Lincoln Drive Park

In the heart of Grand Forks, North Dakota, lies a remarkable destination — Lincoln Drive Park. This modern recreational complex, stretching along the banks of the Red River in the USA, is part of the expansive Greater Grand Forks Greenway. More than just a park, it serves as a symbol of the resilience of the human spirit: this area was once a residential neighborhood that, following the devastating flood of 1997, was transformed into a flourishing public space.

Today, the park harmoniously blends wilderness with modern infrastructure. Across more than 2,200 acres, visitors can encounter deer, foxes, and beavers, as well as observe rare bird species. What makes Lincoln Drive unique is its landscape: memorial elements and historical exhibits are masterfully woven throughout, telling the story of the area's past and turning a simple stroll into a fascinating journey through time.

For visitors, the park offers a wide range of activities: from secluded reading areas in the wildflower garden to professionally equipped sports facilities. With its high ratings from both tourists and locals, Lincoln Drive Park is rightfully considered one of the region's gems, offering the perfect balance between active recreation and peaceful nature contemplation.

For details regarding facility rentals or current park conditions, it is recommended to contact the Grand Forks Park District. Up-to-date information on park rules can be found on the organization's official website.

Lincoln Drive Park offers something for everyone year-round. One of the main highlights is the professional disc golf course, where basket #7 is located right on the site of the former Omega Avenue. Visitors can also enjoy volleyball, horseshoes, or cornhole. For water enthusiasts, there is a dedicated boat ramp for access to the Red River, while anglers can try their luck along the scenic banks.

In winter, the park transforms into a hub for snow activities. The massive levee slope, known as the 'sledding hill', is a favorite spot for sledding, and the groomed trails are perfect for cross-country skiing. After some outdoor action, you can warm up in the cozy warming house — a heated building often rented for private parties. For dog owners, there are two spacious fenced-in areas where pets can run off-leash.

Don't forget to take some time to explore the historical plaza and the wildflower garden. As you walk along the paved paths that trace the outlines of old streets, you can see bronze sculptures and read engraved plaques with the names of residents whose contribution to the neighborhood's history is immortalized in granite. This makes a visit to the park not only active but also an educational experience.

The park is located in the southern part of the city at a scenic bend of the Red River. It can be reached by car from the city center in just a few minutes via Euclid Ave or Lincoln Drive. Convenient parking areas are provided for visitors at the park entrances.

For those who prefer public transportation, Grand Forks Public Transit buses operate routes covering the center and surrounding areas; the nearest stop is within walking distance of Euclid Ave. The park is also easily accessible by taxi or ride-sharing services like Uber/Lyft from anywhere in the city.

If you enjoy active travel, take advantage of the extensive Greenway bike path network, which connects the northern and southern parts of the city. Walking from the UND campus or the Near South Side neighborhood is also manageable and offers a chance to enjoy the city scenery. Grand Forks International Airport (GFK) is approximately a 10–15 minute drive away.

The history of this site is both fascinating and dramatic. From the late 1880s, this area was home to the thriving working-class residential neighborhood of Lincoln Drive. In the early 20th century, a streetcar even ran through here, and local residents harvested ice from the Red River, storing it in special warehouses. The neighborhood was full of life: children attended Lincoln Park Elementary, and in winter, the whole community gathered at the ski jump.

Everything changed in 1997, when a catastrophic flood breached the protective levees. Water filled the low-lying area, turning the residential block into a deep bowl. After the evacuation of hundreds of families, a difficult decision was made: the neighborhood was declared uninhabitable. Homes, the school, and public buildings were demolished to make way for a safe recreational zone capable of absorbing floodwaters in the future.

Today’s park is more than just a place to relax; it is a true open-air memorial. The landscape carefully preserves the outlines of the past: rows of old trees mark the lines of former streets, and the footprints of foundations are still visible in the ground. In the center of the park stands a touching bronze sculpture of children on swings, a reminder of the school that once stood here, while granite benches bear the names of former residents whose lives were connected to this place.

To leisurely explore the grounds and soak in the unique atmosphere, it usually takes about 2 to 4 hours. This is plenty of time to walk the river trails, examine the historical memorial panels, and appreciate the scale of the park's natural revival.

If you are planning more active recreation — such as a round of disc golf or a family picnic — you could easily spend half a day in the park. In winter, sledding and cross-country skiing enthusiasts often stay until evening, enjoying the excellent trails and levee slopes.

The park is welcoming to visitors daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM. This schedule remains consistent throughout the week, including weekends and holidays, allowing for everything from early morning runs to evening walks by lamplight.

Please note that access to certain facilities, such as the warming house, may be seasonal and require advance booking. For the most up-to-date information on seasonal events, it is recommended to check the official website of the city's park district.

A stroll around the Lincoln Drive Park area will allow you to immerse yourself deeper in the state's atmosphere and discover its architectural heritage. Nearby are historic districts and landmark buildings that tell the story of how these lands were settled.