When I started planning my trip to North Dakota, I’ll admit—I wasn’t quite sure what I’d find. I had heard a little about the state’s wide-open landscapes, big skies, and cold winters, but that was about it. I quickly discovered that North Dakota is so much more than just farmland and open roads. It’s full of quiet beauty, friendly people, rich history, and hidden gems that many travelers overlook.
From the dramatic views in Theodore Roosevelt National Park to the peaceful charm of small towns and scenic byways, there’s something calming and refreshing about being in North Dakota. I got to experience the state’s unique mix of Native American heritage, pioneer history, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re driving across the open plains, exploring quirky roadside attractions, or enjoying a sunset over the Missouri River, North Dakota has a way of surprising you—in the best way.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the best things to do in North Dakota. If you’re like me and love discovering places that feel a little off the beaten path, you’re going to enjoy what this state has to offer.
Explore Fargo – Art, Food, and Fun
When I visited Fargo, I was pleasantly surprised by how fun and lively this city is. Fargo might be known from the famous movie and TV show, but there’s so much more to see and do here. It’s the largest city in North Dakota, and it has a cool mix of creativity, great food, and a welcoming small-town vibe.
One of my favorite stops was the Fargo-Moorhead Visitors Center, where I even got to take a photo with the original woodchipper from the Fargo movie! Then I headed downtown to walk around and check out local shops, murals, and coffee spots. The Plains Art Museum is a must-visit if you love art—it’s packed with interesting exhibits and local talent.
Fargo also has a really fun food scene. I tried everything from wood-fired pizza to fresh farm-to-table dishes. There are lots of breweries and places to grab a drink, too. And if you love live music or theater, you’ll find something happening most weekends.
Fargo showed me that North Dakota has a modern, artsy side. It’s a great place to start your journey through the state.
Discover Bismarck – The State Capital
When I arrived in Bismarck, I could feel the calm and charm of this capital city right away. It’s not too big or too crowded, which makes it a really nice place to explore at your own pace. Bismarck sits along the Missouri River, and the views are beautiful—especially around sunset.
One of the first places I visited was the North Dakota State Capitol. It’s a tall, modern-looking building (not your usual dome-style) and you can take a free tour to learn about the state’s government and history. Nearby, the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum really impressed me. It had awesome exhibits about dinosaurs, Native American culture, and the early settlers.
I also enjoyed walking around downtown Bismarck. There are cozy coffee shops, local restaurants, and fun boutiques to check out. If you like being outside, places like Keelboat Park or Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park offer beautiful trails and river views. The park even has historic military buildings and reconstructed Native American earthlodges, which were fascinating to see.
Bismarck has a quiet charm but offers plenty to do and learn. It gave me a deeper understanding of North Dakota’s story—and I loved every minute of it.
Experience Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Visiting Theodore Roosevelt National Park was one of the highlights of my North Dakota trip. If you love nature, wide open spaces, and amazing views, this is a place you can’t miss.
I started my adventure in the South Unit near the town of Medora. As soon as I entered the park, I was blown away by the colorful badlands. The rock formations, rolling hills, and prairie landscapes stretched as far as I could see. I drove the scenic loop, stopping at overlooks and hiking a few short trails. Along the way, I saw wild bison, prairie dogs, and even a few wild horses. It felt like stepping into the past.
The North Unit is quieter and more rugged, and I made the trip there too. The views are even more dramatic, and it’s a great spot if you want to feel really connected to the land. The park is named after President Theodore Roosevelt, who once ranched in this area. You can visit his old cabin in Medora and learn how his time in North Dakota shaped his love for nature and conservation.
Whether I was hiking, taking photos, or just sitting and soaking in the view, the park gave me a deep sense of peace and wonder. Theodore Roosevelt National Park is truly one of North Dakota’s natural treasures.
Drive the Enchanted Highway
One of the most fun and unique experiences I had in North Dakota was driving the Enchanted Highway. It’s a special stretch of road filled with giant, quirky metal sculptures scattered across the countryside. This 32-mile highway runs between the small towns of Gladstone and Regent, and it’s like a roadside art gallery you can explore by car.
As I drove along, I stopped to check out huge sculptures like a soaring pheasant, a grasshopper, and even a giant tin family. Each piece is made from scrap metal and is truly impressive in size and detail. The art feels both creative and playful, and it’s a great way to see rural North Dakota from a different perspective.
Besides the sculptures, the peaceful farmland and open skies make the drive really relaxing. I loved how the Enchanted Highway combines art, nature, and small-town charm all in one trip. If you want a break from the usual tourist spots and enjoy something unexpected, this drive is a must-do.
