Whether you want to grab a bite to eat or simply enjoy an afternoon out, Larimore, North Dakota, has several family-friendly places for you to visit. Check out the following recreation areas, historical landmarks, and eateries around Larimore on your next family outing.
Larimore Dam Recreation Area
The Larimore Dam Recreation Area was built in the late 1970s and offers 72 acres of pool surface. Bring along the family for a fun day on the water. You can spread out a blanket on the swimming beach or push out a nonmotorized boat from the boat launch. Don’t forget to bring your fishing gear!
If you’d like to plan for a family picnic, just set up at one of the many picnic areas or reserve one of the two covered areas ahead of time. The recreation area also features several outdoor activities, such as horseshoe pits, a softball diamond, and paved and rustic hiking trails. You can enjoy an extended time at the Larimore Dam by camping in one of the 144 campsites, which feature electrical and water hookups. Restroom areas with showers and flushing toilets are also available for use.
The Larimore Dam Recreation Area is located just 3 miles north of Larimore, so you can quickly travel from home to your family day trip or camping adventure. A day pass is $5, a yearly pass is $25, and a nightly camping pass is $25.
Turtle River State Park
For even more outdoor fun, head about 9 miles east of Larimore to Turtle River State Park. You can visit this state park any time of the year for a day trip or for an overnight adventure.
During the day, check out the 12 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing, or find a large hill to go sledding. You can also head down to the banks of the Turtle River to fish for trout, hang out at the playground with your little ones, or have a fun picnic at one of the picnic shelters. If you want to get out on the river, you can rent a canoe and life jackets for a small fee. A day pass to the park is $7 per vehicle, and an annual pass is $35.
If you plan to stay overnight, consider booking one of the 12 woodland cabins, which feature private showers and flush toilets. There are also more than 60 modern campsites that include electricity and water hookups and more than 20 primitive campsites you can reserve for your family’s camping trip. Campsite fees range from $12-$17 for primitive sites and $25-$30 for modern sites.
For another family adventure, travel an additional 23 miles east to check out Grand Forks, North Dakota.
Little Goose National Wildlife Refuge
Take a little trip about 13 miles west of Larimore to visit Little Goose National Wildlife Refuge. The wildlife refuge includes Little Goose Lake, so consider hiking over to the lake to try your hand at fishing and possibly spot more wildlife. Be sure to bring your camera to capture some stunning nature and wildlife photos, and enjoy the great outdoors with the little ones at Little Goose National Wildlife Refuge.
Avalon Theater
Originally built in 1925, the Avalon Theater is a performing arts venue and movie theater located in downtown Larimore. After a fire in 1938, the theater was remodeled and is one of the few theaters still standing that features art deco style. When you visit the theater, you’ll notice geometric motifs throughout the venue, which are characteristic of the historic art deco style. The Avalon Theater was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1991.
Take the whole family out to see a movie or a live show in the theater’s nearly 400-seat auditorium. Call or stop by the Avalon to see what’s running or when you can attend the next performance.
Larimore City Hall
If your family loves to see historical places, check out Larimore City Hall. The two-and-a-half-story brick building was originally built in 1890 and is considered the oldest surviving brick building in Larimore. The building was placed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1990. You can swing by this historic landmark located in the center of town.
Larson’s Drive Inn
If you’re looking for some delicious food to enjoy as a family, check out Larson’s Drive Inn. This drive-in restaurant is located in downtown Larimore and has been serving locals since 1980.
As with other traditional drive-ins, the restaurant serves you outdoors or in your vehicle. So drive up in the family car and get ready to chow down on your favorite American fast-food dishes. With specials like popcorn chicken baskets and chicken strip dinners, you’re sure to find something for the whole family. Be sure to check the hours before visiting, since they may change throughout the year. Also note that the menu may vary from week to week, such as the malt or shake of the week, so take a look at the menu before ordering.
DB’s The Station
Another family-friendly restaurant you should check out is DB’s The Station, located in downtown Larimore. This local restaurant serves burgers, sandwiches, salads, wraps, pizzas, sides, drinks, and ice cream desserts.
Order a classic hamburger or try something new, such as the Barn Burger, which features sliced jalapenos, pepper jack cheese, and a spicy/sweet mango habanero barbecue sauce. Upgrade your lunch or dinner with one of the many available sides, such as boneless chicken wings, chicken rings, chicken strips, sweet corn nuggets, beer batter mozzarella sticks, onion rings, Wisconsin cheese curds, or sweet potato, waffle, or french fries. You can also order a hamburger, chicken rings, or chicken strips kids meal for the little one. Don’t forget to try an ice cream dessert, such as a malt, cone, or shake.
DB’s The Station is open Monday through Friday between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m.
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Now you know where to go around Larimore for a day or weekend away with the family! Did we miss one of your favorite local spots to hang out? We’d love to hear from you and add your suggestions to our list!
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