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Top 24 Hotels Near Purpur Arena
1122 7th Ave S Grand Forks, ND 58201
AmericInn by Wyndham Grand Forks
From the moment you leave the lobby of AmericInn by Wyndham Grand Forks, Purpur Arena is a quick drive to avoid traffic, simplifying your visit.
With refined reception design, Wyndham Grand assures guests of a premium experience while staff presence adds warmth to the transition. Suites showcase floor-to-ceiling windows, lounge seating, and plush bedding, offering both scenic perspective and restorative comfort daily. Boardrooms showcase ergonomic tables, screens, and wired Wi-Fi, allowing efficient teamwork for mid-size business gatherings.
With spa programs, fitness zones, breakfast areas, Wi-Fi, business lounges, and valet parking, guests encounter balance and premium convenience daily.
Grand Forks Lodge and Suites
Guests at Grand Forks Lodge and Suites can appreciate being a straightforward drive from Purpur Arena, a perk that allows for a more organic and flexible schedule.
Grand Forks Lodge and Suites may provide arrivals with cozy reception spaces, artisanal décor, and warm staff greetings to create a boutique atmosphere. Rooms may showcase eclectic design, curated minibars, and plush bedding that reflect boutique hospitality and comfort. Facilities may highlight intimate cocktail bars, curated dining venues, and small libraries for a stylish boutique guest experience.
A stay may highlight Wi-Fi, laundry service, family-friendly dining, and yoga mats, reinforcing consistency across boutique guest routines.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Grand Forks
The benefit of a quick drive to Purpur Arena turns La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Grand Forks into a great starting point before the rest of the stay unfolds.
At check-in, Wyndham Grand offers a handcrafted cocktail as part of its arrival ritual, anchoring the brand’s signature hospitality experience. All guest rooms come with Keurig coffee setups, bottled water, and compact refrigerators, helping guests refresh routines at any moment. Spa treatment rooms include aromatherapy, customizable massages, and soft lighting, facilitating deep relaxation and guest recharging.
From laundry services, family-friendly pools, shuttle options, Wi-Fi, and meeting venues, travelers sustain practical routines across each stay.
Staybridge Suites Grand Forks by IHG
For a trip to Grand Forks, Staybridge Suites Grand Forks by IHG's location a quick drive from Purpur Arena is an essential component of the guest journey.
Staybridge Suites seats lounge chairs, high-tops, and benches together so solo travelers and pairs quickly find a spot with power. All suites group cookware, plates, and utensils with a coffeemaker and toaster, making breakfasts and warm snacks straightforward daily. Courtyards arrange durable seating, planters, and shade, offering an easy outdoor option near lobby paths for short breaks or calls.
Breakfast items, coffee service, and seating combine with Wi-Fi and a business corner, keeping starts calm while plans finalize nearby.
My Place Hotel - Grand Forks ND
The value of being a straightforward drive from Purpur Arena makes My Place Hotel - Grand Forks ND a practical base of operations before the experience.
A fresh pot of coffee is always ready in the My Place lobby, offering a small but appreciated comfort for arriving travelers. Every suite-style room contains a kitchen with a microwave, toaster, and sink, giving guests the freedom to manage their own meals. The lobby business center includes a computer and printer, offering a simple and convenient solution for printing documents or boarding passes.
For a complete extended stay, in-room kitchens, a business center, guest laundry, and a pet-friendly policy cover all the essentials.
Hilton Garden Inn Grand Forks - UND
Because Hilton Garden Inn Grand Forks - UND is a quick drive from Purpur Arena, guests can opt to begin their day with a quick and simple commute.
Sofa groupings inside Hilton Garden Inn receptions create intuitive rest points, allowing families to regroup calmly on arrival. Every guest room includes blackout drapes, plush linens, and digital thermostats, creating personalized environments that foster deep rest. Pavilion Pantry markets with frozen meals, bottled drinks, and snacks give guests convenient access to essentials any time of day.
