North Dakota is definitely an underrated place. After all, we’ve harped on the fact that it’s the least-visited state in the nation many times – mostly because we feel like this is terribly unfair. Honestly, people don’t know what they’re missing out on. North Dakota is a brilliant place with natural wonders and small towns galore – North Dakota small towns like the one we’re going to explore today. Kenmare is a small town in North Dakota that’s ridiculously easy to miss, but we ask you to take a closer look. This awesome little town is filled to the brim with amazing natural attractions and historic buildings! Check out one of the best small towns in North Dakota.

When we call Kenmare a small town, we mean it - its population was less than 1,000 as of the 2020 census.
City of Kenmare/Facebook
But don't let this fool you - all that means is that there's more to do with fewer crowds to worry about!
Kenmare was platted in 1897, and it's assumed that it was named after the city in Ireland of the same name.
Andrew Filer/Flickr
There may not be a lot of crazy anything, but one thing's for sure: when it comes to natural wonders, Kenmare is packing.
One of the first things you might notice is the gorgeous mill at the center of town.
City of Kenmare/Facebook
This is the Danish Mill, and it's a delight and a half. You'll find it at Park on the Square; when we say it's at the center of town, we're serious! The town of Kenmare was built around this park, and the mill sits right at the center of it all.

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Anyone who loves the great outdoors will appreciate a trip to the famed Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge.
Cynthia W/TripAdvisor
You'll find hiking trails galore at this outrageously scenic refuge, and if you time your trip right, you'll be here just in time for Goosefest, when the entire town flocks (see what we did there) to witness the arrival of elegant Canadian geese on their journey home. Typically, this occurs in October, so keep this in mind!
For the rest of the year, the hiking at Des Lacs is second to none.
USFWS Mountain-Prairie/Flickr
And best of all, it's not even the only park this tiny little town has to offer! There are also gems like the Lake County Historical Society's Pioneer Village, Mouse River Park, and Centennial Park.
No matter what you arrive for or how long you stay, you're sure to leave a little piece of your heart in Kenmare.
City of Kenmare/Facebook
Come out and see what this tiny North Dakota town is all about - and why it's the perfect small town in North Dakota for a day trip!

Have you ever been to Kenmare, ND, one of the best small towns in North Dakota? What are your favorite enchanting small towns in North Dakota? Let us know in the comments. For more places like this, head out on a lovely road trip to see some of the coolest small towns in North Dakota.

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More to Explore

Things To See And Do In North Dakota

Will Suphan | February 09, 2024

What are some hidden gem attractions in North Dakota?

Hidden gem attractions in North Dakota include:

  • Fire Hall Theatre. This was once a fire hall and is now a community theatre where performances happen year-round.
  • Paul Briste Rock Museum. This is a geological museum that is made out of rocks. Come see rare and beautiful minerals.
  • Ronald Reagan Minuteman Missile State Historic Site. Go deep underground to see a nuclear missile command center.
  • Lewis and Clark Trail Museum. This museum shows artifacts and relics from the pioneer days when settlers passed through here

Find out more about hidden gem attractions in North Dakota. 

What are the most bizarre roadside attractions in North Dakota?

The most bizarre roadside attractions in North Dakota include:

  • Viking on a Hill. Standing atop Pyramid Hill, this statue of a Viking represents local Norwegian heritage. 
  • Wahpper. At the entrance to the town of Wahpeton sits Wahpper, a 5,000-pound catfish statue right next to the Red River.
  • Tommy the Turtle. This is a massive turtle riding a snowmobile that stands 30 feet tall. He guards the nearby tennis court.
  • W’eel Turtle. This huge turtle is made up entirely of about 2,000 tire rims that have been welded together.

Discover more of the most bizarre roadside attractions in North Dakota. 

What are the best little-known attractions in North Dakota?

The best little-known attractions in North Dakota include:

  • Dinosaurs on the Prairie. This is a collection of threshing machines that were used on local farms and are an important part of local history.
  • Fort Mandan. Visit the place where fur traders, pioneers, and early settlers once gathered.
  • Rainbow Garden. This is a gorgeous public garden with sculptures made by locals and from sculptors all over the world.
  • Chateau Des Mores. This mansion was the home of Marquis des Mores who founded Medora, North Dakota, and it has a historic tour.

Learn more about the best little-known attractions in North Dakota. 

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Kenmare, ND 58746, USA