Looking for a fun, educational outing for the kids? Check out these local spots for great field trips in Fargo and beyond!
Ideas for Field Trips In Fargo
1. Bonanzaville
Venture out to historic Bonanzaville in West Fargo! It’s spread across 12 acres of land, contains 41 buildings, and more than 400,00 artifacts. Take a tour of the the grounds or just explore how early settlers of the Fargo-Moorhead area lived by walking through the homes, the post office, old train cars, the saloon and hotel, courthouse, and school house — all original structures. Bonanzaville is fun, educational, interesting, and great for a family outing, with lots to see and learn!
2. Comstock House
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Comstock House is a symbol of prosperity and historical significance from the early days of Moorhead. Take the tour and learn more about the Comstock family and their contributions to the area. Check out the beautiful architecture and original furnishings. Please note Comstock House is only open on certain days and times of the year. Check their website for more information.
3. Fargo Air Museum
This museum in North Fargo is two hangars filled with a rotating selection of aircraft exhibits. Open since 2001, the Fargo Air Museum also houses one of the Midwest’s largest aviation libraries. Learn more about aviation and enjoy the kids play area or one of their hands-on experiences.
4. Hjemkomst Center
Celebrate Scandinavian culture and heritage at the Hjemkomst Center in Moorhead. It’s home to the Historical & Cultural Society of Clay County and they offer tours of the Hjemkomst viking ship and also the Moorhead Stave Church. Visit their special exhibits or attend one of their events. And while you’re there, explore Viking Ship Park — hike or bike its newly paved and lighted 1.5 mile trail along the Red River.
5. KidCo Children’s Museum
Take kids to burn off some energy at this children’s museum in Moorhead. KidCo Children’s Museum encourages imaginative play in 90 minute play sessions geared for kids ages eight and under. Kids can enjoy screen-free fun with a ball run, costumes for dress up, and a spot just for toddlers!
6. MSUM Oceanarium
Tour the MSUM Oceanarium and explore this investigative marine laboratory where college students and researchers study aquatic life and habitats. See aquatic species, view recreations of various oceanic habitats, participate in interactive exhibits (including one with stingrays), and learn more about current ecological issues. Please note that tours must be pre-arranged for a fee, and groups of 12 or more are encouraged.
7. MSUM Planetarium
Get a better understanding of the solar system and the known universe at the MSUM Planetarium. Take in an immersive experience at one of the various shows presented throughout the year — some are even holiday-themed! Programs last up to 50 minutes, with time included for questions.
8. Northern Plains Botanical Gardens/Children’s Garden
Located in North Fargo are nine different gardens, including a Children’s Garden, which includes an alphabet garden and Kids Activity Zone. They also have the Mum, Rain, Hummingbird, Alerus Financial Butterfly, Woodland, Dry Gardens, Fairy Garden, and a recently planted Edible Forest.
9. NDSU Horticulture Research & Demonstration Gardens
Featuring a daylily and iris collection, these gardens are located at the corner of 12th Avenue North and 18th Street North in Fargo. This is an informative, beautiful, and peaceful garden setting where visitors can view and learn about available varieties and simply enjoy nature. Take a tour of the different garden areas, both formal or informal tours are available during the summer season.
10. Plains Art Museum
Visit the galleries and special exhibits at the Plains Art Museum in Downtown Fargo. Check the Plains Art Museum website to see current offerings. There is a special room for kids with many books, interactive toys, and art supplies to promote creative and imaginative play. End a visit with a trip to the gift shop to grab a snack or to browse for unique items.
11. Red River Zoo
Our local zoo is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and houses a variety of animals, including some native to our region. The Red River Zoo also boasts several playground areas (including a natural playground spot), a carousel, and building with hands-on exhibits and a climbing structure.
12. Rourke Art Gallery + Museum
This art gallery and museum in Downtown Moorhead is housed in a historic building, the former Moorhead Federal Post Office built in 1913. View the beautiful architecture, galleries, and their permanent collection of over 5,000 works (including Lichtenstein and Warhol). And an added bonus: free admission!
13. We Rock the Spectrum
This newly-opened kids gym provides a safe space for open play. Kids also have access to an arts and craft section. We Rock the Spectrum promotes learning, exploration, and sensory experiences.
Out of Town Field Trips Near Fargo
Chahinkapa Zoo
A 50-minute drive from Fargo, this nearby zoo is open May – October and provides an opportunity to see some unique animals, with over 200 animals, 70 different species from six continents. Spend time visiting the orangutans, bears, monkeys, zebras, rhinos, and so much more!
Fort Abercrombie
Just 35 miles south of Fargo-Moorhead, this state historic site was known as “the Gateway to the Dakotas.” It was the first permanent U.S. military fort in North Dakota. Gain an understanding of the fort and its history by viewing historic buildings (including an original guard house), museum exhibits, and taking a guided tour.
Otter Cove Children’s Museum
Located in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, this museum offers lots of creative space to play and learn with an indoor playground, maker shop, stage, and miniature downtown Fergus Falls. Encouraging the use physical play, art, and imagination, children are able to touch and climb on interactive exhibits.
Prairie Wetlands Learning Center
Explore nature and educate kids about conservation at the Prairie Wetlands Learning Center just outside Fergus Falls, Minnesota. Take in the Visitor’s Center, hike the trails and grounds, and shop the Bluestem Store for gifts and books for the all the naturalists in your family. Please note the hours the Visitor’s Center and gift shop are limited, see their website for more information.
Can you think of any other places in the area that would make great field trips in Fargo or beyond? Let us know in the comments!