Valet parking, complimentary internet, outdoor pools, hot breakfast, and event rooms support convenience that balances guest needs daily.
East Grand Inn
The hotel's spot a straightforward drive from Purpur Arena gives East Grand Inn guests a simple way to manage their daily schedule.
East Grand Inn typically features practical front-desk service, self-serve beverages, and parking options aimed at easy, reliable arrivals. Guest rooms often feature plush bedding, climate control, and streaming access, allowing guests to rest while enjoying entertainment. Shared spaces may include modest lobbies, vending corners, and breakfast rooms that provide practical places for guests to gather daily.
Accommodations may feature Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending machines, and guest laundries, reinforcing consistent routines across stays.
Baymont by Wyndham Grand Forks
Guests at Baymont by Wyndham Grand Forks can count on the quick drive to Purpur Arena as a key amenity that defines the stay.
Café-height tables at Baymont provide a perch for quick forms and mobile boarding passes while room details settle at reception. Guest rooms route blackout shades and solid doors to limit corridor light and sound, supporting focused sleep across varied schedules. Corridors mark exits, ice machines, and elevator banks at intervals, guiding movement through unfamiliar floors without confusion.
With a business center, scanners, and printers plus Wi-Fi and coffee, quick packets and confirmations complete before heading out.
Sleep Inn & Suites Grand Forks Near Alerus Center
The journey from Sleep Inn & Suites Grand Forks Near Alerus Center to Purpur Arena is a simple drive, an asset that adds flexibility to any driving itinerary.
Upon entry, Sleep Inn's reception backdrop and natural tones set a quieter mood, helping travelers decompress after long journeys. Each suite supplies a sofa seating area, a microwave, mini-fridge and a clear desk surface for planning or casual meetings. Breakfast areas pair hot stations, grab-and-go options and seating with outlets, making early departures and remote work easier before checkout.
With free Wi-Fi, grab-and-go breakfast, a small marketplace, fitness equipment, meeting rooms and EV charging at some sites, mornings flow.
Canad Inns Destination Center Grand Forks
In Grand Forks, Canad Inns Destination Center Grand Forks offers an well-connected location to Purpur Arena, letting guests move with a sense of freedom and ease.
At Canad Inns Destination Center Grand Forks, guests are often welcomed with curated interiors, boutique-style check-in, and complimentary refreshments for comfort. Guest rooms typically include stylish interiors, premium linens, and artisanal décor for a polished boutique-style impression. Amenities typically include eclectic lounges, artisanal coffee shops, and farm-to-table dining that reinforce boutique individuality.
Accommodations often feature complimentary Wi-Fi, self-serve markets, laundry access, and pet allowances, balancing routines with ease.
Rodeway Inn Columbia Mall Loop
The brief drive from Rodeway Inn Columbia Mall Loop to Purpur Arena in Grand Forks guarantees guests have a pleasant option for their daily travel.
Entryways at Rodeway Inn properties frequently include vending walls and functional lobby seating for early guest comfort. Each guest room features a bath with counter space, mirror lighting, and a shower or tub to accommodate both speed and comfort. Meeting spaces may be rentable for reunions or team huddles, supplying modest, flexible venues for localized group activity.
Basic amenities include snack vending, shared laundry areas, air-conditioned rooms, daily housekeeping, and in-room entertainment options.
Quality Inn
The value of being an easy drive from Purpur Arena makes Quality Inn a practical base of operations before the experience.
Quality Inn arrival cues—lighting, signage, staff presence, and seating—combine to create a tidy, dependable first impression on arrival. Guest rooms offer vanity lighting, quality towels, and a hair dryer so morning prep stays efficient and packing lists remain compact. Pre-function areas adjacent to meeting suites supply staging space, water, and coffee so sessions start punctually and transitions stay organized.
On-site laundry and dry-clean pickup at many addresses reduce packing friction so longer stays and team travel remain manageable and predictable.
