A highway for trade and wonder of nature, the Red River is one of the most distinguishable landscape features of the northern Great Plains. Learn about the Red River's history and explore its connection to the people of the region with Rydell Nissan of Grand Forks.
Red River Geography
Image via Unsplash by jasonbrojasTo understand the Red River's history, you should understand a bit about the river's geography and the landscape that surrounds it.
The Red River begins at the intersection of the Bois de Sioux and the Otter Tail rivers between the U.S. states of Minnesota and North Dakota. Winding through the Red River Valley, the Red River flows north into Manitoba, Canada, where it ultimately empties into Lake Winnipeg. The waters of Lake Winnipeg, in turn, join the Nelson River, which flows into the Hudson Bay.
To distinguish it from the similarly named Red River that forms the border along the U.S. states of Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, the Red River often carries the name Red River of the North.
Urban settlements occupy both sides of the Red River. These settlements include Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada; Fargo and Grand Forks, North Dakota; and Moorhead, Minnesota.
River Depths and Wildlife Habitats
According to data from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the Red River is about 550 miles long with average depths from 10 to 30 feet. Clay soils in the region give this river its distinguishable opaque appearance. During the winter months, you may be able to see at least a foot or more into the water, but visibility becomes considerably diminished during the summer.
Except for floods, the Red River moves at a leisurely pace through the northern Great Plains region's picturesque landscapes. The river's tree-covered banks are home to various wildlife species that depend on the habitats for food and shelter.
Landscapes of the Red River Valley
Located on the eastern edge of the Great Plains, the Red River Valley isn't an actual geological valley. When the glacial Lake Agassiz drained thousands of years ago, the release of water created a geographic anomaly in the landscape that surrounds the Red River. The plant and wildlife species that inhabit the area surrounding the river don't exist beyond a 10-mile radius of the river corridor.
The muddy banks of the Red River often reveal intriguing artifacts from history. You may sometimes see exposed bison bones in the mud and silt along the banks.
A Peek Into the Red River's Past
Image via Unsplash by britishlibraryMassive glaciers once covered the land that now comprises the Red River Valley. As these glaciers began to recede, nomadic tribes arrived in the region. These tribes followed herds of bison and caribou through Minnesota and Wisconsin's forests into the Red River Basin's open lands.
European Settlements
According to a narrative provided by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, European settlers first arrived to settle on the Red River's banks during the early 1800s in the area of present-day Manitoba. French-Canadian explorers referred to the river as "Riviere Rouge du Nord," or the Red River of the North. This name follows from the reference to the river's clay soils, muddy banks, and silt-filled waters.
Trade Routes
During the early part of the 19th century, the Red River served as a significant trade route for the Hudson's Bay Company, which supported the British settlements of North America in present-day Canada. The Hudson's Bay Company used its early influence in the region to control the area's commerce for close to two centuries.
The Red River was instrumental to the Hudson's Bay Company's transportation of beaver pelts and bison hides. Merchants used large boats and canoes to send these desirable commodities to Europe through the Hudson Bay. Eventually, entrepreneurial engineers devised the Red River's oxcart trail. This trail connected the Red River's trade route with that of the Mississippi River and routes serving other areas of the United States.
As trade in the region further expanded, so too did the demand for more transportation efficiencies. Anson Northup, a 100-horsepower sternwheel riverboat, connected the Red River's oxcart trail system with the Hudson's Bay Company's steamboat docking landing near Georgetown, Minnesota. The extension of the railroad to Moorhead, Minnesota, in 1871 offered a less expensive, faster alternative to steamboats for transportation. By the turn of the 20th century, steamboat transportation slowly ceased activity on the Red River of the North.
The Red River Today
Image via Unsplash by bradydrogers<Today, the Red River is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Discover some of the activities that await you on and near the river.
Canoeing and Kayaking
Explore the Red River by canoe or kayak. Lindenwood Park in Fargo and the Hjemkomst Center's parking lot in Moorhead are two places you can go to rent a canoe or kayak for your next adventure.
