Placemakers, Community Builders, Event Planners, Social Architects, Cultural Curators—the Folkways team can go by many names, but let’s take a moment to recognize that this diverse group can also be trusted as community experts! And, of course, we love to be your local guide to the best spots in the FM area. So, let’s check out some local favorites, recommendations, and more from the Folkways team, AKA—some community experts!

Favorite place to shop for gifts?

1. O’Day Cache and Proper

“O’Day Cache always has fun trinkets, handmade pieces, and artisan items to choose from, one of my favorite things form them are the paper lanterns I have hanging in my room. Connected is Proper and another go-to spot for gifts, with incredible jewelry, clips, and candles I’m sure to find something perfect for the girlies in my life.” – Erica

2. Stabo

3. More Than Words

4. Brewhalla

5. Bakers Garden and Gift

“They offer a variety of items made by small artists, and I appreciate supporting a place that champions local talent.” – Amanda

Favorite scenic drive?

1. Historic 8th St in South Fargo + beautiful homes

“It’s great to start at Island Park and make your way over there—I’m a BIG fan of trees, and the older neighborhoods in town make me feel like I’m the main character in a Hallmark Movie.” – Emma

2. 52nd to Moorhead

“It reminds me of my childhood street back home in Bismarck. It also always has a great view of the sunset and is (usually) pretty quiet with no other cars around.” – Brenna

3. El Zagal Golf Course Neighborhoods + Trefoil Park

4. Lookout Park at Hector International Airport

Favorite place to unplug?

Botanical Gardens
Blarney Stone Downtown Rooftop
Chai Moto

Go-to spot to take photos?

1. Steps at Island Park

Alley
“I’m a #alleygal—they always have great backdrops, the occasional mural, and a lack of people to witness.” – Emma

2. Ivy wall at Ivers Building

If aliens visited the FM area, where would you take them first?

1. Coffee + Tunes

“I would first have to take them to some of the local coffee shops to try caffeine for the first time. Then, I’d take them dancing at one of the bars downtown, probably Cowboy Jack’s when they’ve got a great DJ playing. I feel like aliens would be down to rock out to some music, and they’d probably love the lasers and lights.” – Brenna

2. BernBaums

“I have a theory that if someone says that Fargo is boring, there is a very high chance that they have never been to BernBaums before (like a nearly direct correlation). It never ceases to surprise me how many humans still haven’t heard of it.” – Emma

3. Plains Art Museum

4. Marge’s Bar

“I think they would be really into the lights.” – Jeffery

Who serves the most unexpectedly delicious vegetarian/vegan dish in town?

1. BernBaums — anything labeled Vegan or Vegetarian, but also the Vegan Ruben

2. Taco Bros — Trust your Bro
+ ask for a vegan version

3. Poke Bowl

4. 46 North Pints & Provisions —Boomers

The appetizer, Boomers, consists of mixed mushrooms, shallots, goat cheese, crostini, and balsamic reduction— and now, we’re hungry. Thanks, Emma.

Best place for a solo morning jog/stroll?

1. 3.1 Miles of Pure Bliss

“I’ve discovered that the perfect 5k route starts on the trail behind Mickelson Field. From there, you cross the bridge into Moorhead at Oak Grove Park, continue north along the trail towards Original Homestead Park, and then cross back into Fargo using the 12th/15th Avenue bridge. This is a great biking trail as well if you are not fond of running.” – Amanda

2. Osgood is Really Good

“I really enjoy walking around my neighborhood. I live in the Osgood area, and there are so many little paths to explore! It’s a great way to unwind and get some fresh air.” – Brenna

3. The Classics

“The bike path through Lindenwood and Gooseberry Park. It’s very long and extremely pleasant running through all the wildlife.” – Jeffery

4. The Public Universities

“I’m always so surprised by how pretty our college campuses are—those seem like a really lovely, pedestrian-friendly place to bop around.” -Emma

5. Wave to the Vikings

“I love walking through the river trails over into Moorhead by the Hjemkomst Center.” – Erica