From cozy and quaint B&Bs to opulent lodges with a romantically rustic feel, North Dakota has some wonderfully dreamy spots to ignite any romance. Escape to a scenic park or luxurious spa with your significant other. Whatever you choose, North Dakota will help you create experiences you'll never forget. Here are the 9 most romantic places in the state.
Few things are more intimate than a long car ride, especially when you have no place you need to travel to. The 64-mile Four Bears Scenic Byway is a perfect way to take in the natural beauty of the state and spend time with your sweetheart without the distractions of everyday life. Along this stretch of road, you will also find the Lake Ilo National Wildlife Refuge where you can catch a glimpse of the wildlife that calls North Dakota home, the Killdeer Battlefield State Historic Site where the Sioux Indians fought during the Civil War, Little Missouri State Park, which provides unparalleled views of the Badlands, the Three Affiliated Tribes Museum, which honors the history of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara people, and the Crow Flies High State Recreation Area, which offers stunning views of the Four Bears Memorial Bridge and Lake Sakakawea.
Tucked away near the Tongue River, Moose Creek is another one of the state’s hidden gems. The lodge’s intimate setting allows for a tranquil, peaceful experience where you can connect with your sweetheart on deep level. The highlight of the visit will most assuredly be the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing soak in the outdoor spa while observing the area’s diverse wildlife, taking in stars far brighter than those found in the city, enjoying a colorful sunset, or observing the spectacular Northern Lights. It doesn’t get much more romantic than that.
Looking for a romantic getaway that is close to home? A visit to Dakotah Rose is in order. The home has been renovated to include modern amenities, but the sophistication and elegance of days gone by has been preserved. Whether indulging on homemade treats or sampling the large collection of wine and champagne, you and your sweetheart will be pampered from the time you walk through the door. Although the service is notable, the century-old building itself is really the star of the show. Located along the Souris River, Dakotah Rose features breathtaking stained and beveled glass throughout and a clear glass cameo window that provides guests with an unparalleled view of the city.
Who says romantic getaways need to be spent indoors? Located in the picturesque Turtle Mountains, the Bottineau Winter Park has been dubbed the “Jewel Above the Prairie” and is the perfect spot for a romantic weekend. The park is known for its skiing and snowboarding opportunities that are perfect for all skill levels. Novices can find their legs on the beginner’s Southside hill while experienced skiers and snowboarders can try their hand (or feet in this instance) on the ungroomed expert glade runs. Snow tubing is also available. More importantly, a day of skiing provides ample reasons to cuddle up by the fire.
Nothing says romance like a horse-drawn carriage ride. Dakota Carriage Company offers a variety of carriage rides, each pulled by majestic Clydesdale horses. You can choose from the white carriage, which seats four, the limousine carriage, which seats six, the classic carriage, which also seats four, and the miniature Cinderella carriage, which seats 4-6 children or two adults. Regardless of the carriage you choose, a leisurely ride cuddled up next to your sweetheart will take romance to the next level.
If the daily grind of life has left little time for connecting with your sweetheart, a trip to Affiniti might be in order. Not only will you be able to spend quality time as a couple, your body will thank you for the chance to relive some stress and work out all the kinks. Services include hot stone massages, facials, and access to their wonderful relaxation room.
Step back in time and show your sweetie what romance is all about. Built in 1926, the recently restored theater provides an intimate setting that is perfect for enjoying acoustic music or taking in a classic flick. If you’re lucky, you will get to experience the Wurlitzer Pipe Organ. To make a visit even cooler, the Fargo Theatre was recently added to the National Register of Historical Places by the United States Department of the Interior.
Located on the beautiful Coteau des Prairies, the rustic lodge is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and spend some quality time with their loved one. Built with North Dakota pine, the lodge combines log and steel architecture to create a stunning and unparalleled lodging experience. Owned by a farming family, the site includes a rolling pasture full of the family’s cattle and a lookout that allows guests to take in the beauty that is North Dakota. Add in homemade meals and outdoor expeditions, and a visit to Coteau des Prairie Lodge will be an unforgettable experience you will treasure for many years to come.
Try something new this year and take a walk through the International Peace Garden, weather permitting, of course. Located on the North Dakota/Manitoba border, the International Peace Garden is exquisite. Created in 1932 as a promise of peace between the two countries, the superb nature of the Peace Garden lies in its quiet tranquility and magnificent beauty. Although a variety of wildlife call the area home, the garden is known for its vegetation, which include over 6,000 cactus and succulents. Return to the simplicity of your relationship when holding hands and cuddling made your heart flutter.