Chapter 1: The Perception of North Dakota

In 2005, while in New York, I found myself acting like a typical teenager, reveling in the moment with my choir friends. We were atop a tour bus, stuck in the hustle of downtown NYC, surrounded by merchants selling various foods and goods, who entertained us while we waited.

In jest, we decided to adopt our best “Fargo” accent, proudly showcasing our North Dakota roots. “Oh yah,” we exclaimed, elongating our vowels, “Yer tall buildings are really cool here, ya know?” The amused vendor below, a charming Italian man, lapped it up. We jokingly shared our “naïve” perspectives about life back home, claiming our excitement over electricity. They were shocked to realize that we were fully aware of modern conveniences, leading to laughter and playful exchanges.

This experience highlighted a significant truth: many people are unaware of the reality of life in North Dakota, which deserves greater recognition. So, let me shed light on what it's truly like to live here.

Unboxing North Dakota: What It's Like Living In North Dakota

In this video, discover the realities and surprises of living in North Dakota, a state often misunderstood.

Chapter 2: Embracing the Cold

Growing up in North Dakota instilled a deep appreciation for the cold. I learned practical tricks, like waddling like a penguin to navigate icy paths. There’s a rhythm to how you sprint across parking lots, dictated by the frigid temperatures.

The winters are harsh, and being outside for just five minutes can be perilous. Your eyelashes may freeze before you even reach the warmth of a building. Metal door handles can feel painfully cold, yet the chill fosters resilience rather than bitterness.

Having lived in Ukraine for a few years, I often found myself explaining to family that the cold in North Dakota is far more intense. Their winters, while cold, don't compare to our bone-chilling temperatures. When my husband and his family visited, they couldn’t fathom the severity of our winters.

Even this year, while milder, we still faced days plunging to -30°F without wind chill. While not the coldest place on Earth, North Dakota embraces its winter climate, emerging stronger for it.

Flat Landscapes and Open Skies

Returning from Ukraine, I experienced the stark contrast of North Dakota’s landscape. The flat terrain seemed almost barren of trees, yet there’s a beauty in its simplicity.

Despite the absence of towering skyscrapers—unless you count the 21-story state capital—and mountains, North Dakota gifts us with expansive skies. The unobstructed views allow for breathtaking horizons, where the curvature of the earth is almost visible.

Summer storms transform the sky into a canvas, with vibrant colors reminiscent of an artist’s palette. The sunsets blend with the storm clouds, creating a spectacle that leaves you breathless.

In urban settings, I often missed the vastness of the sky. In North Dakota, the open skies feel liberating, allowing for a sense of peace.

Chapter 3: The Warmth of Community

The cold weather might suggest a harsh environment, but it doesn’t chill our spirits. Instead, North Dakotans radiate warmth and friendliness.

Upon arrival, one of the first things you’ll notice is the smiles on people’s faces. In towns like Medora, a simple wave from a passing driver is a common sight, accompanied by genuine smiles.

We truly care for one another, and asking, “How are you?” is a heartfelt greeting. North Dakotans are known for their strength and kindness, qualities that shine through despite the state’s overlooked status.

When our state gets a mention, whether it’s through sports figures like Carson Wentz or online discussions, we swell with pride. North Dakota, a hidden gem, welcomes visitors with open arms, eager to share its beauty and charm.

EMPTY NORTH DAKOTA - And The Surprising Small Towns I Found There

Join this video journey through North Dakota’s small towns and discover the unexpected treasures they hold.

With a heartfelt smile, we invite you to experience everything our remarkable state has to offer.