Fishing
Head to the Red River for some of the best fishing you can find in the northern Great Plains region. More than 70 species of fish call the Red River home. Examples of fish present in the Red River include pike, sturgeon, walleye, and catfish. You can find a list and map of public access spots for fishing on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website.
Biking and Hiking
Bike or hike along the banks of the Red River. You'll find miles of trails ideally suited to strolling and off-road biking. Lindenwood Park and Gooseberry Mound Park in Moorhead make exceptional places to witness the Red River's beauty in person.
Stay Tuned for More Local Tips for the Grand Forks Area
Throughout the centuries, the Red River has remained an integral part of the Grand Forks region's landscape. More than merely a geographic feature, the Red River's remarkable history is a source of pride for the people, past and present, who have called this area home. What did you think about our presentation on the history of the Red River? Do you have a favorite memory of the Red River that you'd like to share? Contact the friendly team of Rydell Nissan of Grand Forks with your thoughts about what the Red River means to you.
You never know what kind of treasures you'll find in an antique store. When you look through all kinds of nostalgic items and vintage throwbacks, you might conjure up some long-lost memories. If you find yourself in the Grand Forks, North Dakota, area, make a point to check out any of these seven antique shops. You might be surprised by what unique knick-knacks you might find. more Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch Thrift Store The Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch has nine locations in the area. But the Grand Forks site is the only one with a full warehouse on-site. This newly revamped store has a huge selection of furniture, decor, and clothing, some of which are antiques. Even more admirable, when you shop or donate items to the Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch, you're helping an organization that helps underprivileged children. Hours for the Grand Forks store are Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. and Sunday from 12 until 5 p.m. Fargo Antiques and Repurposed Market (FARM) Home to more than 60 vendors, Fargo Antiques and Repurposed Market (FARM) has some of the best-repurposed items and antiques in the area. This locally-owned shop — a little over an hour from Grand Forks, in Fargo — is built so each vendor has a specific booth. With this setup, the outfit looks like different stores within the FARM. Further, vendors pay a monthly fee for an 8-by-10-foot space, with contracts spanning six months. In return, these businesses receive 100% of the profits from their own sales. Interestingly, the FARM is so popular with vendors that there's a waitlist for those wanting to sell there. Some of the vendors selling items at the FARM include: Aunt B's. Perennial commodities at Aunt B's include upcycled treasures, vintage housewares, and other decorated pieces. You'll also find scented candles and melts. Big Beard Antiques. Run by Ross Grothmann, Big Beard Antiques specializes in vintage Christmas items, jewelry, lamps, clothing, and toys. Kyira Carousel. If you're looking for 70s and 80s pop culture items, such as toys, movies, and music, you're in luck. Smokin' Hot Collectibles. It's operated by Troy Reich and sells eight-track tapes, turntables, collectible action figures, sports cards, and comic books. FARM also houses a large vintage candy section so you can satisfy your sweet tooth while shopping. Stop by the store Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 12 to 6 p.m. Fresh Pickins Image via Pixabay by Jeaneves Fresh Pickins is located in a landmark building in Manvel, just 10 minutes north of Grand Forks. The outfit carries a wide range of antiques, including furniture, kitchen items, and home decor. It's also the perfect place for vintage collectibles, old photographs, or one-of-a-kind pieces to add to your walls. Also, remember to ask if there are any current sales when you visit, as the store often offers 20% off certain items. Head into Fresh Pickins Thursday through Saturday between 9:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Heirlooms Thrift and Gift Heirlooms Thrift and Gift is an upscale shop in Fargo. It's a one-stop-shop for just about any type of new or gently used furniture, as well