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Hjemkomst Center

4.7
·446 reviews·Moorhead, United States

Discover a replica Viking ship and medieval church, celebrating Norwegian heritage and inspiring dreams.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Tuesdays, 5–8 PM

Free admission!

CrowdMedium
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Hjemkomst Center - Image 1

Hjemkomst Center

Best Time

Tuesdays, 5–8 PM

Free admission!

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover a replica Viking ship and medieval church, celebrating Norwegian heritage and inspiring dreams.

4.7
(446 reviews)

"The hand-carved basilica next door is mind blowing and included in the general admission."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Tuesday Evenings

Enjoy free admission every Tuesday from 5-8 PM. A great way to experience the center!

🚢 Don't Miss the Ship Tour

Take a guided tour of the Viking ship for fascinating stories and details.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.7 · 446 reviews

Type

Museum

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Hjemkomst Viking Ship

The Hjemkomst Viking Ship

Main Hall

Marvel at the full-scale replica of a Viking ship that sailed across the Atlantic.

Hopperstad Stave Church

Hopperstad Stave Church

Exterior

Step inside a stunning replica of a medieval Norwegian wooden church.

Njáls Saga Tapestry

Njáls Saga Tapestry

Exhibit Hall

Explore this intricate tapestry depicting a famous Icelandic saga.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by visiting on Tuesdays from 5-8 PM for free admission. Weekends and festival times can get busy, so plan accordingly to fully appreciate the exhibits.

Embrace the Story

The Hjemkomst Center's magic lies in its inspiring stories of determination. Learn about Bob Asp's dream of building and sailing the Viking ship to Norway and the creation of the Stave Church.

Best Times

When
Tuesdays, 5–8 PM
Why
Free admission!
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more reflection
Crowd
Low
When
During festivals
Why
Vibrant cultural immersion
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

‼️ Did you know the Hjemkomst Center is FREE on Tuesdays from 5-8pm? Head to this unique spot in Moorhead to learn about the Viking Ship that was built here and sailed across the ocean, plus tour a replica of a Stave Church, and see current exhibits by the Historical & Cultural Society of Clay County. Regular Admission applies other days/times: Adults (Ages 18-61): $12 Seniors (Ages 62+): $11 ...
fargomomco
52 likes • 1.8K views

🎯 Free Tuesday Evenings

Enjoy free admission every Tuesday from 5-8 PM. A great way to experience the center! Instagram+1

🚢 Don't Miss the Ship Tour

Take a guided tour of the Viking ship for fascinating stories and details. Reddit

Well, that was fun! Checking out the new natural playground in Moorhead near the Hjemkomst Center. It's built for kids age 7-14, and my kids rated it the best zipline swing in town! Bring your kids' bikes; there's a great bike track, too. 📍The Rotary Natural Play Hill & Bike Park 600 1st Ave N, Moorhead, MN #moorhead #naturalplayground #naturalplay #greatparks #summer #minnesota #fargomoorhea...
sofargo_sogood
48 likes • 824 views
Visiting the Hjemkomst Center in North Dakota ❤️ Honestly such an incredible and memorable experience 🥰 They had a replica of a Viking ship and a Stave church and the best gift shop 😍 I honestly don’t know how I left without getting a cookbook 😛 #vlog #travelvlog #learning #learn #northdakota #giftshop #food #foodie #foodlover #foodstagram #foodiesofinstagram #instafood
jennifer_sukaylo
6 likes • 53 views

⛪ Stave Church Majesty

The replica Stave Church is breathtaking; experience its grandeur firsthand. Instagram+1

🛍️ Unique Gift Shop Finds

Discover Nordic-inspired treasures and cookbooks in the gift shop. Instagram

The Hjemkomst Center in Moorhead is worth a visit for its epic Viking ship and the fun feeling of stepping straight into Minnesota’s Nordic past. #moorhead #moorheadmn #hjemkomstcenter #hjemkomst #travel
santiagoes_places
4 likes • 63 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Tuesday Evenings

Enjoy free admission every Tuesday from 5-8 PM. A great way to experience the center! Instagram+1

🚢 Don't Miss the Ship Tour

Take a guided tour of the Viking ship for fascinating stories and details. Reddit

⛪ Stave Church Majesty

The replica Stave Church is breathtaking; experience its grandeur firsthand. Instagram+1

🛍️ Unique Gift Shop Finds

Discover Nordic-inspired treasures and cookbooks in the gift shop. Instagram

🚗 Parking Pointers

Parking can be tricky during events; allow extra time or use shuttles. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(446 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Hjemkomst Center for its inspiring stories of determination, particularly Bob Asp's dream of building and sailing the Viking ship. The replica Stave Church is frequently highlighted as awe-inspiring, and the staff are noted for their friendliness. While the center is relatively small, its unique exhibits offer a memorable cultural experience.

