Way up north near the Canadian border is a small town in North Dakota that is one of the most important towns in the state. Reaching this town can be quite the drive, but it is well worth the journey. The residents here are obviously proud of where they live and have made it into the great community it is. Not only that, but it is known as the gateway to one of the most scenic parts of the state. With all of that and more, here is why you want to see it:
Dunseith, North Dakota is certainly not anywhere near the biggest town in the state, but it definitely has one of the most important parts of it. It is home to the place where the state gets its official nickname, the Peace Garden State.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
But there is so much more to Dunseith than just that one attraction. To start, it also has the Wee’l Turtle, the largest metal turtle sculpture created from over 2,000 tire rims. This big guy greets people as they arrive in town.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
The town itself is also very pleasant. There are only 773 people living in Dunseith that keep it continuing as a thriving community.
Andrew Filer/Flickr
The town was founded in 1882. The name comes from the Gaelic word “Dùnsìth,” which means “City of Peace.” It reached peak population in the 1960s at just over 1,000 residents. It has never been much bigger than that and holds its small town charm.
Andrew Filer/Flickr
Dunseith embraces its heritage and its community values. With historic sites and lovely parks, it is perfect for any family.
Andrew Filer/Flickr
Of course it is most known for being home to the International Peace Garden. It is a place that is both beautiful in sights and in symbolism.
Kurt Haubrich/Flickr
The gardens are located directly on the border of North Dakota and Canada and draw in hundreds of visitors. Beyond the gorgeous flowers there are many fountains, statues, works of art, and greenhouses with a huge variety of plants from all over both countries to see.
Bonnie B/Tripadvisor
It is truly a sight to behold and an important gesture between both countries.
Mark Goebel/Flickr
Beyond all of the delightful attractions and community that make Dunseith the perfect small town to visit, it is also known as the Gateway to the Turtle Mountains, an absolutely stunning part of North Dakota. The dense forests, scattered lakes, ponds, and wetlands, create breathtaking views such as this. This view can be seen from the Butte St. Paul Historic Park in Dunseith.
blindcreek42/Tripadvisor
Whether you go for the International Peace Garden, to hit the trails in the Turtle Mountains, or just to experience the lovely town that is Dunseith, you’re guaranteed to find something you love here. Even if it is way out in the middle of no where it is easily worth the journey!
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
Andrew Filer/Flickr
Kurt Haubrich/Flickr
Bonnie B/Tripadvisor
Mark Goebel/Flickr
blindcreek42/Tripadvisor
Looking for more places to visit in North Dakota that are way off the beaten path? Try one of North Dakota’s most remote restaurants. This place will surprise you!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
