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 29 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 and the arcade. Rancho Grande Mexican Restaurant is also a unique place to dine - then take your photo at the Geographical Center Monument (it is in the parking lot) and tag #rugbychambercvb. In the morning stop at Coffee Cottage Cafe for breakfast or lunch, or the Solid Ground Coffee Cafe for a latte.

Enjoy the Splash Pad at the Jaycees Park, some friendly competition with frisbee golf at Ellery Park, or check out the new pickle ball court. If you are in the mood for some water recreation, just 15 minutes from of Rugby enjoy some outdoor recreation at the Sand Lake, or the Balta Dam. If you're hungry stop in the Balta Bar and Grill for a bite to eat. 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, 2nd Chance Market, Wild Minds Studio, Stylin’ You Salon and Boutique, Holly’s Stitches and Crafts, Tumbleweed Gallery and Shawna’s Closet of Possibilities. Then to wind down and relax, stop in for some "me time" at Magnolia Wellness and Detox Spa.

*Fun Note* Rugby was 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 stated, “The video episode focuses 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.” Follow the “My Town” series on Facebook and YouTube. You can watch the Rugby docuseries: The Side of North Dakota You've Never Seen, Rugby, ND here. For more visit Facebook pages of the Rugby Chamber and CVB and the Rugby JDA.

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