as antiques and collectibles. All their merchandise comes directly from community members, with the proceeds supporting Hospice of the Red River Valley, which is an independent and nonprofit hospice. Check out the store's inventory Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. or Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. They're closed on Sundays. Home Place Thrift Store Stop at the Town and Country Mall in Grand Forks to check out the Home Place Thrift Store. They have a variety of offerings, including clothing, household items, furniture, and numerous miscellaneous items. This store is a division of Prairie Harvest Mental Health. So, in addition to providing customers with affordable clothing and goods, they offer resources to Prairie Harvest Mental Health. The store is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. They're closed on Sundays. Plain and Fancy Antique Mall The Plain and Fancy Antique Mall covers more than 6,500 square feet in the Grand Cities Mall in Grand Forks. Such a massive surface makes the store one of the largest in the mall. They have something for just about anyone, including retro toys, everyday household items from decades ago, and antique farm equipment. Browse through their huge collection of vintage games, and you'll likely find yourself wanting to play. Look at all kinds of vintage signs and consider adding a couple to your walls at home. Don't forget to check out the store's records to upgrade your vinyl collection. The Plain and Fancy Antique Mall also houses plenty of old sports memorabilia. So, if you're looking for vintage jerseys, old racing helmets, or football gear, make sure you stop by. This shop is open Monday through Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Victorian Rose Antique Shop The Victorian Rose Antique Shop, located in Grand Forks, always seems to have new merchandise and pieces that are perfect for any antique collector. No matter when you stop by, you'll find antique furniture pieces that can enhance your decor. Lamps, cabinets, books, glassware, and kitchen articles are some of the items they carry. Even if you're interested in just browsing, The Victorian Rose Antique Shop is the ideal spot to visit and spend a few hours perusing their massive antique collection. The store is open Wednesday through Saturday 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and Sunday from 12 until 4 p.m. Grand Forks and the surrounding area have numerous antique shops worth checking out. To visit all these spots and bring these amazing finds to your home, you'll need a trusty and reliable vehicle. If you're in the market for a new vehicle, reach out to the professionals at Rydell Nissan of Grand Forks. We can schedule a test drive so you can get behind the wheel and eventually drive home in your dream vehicle.
Lunch is the often forgotten meal of the day. Many people rush through it just to get something that will keep them satisfied until dinner while others see it as an inconvenient necessity. However, this sometimes overlooked meal is an important part of your daily schedule that provides an opportunity for you to enjoy some quality food. Whether you're from Thompson, North Dakota, or are just visiting the Grand Forks area, you'll be pleasantly surprised with the unique eateries and diners you'll find ready to serve you. Read on to learn about our staff's suggestions for the top five best lunch spots near and in Thompson, North Dakota. more Darcy's Cafe Image via Flickr by adactio | License CC by 2.0 Darcy's Cafe is the perfect destination to head to when you're needing some quality comfort food to get you through the day. Whether you're craving a burger or some cinnamon roll pancakes, Darcy's Cafe will help you fill your tummy with some comfort food that is "better than your grandma's, as good as your mom's." With their friendly atmosphere, attentive service, and helpful staff, Darcy's Cafe will make your midday meal a delight. Darcy's serves breakfast all day, so whether you are an early riser or prefer eggs and bacon for lunch, you'll find that Darcy's is ready to please your appetite. Loyal customers love Dave's Special. This breakfast platter comes with a pile of crispy hash browns or American fries topped with sausage, bacon, ham, diced onions, mixed peppers, cheese, and two eggs. Customers can choose either toast or pancakes along with this delectable dish. If you want the full Darcy's Cafe experience, you must