Public Art & Murals – Explore 25+ vibrant murals, including the largest public art installation in North Dakota on historic grain silos, and enjoy visual art that tells the story of Minot’s creativity on nearby walls.
Galleries & Museums – Discover local talent at two art galleries or immerse yourself in exhibitions at the downtown art museum, showcasing North Dakota artists in a rotation of exhibits, changing every 4-6 weeks.
Live Art & Events – Experience dynamic art events like Thursdays Downtown, part of Arts in the City, where live performances, interactive art demonstrations, and street art fill the streets with creativity and energy.
If you’re ready for downtown delights, you’re in the right place! It served as the hub during the railroad construction, kicking off the city’s magical story. Bustling with activity, it hosts mini-festivals, 50 locally loved and owned establishments, one-of-a-kind finds, unexpected eateries and bars, shops, and more!
Over 20 restaurants and bars in downtown Minot offer a variety of dining experiences; from brunch, to gourmet burgers, Irish cuisine, and create-your-own ice cream treats, and more tasty bites.
Grab a locally made drink. Drink house-made, award-winning craft beer and get creative while you design and bottle your own wine.
Curb your caffeine fix with several coffee shops in downtown Minot, with some offering outdoor seating for a street view.
- Fun for Everyone: Test your skills in an escape room, practice mini golf, try family-friendly axe throwing, or unwind at a board game café. Check out Citizens Alley, Minot’s future pedestrian public plaza (currently under construction), which will feature a music venue, splash pads, and an ice-skating rink—open year-round for fun in all seasons!
- 21+ Social Spots: Take aim with axe throwing, sip on craft cocktails or local wines, cue up for a game of pool, show off your trivia skills, and catch live music in a bar.
Locally Owned Shops – With over 25 locally owned stores, downtown Minot offers a unique shopping experience that reflects the city’s charm and character.
Boutiques & Fashion – Shop for the latest trends at downtown boutiques offering everything from casual wear and western flair to trendy styles and elegant outfits.
Antiques & Local Makers – Hunt for vintage treasures at antique shops or find one-of-a-kind items made by local artisans at markets showcasing North Dakota-inspired goods.
Specialty Shops – Explore Scandinavian gifts, board games, gaming hobbies, handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and more, all nestled in downtown Minot’s vibrant shopping scene.
Seasonal Festivals & Celebrations – Enjoy the Fall Festival on Main, gather the whole family for the annual Christmas Tree Lighting, or watch the CPKC Holiday Train concert on Main Street, bringing festive cheer to downtown Minot.
Holiday Walks & Special Events – Experience the Bunny Walk in spring, Halloween Walk in fall, and Coffee & Cocoa Walk in winter, perfect for families to explore the city seasonally.
21+ Events – For those interested in nightlife, indulge in wine walks, bourbon tastings, or join the lively street dances for a fun night out.
Railroad Heritage – Minot’s railroad history is showcased at the Railroad Museum of Minot. The Old Soo Line Depot, a historic train station, is now home to a bar and restaurant, but visitors can still view the depot’s architectural charm and learn about the city’s railroad past.
Prohibition Era & Bootlegging – In the 1920s, Minot became known as “Little Chicago” due to its bootlegging trade, with illegal liquor flowing across the Canadian border during Prohibition.
Historic Landmarks – The Icon Fountain, donated by the National Humane Alliance of NYC in 1911, features drinking spots for dogs. The Carnegie Library, one of eight public libraries built in North Dakota with funding from Andrew Carnegie, served as the Minot Public Library for over 50 years and is now an event space for the Minot community.
Eat, Drink, and Shop Downtown!
Check out these places for delicous downtown eats, spots to grab a drink and things to do in downtown Minot.