"Truly extraordinary experience learning about Bob Asp's story. It is a cool little county museum that showcases the area's Norwegian heritage with the handmade boat on display that sailed in the early 80s across the Atlantic. The hand carved basilica next door is mind blowing and included in the general admission. Only a 10 minute walk from downtown Fargo."

Suqdeep Patani

"We arrived at 4pm, they close at 5, and the staff still treated us very friendly. The exhibits were absolutely astounding.
Since we'd arrived late we wished we had more time to soak up all the info posted around the ship. The stave church was astounding, and the guide was very good and courteous. It's one thing to see a picture of the stave church it's entirely another to experience its majesty.
If you're curious I highly recommend you go, it's a very cool visit."

Wúlf Johnson

"The Hjemkomst Center is a small but very nice museum with a tribute to the gentleman who built the replica of the Viking ship and whose family carried out his dream to sail the ship to Norway. We spent about 30 minutes in the museum, which includes a short film about the family and sailors of the ship. We joined in on a wonderful short tour of the wooden stave church behind the museum as well. We didn't visit the other museum gallery. The museum has a gift shop and separate parking. A side lot is large enough to handle small rvs or trailers."

Dawn J

What People Like

Inspiring ship story
Majestic Stave Church
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Parking during events
Can be small

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Hjemkomst Center is located in Moorhead, Minnesota, just across the river from Fargo. It's easily accessible by car and is a short walk from downtown Fargo. Instagram If you're attending a special event, parking might be challenging, and shuttle services may be available. Reddit

Yes, there is a parking lot available, which is noted as being large enough for RVs and trailers. However, during popular events like the Scandinavian Festival, parking can become congested, and you might need to park further away and take a shuttle. Reddit

Absolutely! The Hjemkomst Center is only about a 10-minute walk from downtown Fargo, making it a convenient option if you're staying nearby. Reddit

While hours can vary, the center is generally open during the day. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially if you plan to visit on a specific day. Reddit

The center aims to be accessible. The main exhibits are generally on one level, and staff are usually accommodating. It's advisable to contact them directly if you have specific accessibility concerns.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission fees apply, but the Hjemkomst Center offers free admission on Tuesdays from 5-8 PM, which is a popular time for locals. Instagram+1 Check their website for current pricing for adults and any potential discounts. Reddit

For regular visits, booking in advance is usually not necessary. However, for special events or performances, like the 'Goosebumps: The Musical,' advance ticket purchase is highly recommended. Instagram

Yes, the Hjemkomst Center offers free admission on Tuesdays between 5 PM and 8 PM. Instagram+1 Keep an eye on their social media and website for any other special promotions or event-related discounts. Reddit

General admission typically includes access to the Hjemkomst Viking Ship replica, the Hopperstad Stave Church, and any ongoing exhibits within the museum galleries. Reddit

Usually, access to both the Viking Ship and the Stave Church is included with general admission. You can explore them as part of your visit to the center. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The star attractions are the full-scale replica of the Hjemkomst Viking Ship, which sailed to Norway, and the beautiful Hopperstad Stave Church replica. The center also features rotating exhibits and a gift shop. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, guided tours are often available, particularly for the Stave Church, and are highly recommended for a richer understanding of the history and craftsmanship. InstagramReddit Check with staff upon arrival for tour schedules. Reddit

Exhibits often focus on Norwegian heritage, Viking history, and the story behind the Hjemkomst ship's construction and voyage. They also host temporary exhibits, such as the Njáls Saga Tapestry. Instagram+1

Yes, kids often find the Viking ship and Stave Church fascinating. There's also a natural playground and bike park nearby that's great for families. Instagram

Most visitors spend about 1-2 hours exploring the ship, church, and any current exhibits. If you're attending a special event or festival, you might want to allocate more time. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Hjemkomst Center itself does not typically have a full-service restaurant. However, they do have a gift shop that may offer snacks or drinks. Instagram

Since the Hjemkomst Center is close to downtown Fargo and Moorhead, you'll find numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars within a short walking distance or a quick drive. Reddit

It's generally best to consume outside food and drinks before entering the exhibit areas. Check with the center's staff for their specific policy on this. Reddit

Yes, the Scandinavian Festival is known for offering a variety of traditional Nordic foods and treats, making it a culinary highlight of the event. Reddit

Expect to find delicious options like lefse, kringle, Swedish meatballs, and other Scandinavian specialties. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally allowed inside the Hjemkomst Center, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially in areas with temporary exhibits. Instagram

Drone photography is typically not permitted inside or directly over the Hjemkomst Center due to safety and privacy concerns. Instagram

The exterior of the Hopperstad Stave Church and the Hjemkomst Viking Ship are iconic photo opportunities. The intricate details of the church and the sheer scale of the ship are very photogenic. Instagram+1

Photography policies for temporary exhibits like the Njáls Saga Tapestry can vary. It's best to look for signage or ask a staff member if photos are permitted. Instagram

Beyond the ship and church, look for troll carvings and murals that add to the Nordic theme, offering unique photographic subjects. Instagram

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