Grand Forks was initially a small community belonging to British Rupert's Land. However, the United States acquired this land through the Treaty of 1818, making it part of the then North Dakota territory. Indigenous tribes lived in the Grand Forks area until the mid-19th century when they were relocated. However, the area was inhabited by European settlers who wanted to own the land. After several years of warfare, the U.S. made peace treaties to extinguish land claims of Ojibwe and other boiling disputes. After the establishment of a post office in the area in June 1870, its name was consequently changed to English Grand Forks. A popular boat captain, Alexander Griggs, is widely regarded as the "Founder of Grand Forks." His steamboat froze in the Red River while he was on transit in 1870, forcing him and his crew to camp at Grand Forks. It was during their stay that Griggs started a community in 1875. A group of other people moved into the area, leading to the establishment of the city. Grand Forks was officially incorporated on February 22, 1881. In the 1870s and 1880s, thousands of settlers were attracted to North Dakota for its cheap land. This saw the region's population increase significantly. Many of the new inhabitants established small family farms, with wealthy ones buying thousands of acres for bonanza farms. They engaged in wheat farming as the main economic activity. At this time, houses for sale in Grand Forks, North Dakota were going at very cheap prices. The arrival of the Great Northern Railway in 1880 accelerated Grand Fork's development, with its economy growing significantly. The Northern Pacific Railway that arrived in 1887 also played a key role in the city's expansion. The University of North Dakota was established in 1883, attracting thousands of students from across the country.

There is a lot to see and do in Grand Forks. One of the biggest attractions is the Kelly Slough National Wildlife Refuge. You can visit this park to relish some wildlife and great scenery. Founded in 1936, this refuge seats on over 1270 acres of land. It was established to develop and care for the Red River's system of wetlands and grasslands. You will enjoy this beautiful nature reserve that is home to a wide range of breeding water-birds and other wildlife. While here, you will have access to some of the most beautiful birds in North America. You will also learn about their ecology and breeding habits. The refuge has an open space where children can engage in fun activities. You are also allowed to bring your pet.

Another great location is the Ronald Reagan Minuteman Missile State Historic Site. This is one of the must-see attractions in Grand Forks. It contains a historical museum that best sells the Cold War story and how things transpired during that time. It also has various exhibits on missile technology and the country's preparedness. In addition, the site preserves some of the world's most lethal and largest intercontinental ballistic missile launch sites. This launch site extends over 6,000 square miles, making it the largest in the world. A visit to this site will enlighten you on the destructive power of nuclear warfare and what can happen when a nuclear war erupts.