festival.

Week-Long Itinerary for Moorhead

If you’re planning to spend a week in Moorhead, here’s a sample itinerary that covers some of its highlights:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Hjemkomst Museum and Viking Ship
2 Explore Buffalo River State Park and go fishing or hiking
3 Visit the Comstock House and the Rourke Art Museum
4 Take a bike tour of Moorhead and Fargo’s historic downtowns
5 Attend a play at the Fargo Theatre
6 Visit the Red River Zoo and the Fargo Air Museum
7 Shop at the Fargo-Moorhead Farmer’s Market and take home souvenirs

Food and Drink Scene of Moorhead

Moorhead offers a diverse range of food and drink options to satisfy all kinds of cravings. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hot beef sandwich: It is a classic Midwestern comfort food that consists of tender roasted beef, gravy, and mashed potatoes on white bread.
  • Lefse: It is a traditional Norwegian flatbread made with potatoes and flour and is often served with butter and sugar.
  • Wild rice soup: It is a hearty soup made with wild rice, vegetables, and cream, and is a staple of the region.

Local Beverages

  • Rhubarb wine: It is a refreshing wine made from locally grown rhubarb and typically pairs well with spicy foods.
  • Coffee: The Fargo-Moorhead area is known for its strong coffee culture, with several local roasters offering a diverse range of coffee flavors.

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

Moorhead offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some popular options include:

  • Days Inn by Wyndham Moorhead: It offers comfortable rooms at affordable rates and is located close to several attractions.
  • Grand Inn Moorhead: It is a boutique hotel with spacious rooms and modern amenities.
  • Courtyard by Marriott Moorhead: It is a premium hotel located close to the city center and features an indoor pool and a fitness center.

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

Moorhead is known for its rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its local products and souvenirs. Some popular items to bring home include:

  • Handicrafts made by local artisans, such as pottery, woodworking, and leather goods.
  • Wild rice and other locally grown products such as jams, jellies, and honey.
  • Viking-themed souvenirs, such as T-shirts, mugs, and keychains.

Local Culture and Customs of Moorhead

Moorhead has a unique cultural identity that is reflected in its art, architecture, and celebrations. Some local customs to keep in mind include:

  • Respect for Scandinavian heritage: Moorhead is proud of its Scandinavian heritage, and visitors should respect this by learning about local customs and attending cultural festivals.
  • Tipping etiquette: Tipping is a common practice in the United States, and visitors should tip generously for good service in restaurants and other service industries.
  • Open-mindedness: Moorhead is a diverse community that welcomes people from all walks of life, and visitors should keep an open mind and be respectful of cultural differences.

Best Time to Visit Moorhead

The best time to visit Moorhead is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and pleasant, and outdoor activities are available. Fall is also an excellent time to visit, with the changing colors of the leaves providing a stunning backdrop for hikes and road trips.

Do’s and Don’ts of Moorhead

Do:

  • Visit local museums and art galleries to learn more about Moorhead’s history and culture.
  • Explore the Red River and its surrounding natural beauty.
  • Attend a cultural festival or event to experience the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or harm the natural environment.
  • Don’t disrespect the local culture or customs.
  • Don’t overindulge in alcohol, as public intoxication is discouraged in Moorhead.

Safety and Health

Safety in Moorhead

Moorhead is a safe city with a low crime rate and a friendly community. However, visitors should still take basic safety precautions, such as locking doors and windows, not leaving valuables in plain sight, and being aware of their surroundings at all times.

Health in Moorhead

Moorhead has several medical facilities and hospitals that provide quality healthcare services. Visitors should have travel insurance and carry a list of emergency contacts in case of an emergency.

Getting to Moorhead: Transportation Options and Logistics

Moorhead is accessible via several transportation options, including:

Airports Near Moorhead

  • Hector International Airport in Fargo, North Dakota, is the nearest airport to Moorhead, about 4 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Moorhead

  • The Greyhound bus station in Fargo is the closest bus station to Moorhead, about 2 miles away.

Other Options

  • Car rental services: Several car rental companies operate in Moorhead and Fargo, making it easy to explore the area at your own pace.
  • Taxi services: Taxi services are available in Moorhead and Fargo for those who prefer not to rent a car.

How to Get Around in Moorhead

Moorhead is a compact city that is easy to navigate on foot, by bike, or by car. Public transportation options, such as buses, are also available for those who prefer not to drive.

Where to Go Next from Moorhead: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Moorhead is close to several exciting destinations in Minnesota and North Dakota, including:

  • Fargo, North Dakota: Located just across the Red River, Fargo is a vibrant city known for its food and drink scene, unique shops, and popular events such as the Fargo Film Festival.
  • Detroit Lakes, Minnesota: Located about 40 miles from Moorhead, Detroit Lakes is known for its picturesque lakes, hiking trails, and water sports.

Conclusion

Moorhead is a hidden gem in northern Minnesota that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and modern amenities. With its diverse range of attractions, activities, and experiences, it’s a great destination for families, solo travelers, and adventure enthusiasts alike. Plan your trip to Moorhead today and immerse yourself in its unique charm and beauty.