Olio in Iowa

Plan Your Big Adventure to the World’s Largest Things in North Dakota

Graphic reading "World's Largest Things in North Dakota" with blue cloudy sky and brown bison known as Dakota Thunder, the World's Largest Buffalo, in Jamestown, North Dakota

It’s no secret that I love “world’s largest” things. So it should come as no surprise that North Dakota quickly stole my heart with all of its quirky attractions. I had visited this northern Midwest state a number of times but it wasn’t until earlier this summer that I discovered the large number of world’s largest things in North Dakota.

From massive mammals to enormous avians, there are all sorts of world’s largest things in North Dakota. I love the giddy excitement and sense of wonder that these large-scale attractions inspire. But behind each of them is an interesting story—stories that I’m excited to be able to share with you.

Looking for something to liven up your drive across the Roughrider state? You won’t want to miss experiencing the unique attractions that make up the “world’s largest” things in North Dakota.Continue Reading…

Plan a Larger-Than-Life Road Trip Along North Dakota’s Enchanted Highway

Graphic made of three images of sculptures along the Enchanted Highway including three metal pheasants, large fish with fisherman in boat and farmer wearing a baseball hat and overalls with a pitchfork near Regent, North Dakota

Roadside attractions and “world’s largest” things are my true travel loves. Both are at the heart of why I started Olio in Iowa in the first place. So when I first learned about the Enchanted Highway a few years ago, it’s safe to say that my hear skipped a beat.

Located in western North Dakota, these larger-than-life roadside attractions span a 32-mile stretch of highway and are truly a sight to behold. Built over the past 20 years by local artist Gary Greff, this collection of scrap metal sculptures draws thousands of visitors to rural North Dakota each year.

Whether you’re road tripping through North Dakota or making this whimsical stretch of road your final destination, the Enchanted Highway is well worth a drive. But when I started to plan my own trip, I couldn’t find much information online. So I’ve turned my experience into a helpful guide so you can learn everything you need to know before hitting the road.

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Appreciating the Lost Art of Neon Signs in Fargo, North Dakota

During our visit earlier this year, one of the first things I noticed about Fargo, North Dakota was its vintage neon signs. As we wandered around downtown it seemed that the colorful marquees confronted us at each and every turn. While I can’t find a singular reason for the prevalence of neon signs in Fargo, they serve as a beautiful symbol of the city’s revitalization.

I’ve always been drawn to neon signs. Something about the ethereal glow they give off intrigues me. And I’ve long been inspired by their vintage charm and bold, graphic designs. So I was thrilled to see that at least in Fargo, neon is having another moment.Continue Reading…

The Ultimate Guide to Fargo-Moorhead Breweries

When we started to plan our summer trip to North Dakota, I was pleasantly surprised to discover an overwhelming number of Fargo-Moorhead breweries. Visiting craft breweries has always been one of my favorite ways to get to know a new city and these northern communities proved no different.

With so many incredible beers to sample, I feel that it’s important to get a feel for the full scope of the community’s craft offerings. Before you grab a beer (or two or three), make sure to peruse the ultimate guide to Fargo-Moorhead breweries.

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