try the Piggy Burger at least once. All burgers start with 1/3 pound of fresh hand-formed quality beef and a grilled bun. The Piggy Burger is topped with smoked ham, bacon, smoked cheddar cheese, and barbecue sauce. The smokey flavor mixes perfectly with the sweet and tangy barbecue sauce for a pop of flavor in each bite. You'll find Darcy's Cafe at 105 North Washington in Grand Forks, North Dakota. It is only a few miles away from Thompson, but it's completely worth the drive. Darcy's is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. They offer dine-in and curbside services. Their curbside pickup window makes ordering something on the go easy and convenient. For information or to place an order, call 701-775-4050. Northside Cafe Northside Cafe cooks it up just like mom used to. The menu comprises an array of home-cooked food sure to take you back to your days of sitting at your mom's kitchen table, enjoying quality conversation and food made just for you. This family-friendly establishment knows how to please groups with varying food preferences, with a menu as diverse as their clientele. Locals love the sirloin dinner for only $8. It is a perfectly cooked and seasoned steak served with a twice-baked potato, coleslaw, and ice cream. The Northside Cafe sits at 3450 Gateway Dr. in Grand Forks. To give yourself a break from a busy Sunday morning, try ordering their family-style breakfast. This treat, available for takeout only, will save you time and help you avoid the dreaded pile of breakfast dishes. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. For information or to place your takeout order, call 701-738-8500. Brewskis Those looking to have a relaxed lunch while washing everything down with a fresh pint of lager should head over to Brewskis. The owners have cultivated a fun and welcoming atmosphere that is ideal for a lunch with friends or a casual afternoon date. The menu at Brewskis, clearly displayed, offers a little of something for everyone, no matter what you like. They have appetizers ranging from pickle fries to cheddar nuggets, offer unique pizza topping, and serve up some creative and juicy burgers. Their wings, which pair perfectly with the beer they have on tap, are crispy and savory. You'll find this hidden gem at 402 Pacific Ave., right here in Thompson. For information, call 701-599-9087. The Blue Moose Bar and Grill The Blue Moose Bar and Grill in East Grand Forks provides a unique atmosphere with some quality food that can't be beaten. If you're looking to nosh on some walleye, a local favorite, or chomp on some barbecue ribs, the Blue Moose Bar and Grill is your lunch destination. The Blue Moose Bar and Grill has both a seasonal and regular menu, ideal for those that love consistency and for customers who like to try new things. The kids' menu has the tried-and-true favorites little eaters adore. Tiny diners can choose from chicken strips, mac and cheese, corn dogs, and pasta. For the adults, we suggest the Tequila Lime Chicken. This perfectly grilled chicken breast sits on a bed of cilantro-lime rice and is topped with fiesta sauce. The Blue Moose Bar and Grill is at 507 2nd Street NW, near Thompson. They open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. This family-friendly spot is a great location for your next family celebration. They offer catering and banquet services. For information, call 218-773-6516. Ground-Round Grill and Bar This barbecue spot offers customers an enormous meal for a great price. The Ground-Round Grill and Bar serves some of the best barbecue you'll find near Thompson. The menu has everything from bourbon salmon to burgers. There is also a gluten-free menu for customers with special dietary needs and an extensive kids' menu to keep hungry tummies happy. Order the St. Louis slow-smoked barbecue ribs and you'll never want barbecue from anywhere else. The Ground-Round Grill and Bar is 2800 32nd Ave. South in Grand Forks. You can order online or reserve a table for faster service. For information regarding their catering, call 701-775-4646. So there you have it. Rydell Nissan of Grand Forks has shared with you our list of the top five best lunch spots in Thompson, North Dakota. If you're at a loss for where to grab a bite to eat, one of these suggested restaurants is worth your time. What do you think of our list? Did we miss your favorite local lunch spot? If we did, let us know! Leave a message and we'll be happy to check out your ideas.
