When it comes to great small towns, North Dakota certainly has a long list. There are beloved little towns all across the state, such as Medora, which sees thousands of visitors each year to enjoy all its historic western charm. Dunseith is another well-known town that tons of people go through when entering and leaving Canada, as well as to visit the International Peace Garden. But there is a place that some might consider a very underrated small town in North Dakota – one that more people should know about – and here’s why:

Mayville, North Dakota is a picture-perfect town in the eastern valley of North Dakota.

Andrew Filer/Flickr It is sometimes combined with the smaller neighboring town of Portland into “May-Port.”

From the nostalgic-looking downtown to the picturesque river scenery surrounding it, this town of 1,800 people will remind you of the good old days that it never seemed to have left.

Ross Griff/Flickr

Mayville was founded in 1881 and reached a peak population in the 60s and 70s. Remnants of that time seem very common here, with retro signs all around town.

Ross Griff/Flickr

Mayville is not only a lovely place to live; it’s also a great spot to visit for a day trip.

Andrew Filer/Flickr While you’re visiting, enjoy a meal at places like Paula’s Cafe, or a Mexican cuisine hidden gem called La Cantina.

The town has a river running through it, parks - including a unique spot called Island Park - and plenty of other pretty sights.

Ross Griff/Flickr Plus, the stunning campus of Mayville State University is located here.

Other great attractions include the memorable Rainbow Garden.

Sandy B/Tripadvisor This garden and sculpture walk is free to the public and includes themed gardens named after the colors of the rainbow, as well as art pieces from tons of artists making it unique.

From the perfect little town feel to the postcard-worthy views of the town, Mayville is a place in North Dakota that is definitely deserving of more people knowing about.

Andrew Filer/Flickr

You can find more information about Mayville (and Portland) by visiting the town’s official website. Have you ever visited this town before?

Andrew Filer/Flickr

It is sometimes combined with the smaller neighboring town of Portland into “May-Port.”

Ross Griff/Flickr

While you’re visiting, enjoy a meal at places like Paula’s Cafe, or a Mexican cuisine hidden gem called La Cantina.

Plus, the stunning campus of Mayville State University is located here.

Sandy B/Tripadvisor

This garden and sculpture walk is free to the public and includes themed gardens named after the colors of the rainbow, as well as art pieces from tons of artists making it unique.

What other towns in North Dakota do you think deserve a second glance? Nominate your favorite small towns by clicking here, and check out more great places in ND.

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Address: Mayville, ND 58257, USA