Fairfield Inn & Suites East Grand Forks
For a trip to Grand Forks, Fairfield Inn & Suites East Grand Forks's location a quick drive from Purpur Arena is an essential piece of its appeal.
Fairfield Inn arranges bar-style counters and casual seating adjacent to reception to give an easy first unwind spot after travel. Each guest room offers microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffee makers, giving families and individuals convenient tools for daily routines. Breakfast halls provide eggs, fruit, and yogurt alongside coffee, supporting dependable clarity and predictable routines every morning.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, a market pantry, and indoor pool access work together to reduce stress and simplify daily guest experiences.
AmeriVu Inn and Suites Grand Forks
This accessible commute to Purpur Arena permits AmeriVu Inn and Suites Grand Forks to be a convenient anchor before the on-site experience starts.
Arrivals at AmeriVu Inn and Suites Grand Forks may present a simple reception, complimentary parking, and vending access that emphasize day-to-day practicality. Accommodations may include tasteful interiors, hardwood floors, and rainfall showers, reinforcing comfort in a practical guest setting. Facilities often highlight guest laundries, compact business nooks, and vending areas that support simple routines while traveling.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, vending access, compact breakfast corners, and parking, sustaining reliable convenience for budget travelers.
Days Inn by Wyndham Grand Forks Columbia Mall
From the moment you leave the lobby of Days Inn by Wyndham Grand Forks Columbia Mall, Purpur Arena is a quick drive with no stress, simplifying your visit.
Days Inn commonly places a common-area coffee/tea point by seating, enabling brief resets while keys and directions finalize at the desk. All guest rooms route desk-level power beside seating, keeping laptops and phones charging while maps load and notes finalize on time. Fitness centers pair treadmills and bikes with free weights and towels, making daily movement straightforward without leaving the property.
With a small market, coffee, and Wi-Fi plus a computer kiosk, late arrivals still manage quick bites and simple uploads in one pass.
StayInn - Grand Forks
This easy commute to Purpur Arena permits StayInn - Grand Forks to be a convenient anchor before the on-site experience starts.
StayInn - Grand Forks often highlights efficient check-in, readily available parking, and a compact lobby to keep arrival steps clear and simple. Rooms may provide compact seating, curated décor, and in-room coffee, helping travelers maintain comfort and routine while away. Public areas may include breakfast spaces, coin-operated laundries, and seating corners that emphasize straightforward convenience.
A visit often presents Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, vending access, and laundry rooms, reinforcing daily convenience for budget travelers.
Cmon Inn Hotel & Suites
For guests in Grand Forks, Cmon Inn Hotel & Suites is a quick drive from Purpur Arena, a location that makes for a graceful start to any day.
At Cmon Inn Hotel & Suites, arrivals may include a modest front desk, quick parking access, and self-serve coffee for a low-friction check-in. Each guest room often highlights plush bedding, blackout curtains, and climate control, promoting restful and consistent overnight stays. Shared spaces typically feature modest lobbies, vending machines, and laundry rooms that help guests maintain routines on the road.
Guests may enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, parking, and guest laundries, supporting straightforward routines during stays.
Econo Lodge Grand Forks near University
From Econo Lodge Grand Forks near University, the brief drive to Purpur Arena is a core benefit for a more grounded visit before the day begins.
Econo often pairs reception with a small marketplace or vending area so travelers can pick essentials or snacks right after arrival. All suites feature a sofa bed, a sizeable desk, a refrigerator and a coffee maker to help groups coordinate work and downtime smoothly. Indoor pools pair lap lanes, shallow family areas and adjacent showers, allowing brief swims that refresh without disrupting morning plans.
From complimentary Wi-Fi and hot breakfast to pool access, meeting rooms, EV charging where available and laundry, short stays stay practical.
Best Western Harvest Inn & Suites
Within Grand Forks, Best Western Harvest Inn & Suites is a short drive from Purpur Arena, a detail that allows the hotel to serve as a convenient hub.
