BISMARCK – The restoration of the historic Hygge Hotel in Powers Lake is one of seven recipients of 2021 Main Street Tourism Expansion grants.

The North Dakota Department of Commerce announced the seven grant recipients on Thursday.

The Hygge Hotel project will complete the renovation of the historic hotel in Powers Lake. Hotel owners began renovation of the original 1909 structure in 2018. The grant dollars will help complete the lower-level renovation of a hospitality area for guests and locals to hold private parties and meetings. The reopening of the restored hotel after sitting vacant for nearly 30 years will provide much-needed lodging at Powers Lake and will bring hunters and travelers into the community.

The six other grant recipients are Fargo Air Museum flight simulator lab, Folly Hill Farm lodging and restroom facilities near Bismarck, National Buffalo Museum bison pasture tour at Jamestown, Pioneer Trails Regional Museum paleontology program expansion at Bowman, The Springs Golf Course dining igloos at Gwinner and Up North Cabins development near the Pembina Gorge in northeast North Dakota.

Main Street Expansion Grants support new or expanding businesses and activities that provide an improved visitor experience, with an emphasis on attracting new visitors to North Dakota communities.

“These grants will help develop new tourism experiences and facilities that will draw visitors to enjoy unique lodging, local cuisine and diverse activities,” North Dakota Department of Commerce interim commissioner Shawn Kessel said.

The grants are intended to fund new projects that attract visitors from outside of North Dakota for at least one overnight stay with the goal of giving communities and the state another experience to entertain visitors and attract potential new residents.