Step Back in Time at Fort Abraham Lincoln
Visiting Fort Abraham Lincoln was one of those moments where I truly felt connected to North Dakota’s rich history. This historic site near Mandan offers a glimpse into life during the late 1800s when the U.S. Army was stationed here. Walking around the well-preserved grounds, I could imagine what it was like for soldiers and their families living at the fort.
The reconstructed military buildings and the on-site museum helped me understand the important role the fort played, especially during the time of General Custer. It’s fascinating to see artifacts, old photographs, and hear stories that bring history to life.
Plus, the beautiful Missouri River nearby adds a peaceful backdrop to the visit. I highly recommend Fort Abraham Lincoln if you want a meaningful and educational stop during your trip to North Dakota. It’s perfect for history lovers or anyone curious about the Old West.
Relax by Lake Sakakawea
One of my favorite spots in North Dakota to unwind is Lake Sakakawea. This huge man-made lake is perfect for anyone who loves nature and water activities. Whether you enjoy fishing, boating, or just sitting by the shore, Lake Sakakawea has something to offer.
I spent a peaceful afternoon watching the sunset over the water—it’s truly a calming experience. There are plenty of parks and campgrounds around the lake, so it’s easy to plan a full day or even a weekend getaway. Plus, the views of the rolling hills and open sky remind me how beautiful North Dakota’s outdoors can be.
If you want a break from city life or just want to enjoy some fresh air, Lake Sakakawea is definitely the place to go. It’s a great way to relax and connect with nature on your trip.
Visit Medora – A Western Town Experience
If you want to feel the true spirit of the Old West, Medora is the place to go. I love visiting this small town because it’s full of Western charm and history. Walking down its streets feels like stepping back in time, with wooden buildings and cowboy vibes everywhere.
One of my favorite things to do in Medora is catch a show at the Medora Musical. The live music, dancing, and storytelling really bring the town’s history to life, and the outdoor setting makes it even more special. Plus, the views of the surrounding Badlands are stunning.
Medora also offers great chances to explore nature, like hiking trails and scenic drives nearby. Whether you’re into history, music, or the outdoors, Medora is a must-see on any North Dakota trip.
Explore Native American History and Culture
One thing I really appreciate about North Dakota is its rich Native American heritage. Exploring this part of the state’s history helped me understand more about the people who have lived here for centuries.
I visited places like the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation reservations, where you can learn about tribal traditions, art, and daily life. The North Dakota Heritage Center in Bismarck is also a great stop — it has exhibits that tell the story of Native American culture and history in the region.
If you’re interested, you can attend powwows or cultural events held throughout the year. These celebrations are full of vibrant dances, music, and crafts. For me, experiencing this culture firsthand was a meaningful and unforgettable part of my trip.
Seasonal Festivals and Events
One of the best ways I found to really enjoy North Dakota was by joining in on its seasonal festivals and events. No matter when you visit, there’s usually something fun happening that shows off the local culture and community spirit.
In the summer, I loved checking out the Norsk Høstfest in Minot — it’s the largest Scandinavian festival in North America! The food, music, and traditional crafts made it a memorable experience.
During fall, the Medora Musical is a must-see. It’s an outdoor show with great music and storytelling that really brings the Old West to life.
Winter might be cold, but the Frostival in Fargo warmed things up with ice carving contests, live music, and family-friendly activities. It’s a great way to embrace the season and have fun.
Family-Friendly Things to Do
When I traveled through North Dakota with my family, I found plenty of activities that kids and adults both enjoyed. Places like the Red River Zoo in Fargo were perfect for a fun day out—walking around, seeing animals, and letting the kids burn some energy.
We also visited the Dakota Zoo in Bismarck, which has a great variety of animals and picnic spots, making it easy to relax while the kids explored.
For a more hands-on experience, the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum in Bismarck was a hit. It’s full of interactive exhibits that helped us all learn about the state’s history in a fun way.
Even outdoor spots like Theodore Roosevelt National Park had easy hiking trails where the whole family could enjoy nature together without too much strain.
I really appreciated how many family-friendly options there are, making North Dakota a great place for a memorable trip with kids.
Conclusion
North Dakota truly surprised me with its wide-open spaces, warm small towns, and rich history. Whether I was exploring the vibrant art scene and tasty food in Fargo, learning about the past in Bismarck, or stepping back in time at Fort Abraham Lincoln, every moment was special. The natural beauty here is breathtaking—from the rugged landscapes of Theodore Roosevelt National Park to the peaceful shores of Lake Sakakawea. Driving the Enchanted Highway with its giant metal sculptures was a unique experience I won’t forget.
I also loved visiting Medora, where the Western spirit still lives strong, and diving into the Native American culture that’s such an important part of this state’s identity. North Dakota’s seasonal festivals and events brought the community together in fun and colorful ways, making my trip even more memorable. And if you’re traveling with kids or family, you’ll find plenty of activities that everyone can enjoy.
