International Peace Garden
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3.6(12)yelp
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Overview
The International Peace Garden (French: Jardin international de la paix) is a 3.65-square-mile (9.5 km2) park located adjacent to the International Peace Garden Border Crossing along the Canada–United States border between the province of Manitoba and the state of North Dakota. It was established on July 14, 1932, as a symbol of the peaceful relationship between the two countries. The slogan Peace Garden State originates from the International Peace Garden, and was added to vehicle registration plates of North Dakota in 1956, In the next year, the North Dakota Legislative Assembly made the slogan an official state nickname.
Practical Info
Every day8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Suggested Duration3-5 hours
Best TimeMid-July to mid-August is the absolute peak window when the massive formal sunken gardens straddling the international US-Canada border erupt into full bloom. Touring between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM provides brilliant sunlight ideal for photographing the historic stone Peace Chapel walls and the giant floral clock installation.
Getting ThereCommanding the literal US-Canada border line at the northern terminus of ND Highway 3 north of Dunseith. Drive straight north from Dunseith via ND-3 N; right before reaching the US Border Inspection Station, turn cleanly into the dedicated garden entrance lane. Extensive free public lots are open on site (valid passport required).
Travel Tips
- The garden straddles the US-Canada border; while no customs stop blocks entry, exiting forces you through immigration points, making valid passports mandatory for all.
- The America the Beautiful Interagency Pass is completely invalid here; day-use access fees apply. RVs are permitted but must stick to designated single-lane turnouts.
Photo Tips
Photo Rules
- The entire inner zone falls under federal jurisdiction; recreational drones are fully banned, and foraging or defacing boundary monuments is a federal offense.
Reviews
Positive
- A geographical marvel spanning the US-Canada border! The floral landscapes are stunning, and walking freely between the peace towers is deeply serene.
- The conservatory houses an incredible collection of cacti; the park provides clear bilingual signs and highly thoughtful wheelchair-accessible ramps.
- Admission is charged per vehicle, offering great group value; the moving 9/11 memorial site perfectly blends cultural depth with natural value.
- The management is orderly and the grounds are sprawling; even during busy summer weekends, it never feels crowded, maintaining its pristine tranquility.
Heads up
- Because it sits directly on the border line, you are legally required to go through customs when exiting the park, which can involve tedious inspections.
- The iconic concrete peace towers show significant weathering and cracking from harsh winter blizzards, looking a bit neglected without recent upkeep.
- Internal dining choices are highly limited; the single small cafe sells basic sandwiches at inflated prices, feeling like a bit of a tourist trap.
- If you visit in early spring or late autumn, the outdoor gardens are completely bare due to the cold northern climate, offering no floral value.