Best Western positions security calmly near reception, reinforcing safety while traffic cycles through evening check-in and early departures. All guest rooms may offer ADA-aligned features where booked—grab bars, visual alerts, or roll-in layouts—supporting confident accessibility. Guest laundries place detergent vending beside machines, ensuring cycles start quickly so gear is ready for the next segment of travel.
From pools or hot tubs where available, fitness studios, Wi-Fi, and sauna, guests balance recovery and routine without leaving the property.
Ramada by Wyndham Grand Forks
Within Grand Forks, Ramada by Wyndham Grand Forks is a simple drive from Purpur Arena, which provides a simple way to get around.
Wyndham Grand situates concierge and luggage support prominently in the lobby, ensuring arrivals feel guided and comfortably oriented. Guest rooms provide HDTVs, multimedia hubs, and strong internet, ensuring entertainment and connectivity flow seamlessly through the stay. Conference venues offer high-speed internet, projectors, and flexible layouts that empower efficient, stress-free event design and delivery.
Between complimentary Wi-Fi, indoor pools, pet accommodations, spa access, breakfast venues, and valet, guests balance ease with indulgence smoothly.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Grand Forks
Purpur Arena is a simple drive from SpringHill Suites by Marriott Grand Forks, a feature that allows for a smooth and integrated daily plan.
Every arrival at SpringHill Suites is shaped by complimentary Wi-Fi and mobile check-in tools, ensuring dependable starts without delays. Suites are designed with west elm furnishings, bright windows, and open layouts, shaping modern retreats that blend style with functional comfort. The fitness center offers treadmills, rowing machines, and free weights, letting travelers maintain active lifestyles while away from home.
Guests find fitness center access, complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, and flexible meeting rooms, making both work and leisure routines smooth.
Hampton Inn & Suites Grand Forks
When staying in Grand Forks, the short drive from Hampton Inn & Suites Grand Forks to Purpur Arena is a straightforward drive, allowing guests to arrive calm and prepared.
Sofa clusters adjacent to reception at Hampton Inn provide regrouping areas, letting families pause comfortably before moving forward. Suites contain microwaves, Keurig machines, and refrigerators, allowing guests convenient access to snacks, drinks, and light meals. Lobby lounges with 24/7 coffee, sofa clusters, and bright lighting create welcoming areas where guests can relax or socialize casually.
On-site markets, complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast bags, fitness studios, and laundry facilities provide dependable routines for travelers.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Grand Forks, ND
At Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Grand Forks, ND, being a quick drive from Purpur Arena is a key element that connects the hotel to the area's highlights.
With clustered seating banks and ample outlets close to the desk, Radisson makes it easy to charge devices, unpack, and finalize plans. Standard guest rooms balance compact layouts with smart storage, a small fridge, and a stable desk so luggage and devices stay organized. Fitness centers include cardio machines, free weights, and flexible stretching zones, supporting workouts that fit into tight travel schedules.
With meetings, business services, breakfasts, a gym, parking, and market, trip logistics stay quick and predictable.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Grand Forks by IHG
Guests at Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Grand Forks by IHG can depend on the quick drive to Purpur Arena to set a relaxed and convenient tone for their stay.
Complimentary breakfast stations at Holiday Inn Express are located near lobbies, offering predictability that starts each day clearly. All guest rooms contain flat-screen TVs, sofa seating, and charging hubs, creating versatile spaces for relaxation and utility. Pools with indoor facilities, loungers, and towel racks offer reliable spaces for relaxation and recreation for varied traveler needs.
Connectivity with Wi-Fi, breakfast buffets, and pools pairs with laundry and business centers, keeping travel routines consistent.
