A Group Travel Guide to Grand Forks, North Dakota's Best Destinations

Grand Forks, North Dakota, is more than just a college town on the banks of the Red River of the North. It is a hub of culture, sports entertainment, outdoor adventure, and vibrant community life in the Upper Midwest. Whether you are planning a corporate retreat, a university tour, a wedding celebration, or a family reunion, navigating the city with a large group requires logistical precision. At Charter Bus Rental Company Grand Forks, we specialize in removing the stress of navigation, parking, and coordination so you can focus on the experience.

When you book a private charter bus rental in Grand Forks with us, you aren't just getting a ride; you are securing a mobile headquarters for your adventure. The drivers are well-versed in the local roadways, from the busy Gateway Drive corridor to the scenic turns near the Greenway. We handle the winter roads with expertise and the summer construction with patience. Below, we have curated a guide to the top destinations in Grand Forks for group travel, complete with the logistical details you need to plan the perfect itinerary.

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Ralph Engelstad Arena

If there is one building that defines the spirit of Grand Forks, it is undoubtedly "The Palace." Ralph Engelstad Arena is widely considered one of the finest hockey facilities in the world, serving as the home ice for the University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks. For sports groups, alumni associations, and corporate outings, a trip to "The Ralph" is a non-negotiable part of the Grand Forks experience. The arena features granite floors, leather seating, and an atmosphere that rivals professional NHL stadiums.

Arranging group transportation to a UND hockey game is the best way to avoid the congestion on North Columbia Road and 6th Avenue North during game nights. Instead of splitting your group into multiple cars and paying for expensive event parking, your charter bus driver can drop you off near the entrance, allowing you to head straight for the Sioux Shop or your seats. After the final buzzer, your warm, climate-controlled bus will be waiting to take you to your hotel or a post-game dinner downtown. Even if there isn't a game scheduled, the arena offers fascinating tours that explore the history and architecture of this $100 million facility.

Ralph Engelstad Arena 1 Ralph Engelstad Arena Dr, Grand Forks, ND 58203

Splasher's of the South Seas

Located within the Canad Inns Destination Center, Splasher's of the South Seas is the largest indoor waterpark in North Dakota, making it a prime destination for youth groups, school field trips, and birthday parties—especially during the chilly winter months. The park features the Rarotonga cannonball slide, a lazy river, and an activity pool that guarantees hours of entertainment for travelers of all ages. It is connected to the Alerus Center, making it a convenient stop if your group is in town for a convention or concert.

When you rent a charter bus for a trip to Splasher's, you gain the advantage of ample storage. Wet towels, changes of clothes, and pool toys can easily be stowed in the overhead bins or undercarriage luggage bays of a full-size motorcoach. The drivers can coordinate drop-offs right at the hotel entrance, ensuring that children and chaperones can move quickly from the bus to the warmth of the lobby without trekking through snow or rain across a large parking lot.

Splasher's of the South Seas 1000 S 42nd St, Grand Forks, ND 58201

The Greenway

For groups that love the outdoors, The Greenway is an absolute treasure. This massive system of parks and trails encompasses approximately 2,200 acres of natural open space along the Red River and the Red Lake River. It offers an incredible setting for company picnics, team-building exercises, or simply a scenic break during a long road trip. With paved trails for biking and walking, disc golf courses, and shore bank fishing spots, it is a versatile destination that showcases the natural beauty of the Red River Valley.

Logistics for outdoor trips can be tricky, but Charter Bus Rental Company Grand Forks makes it simple. If your group plans to hike or bike a specific segment of the trail, we can arrange a point-to-point service. Your driver can drop your group off at the Lincoln Drive Park entrance and meet you a few hours later at the Sorlie Bridge downtown. This flexibility allows you to explore the full length of the park system without having to loop back to retrieve vehicles.

The Greenway (Lincoln Drive Park Entrance) 120 Cooper Ave, Grand Forks, ND 58201

North Dakota Museum of Art

Located on the campus of the University of North Dakota, the North Dakota Museum of Art is a beacon of culture and history. Recognized as the official art museum of the state, this institution brings contemporary art from around the world to the Great Plains. The building itself is a work of art, repurposed from the university’s 1907 gymnasium. It is an ideal stop for educational field trips, senior citizen tour groups, and art appreciation societies. The museum also features a lovely cafe and a sculpture garden that is perfect for a quiet stroll.

Navigating a university campus with a large vehicle can be intimidating for personal drivers, but it is all in a day's work for the chauffeurs. We can drop your group off at the designated loading zones near Centennial Drive so you can walk right into the galleries. While you enjoy the exhibitions, your driver will handle the parking logistics, returning to pick you up exactly when you are ready to depart.

North Dakota Museum of Art 261 Centennial Dr, Grand Forks, ND 58202

River Cities Speedway

If your group has a need for speed, a Friday night at the River Cities Speedway is an electrifying experience. Known for high-octane dirt track racing, this venue hosts the World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series and regular weekly racing programs that draw crowds from across the region. It is loud, it is dusty, and it is incredibly fun—perfect for bachelor parties, casual corporate outings, or family reunions looking for unique local entertainment.

