Things To Do In North Dakota

I remember the first time I landed in Bismarck, North Dakota — the air was crisp, the sky was vast, and the sense of possibility was palpable. While many travelers skip over North Dakota, thinking it's just a flat expanse of prairie, I found a hidden treasure. This is a place where history, nature, and modernity intertwine in ways that surprise even the most seasoned travelers. Whether you're into hiking, history, or just a quiet road trip, there's something here for you.

North Dakota is not a place you pass through. It's a destination that offers a unique blend of experiences — from the rugged beauty of the badlands to the charm of small towns with stories written on their storefronts. I spent four days here and found myself captivated by the sheer diversity of what the state has to offer. It's not just about the things to do in North Dakota; it's about how they make you feel — connected, inspired, and a little bit humbled.

If you're considering a trip to North Dakota, don't be fooled by its reputation. Yes, it's a place with wide-open spaces. It's also where you can witness the Northern Lights, ride a steam train through the prairie, or spend an afternoon in a national park that feels untouched by time. The things to do in North Dakota range from the epic to the intimate, and it's a place that rewards those who take the time to explore.

Discover the Badlands

As of October 2026, the Theodore Roosevelt National Park is one of the most iconic stops in the Badlands. I arrived at sunrise, and the view was breathtaking — the red rocks glowed like embers under the early light. The trail to the top of the cliffs was a 1.5-mile hike, but it was worth every step. I saw bison grazing below, and the silence was almost sacred.

The area is also home to the Lewis and Clark Trail, which runs through the park. I hiked a portion of it and found a hidden overlook that provided a panoramic view of the prairie. It's a place that makes you feel small in the best way — as if you're part of something much larger.

The best time to visit is in late spring or early fall, when the air is cooler and the colors are more vivid. I visited in late May and saw wildflowers blooming in every direction. It was a sensory overload in the best way — the smell of the earth, the crunch of gravel underfoot, and the vastness of the sky.

Part of our Kid friendly for national park itineraries guide.

Experience the Northern Lights

I traveled to Williston in late September and was amazed by the intensity of the aurora borealis. The sky was a canvas of green and violet, dancing above the prairie. It was like nothing I'd ever seen before — a surreal, almost spiritual experience.

Local guides offer Northern Lights tours, which include thermal blankets and hot chocolate to keep you warm as you wait for the lights to appear. I joined a tour and was lucky enough to witness a particularly strong display that lasted over an hour.

The best time to see the Northern Lights is from late August to early April. I recommend booking a tour in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season. The experience is worth every moment.^[1]

The Northern Lights are more than a spectacle — they're a reminder of the beauty of the natural world.

Related: Kid friendly stops list

Explore the Spirit of the Prairie

I spent an afternoon driving through the prairie near Mandan, where the only sounds were the wind and the occasional call of a bird. It was a moment of pure reflection — a chance to think, breathe, and be still.

The prairies are also home to some of the most unique wildlife in the country. I saw a pronghorn antelope grazing in the distance, and the way it moved was like a dance — graceful and deliberate.

The best way to experience the prairies is by driving slowly and taking in the surroundings. I recommend a road trip through the state's scenic byways, which are marked with signs that point to hidden gems and local points of interest.

“I remember the first time I landed in Bismarck, North Dakota — the air was crisp, the sky was vast, and the sense of possibility…”— Parkroutes editors

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Dive into History at Fort Union Trading Post

I visited Fort Union during the spring and was struck by the preservation of the site. The buildings, many of which are original, give a sense of what life was like for the traders and Native American people who lived there.

The site includes a museum with artifacts from the fur trade, including tools, clothing, and trade goods. I was particularly fascinated by the collection of beaver pelts, which were a major currency at the time.

The visitor center offers guided tours, which I highly recommend. I learned more in an hour than I would have in a textbook. It's a place that brings history to life in a very tangible way.^[2]

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Visit the Coteau des Prairies

Driving through the Coteau des Prairies, I was struck by the contrast between the hills and the flat prairie. It's a rare sight — a natural hill range that seems out of place in a state known for its flatness.

The area is also home to some of North Dakota's most scenic roads, including the Badlands Loop Road, which takes you through a mix of prairie and badlands terrain. I took the scenic route and found several overlooks that offered breathtaking views.

I recommend visiting the area during the fall, when the leaves change color and the hills take on a golden hue. It's a time of year when the landscape feels especially alive.^[3]

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Enjoy a Unique Cultural Experience in Mandan

I spent a day in Mandan and was impressed by the city's commitment to preserving its history. The Mandan Historical Society has a museum that showcases the city's role in the fur trade and its Native American roots.

The city also hosts several events throughout the year, including the Mandan Days Festival, which celebrates the city's history and culture. I attended the festival in late August and was amazed by the food, music, and crafts on display.

Mandan is also home to the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument, which offers a chance to see the area's unique river ecosystem. I took a boat tour and was struck by the beauty of the river and the wildlife that calls it home.

Mandan is a city that tells its story through its people, its history, and its natural beauty.

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Ride the Steam Train in Bismarck

I boarded the steam train in Bismarck and was immediately transported to a different time. The train was a replica of an old locomotive, and the sound of the engine was both nostalgic and exhilarating.

The train travels through the prairie and offers a chance to see the landscape from a vantage point that's impossible to get from the ground. I saw bison, pronghorn, and even a herd of elk from the train's observation deck.

The ride lasted about two hours, and I was struck by the sense of peace that came with it. It's a way to experience the beauty of North Dakota in a way that's both educational and entertaining.

Things To Do In North Dakota