How to Find Cheap Hotels in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Grand Forks, North Dakota, also known as "The Sunflake City," was so named because it rests at the base of the convergence of the Red River and the Red Lake River. Founded in 1870 by French fur trappers that used "les grand fourches" as a river-based trading post, Grand Forks offers acres of state parkland, nature trails and sporting events.
Know that Grand Forks was severely damaged in 1997 when the Red River overflowed its banks in the worst flood in the area since 1826.
Chew on this: In 1893, an employee of the Diamond Milling Company of Grand Forks created a new breakfast cereal that quickly became popular. They called it Cream of Wheat.
Learn the term "coulee." While it literally means a ravine, the locals use the term to refer to a small stream that travels through the center of the city.
Fly to Grand Forks via Grand Forks International Airport, serviced by Northwest Airlines.
Travel by train. The Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Railway serves Grand Forks, and Amtrak runs east and west of the city.
Drive via three federal highways that cross into Grand Forks: U.S. Highway 2, Interstate 29 and U.S. Highway 81.
Step onto the Greenway, a 2,200-acre park with several nature trails, a fairgrounds, picnic areas and campgrounds.
Take it slow at the Turtle River State Park, just 22 miles west of Grand Forks. The entire 784-acre park is a sanctuary for waterfowl, snapping turtles and various plant life.
Race over to the River Cities Speedway. With a clay oval track, it's ranked as one of the best 1/3-mile dirt tracks in the U.S. There is car, kart and dirt bike racing and fun for the whole family. Kids get to meet and greet the racers and there are frequent BMX dirt bike giveaways.
To book accommodations, contact Greater Grand Forks Convention & Visitors Bureau at (800) 866-4566 or visit their Web site (see Resources below).
Check into one of the Victorian B&Bs found in the city for cheap accommodations. Rates start at just over $100 per night.
Find cheap accommodations near King's Walk. This golf course is designed as an open prairie, similar to courses found in Scotland and Ireland.
Sleep under the stars at one of several campgrounds and RV parks in the area for a nominal fee.
