Sports & Recreation

North Dakota is Home to an Incredibly Active Sports Scene

North Dakota offers a unique blend of collegiate passion, minor league excitement, and engaging community events with strong support for our local teams, creating an electric atmosphere that's well worth experiencing.

College Sports: The Heartbeat of North Dakota Sports

College sports are arguably the biggest draw for sports enthusiasts in North Dakota, particularly football and hockey. The rivalries are intense, and the fan bases are fiercely loyal.

North Dakota State University (NDSU) Bison (Fargo):

Football (FCS): NDSU is a dominant force in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), boasting multiple national championships. Games at the Fargodome (capacity ~18,700 for football) are legendary for their tailgating scene and passionate crowds. The "Thunder Road" tradition of fans parading to the dome is a must-see. NDSU also fields strong teams in hockey, basketball, wrestling, and volleyball.

University of North Dakota (UND) Fighting Hawks (Grand Forks):

Hockey: UND is synonymous with elite college hockey, with a storied history and numerous national titles. Games at the Ralph Engelstad Arena (capacity ~11,000 for hockey) are a spectacle. Known as "the finest facility of its kind in the world," the arena offers an unparalleled experience with its granite floors, cherry wood seats, and luxurious amenities. The UND football team plays at the Alerus Center (capacity ~13,500 for football), a multi-purpose arena that also hosts other events. UND also fields strong teams in basketball and volleyball.

Other Collegiate Teams:

North Dakota is home to several other NCAA Division II, NAIA, and junior college teams that offer exciting athletic competition and a strong sense of community pride. These include:

Minot State University (Minot); University of Mary (Bismarck); Dickinson State University (Dickinson); Valley City State University (Valley City); University of Jamestown (Jamestown); Mayville State University (Mayville); Bismarck State College (Bismarck); North Dakota State College of Science (Wahpeton); Lake Region State College (Devils Lake); and Williston State College (Williston)

Minor League & Semi-Professional Sports

North Dakota supports several minor league and semi-professional teams, providing additional entertainment options, especially during the summer months.

Baseball:

Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks (American Association): Play at Newman Outdoor Field in Fargo. Attending a RedHawks game is a classic summer experience with family-friendly entertainment.
Bismarck Larks (Northwoods League): Part of a collegiate summer league, the Larks offer high-level amateur baseball in a fun atmosphere at Bismarck Municipal Ballpark.
Minot Hot Tots (Northwoods League): Another Northwoods League team, playing in Minot.
Badlands Big Sticks (Expedition League): Located in Dickinson, offering summer baseball action.

Hockey (Junior Leagues):

Fargo Force (USHL): A premier junior hockey team playing at Scheels Arena (capacity ~5,000 for hockey) in Fargo, a great opportunity to see future college and professional stars.
Bismarck Bobcats (NAHL): Play at the VFW Sports Center in Bismarck.
Minot Minotauros (NAHL): Play in Minot.

Click here for Sports Teams in North Dakota

Unique & Regional Sporting Events

Rodeos: North Dakota embraces its Western heritage, and rodeos are a significant part of the sports scene. Tourists can experience the thrill of bull riding, barrel racing, and roping competitions at various events throughout the state.
Motorsports: Auto racing events are held at tracks across North Dakota, offering high-octane excitement for fans. The Dacotah Speedway near Mandan and Nodak Speedway in Minot are just a couple of prominent venues.
Golf: North Dakota offers scenic golf courses, including top-rated courses like Bully Pulpit Golf Course (Medora) and Hawktree Golf Club (Bismarck). These provide a relaxed sporting experience amidst stunning landscapes.
Fishing and Hunting: While not traditional spectator sports, fishing and hunting are major recreational sporting activities.

Extend Your Stay and Make a Trip Out of Your Sporting Event

North Dakota fans are passionate and welcoming. Attending a college football or hockey game provides an authentic taste of local culture and community spirit. The tailgating, cheering, and rivalries create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Sports events can be easily combined with other North Dakota attractions:

Fargo: Catch an NDSU game, then explore downtown and the unique shops and restaurants, visit the Fargo Air Museum, or take a walk along the Red River.
Grand Forks: See a UND hockey game, then visit the North Dakota Museum of Art, enjoy the Greenway, or explore downtown and the local restaurants.
Bismarck/Mandan: Attend a Bismarck Larks game, visit the State Capitol, explore Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park (with its Mandan Indian Village and Custer House), or enjoy the Lewis & Clark Riverboat.
Medora: Combine the Badlands Big Sticks with a visit to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, the Medora Musical, and Bully Pulpit Golf Course.

Affordability: Compared to major league sports, attending college and minor league games in North Dakota is often more affordable, making it an accessible option for families and budget-conscious travelers.

Seasonal Appeal: North Dakota offers sports for all seasons. Fall is dominated by college football, winter by hockey and basketball, and summer by baseball and outdoor recreation like golf, fishing, and boating. This allows for sports-centric trips throughout the year.

Community Pride: North Dakotans take immense pride in their local and college teams. This deep connection translates into a vibrant and enthusiastic atmosphere at games, making visitors feel a part of something special.