10 Amazing Weekend Getaway Destinations from Fargo-Moorhead | KAT TELLS ALL (2024)

What’s more fun than escaping the mundane during the beautiful Midwestern summer months? For a lot of us 4pm on Friday can’t come fast enough because we finally get to get out and enjoy the perfect weather, cool lakes, and company of family and friends. You don’t have to go far to find wonderful places to explore: here are 10 amazing weekend getaway destinations from Fargo-Moorhead! A bonus? All are within a 5 hour drive!

1. Minneapolis- Saint Paul, MN

3.5 Hour Drive

Minneapolis-Saint Paul is a no-brainer when you think of weekend getaways from Fargo-Moorhead. The cities are a fun place to explore with there plethora of attractions, great restaurants, and tons of shopping. If you’re looking to catch that big game or have a fun weekend with family & friends this is a great option!

Be sure to check out my post: How to Spend One Day in the Twin Cities. I detailed a full day of adventure PLUS got input from 17 local bloggers. They shared their favorite places to get outdoors, cute coffee shops, great breweries, and beautiful places to stay.

2. Winnipeg, MB

4 Hour Drive

Winnipeg doesn’t come to mind initially when most Fargo-Moorhead people think of a weekend getaway. However, this awesome Canadian city is only 4 hours away and there are tons of perks of crossing the border! First, the exchange rate is in our favor – make your dollar go further on all of your purchases. Secondly, Winnipeg has many of the great amenities the Twin Cities have such as professional sports, other attractions, and great food and drink.

I have several blog posts detailing my many Winnipeg and Manitoba adventures. Be sure to check them out prior to planning your trip!

3. Duluth/North Shore Lake Superior, MN

4.5+ Hour Drive

Although Duluth and North Shore Lake Superior are a little further than some of the other destinations on our list, I promise you won’t be disappointed. Minnesota’s North Shore is a great place to chase waterfalls, experience stunning overlooks, and visit beautiful State Parks. I would suggest budgeting a long weekend (or more) for Duluth/North Shore Lake Superior.

We have visited the North Shore several times and I have written a few posts to help you plan your trip! I highly recommend exploring the North Shore in a Camper Van.

4. Sioux Falls, SD

3.5 Hour Drive

Sioux Falls, South Dakota is an underrated Midwest Destination. This city is full of fun things to do, incredible topography, and great food and drink. Being only 3.5 hours away from Fargo-Moorhead this is an easy destination for a weekend getaway.

I have been to Sioux Falls a few times but haven’t had a chance to write a full post on it. If you get the chance to visit be sure to explore Falls Park. Palisades State Park is also a short 30 minute drive from the city and worth the trip; I wrote a short post detailing my visit.

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5. Alexandria, MN

1.5 Hour Drive

Alexandria is one of the most beautiful Minnesota Communities. Located in the heart of lakes country it’s a short 1.5 hour drive from Fargo-Moorhead. The small businesses and activities in Alexandria make for a perfect location for a couples getaway, family trip, bachelorette, or other weekend adventure.

I have spent several weekends in Alexandria, Minnesota and am always looking forward to going back. My guides: Great things to do in Alexandria, Minnesota and Summer in Alexandria: The Best Weekend Itinerary will help you plan your weekend adventure.

6. Bismarck, ND

3 Hour Drive

Bismarck-Mandan is located in Central North Dakota on the banks of the Missouri River. If you visit you have to budget time to get outdoors- there are many great places to explore both in and out of the city. Fuel your adventures with great dining, breweries, and coffee shops.

We had so much fun exploring Bismarck-Mandan last season. We spent time Camping and Hiking in Cross Ranch State Park in May, and a weekend exploring the cities in September. If your considering planning a trip, check out my post: 15 Great things to do in Bismarck, North Dakota.

7. Cuyuna, MN

2.5 Hour Drive

If you LOVE to be outside, Cuyuna area will capture your heart. The Cuyuna Country State Recreation area is known for it’s red dirt trails and stunning views of the old mining lakes. This area is also home to great small business and plethora of stunning vacation rentals.

I took a solo trip (with my dog Brutus) to the Cuyuna Area of Minnesota during the summer. We stayed for two nights in the Ironton Island Glamping A-Frames and had an incredible time. I visited again during the winter for a girl’s weekend and stayed at Hilhaus A-Frame which was an equally wonderful experience. Check back for two new posts next week: 10 Awesome things to do in Cuyuna Lakes Area, and What you need to know about Hiking in Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area.

8. Devils Lake, ND

2.5 Hour Drive

Devils Lake is North Dakota’s lake town. Given that it’s the second largest lake in the State, it’s a prime attraction for fishing and water sports alike.

I spent a weekend exploring everything that Devils Lake has to offer. It has some great outdoor activities and nature areas, and wonderful places to explore within the town. Check out my post: 9 Great Things to add to your Devils Lake Itinerary when planning your getaway!

9. Voyageurs National Park, MN

4.5 Hour Drive

Voyageurs National Park is Minnesota’s only National Park, and it’s located within 5 hours of Fargo-Moorhead! This expansive park encompasses four major lakes and 26 smaller lakes; it is the only water-based National Park in the country.

We visited Voyageurs National Park for a weekend, and I already can’t wait to get back. One of the most popular ways to explore this Park is by Houseboat. While we didn’t have the opportunity to houseboat while we visited, It’s definitely on my Minnesota bucket-list. Be sure to read my post: A Guide to Voyagers National Park prior to heading North!

10. Park Rapids, MN

1.5 Hour Drive

Park Rapids is a quick and easy weekend adventure destination from Fargo-Moorhead. Park Rapids is a central point for great things to do outdoors; within a short drive are Itasca State Park, Two Inlets State Forest, Smoky Hills State Forest, Huntersville State Forest, and Paul Bunyan State Forest.

Although I haven’t spent much time in the town of Park Rapids I have explored Itasca State Park several times. Itasca State Park is home to the Mississippi Headwaters and tons of great hiking trails. There are a few great places to stay, but I highly recommend Northwoods A-Frame and Tiny Cabins (The owners- Tyler and Mary- are Fargo-Moorhead locals). Check out my posts: 5 Great Reasons to stay at Northwoods A-Frame and The BEST place to stay near Itasca State Park (the second one has trail suggestions)!

Explore Local: Fargo-Moorhead

If you can’t sneak away and explore these 10 Amazing Weekend Getaway Destinations from Fargo-Moorhead– not to worry! There are tons of great things to do within FM. Our beautiful cities are full of awesome things to do, great places to eat and drink, fun places to shop and more! I highly recommend planning a staycation. Use my posts below to ensure you have the best time exploring beautiful Fargo-Moorhead.

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