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Purpur Arena Local Area Guide
Welcome to Grand Forks, North Dakota, and a guide to your visit around the iconic Purpur Arena. This guide is designed for visiting fans, players, and families looking to navigate the game day experience and explore the immediate surroundings. We’ll cover everything from parking and arrival to finding the best local spots for a meal or a quick bite, ensuring your time in Grand Forks is both enjoyable and efficient. Get ready to dive into the vibrant atmosphere of UND hockey and the welcoming spirit of this North Dakota city.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Purpur Arena (Grand Forks, ND)
Purpur Arena is strategically located on the southern edge of the University of North Dakota campus, placing it within a hub of academic and athletic activity. The arena is easily accessible via major thoroughfares like 7th Avenue South and Gateway Drive, key arteries for navigating Grand Forks. Parking is primarily concentrated around the arena itself, with several lots designated for event attendees. For those arriving by air, Grand Forks International Airport (GFK) is a relatively short drive, typically 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Public transportation options in Grand Forks are limited, making personal vehicles or rideshares the most common methods of transport for visitors. Planning your arrival is crucial, especially on game days, as traffic can build up along 7th Avenue South and University Avenue in the hours leading up to puck drop. Arriving at least 45-60 minutes prior to game time is recommended to account for parking and entry procedures, allowing you to soak in the pre-game atmosphere.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Purpur Arena
Lodging options are clustered predominantly north of the arena, closer to the main University Avenue corridor and the downtown area, offering a range of choices from budget-friendly motels to more established hotel chains. While many hotels are a short drive away, there are no direct accommodations immediately adjacent to Purpur Arena, necessitating a brief journey. Teams and families often opt for hotels that offer easy access to the arena and potentially some additional amenities for downtime between games or practices. Popular booking strategies include securing reservations well in advance, especially during peak hockey season or when the university hosts major events, as demand can surge rapidly. Utilizing map filters to identify hotels along 7th Avenue South or those with straightforward routes to the arena can help streamline your search. Consider proximity to dining and entertainment as well, to enhance your overall trip experience beyond the games.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Grand Forks International Airport (GFK) · 15-minute drive.
- Arrive 45–60 minutes early to navigate parking and entry smoothly.
- Explore the UND campus and nearby dining options for pre- or post-game.**
- Check university event schedules for potential campus-wide activity conflicts.
- The UND campus offers several open spaces for team regrouping.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
As your team arrives, focus on efficient parking and gear management. Designated parking areas are available, so have your driver or team coordinator map out the best drop-off point for quick access to the arena entrances. Inside, players and coaches should head directly to the locker room facilities to begin their preparations. Familiarize yourselves with the arena's layout and the location of the player benches and warm-up areas to make the most of your time on the ice. Allow ample time for any pre-game meetings or strategy sessions in the locker room before heading out for warm-ups, ensuring a calm and organized start to the competition.
Mid-Day Regroup
For families and fans, game days often involve periods of waiting between events or extended stays. Utilize the concourse areas for convenient access to concessions and restrooms, keeping an eye on game schedules to plan your next move. If your group needs a break, consider finding a comfortable spot in the arena's common areas or perhaps a nearby campus green space if weather permits. For players, this might be a time to hydrate, refuel with approved snacks, and mentally prepare for the next shift or game. Team coordinators can use this window for brief strategy reviews or to organize post-game logistics, ensuring everyone stays informed and ready.
Wrap-Up & Departure
Following the final horn or game conclusion, manage your exit with a clear plan. For players, a structured departure from the locker rooms, ensuring all equipment is accounted for, is key. Families and fans should be aware that parking lot traffic can be congested immediately after the event. Consider a brief cool-down period inside the arena or a walk to a nearby campus location to let the heaviest traffic subside before heading to your vehicle. Rideshare pick-up zones will likely be busy; have a designated meeting spot and allow for potential delays. Reflect on the day's events and make plans for post-game meals or travel home.
