10 legendary education vacations in North Dakota Posted on 7/29/2009
North Dakota Tourism/Jason Lindsey
For more information, contact: Sara Otte Coleman, Director, Tourism Division North Dakota Department of Commerce 701-328-2525
Don't send the kids back to school without exercising their learning muscles at one or more of the "education vacations" offered in North Dakota. Play in the dirt, step back in time or even lend a hand in the kitchen. Contact North Dakota Tourism for more information about these activities and other education vacation options at NDtourism.com/vacations/educationvacation/ or call 800-435-5663 or 701-328-2525.
In North Dakota, we answer a lot of questions about agriculture - like "What kind of flowers are these?" and "How do you make spaghetti?" Here, you can get your hands dirty in the herbal garden at gardendwellers FARM in Churchs Ferry, learn how to run a cold climate winery at Long Shadow Vineyards at Galesburg or learn the process of making wool products at Wooly Girls in Hannah.
North Dakota's American Indian tribes and their histories are as diverse as any segment of our society. Words and actions in Lakota on Standing Rock Reservation may mean something entirely different in Hidatsa on Fort Berthold Reservation. Take the Tatanka Ohitika Tour at Fort Yates to learn more about American Indian lifestyle and arts or visit the Three Tribes Museum in New Town.
North Dakota landscapes and heritage are an inspiration for local artisans. Enjoy learning stained glass design and glass fusing at Sundog Glass Design in Park River, or Ukrainian egg painting (pysanka) at the Ukrainian Institute in Dickinson, or create your own work of art with products from North Dakota's prairies at Dacotah Clayworks in Hebron.
If it's a NEW birding destination or new wildlife adventure you seek, North Dakota is a sure bet. The northern Great Plains are like nowhere else on earth and some birders have listed more than 400 species in a single year in North Dakota! Lund's Landing near Ray has several birding packages along the north shore of Lake Sakakawea and Wings 'N' Things takes advantage of Cross Ranch State Park, Audubon National Wildlife Refuge and the Missouri River.
Culinary arts (cooking) in North Dakota can range from gourmet dining experiences and organic farming methods to learning about the tastes from North Dakota's immigrant cultures. Enjoy the grape stomp at Maple River Winery in Casselton, learn the art of old-fashioned cooking and bread-making in Langdon or become your own Barista at Mojo Roast in Westhope.
North Dakotans live history every day. You can, too. The state was built by American Indians, who share their culture and heritage through earth lodge experiences in Mandaree and living history programs at state forts and historic sites. See how it was done in the "old days," spinning wool on a sheep farm near Langdon or making and repairing wagons and wheels at Manning.
Millions of years before North Dakota became a state, prehistoric creatures were living out legendary adventures. Today, you can get up close and personal with what's left of Dino at fossil digs conducted near Marmarth, Rhame and Medora.
If you have a camera, you're a photographer. You don't have to be a pro to capture the legendary scenery in North Dakota. But for those who are looking for a little boost in their careers, workshops are offered by photographers like Steve Silverman in Grand Forks. For those who see photography as only part of an overall picture, take in Becoming and Outdoors Woman at Lake Metigoshe.
The art of crafting is virtually limitless. Let crafters like Sue Retka Schill show you the art of needlework in Langdon; or try quilting at Simple Threads Quilt Shop in Bottineau; or scrap-booking in Cooperstown. North Dakota crafters can help you get the most of your creative talents.
What is a Pysanka? What is rommegrot? Get the answers to these questions and more concerning many of the state's ethnic art and dishes from our Ukrainian (Pysanka –Easter egg) and Norwegian (rommegrot – dessert; lutefisk - fish) citizens. And don't forget to see how the Icelandic people of Mountain celebrate the Deuce of August.
These are just a few of the education vacation opportunities in North Dakota. For more information, go to NDtourism.com or phone 800-435-5663 or 701-328-2525.
North Dakota received two legendary designations in 2008 – most affordable (AAA) and friendliest (Cambridge University).
