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Grand Forks

Grand Forks, the county seat of Grand Forks County, is the third-largest city of North Dakota. It is situated in the extremely flat Red River Valley region on the western banks of the Red River of the North. Founded in 1870 by Alexander Griggs, Grand Forks was formerly named as Les Grandes Fourches. It was incorporated on February 22, 1881, and was named for its location at the fork of the Red Lake River and the Red River. Grand Forks is home to the University of North Dakota, the oldest educational institution in the state. The City is well known for its cultural and sports events. Athletic events are held annually at the Alerus Center and the Ralph Engelstad Arena. The major cultural venues in the city include the North Dakota Museum of Art, Empire Arts Center, and the Chester Fritz Auditorium.

Downtown Grand Forks, the oldest part of the city, is the governmental center of the city and home to a number of historic buildings. It also serves as a gathering place for the weekly farmer’s market and other large festivals. The streets of the Near Southside Historic District, situated directly south of downtown, are lined with magnificent houses. A number of historic mansions exhibiting unique architectural styles, areas of authentic granitoid paving, and many historic churches can be seen in Reeves Drive, the most fashionable neighborhood of the City. The major tourist attraction in this neighborhood is the Lincoln Drive Park.

The Grand Forks Park District operates 14 neighborhood parks, a swimming pool, 11 outdoor skating rinks, and 28 tennis courts. The parks in the city include baseball fields, basketball courts, picnic areas, soccer fields, softball fields, and playgrounds. The famous Sertoma Park also features a magnificent Japanese Garden. Greater Grand Forks Greenway features an extensive path system, ski trails, large festival grounds, and wildflower gardens. Besides, Grand Forks is also home to a number of golf courses. The city also has a 43-mile (69-km) long bicycle route system.

Top 5 National Parks

1. Great Smoky Mountains
2. Grand Canyon
3. Yosemite
4. Olympic
   
5. Yellowstone

All 58 national parks.