Little Missouri River
North Dakota

North Dakota has been named the friendliest state in the US, living up to its name – Dakota derives from the Sioux Indian language for friend. Whether in Bismarck, the state capital, Fargo, the largest city, or smaller towns like Minot or Dickinson travel is fun and friendly.

Springtime blooms with things to do across the state. Minot hosts the 19th Annual The Big One Art and Craft Fair -the Spring Show is April 9th and 10th. Featuring more than 290 exhibitions filled with the finest local and regional arts, crafts and baked goods, it is the largest springtime fair in North Dakota. This is a showcase for handmade, one of a kind arts and treasures you will want to attend.

Dickinson is home to a unique event Tuesday April 27th – The taste of Home Cooking School. Sponsored by the Dickinson Press, the event features a two hour on stage cooking demonstration with booths offering product samples and terrific food ideas. The host of the cooking school this year is Guy Klinzing who believes family meals should feed the soul. This is a highlight of the year in Dickinson, mark the date.

The Plains Art Museum in Fargo, hold the 2010 Ordinary to Extraordinary Spring Gala May 1st. Celebrate spring and enjoy wine tasting and cocktails, a magnificent dinner with dessert, live music and entertainment and a silent art auction.This event supports museum education programs throughout the year. This is the event to see and be seen.

Fargo's 6th Annual Marathon is scheduled for May 22nd, but includes pre-events to make it a full three days of fun. New in 2010 is a 10K race, and the schedule includes a youth 1/2 and l mile runs, a 5K Run or Walk Thursday and Friday before the Marathon. The Fargodome is race central, bring the family, everyone can participate and have fun. This has been ranked in the top 10 marathons in the US as well and the best value marathon – runners don't miss this one.

Historians and communications enthusiasts mark April 29th for the Eric Sevareid Symposium at Bismarck State College. This is a four-day symposium exploring the life and legacy of Eric Sevareid who is from North Dakota. Sevareid was a well known CBS journalist who was on of the “Murrow Boys”, an elite team of war correspondents. This is a rare opportunity for an in depth and intimate review of the life of one of North Dakota's most famous natives.

Looking forward to summer? Plan on the Buggies-n-Blues Festival mid-June in Mandan. Sponsored by the Bismarck-Mandan Musician's Association this event is worth looking forward to. Over 500 classic cars and motorcycles are displayed along with live musical entertainment. Stay and dance the night away, the party goes on until midnight.

Best Western Hotels are convenient and affordable throughout North Dakota. Look for Best Western to meet your travel needs where ever you choose to travel.