Located in the northern Midwest of the United States, North Dakota is the 19th largest state in the country, yet among the least populated. There is plenty of things to see and do, including hiking trails, parks, and historic sites. Its striking landscape, gorgeous villages, and a plethora of outdoor adventures are second to none! While Bismarck is the capital, the Badlands is the most famous destination. But there are endless opportunities for fun and unforgettable experiences. These are the 10 awesome things you can do in North Dakota.
10 Bison Monument And Frontier Village
Located in Jamestown, Bison Monument and Frontier Village is home to some of the most spectacular attractions in North Dakota. The Largest Buffalo Monument in the World calls this place home. Visiting this place takes vacationers back to the olden days, thanks to several original frontier buildings. These beauties have artifacts of the past days, including the writer's shack belonging to Louis L’Amour, one of the most iconic authors. Visitors can also explore the National Buffalo Museum and discover North American bison through exciting exhibits. This is one of the awesome things one can do in North Dakota.
9 Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Covering a space of 70,000 acres, Theodore National Park is one of the awesome things to do in North Dakota, thanks to its gorgeous mountains, canyons, the famous Badlands, and the magnificent Missouri River. These offer endless outdoor opportunities for visitors of all ages and preferences. One of the most striking national parks in the country is divided into two major parts, with the president's former Elkhorn Ranch perched in between. One can go horseback riding, rock climbing, hiking, or camping.
8 Medora Musical
Medora Musical is one of the awesome things travelers can do in summer. It is an incredible live music venue that comes alive every summer at Medora's open-air Burning Hills Amphitheater. This fun outdoor show, referred to as the “Greatest Show in the West,'' honors the former U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt and the Great American West. There are singing, dancing, fireworks, and live animals in this live show from June through September. The show is full of fun and adventure for an entire family, making it one of the best spots to visit with kids in the state.
7 The State Capitol Complex
North Dakota State Capitol Complex is more than a beautiful building or the state government's hose. It is a significant part of the state's history. Featuring a 21-story tower, there is a lot to see in this complex, including government offices, the state history museum, and beautiful buildings. The complex covers 160 acres of space and is North Dakota's largest building. Some tours take vacationers through the buildings and offices, allowing them to see the government in operation.
6 The North Dakota Heritage Center
Located within the State Capitol complex, the North Dakota Heritage Center is one of the bests museums in the state and offers fun exhibits that take travelers back in time, including the lifestyle of the earliest settlers. Vacationers can explore the major events and icons that took North Dakota through its ups and downs. The museum is home to dinosaur skeletons, interesting artifacts of the earliest inhabitants, and beautiful art galleries dating back to the 1950s. North Dakota Heritage Center is definitely one of the awesome things visitors can do in North Dakota.
5 International Peace Garden
Situated in the Turtle Mountains, the International Peace Garden is a must-visit, thanks to its incredible position, giving vacationers hundreds of acres of unspoiled natural space to explore. From beautiful forests to radiant floral gardens, this is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. While this area cuts across the borders between Canada, Manitoba, and North Dakota, it is definitely defined by nature, not a map of borders. It has picnic areas and endless hiking and biking trails to explore.
4 Maah Daah Hey Trail
Stretching for 100 miles, Maah Daah Trail connects the two sections of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Some parts of this trail take vacationers to the famous Badlands and prairie, giving them an incredible chance of seeing deer, bison, coyotes, and bighorn sheet. Some stretches can be strenuous to hike, but the gorgeous views and natural surroundings make it all worth it. Horseback riding, biking, and camping are other things travelers can do here.
3 The Scandinavian Heritage Park
Found in the north-central part of the state, in the small beautiful town of Minot, The Scandinavian Heritage Park is a unique museum dedicated to celebrating Scandinavian history. Tourists will see the monuments, replicas, and historical references paying homage to Norway, Sweden, Demark, Finland, and Iceland. Visit this town during the Norsk Hostfest, the largest Scandinavian festival in the continent; stick around and have an experience of a lifetime.
2 Plains Art Museum
Located in the International Harvester warehouse in Fargo, Plains Art Museum is a must-visit. It boasts over 3,000 pieces of incredible art from regional and national talents. Visitors will see pieces from icons like Mary Cassatt and George Morrison. The museum offers amazing exhibitions, including Hazel Belvo, featuring an incredible collection of Hazel Belvo’s paintings; Waŋna niš niyepi, which enhances the continuity of culture; Recourse, dedicated to highlighting the iconic painter Britta Anderson.
1 Four Bears Bridge
Four Bears Bridge is one of the largest bridges in North Dakota. Cutting across the Missouri River, this bridge offers breathtaking views of the river and Lake Sakakawea. The bridge was officially launched in 2005 and became a replacement for an old bridge that was constructed in 1995. Built on the Fort Berthold Reservation, this bridge is one of the two bridges constructed over the Missouri River. This is one of the best spots to visit in Four Bears Bridge.