Things to Do Near Purpur Arena
Walkable
University of North Dakota Campus
Explore the heart of the University of North Dakota campus, just steps from Purpur Arena. Wander through the historic core, admire the architecture of buildings like Twamley Hall and Gamble Hall, and discover iconic landmarks. The campus offers vast green spaces perfect for a pre-game stroll or post-game relaxation, providing a scenic backdrop to your visit. Students, faculty, and visitors alike find the campus grounds an inviting place to spend time, offering a peaceful respite amidst the energy of sporting events. Check the university’s events calendar for potential public lectures, art exhibits, or performances that might coincide with your trip.
University Ave · On siteRalph Engelstad Arena (Adjacent)
While Purpur Arena hosts many events, its close neighbor, the Ralph Engelstad Arena, is a landmark of collegiate hockey. Often referred to as "The Ralph," it's renowned for its impressive facilities and passionate fan base. Even if your event isn't held here, a brief exterior view offers a sense of the immense hockey culture in Grand Forks. You can appreciate the sheer scale of the complex and the dedicated sports environment it fosters. During certain event overlaps, you might experience the vibrant atmosphere of multiple sporting events occurring simultaneously.
University Ave · On site5–15 Minutes Away
Downtown Grand Forks
Experience the revitalized heart of Grand Forks with a short trip to the downtown area. Here you’ll find a collection of boutiques, art galleries, historic theaters, and a diverse culinary scene. Stroll along DeMers Avenue, the main street, and discover local shops offering unique crafts and apparel. The atmosphere is lively, especially on weekends, with many establishments providing live music and community events. It’s a perfect place to unwind after a game, enjoy a leisurely meal, or find a unique souvenir.
Downtown Grand Forks · 1.5 miGaucho Brazilian Steakhouse
For a truly distinctive dining experience, Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse offers an upscale, interactive meal. Enjoy a rodizio-style service where skilled carvers bring a variety of perfectly grilled meats directly to your table, complemented by an extensive gourmet salad bar. The ambiance is sophisticated yet lively, making it ideal for celebrating a team victory or enjoying a special occasion. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak dining hours or event weekends, to ensure you can secure a table. This is a great spot for groups looking to indulge in a memorable feast.
3201 32nd Ave S · 2.0 miBeyond the Event: Beyond the immediate campus and downtown core, Grand Forks offers additional attractions like the Splatter Park for outdoor activities or the North Dakota Museum of Art for cultural enrichment. Consider the seasonal offerings, from winter ice fishing opportunities to summer farmer's markets, to round out your visit with local flavor.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Purpur Arena
Inside & Adjacent
Champions Hall (Inside Purpur Arena)
Conveniently located within the Purpur Arena concourse, Champions Hall offers classic arena fare. Grab a burger, hot dog, or some loaded fries to fuel your game day experience without missing any of the action. This is the most accessible option for quick snacks and meals during an event. They also typically offer a selection of beverages to keep you refreshed throughout the game. It’s the go-to spot for essential stadium food, perfect for families and fans seeking convenience.
Arena concourse · On siteUND Campus Eateries (Walkable)
Several dining options are available directly on the University of North Dakota campus, a short walk from Purpur Arena. These include cafeterias, coffee shops, and grab-and-go spots within student centers and academic buildings, offering casual and affordable choices. While hours can vary, especially during weekends or holidays, they provide convenient options for quick meals, coffee, or snacks. Check the UND student life website for specific locations and operating hours during your visit.
University Campus · 0.2 miNearby Gathering Spots
Wild Hog Sports Bar & Grill
Wild Hog Sports Bar & Grill is a popular local haunt known for its lively atmosphere and extensive menu of pub favorites. From burgers and sandwiches to wings and appetizers, it’s an ideal spot for casual dining and catching up with friends or teammates. They often feature daily specials and a good selection of beers, making it a great place to gather before or after an event. The sports bar setting ensures you won't miss any other games while you're there.
