Ralph Engelstad Arena
Grand Forks, North Dakota · Accessibility score 1.6/5
Address: 1 Ralph Engelstad Arena Dr. , Grand Forks, ND 58203
Phone: (701) 777-4167
About
Ralph Engelstad Arena, affectionately known as 'the Ralph,' is a world-class indoor arena on the University of North Dakota campus in Grand Forks. Built by UND alumnus Ralph Engelstad, it's widely considered one of the finest hockey facilities on the planet. The arena serves as home ice for UND men's hockey and regularly hosts major concerts, shows, and sporting events.
From the moment you step inside, the attention to detail is striking. Granite floors, cherry wood accents, and museum-quality displays of UND hockey history line the concourses. It's the kind of place that impresses even people who aren't hockey fans. The arena seats over 11,000 for hockey and can be configured for concerts and other events.
For visitors planning a trip, Grand Forks is easy to reach by car along Interstate 29 or by flying into Grand Forks International Airport, just a short drive from campus. The arena sits in a well-developed area with hotels, restaurants, and shopping nearby. Parking lots surround the facility and are generally well-maintained.
If you'd like to explore the arena outside of event days, guided tours are available and showcase the building's impressive architecture and hockey memorabilia. Tours are wheelchair accessible, and the arena can provide a limited number of complimentary wheelchairs with advance notice. Call the Sioux Shop at 701-777-6636 for parking guidance and tour arrangements.
Whether you're catching a Friday night UND hockey game, attending a concert, or simply touring the building, the Ralph delivers an experience that's hard to match. The energy during hockey season is electric, with passionate fans filling the stands. It's a must-visit destination in North Dakota and a point of pride for the entire state.
Accessibility
Ralph Engelstad Arena offers several specific accessibility accommodations for guests. Tours of the facility are wheelchair accessible, and a limited number of complimentary wheelchairs are available upon prior request. During events, wheelchair storage can be provided near a guest's seat, and wheelchair transfers and assistance are available from arena staff.
For guests with hearing disabilities, the arena can provide sign language interpreters. Requests for interpretive services must be made at least thirty days before an event to allow proper arrangements.
The arena's main concourses feature wide, level pathways suitable for wheelchair and mobility device access. Parking lots surround the venue, though visitors should call 701-777-6636 for specific accessible parking guidance.
For the most current information on assistive listening devices, accessible seating locations, service animal policies, and other accommodations, contact Ralph Engelstad Arena directly. Their staff can help coordinate any special needs for your visit. Planning ahead is recommended, especially for interpreter services and wheelchair requests, to ensure availability on event days.
More accessible places in North Dakota
- North Dakota Museum of Art (Grand Forks)
- Fargo Air Museum (Fargo)
- Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site (Williston)
- Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site (Stanton)
- Bonanzaville USA (West Fargo)
- Chateau de Mores State Historic Site (Medora)