Larimore, North Dakota, is a small town about 30 miles west of Grand Forks. It’s rich in history and provides plenty of opportunities for year-round fun. Explore nearby parks and recreation areas, historic buildings, and learn more about the town. Many unique dining options await visitors as well. The crew here at Rydell Chevrolet GMC know of some must-see points of interest in the area that we’d like to share with you.
Larimore Dam Recreation Area
Constructed in the late 1970s, the Larimore Dam Recreation Area features a swimming beach and a 72-acre pool that’s open to canoes, paddleboats, and other nonmotorized boats. Anglers are out fishing year-round from either boats or ice houses, depending on the season.
Several picnic areas are available, including two covered locations that may be reserved for special events. Before or after picnicking, you can enjoy the playgrounds and plenty of open space for playing sports like softball, horseshoes, and volleyball.
Both paved and rustic trails for biking and hiking offer an opportunity for exercise. The 3.5 miles of paved trails lead back to the town of Larimore, making it easy to get to and from town.
The campground features 144 sites with water and electric hookups for tent camping and RV use. Modern facilities are available, and the RV sites feature electric, water, and sewer hook-ups. For the Larimore Dam Recreation Area, admission is $5 a day or $25 a year, and camping is $25 a night or $150 a week.
Myra Arboretum
The 26-acre Myra Arboretum, also known as Larimore Arboretum, adjoins the Turtle River’s south branch. Established in the late 1970s, it’s part of a large conservation project that features over 500 varieties of trees and shrubs. The arboretum has been revitalized in recent years through partnerships and grants. Over $17,000 in outside funding has been secured to maintain the arboretum.
Larimore Golf Course
The Larimore Golf Course, a challenging nine-hole course that crosses the river, is just past the dam. It’s a 36-par public course with 3,066 yards of golf from the longest tees. The course opened in 1960 and features a clubhouse with a full-service restaurant. Check out the hills, flowing creek, oak trees, and wildlife. Green fees are $17.50 for a round.
All of the recreation options around Larimore Dam, including the Myra Arboretum and Larimore Golf Course, are connected to the city of Larimore by 3.5 miles of paved bicycle trails. The trails allow visitors to visit the recreation areas on foot or by bicycle, adding another element of enjoyment to the day.
Avalon Theater
Visit the historic Avalon Theater in downtown Larimore. Originally opened in 1925 as the Grand Theatre, the building was remodeled in 1938 and renamed the Avalon. Check out the art deco details in the marquee, box office, entry doors, and interior. The building operates as a one-screen movie theater and is home to live theater groups. Because the Avalon is the only remaining building in Larimore’s downtown with original art deco features, it’s been placed on the National Register of Historic Places. The 350-seat theater is located at 210 Towner Ave.
Larimore City Parks
Larimore’s parks offer a place for recreation regardless of the season. The city pool opens seven days a week starting in June, and admission is just $3 a day, or they also offer a $40 annual pass. In the winter, weather and ice permitting, the skating rink is available for use. The park, along with the pool and ice skating rink, is found at 700 Towner Ave.
Turtle River State Park
Camping, hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, fishing, and mountain biking are among the fun things to do at Turtle River State Park, which is about 8 miles from Larimore. The state park was constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Set on 775 acres, Turtle River State Park has many options year round. It’s a great place to sit back and enjoy the diverse wildlife population, as well as one of the waterfalls near Grand Forks.
The Turtle River is stocked with rainbow trout and ready to be fished. You can also hike or mountain bike on the 12 miles of multi-use trails along the river and over the forested hills. In the winter, you can use these trails for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. There’s also an amazing hill for sledding when the snow flies. Take a break in the warming house in the winter months or at a picnic area or playground in the warmer months. The park offers campsites and cabin rentals for those who’d like to extend their visit.
Stop by the visitor center for more information. Admission is $7 a day or $35 for an annual pass. Camping is $17 to $30 a night, with cabins at $65 a night. The park also has facilities available to rent for special events as well as shelters for spring to fall picnics.
Larimore City Hall
The 1890 Larimore City Hall was the first brick building in town and is the oldest surviving city-owned structure. It served as city hall and later as the town’s opera house. The two-and-a-half story building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in its centennial year and has been a museum since the 1960s. Open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, the museum houses historic displays focusing on the military, music, one-room schoolhouses, and antiques. City Hall is located at 398 Towner Ave., with an admission price of only $1 per person.
Larson’s Drive Inn
In business since 1980, this tiny seasonal drive-in features a variety of specialty burgers, fries, and ice cream treats, including classic malts, shakes, and ice cream cones. Or try their popcorn shrimp, jumbo shrimp, or fish and chips specials. Enjoy dinner and a movie with the family at this fine example of only a handful of remaining vintage drive-ins in North Dakota. Larson’s Drive Inn is located at 924 Towner Ave.
Contact Rydell Chevrolet GMC
The Larimore area, just a short drive from Grand Forks, offers something for everyone, no matter the season. From outdoor activities like hiking and skiing to unique restaurants and historic buildings. If we missed your favorite point of interest near Larimore, reach out to us today at Rydell Chevrolet GMC. We’d love to add your spot to the list.
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