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North Dakota is among the most rural states in America, and the most beautiful.
Vast stretches of remote wilderness lie all across the state of North Dakota. It’s a popular destination for hunters and wildlife observers for this reason, with many outdoorsy folks flocking to areas such as Theodore Roosevelt National Park and the many enormous lakes of the region.
However, there’s plenty of civilized life to explore in the state as well. Bismarck, the state capital, is home to many wonderful sights and an iconic stretch of the Missouri River. Fargo, too, is a lively northern city with deep cultural roots. Where are you looking to stay?
Related Read: 8 Great South Dakota Glamping Spots, from Budget to Lux
1. Bertha’s Cabin
Why you should stay: Disconnect from the din of urbanity to this simple cabin in the woods.
- Location: Leonard
- Sleeps: 2
- Minimum stay: 1 night
- Rates from: $91 per night
Bertha’s Cabin is a timeless cedar and maple cabin that has been updated with modern amenities. This old log home hearkens back to simpler times. Its historic architecture and unembellished design is a stark contrast to modern decor.
Set against the border of the Sheyenne National Grasslands, the scenery will set your mind at ease. There are miles of trails in the area that’ll make for a blissful nature walk. If you’re inclined to bring along some family or friends, you may also want to consider the larger Andrew’s Cabin that exists nearby on the same property.
Check Availability2. Lamppost 15
Why you should stay: Fresh styling with an interesting, almost mysterious layout in a quiet city neighborhood.
- Location: Bismarck
- Sleeps: 6
- Minimum stay: 1 night
- Rates from: $92 per night
Each room within Lamppost 15 is entirely unique unto itself, and there’s even a secret hidden room to uncover —hint: check behind the bookcases. This home’s artsy design isn’t over-the-top, though. It’ll certainly hold your interest, but you won’t feel overwhelmed by its quirkiness — there’s a good balance of weirdness and normalcy to it.
Located in the sleepy streets of eastern Bismarck, this fun house is right near all the action of the city.
Check Availability“This was one of the most incredible Airbnb’s I have ever experienced. Great house in a cozy neighborhood in a great location for all North Dakota needs.”
3. Stiga Loft
Why you should stay: A sleek, modern, and sophisticated loft right in downtown.
- Location: Fargo
- Sleeps: 4
- Minimum stay: 1 night
- Rates from: $109 per night
There’s no better spot for a weekend stay in Fargo than the Stiga Loft. All of the city’s downtown scene lies right outside the door, and inside you’ll find the accommodations to be contemporary with a touch of historic charm.
The clean Scandinavian-inspired design is a visual treat. Likewise, the high vaulted ceiling, skylights, and upstairs sky bridge give the place a lot of character. It’s the perfect pad for a night out on the town, a walk along the Red River, or a long-term business trip.
Check Availability4. The Train Depot
Why you should stay: The novelty is reason enough to chugga chugga choo-choose this historic depot for your next weekend getaway.
- Location: Luverne
- Sleeps: 7
- Minimum stay: 1 night
- Rates from: $100 per night
The rail line is long gone, but The Train Depot still stands. This stalwart train depot was originally built in 1890 and has since been renovated and turned into a unique lodging option in eastern North Dakota in the plains adjacent to Lake Ashtabula.
Located on a working farmstead, guests of The Train Depot will experience a rural North Dakota landscape rich with pastoral beauty. Wildlife and domesticated animals alike tend to wander the grounds. Miles of hiking trails and kayak-friendly waterways await adventurous guests at the edge of the property.
Check Availability5. Apple Creek Cottage
Why you should stay: Adorable and immaculate accommodations on a well-kept hobby farm.
- Location: Bismarck
- Sleeps: 4
- Minimum stay: 1 night
- Rates from: $130 per night
Once a farm granary, Apple Creek Cottage has been fully remodeled into a delightful place to stay. You’ll have your own private corner of a living hobby farm to call your own during your stay, and farm-fresh eggs are always available so long as the chickens are laying.
What’s also great is that town is only minutes away.
Check Availability“If all you want is a modern farm place to stay that has a taste of being remote while being mere minutes from downtown, you have it here.”
6. Hawthorne A-Frame
Why you should stay: Contemporary lodging in a historic neighborhood.
- Location: Fargo
- Sleeps: 6
- Minimum stay: 2 night
- Rates from: $150 per night
Rather than residing in the hustle and bustle of downtown, the Hawthorne A-Frame is a couple of steps back in the quieter Hawthorne neighborhood. This one-of-a-kind home stands out among the century-old buildings that line the streets of the community.
