Fargo may not be the world's center for ragin' night life or amusement parks for the kiddies, but there is one place for both children and adults I recommend visiting if staying in the North Dakota town. However, depending on where you are in the area you'll probably need to drive a few miles, maybe 3-5 to get to the Heritage Hjemkomst Interpretive Center which is actually located across the state line in neighboring city, Moorhead, MN. I found the place when I put in a search online for Fargo attractions. I'd never heard of it, but it seemed worth investigating.

It was noted that a man by the name of Robert Asp from Moorhead had dreamed of building a replica Viking ship and sailing it to Norway, the land of his ancestors. Asp started on his rather outlandish task back in the early 1970's and naturally people thought him crazy and out of his mind. He completed building his Viking ship and test sailed it the same year he died in 1980 of lukemia, just short of sailing his ship the long haul, but his family members saw his dream through and made the voyage in 1982 to Norway where they were welcomed greatly. During a visit to the center you'll see a video about Asp and his ship. It's a very touching and inspiring piece and really shaped our entire visit. When we arrived we found out that the ship was having some work done on it and we wouldn't be able to view it, which was a complete bummer. Yet, the video, our fantastic tour guide, John, and a trip to the Norwegian style church located in the back of the center saved all. Plus they gave us a discounted rate. The ship should be available to view by late November according to John and if you have the opportunity I say check it out!

Heritage Hjemkomst Interpretive Center is located at 202 First Avenue North, Moorhead, MN 56561. Ph 218.299.5511

Filed under: History, Learning, Photos, Stories, North America, United States