National Plan for Vacation Day is January 28, a day set aside to promote the benefits of planning your vacation. American workers left 768 million vacation days unused in 2018, creating a “vacation deprivation” that added up to $65 million in lost benefits, according to data compiled by the U.S. Travel Association.
North Dakota Tourism and travel partners are teaming up tomorrow to encourage travelers to follow their curiosity, avoid the crowds and visit North Dakota to find out what all the talk is about: friendly people, scenic beauty and exciting activities, all packaged within our wide-open spaces.
Americans took an average of 17.4 days off in 2018, well off the average of 20.3 taken between 1978 and 2000. Workers using vacation days are found to be more engaged and productive. U.S. Travel reports that $151 billion would be pumped into the economy if Americans used their days off.
Your North Dakota vacation in 2020 may include:
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park — The rugged 70,000-acre park honors our “conservation president,” Theodore Roosevelt, who ranched in the Badlands and credited his presidency to his time in North Dakota. Outdoor opportunities for all levels include hiking, mountain biking and fantastic scenic views. See wildlife, including bison, wild horses, elk and bighorn sheep. Access the more developed south unit at Medora and the untouched wilderness of the north unit at Watford City.
- Dig all things prehistoric — Dinosaurs, fossils, geologic wonders and paleontology research can be found all along our Dinosaur Tour. You can also take part in one of our fossil digs.
- Adventure in the Gorge — Kayak the Pembina River and take a hike in the beautiful Pembina Gorge in northeast North Dakota. Check out the Pembina State Museum at North Dakota’s first settlement founded in 1867. View miles of rich Red River Valley patchworked with farms from the seven-story observation tower. Mountain bikers don’t miss the NEW Pembina Gorge Terrain Course located at Frost Fire near Walhalla.
- North of Normal — Fargo and its “North of Normal” attitude has much to offer visitors. Downtown is a destination for artists, entrepreneurs and foodies alike. Enjoy attractions like the Plains Art Museum, Fargo Theatre, Hotel Donaldson, unique shops, eateries, microbreweries and eclectic variety. Fargo also is home to the North Dakota State Bison, FCS college football champions in eight of the last nine years.
- Rich Outdoor Opportunities — Fishing, birding and hunting adventures can be found at Devils Lake, the largest natural body of water in North Dakota. Known as the “Perch Capital of the World,” it also is home to large numbers of walleye, northern pike and white bass. Nearby attractions include White Horse Hill National Game Preserve, where wildlife viewing includes bison and elk.
Find a complete list of our 20 in 20 must-do adventures at (https://www.ndtourism.com/articles/follow-your-curiosity-vacation-north-dakota-20-20).
North Dakota Tourism has several resources to assist you in planning the perfect adventure. Trip ideas centered around family fun, outdoor adventure, exploring scenic byways and more can be found at (https://www.ndtourism.com/content/north-dakota-trip-ideas-find-adventure-everywhere). Get your FREE travel guide at (https://www.ndtourism.com/maps-guides) or visit with one of our travel counselors at 1-800-435-5663 to customize your Legendary vacation.