The Speedway can get crowded, and parking is often a premium on race nights. By booking a minibus or charter bus, you consolidate your group into one vehicle, making arrival and departure seamless. You can even bring coolers and tailgating chairs stored in the bus's luggage bays to enjoy some pre-race camaraderie in the lot before heading into the grandstands. Your driver stays with the vehicle, ensuring a sober ride home for everyone after the checkered flag waves.

River Cities Speedway 2300 Gateway Dr, Grand Forks, ND 58203

Sertoma Park & Japanese Garden

Sertoma Park offers a serene escape within the city limits and is home to the beautiful Japanese Garden. This garden was a gift from Awano, Japan, Grand Forks' sister city, and features traditional Japanese landscaping, lanterns, and rock formations. It is a picturesque spot for wedding parties looking to take photos or for tour groups seeking a peaceful place to eat a packed lunch. The park also includes playgrounds and meditation areas, catering to both energetic children and adults seeking relaxation.

When you rent a bus with Charter Bus Rental Company Grand Forks, you have the freedom to add quick, scenic stops like this to your itinerary. Whether it is a 30-minute photo op or a two-hour picnic, your driver accommodates your schedule. The park has accessible areas, and our ADA-compliant bus rentals ensure that every member of your group can enjoy the beauty of the gardens without barriers.

Sertoma Park 3300 11th Ave S, Grand Forks, ND 5820

Downtown Grand Forks / Town Square

Downtown Grand Forks has undergone a renaissance, offering a vibrant mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment. Town Square is the heartbeat of this district, hosting the popular Farmers Market on Saturdays and various concerts and festivals throughout the year. For dining, groups can head to iconic spots like The Toasted Frog or Rhombus Guys for some of the best pizza in the state. It is a fantastic destination for evening entertainment, allowing groups to hop between venues and enjoy the local nightlife.

Parking in downtown areas can often separate large groups as everyone hunts for open meters or garage spots. With a private shuttle bus rental, your driver can drop you off at the corner of DeMers Avenue and 3rd Street, right in the middle of the action. Enjoy dinner, catch a show at the Empire Arts Center, or explore the local shops, and simply text your driver when you are ready to be picked up. It is the ultimate VIP experience for dining and nightlife in Grand Forks.

Town Square DeMers Ave & 3rd St N, Grand Forks, ND 58201

University of North Dakota (UND) Campus

As the state's oldest and largest university, UND is a primary destination for academic groups, prospective students, and visiting athletic teams. The campus is renowned for its John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences and the stunning new Memorial Union. A tour of the campus offers a glimpse into the academic heritage of the region and the future of aviation technology.

Charter Bus Rental Company Grand Forks frequently partners with high schools and educational organizations to provide campus tour transportation. We can coordinate with the university's admissions office to follow specific tour routes, stopping at the Aerospace buildings, the Chester Fritz Library, and the residence halls. Our buses are equipped with PA systems, allowing tour guides or teachers to address students while moving between campus landmarks, keeping the educational momentum going even while in transit.

University of North Dakota Grand Forks, ND 58202

Rent Your Grand Forks Charter Bus Today!

Whether you are cheering on the Hawks at The Ralph, sliding down waterslides at Canad Inns, or touring the historic downtown, Grand Forks is a city best experienced together. Charter Bus Rental Company Grand Forks is dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and comfortable transportation for your group, no matter the season or the destination. Our team is available 24/7/365 to answer your questions and build a custom quote just for you. Don't let transportation logistics freeze your plans—call us today at 701-552-6430 to secure your bus rental and start your North Dakota adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions About Grand Forks Group Travel Transportation

The cost of a charter bus rental varies based on several factors, including the size of the bus, the duration of your trip, the time of year, and the total mileage. For example, a local day trip will have a different pricing structure than a multi-day tour to Fargo or Winnipeg. To get the most accurate price, we recommend calling our reservation specialists at 701-552-6430. We provide free, personalized quotes in minutes based on your specific itinerary with no obligation to book.

We generally recommend booking your charter bus at least 3 to 6 months in advance. Grand Forks sees high demand during university graduation, UND hockey home game weekends, and major holidays. Booking early ensures you have the widest selection of vehicles to choose from and locks in at the best possible rate. However, if you have a last-minute trip, give us a call! We will do everything we can to accommodate your group.

Our fleet offers a variety of amenities designed for comfort and productivity. Most full-size charter buses come equipped with reclining seats, climate control, onboard restrooms, and plenty of luggage storage. You can also request buses with WiFi, power outlets, and DVD players with flat-screen monitors to keep your group entertained. If you have specific needs, such as ADA accessibility, please let our reservation agent know when you call, and we will match you with the perfect vehicle.

Yes, we can provide transportation for trips heading north to Winnipeg or other Canadian destinations. Since Grand Forks is only about an hour from the border, cross-border trips are common. However, it is vital that every passenger has a valid passport or appropriate travel documentation. Please inform us during the booking process if you plan to cross the border so we can assign a driver who is cleared for international travel.