Nestled in the heart of North Dakota, Valley City isn’t just a place on the map; it’s a vibrant community filled with history, outdoor beauty, and the warmest people you’ll ever meet. Whether you're planning your next trip, seeking a new start, or looking to settle down in a quiet and safe community, Valley City has something to offer for everyone. Here’s a closer look at what makes Valley City a place to visit, live, and love.
Rich History & Close-Knit Community
From the iconic Hi-Line Bridge to the Sheyenne River Valley Scenic Byway, Valley City is a blend of historic charm and forward-thinking development. You’ll find friendly faces around every corner, from local shop owners who know your name to neighbors who are quick to lend a hand. Here, people come together not just as a community but as a family, united by pride and passion for the place they call home.
“When we moved here in 2016, it was the sense of belonging from a community standpoint. We had opportunities to get involved and participate.”
- Josh Johnson, Superintendent of Valley City Public Schools
Valley City Recreation
The city is known for its stunning outdoor spaces and numerous recreational opportunities. Parks like Chautauqua and City Park are bustling with activity, especially during the summer, with events, concerts, and family-friendly festivals. But the fun doesn’t stop with the warm weather; the community enjoys these parks year-round, with winter activities like cross-country skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing.
For those looking to live a more active lifestyle, Valley City Parks and Recreation offers leagues and programs for people of all ages. From softball and sand volleyball to basketball and swimming, there’s something for everyone. The Gaukler Family Wellness Center, a hub for wellness and fitness, offers fitness classes and facilities that keep the community moving. You can take a yoga class, play a pickup game, or work with a trainer to reach your fitness goals—all while getting to know your neighbors.
Enjoy hunting and fishing? Valley City is located in the heart of prime fishing and excellent hunting. For both fishing and ice fishing, Lake Ashtabula - located 12 miles north of Valley City - and the Sheyenne River are great places to catch walleye, northern pike, and small-mouth bass. Situated in the middle of the Central Flyway and on the east edge of the Prairie Pothole Region, North Dakota stands out as a prime destination for hunting migratory birds, waterfowl, pheasants, deer, and predators. Several public lands near Valley City, such as Waterfowl Production Areas and PLOTS lands, feature pockets of water and dry fields for hunting
Events That Bring People Together
Valley City is home to an incredible lineup of events that showcase local talent, celebrate traditions, and create lifelong memories. The annual Summer Nights on Central series fills downtown with live music, food trucks, and family activities. The Parktober Festival in Chautauqua Park welcomes autumn with pumpkin patches, games, and a fun run for all ages. In the Spring, you can find the North Dakota Winter Show, a week-long agriculture show that is the running show in all of North Dakota! See rodeos, concerts, tractor and truck pulls, shows, and more! You can find more things to do on the Valley City Calendar.
These events provide more than just entertainment—they’re opportunities to connect with the community, support local businesses, and experience the traditions that make Valley City unique.
Get Involved: Valley City’s Clubs and Volunteer Opportunities
Valley City offers many ways to connect and give back! Clubs like the Kiwanis, Optimist, and Lions Clubs organize projects that enrich the community. The Bridges Arts Council supports local arts, and government boards welcome residents to help shape the city’s future.
Animal lovers can volunteer with Sheyenne Valley Friends of Animals, and music enthusiasts can join community choirs and bands. Car fans will enjoy the Bridge City Cruisers, who host classic car shows and events.
Whatever your passion, Valley City has a welcoming community for you to make a difference and meet new friends.
A Place to Put Down Roots
Valley City is more than a great place to visit; it’s a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. With excellent schools, a low crime rate, and a close-knit community, you’ll feel safe and welcome here. The real estate market offers a range of options, from historic homes with character to newly built houses designed with modern families in mind.
Employment opportunities are growing, too. Valley City is home to various industries, including manufacturing, education, and healthcare. The city's focus on economic development has brought new businesses, jobs, and growth opportunities, creating a strong local economy and a supportive environment for entrepreneurs.
Come Find Your Good Life
Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway, looking for a close-knit community to raise a family, or seeking a place to launch your next business venture, Valley City welcomes you with open arms. Discover the joy of small-town life with the amenities and opportunities of a city. Here in Valley City, you’re more than just a resident or a visitor—you’re family.
So why not visit, explore, and see if Valley City feels like home? Your good life might just be waiting here.