1620 32nd Ave S · 1.8 miLittle Brazil Steakhouse
Offering a taste of authentic Brazilian cuisine, Little Brazil Steakhouse provides a delightful dining experience. Known for its rodizio-style service and fresh ingredients, it's a fantastic option for groups looking for a hearty and flavorful meal. Beyond the grilled meats, they offer a variety of traditional Brazilian side dishes and desserts. The restaurant provides a vibrant and welcoming environment, perfect for celebrating a successful game or enjoying a relaxed evening out.
3600 32nd Ave S · 2.2 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Erb's Restaurant
Erb's Restaurant offers a classic American dining experience with a focus on comfort food and friendly service. This local favorite is known for its generous portions and consistent quality, making it a reliable choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The menu features a wide array of dishes, from hearty breakfast options to satisfying entrees, catering to diverse tastes. It’s a welcoming spot that captures the essence of local dining in Grand Forks.
1012 N 42nd St · 3.0 miCertified Burger & Sport
Certified Burger & Sport is a premier destination for burger enthusiasts and sports fans alike. They pride themselves on crafting gourmet burgers using high-quality ingredients, paired with an impressive selection of craft beers and spirits. The energetic atmosphere, complete with numerous screens showcasing live sports, makes it an excellent spot to watch a game or simply enjoy a lively meal. It’s a perfect blend of fantastic food and a great sports bar vibe, ideal for groups looking for a fun night out.
3180 32nd Ave S · 2.0 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Game days see significant traffic on 7th Ave S and University Ave; plan accordingly.
- Check UND's academic calendar for potential conflicts with large campus events.
- Winter temperatures require warm gear for anyone spending time outdoors.
- Rideshare services are available but may experience longer wait times during peak hours.
- Local restaurants can be busy; making reservations is advised for weekend evenings.
Weather & Seasons at Purpur Arena
- Winter: Winter in Grand Forks means cold, often frigid temperatures, with average highs hovering around 15-20°F and lows dropping well below zero. Visitors should pack heavy coats, insulated pants, hats, gloves, and warm boots. Outdoor activities are limited, and travel can be affected by snow. Arena events offer a welcome escape from the cold, but getting to and from the venue requires careful preparation for the elements.
- Spring & early summer: Spring brings a transition to more moderate weather, with temperatures gradually warming from the 30s into the 60s. Early summer continues this trend, with pleasant days often in the 70s. This is an excellent time for outdoor exploration around the UND campus or in local parks. Light jackets are useful for cooler evenings, but most days are comfortable for walking and attending events without heavy winter gear.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer in Grand Forks typically features warm to hot temperatures, with average highs in the upper 70s and low 80s. Humidity can sometimes make it feel warmer. Casual, breathable clothing is recommended. While it's generally pleasant, occasional thunderstorms can occur. This period is great for enjoying all the outdoor and indoor activities the city has to offer, though it's less common for major sporting events to dominate the schedule.
- Fall season: Fall offers cool and crisp air, with temperatures ranging from the 50s in early fall to the 30s by late October and November. The changing foliage provides scenic beauty, making it a pleasant time for outdoor activities before the deep freeze of winter. Layers are key for dressing, as mornings can be chilly and afternoons mild. This season aligns perfectly with the start of the hockey season, offering an ideal atmosphere for game attendance.
- Rain & snow: Precipitation occurs throughout the year, with snow being a significant factor from late fall through early spring. Expect potential snow accumulation that can impact travel and require snow tires or careful driving. Summer months can see thunderstorms, sometimes bringing heavy rain. Always check local weather forecasts before traveling, especially during winter months, to prepare for any weather-related disruptions to your plans.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: UND Fighting Hawks hockey
- Neighborhood: University District
- Nearest airport: Grand Forks International (GFK)
- Parking: On-site lots, permit/paid parking often required for events
- Walkable district: University of North Dakota campus
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Hugo's (nearby on University Ave)
- Pharmacy: CVS or Walgreens (short drive downtown)
- Urgent care: Altru Urgent Care (short drive downtown)
- Downtime: On-campus green spaces or local cafes
- Pro tip: Book hotels and rental cars well in advance for major hockey weekends.