Inside, a two-story fireplace and the wraparound spiral staircase that envelopes it are the first features to grab your attention. The open space is well furnished with minimalist pieces that are as comfy as they are subdued, and there is ample space within for a small family to enjoy.
Check Availability7. The Cabin
Why you should stay: If you’re seeking a spot out “in the middle of nowhere” you’ve found it.
- Location: Maddock
- Sleeps: 8
- Minimum stay: 1 night
- Rates from: $110 per night
The Cabin is the ideal escape for those who need a break from their day-to-day routines. This far-removed cabin is cozy and rustic.
The hosts live on the premises, but otherwise, the property feels truly remote. This is the type of place where you will want to go to get lost for a while.
Check Availability“The best, most relaxing get away. Truly rustic. If you need a vacation to sit around and enjoy each other’s company, this is the perfect place to be.”
8. The Loft at Oliver’s Landing
Why you should stay: You’ve found a secret romantic retreat that’s hidden in plain sight. Shh! Don’t tell anyone!
- Location: Minot
- Sleeps: 3
- Minimum stay: 2 night
- Rates from: $90 per night
The Loft at Oliver’s Landing is a lovely apartment fitted with dimmable, recessed lighting, tasteful decor, and a cozy dining nook for two. The loft has direct access to the exquisite deck known as Oliver’s Landing — a gated private deck beset with floral arrangements, cabana drapery, and an ornate chandelier.
The landing is open to guests so long as a private event hasn’t been booked. This loft is tucked away right in the middle of downtown, but away from view. All of central Minot is within walking distance, and the airport lies but a few miles out of town.
Check Availability9. Split Rock Super Home
Why you should stay: A lavish and fun in-town stay with all the comforts of home.
- Location: Bismarck
- Sleeps: 7
- Minimum stay: 1 night
- Rates from: $127 per night
From the plush furniture to the over the top coffee bar and well-equipped waffle station, you’re going to feel pampered and peacefully relaxed at the Split Rock Super Home. All of the best vacations start with a comfy and fun place to stay.
There’s plenty of games for the family to play both indoors and outdoors such as foosball, billiards, and lawn games. The state capital buildings, and all of central Bismarck, sits a few blocks away.
Check Availability10. The Dollhouse
Why you should stay: Revel in a two-story Victorian home in downtown near the Missouri River.
- Location: Bismarck
- Sleeps: 6
- Minimum stay: 1 night
- Rates from: $115 per night
This century-old Victorian-era Dollhouse has all the character and charm of a Southern belle. It’s a beauty to behold both inside and out, and it is beset with endearing bits and bobs such as the sun deck porch swing and a built-in dining room china hutch.
Everything inside from the claw foot bathtubs to the French doors, oil radiators, and aged mirror create an enchanting atmosphere of a time gone by. It’s a wonderful place to stay and within walking distance of everything in central Bismarck.
Check Availability11. The Six One Five
Why you should stay: An unassuming neighborhood home with an elegantly decorated interior. Lux without the glam!
- Location: Williston
- Sleeps: 4
- Minimum stay: 1 night
- Rates from: $131 per night
Park yourself at The Six One Five on the edge of downtown Williston if you’re looking for a convenient and comfortable place to kick back and relax in western North Dakota.
You’ll be blocks away from numerous eateries and boutique shops. The lakes and river nearby lend themselves to excellent hiking, fishing, and hunting opportunities.
Check Availability“Beautiful and quaint. Had everything we needed and was in a great location. The holiday decorations made it so homey. Definitely staying here again next time we visit.”
12. King’s Guest Ranch
Why you should stay: Luxurious seclusion with plenty of land to roam. Bring your horses!
- Location: Medora
- Sleeps: 6
- Minimum stay: 2 night
- Rates from: $210 per night
King’s Guest Ranch is like something out of a storybook. This highly-refined ranch house resides on a beautiful piece of property with varying landscapes akin to what you would find in a national park. In fact, the ranch lies near Theodore Roosevelt National Park and is a prime location for adventure enthusiasts.
The grounds around the ranch are expansive and beautiful in their own right, and the host is happy to show you around the property, and if you bring your horses they’ll happily guide you to the nearby trails.
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Seen in: Midwest, North Dakota, Where to Stay, Where to Stay in the Midwest