Just 50 miles east of Grand Forks is the charming town of Thief River Falls, Minnesota. The area offers many outdoor recreation opportunities and plenty of fun family activities. Whether you live in Thief River Falls or you're just visiting, check out the Rydell Nissan of Grand Forks team's list of fun things to do. more Go Bird Watching at Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge Image via Flickr by Joe Passe CC BY-SA by 2.0 Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge is one of the nation's top destinations for wildlife viewing and bird watching. The 61,500-acre wildlife refuge, established in 1937, is home to sandhill cranes, black terns, yellow-headed blackbirds, night herons, and five species of grebes. Most years, as many as 250 pairs of Canadian geese and 7,500 pairs of ducks nest at Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge, and the refuge hosts one of the largest colonies of Franklin's gulls. Within the refuge, you'll find the 4,000-acre Agassiz Wilderness Area, which is home to more than 300 resident and migratory bird species. In addition, you can find over 50 species of mammals (including two packs of eastern gray wolves), 12 species of amphibians, and nine species of reptiles. Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge, considered a Globally Important Bird Area, is rich with wetlands, marshes, and shorelines. So pack a lunch, bring your binoculars, and make a day of bird-watching. You can access the refuge from its headquarters at 22996 290th Street Northeast, in Middle River. Feel Like a Settler at Peder Engelstad Pioneer Village Experience what pioneer life in Minnesota was like in the 1800s when you visit Peder Engelstad Pioneer Village. As you explore the 19 buildings scattered throughout the pioneer village, look for artifacts, farm tools and equipment, and interactive displays that tell stories of how the people of Pennington County lived and survived. The kids will get a kick out of seeing the old train, barbershop, and log cabins. As you step into the white church, you'll feel a sense of reverence to the many pioneers and settlers that once attended its services. Peder Engelstad Pioneer Village is open from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend, and it's located at 825 Oakland Park Road in Thief River Falls. Have a Meal at the Hive Bar & Grill While you can find plenty of restaurants to enjoy in Thief River Falls, the Hive Bar & Grill is a local favorite. With an extensive menu, including a kids menu, everyone in the family can find something to satisfy their palate at the Hive Bar & Grill. Appetizers range from boneless chicken wings with a variety of dipping sauces to deep-fried pickles. Grab a salad, wrap, or sandwich for a light lunch, or indulge in a specialty burger like the south-of-the-border-inspired Queso Burger. If you're looking for local fare, enjoy the Midwest walleye dinner, whiskey-marinated sirloin steak, or the grilled salmon dinner. Enjoy dining at this beloved grill located at 1582 Highway 59 SE. Play Games at Falls Stay N Play So much more than a travel stop, Falls Stay N Play offers camping with hot showers and a laundry facility, a picnic shelter, a deli, and games for the entire family. After traveling, stretch your legs playing mini-golf on the 18-hole course filled with fun and challenging obstacles. If you like to race around a go-kart track, you're in luck. Falls Stay N Play offers a 1,100-foot gas-powered go-kart track that's sure to give a thrill. Whether you're just passing through or staying at Falls Stay N Play, set aside time to check out the arcade room and play all your favorite arcade and video games. The facility is located at 17107 U.S. Highway 59 Northeast, and many of its features and attractions are open 24/7. Play Poker at Seven Clans Casino As soon as you step inside the Seven Clans Casino, you'll feel the warmth of the lodge-like interior and friendly staff. The casino's Thief River Falls location has delighted guests and visitors for more than 30 years. When you come for gaming, you won't be disappointed by the more than 650 gaming machines on the casino floor. You can also try your hand at the four live blackjack tables that make you feel like you're in Las Vegas. Plan on staying for a few days at the Seven Clans Casino Hotel that offers luxury accommodations with a touch of rustic Northwoods appeal. With over 152 nonsmoking rooms to choose from, you can find the right accommodation to fit your needs. Of course, you won't go hungry staying at the Seven Clans Casino. Enjoy top-notch food at the River Road Cafe or the Triple Sevens Walk-Up Eatery. If you decide to stay for a few days, everyone in the family can have a blast at the casino's water park. This 40,000-square-foot indoor water park has something fun for everyone in the family. The Seven Clans Casino is located at 20595 Center Street East, in Thief River Falls. Enjoy Leaf Peeping at Old Mill State Park When you visit Old Mill State Park, you can learn about the history of the Thief River Falls area while enjoying the colorful fall leaf-peeping opportunities. Stop by the old flour mill and log cabin by the Middle River to see how the early homesteaders from the 1880s made flour from locally grown wheat. The Old Mill State Park is also a great place to bird-watch, and if you'd like to spend a few days seeing the leaves turn colors, you can camp at the state park campground. Other attractions include a swimming area, wildlife viewing opportunities, a swinging bridge, interpretive displays, and picnic areas. Old Mill State Park is located at 33489 240th Avenue Northwest, in Argyle. There you have Rydell Nissan of Grand Forks' six fun things to do while visiting Thief River Falls. What was your favorite activity or place to visit? What did the kids like doing best? If we missed a unique location or activity in Thief River Falls, please let us know, and we can add it to our list.
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