The sparsely populated state of under a million people is a nature lovers dream, with miles of state parks, forests, lakes and rivers. It boasts some of the friendliest people in the United States, and is home to culture, history and unique experiences you can’t find anywhere else.  Here are 3 Reasons to head to North Dakota right now:

Be at one with nature. 

For anyone wanting to explore the great outdoors, North Dakota is the perfect place to do just that. Covering 70,000 acres is Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Featuring gorgeous canyons, rock formations and rugged terrain spanning for miles, animals from elk to horses to bison call this place home. In the park’s South Unit is Medora, famous for its horseback riding, old-west look and the Medora Musical, which is a must-see.

You can also retrace the footsteps of Lewis and Clark by traveling on their namesake trail. The trail is complete with historical information and the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center, and is a gorgeous hike. Also don’t forget: biking, kayaking, canoeing and bird watching.

Explore unique culture. 

Unique to the area is the Scandinavian Heritage Park. Here you will find remembrances and replicas from each of the five Scandinavian countries of Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland. Displayed in the park are a real grass roof Stabbur, a replica Stave Church from Gol, Norway, and a 25 foot tall Swedish Dala Horse.

North Dakota is also the center of Native American culture. Make sure you stop by the reconstructed Hidatsa “earth lodge” at Knife River Indian Villages, or the native-inspired Plains Art Museum.

Find interesting art.

North Dakota has a surprising amount of art. From the giant outdoor sculptures to the thriving art communities hidden all over the state, you will be sure to find pieces as unique as the state itself. Some favorites places to check out art include The Arts Center, ARTsplace, Empire Arts Center and Plains Art Museum.

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