Feb 25, 2021

Your time with your family is precious, so you want to find fun-filled activities to enjoy together. Sometimes it can feel like a challenge to discover new and exciting places to visit that offer something for everyone in your group, though. That’s why Rydell Chevrolet GMC put together this roundup of places to go for family fun close to home.

Northwood offers easy access to amazing spots, so whether you’re looking for sports, history, or great places to eat, you’ll find all that and more in and around our town. Let Rydell Chevrolet GMC help you plan a day of quality family time with this list!

Northwood Ice Rink

Skating at ice rink with hockey stick and puck in front of hockey goal
Image via Unsplash by srosinger3997

If your kiddos are looking to get into sports, make sure you put Northwood’s ice rink on your list of local spots to check out. You’ll find the Northwood Ice Storm — and plenty of opportunities for fun — right in our hometown. This community-based youth hockey program boasts teams for all ages, with players starting out as young as 4 years old. Whether your family watches NHL games every night or you’re just starting out with the sport, this local organization has something for every family.

Hockey teaches kids a range of skills, from strength and strategic thinking to all-important teamwork. Playing can increase fitness and coordination while offering the perfect way to make new friends. Here in Northwood, kids can play in a recreational league or competitively with a traveling team, making the Northwood ice rink a great setting to learn new skills at any level.

Cool Stuff Drive Inn

Kids worked up an appetite after showing off their skills on the ice? It’s time to pay a visit to Cool Stuff Drive Inn! This popular Northwood spot transports your family back in time thanks to its retro vibes. The restaurant has served our community for years, and not much has changed over that time. This is the place to go when you want fresh, handmade food served with a big smile in a friendly atmosphere.

Cool Stuff Drive Inn is the spot to visit when you’re in the mood for classic American diner food. From burgers to sandwiches to mouthwatering breakfasts, this restaurant has it all. Kids are sure to love the freshly made fries here, and the whole family will appreciate the home-style touch to every dish. Want a change from typical diner fare? You’ll find a huge range of salads, not to mention pizzas and subs. Cool Stuff Drive Inn also offers a range of rotating specials, so you’ll want to come back again to try new items every chance you get.

No matter what you order, just make sure you leave room for dessert. Whether you’re craving ice cream or homemade dessert bars, Cool Stuff Drive Inn has it all. Treat the kids to their tasty shakes and malts for a special occasion — or just because! Pro-tip: Be on the lookout for the fresh caramel rolls. When they’re available, you’ll definitely want to try this scrumptious dessert option.

When you need a break from regular old fast food, head over to Cool Stuff Drive Inn. This down-to-earth restaurant offers great eats in a nostalgic environment, and you’ll quickly see why they’re a beloved part of the Northwood community as soon as you grab your first bite here.

The Martin V. Linwell House

Drive the family over to 316 South Raymond St. in Northwood to see the Martin V. Linwell House. If your family is into architecture or history, checking this landmark out should be near the top of your must-do local activity list. The house offers an amazing example of Late Victorian architecture in North Dakota.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980, the Martin V. Linwell House was constructed in 1895. It includes striking Queen Anne architecture. The Martin V. Linwell House is a sight to behold, so you’ll want to take a look with the whole family.

Nelson’s Pumpkin Patch

When the air takes on that crisp autumn feel, it’s time to take a drive to nearby Emerado. That’s where you’ll find Nelson’s Pumpkin Patch, a great place to enjoy some family fun without traveling far from Northwood. With straw and corn mazes, hayrides, a farm animal petting zoo, games, concessions, and even a haunted house, you’ll find something to keep every member of the family entertained.

When the pumpkin patch is open in September and October, admission is $8 per person. Kids under 3 years old can enter the patch for free! You can even make reservations for birthday parties and other special events if your family can’t get enough of this fun spot.

Concessions include snacks like chips, popcorn, cotton candy, and hot chocolate. On the weekends, you can also get heartier treats like nachos and hot dogs. No matter when you visit Nelson’s Pumpkin Patch, you’ll find it easy to make it into a day of family-friendly adventure.

Splasher’s of the South Seas Water Park and Arcade

In the mood for a tropical vacation? Well, you don’t have to go further than Grand Forks to have a family day at a water park! You’ll find Splasher’s of the South Seas right at Canad Inns Destination Centre in Grand Forks, making it easier than ever to plan a fun-filled day enjoying the water.

The hotel and entertainment complex has something for everyone. The indoor water park and arcade are Grand Forks’ largest. You can also make use of the three restaurants and the snack bar to add to the experience.

Contact Rydell Chevrolet GMC

There you have it! Rydell Chevrolet GMC just gave you some super fun ways to enjoy family time together, without going far from home. We hope you’re feeling inspired to plan some adventures with your whole family. Did we miss a spot you like to visit in or just outside of Northwood? If we didn’t include your family’s go-to local place for fun, drop us a line! We’d love to check out your recommendation and add it to our list for other local families to enjoy.