Rugby

Rugby has long considered itself the geographic center of North America. While that has recently come up for debate, there is no doubt that the north-central North Dakota town is a hub of activities and attractions, beginning with the monument that proclaims Rugby the Geographic Center of North America. The center is marked with a monument or cairn that is pyramid form in shape. It is 21 feet high, 6 feet wide at its base, and setting on a heart shaped foundation. Nearby is the Northern Lights Tower, a monument honoring the Aurora Borealis, which dance through the night skies.

Rugby was also once the home of the world’s tallest man, Clifford Thompson.

Learn more about the history of the town and the area at the Prairie Village and Museum’s 23 historic buildings and exhibition halls. Other sites to see include the Victorian Dress Museum, Niewoehner Bell Tower and the Pierce County Courthouse. After seeing the sites, take the clubs to the Rugby Golf Course for a quick nine holes before heading downtown. There you can dine at Third Street Station and try out the golf simulator or stop at Coffee Cottage Cafe for dessert or Solid Ground Coffee Cafe for a latte. Rancho Grande Mexican Restaurant is also a unique place to dine.

Enjoy some friendly competition with frisbee golf at Ellery Park or try out the new pickle ball court, or just 15 minutes from Rugby enjoy some outdoor recreation at Sand Lake and Balta Dam. In the winter there are great snowmobile trails, an indoor hockey arena, Al Wentz Arena, and an outdoor skating rink.

Stroll around town and be sure to visit the many unique stores such as Main Street Boutique, and check out This ‘n That, The Jeneral Store, Wild Minds Studio, Stylin’ You Salon and Boutique, Little Sparrows Boutique, Holly’s Stitches and Crafts, Tumbleweed Gallery and Cindy’s Country Cupboard gifts. Then to wind down and relax, stop in for some "me time" at Magnolia Wellness and Detox Spa.

*Fun Note* Rugby has been selected to be featured in a 2024 “My Town” docuseries with six other rural communities in Minnesota, Iowa and Wisconsin. Kevin Leier, vice president of the Rugby Economic Development Corporation explains, “The video episode will focus on major aspects of life in North Dakota, Pierce County and Rugby such as our health care system, excellence in education, community engagement and activation, business opportunities, and so forth.” Filming in the Rugby area will occur during the week of May 20, 2024. While in Rugby, Hepola will speak at a community event, still in the planning stages. Updates will be posted to the Facebook pages of the Rugby Chamber and CVB and the Rugby JDA. The series premieres October 2024. Follow the “My Town” series on Facebook and YouTube.

Visit Rugby's site for more things to see and do