NORTH DAKOTA: Ditch The Crowds and Explore The International Peace Garden

International Peace Garden CREDIT North Dakota Tourism

The natural splendor of the International Peace Garden is a hidden gem bordering North Dakota and Manitoba that some get to call their backyard or even temporary home. This 2,300-acre area is covered in over 155,000 flowers, beautiful foliage and iconic structures, and is a testament to the partnership between the United States and Canada. Hike scenic trails, hop on a kayak, camp amongst the beautiful outdoors and even snowshoe and cross-country ski in the winter. For a touch of culture, head to the Garden's Conservatory and Interpretive Center. Explore the new succulent and cacti garden that makes up one of the largest collections in the world with over 5,000 different species.

But you can’t travel like a local without enjoying the local businesses in the area, too. In the evening, ditch the fancy restaurants and head to Bottineau to enjoy a slice at Denny’s Pizza or a few cocktails at Marie’s on Main Street. Then head to Lake Metigoshe State Park for a sunset on the shores of the gorgeous Lake Sakakawea.

Replace the crowds with an endless feeling of nature and explore the International Peace Garden and surrounding area like a local who knows it best.

For more information on North Dakota, visit NDTourism.com.

Try A Standout Bagel in Fargo, North Dakota

Since 2001, Boppa’s has been baking fresh bagels daily in Fargo, North Dakota. Owner Frank Darko started as a baker working overnight shifts while attending Minnesota State University Moorhead, where he earned a degree in health care administration. Despite working in various local companies, Darko maintained his passion for baking, often enduring long days juggling jobs with his love for bagels.

Lake Sakakawea CREDIT North Dakota Tourism

In 2016, he seized the opportunity to take ownership of Boppa’s Bagels from the original owner. This marked a new chapter for the business, with Darko envisioning growth and expansion. In February 2024, they celebrated the opening of their second location, offering customers an array of 30 different bagel varieties and 18 flavors of cream cheese, as well as sandwiches and soups. Boppa’s Bagels has become a beloved fixture in the community, renowned for its delicious offerings and welcoming atmosphere, often praised as superior to even New York's iconic bagels.

For more information on Fargo-Moorhead, visit www.VisitFargoMoorhead.org.