Best Places to Visit in North Dakota
North Dakota is an American state located in upper western region of the country and borders with a couple of Canadian provinces. It is the 4th least densely populated state and the 19th largest state as far as area is concerned. Bismarck is the capital city of North Dakota and Fargo is its largest metropolitan area. Agriculture is the major industry with many of its agricultural products, such as barley, wheat, rice and edible beans being used all over the USA. Much consideration has also been given to energy production over the past few years. Moreover, tourism is also a developing industry in North Dakota and some of its tourist destinations are renowned as the best in the country.
10) Fargo Theatre
Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, Fargo Theatre has functioned as vaudeville, movie theatre and an art deco complex since its foundation in 1926. It is situated in downtown Fargo in North Dakota. The amphitheater has been highly-esteemed for its world-class production of films and also hosts live concerts and performances, occasionally. The marvelous auditoriums located within the Fargo Theatre are available for booking wedding functions and public gatherings. Furthermore, it has hosted the Fargo Film Festival for several consecutive years and lures thousands of film enthusiasts.
9) Scandinavian Heritage Park
Scandinavian Heritage Park is located in the Minot County and is the only park in the country that provides a unique experience of the Scandinavian culture and the Nordic countries which include Norway, Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Iceland. It comprises of hundreds of structures and replicas representing the Nordic nations and their cultures of particular highlight are the magnificent buildings and original copies of some of the renowned memorabilia, Gol Stave Church, Swedish Dala Horse and Finnish Sauna. A gift shop built on the corner offers Scandinavian souvenirs and items.
8) Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park
This signature historic site of North Dakota is a must visit tourist destination for tourists and history buffs and is situated some miles from the city of Mandan. The state park was occupied by the Mandan tribe and played the role of a military war post during 17th and 18th centuries. Presently, it houses many ancient buildings and sites including On-A-Slant Village and the Custer House. Fort Lincoln Park offers living tours through these ancient blocks and cavalry grounds where visitors can learn more about the history of this place. During the peak season, dramatics and cultural competitions are held at the fort. Moreover, campsites and picnic shelters have been established around the park for the visitors.
7) National Buffalo Museum
National Buffalo Museum is situated near the Bison Monument and Frontier Village in Jamestown County. The place is home to the world’s largest concrete bison that stands in all its majesty overlooking the valley and is a significant tourist attraction. The museum inspires to preserve the heritage of bison and buffalo which have long been considered as an important part of the state’s history. Visitors can learn about the beasts through interactive exhibitions and learning programs. Moreover, a living heard of albino buffalo is also kept around the village for the visitors’ interest.
6) Knife River Indian Villages
Knife River Indian Villages is a National Historic Site and was created in 1974. The site preserves the historical and archaeological residues of native Indians dating back to 15th and 16th century. It is situated at the intersection of Knife and Missouri Rivers near the village of Stanton. In order to conserve the native Indian culture, the ancient villages have been rebuilt around the area. The festivals, events, and ceremonies that are held seasonally bring life to the place and attract many tourists. Moreover, the forested lands surrounding the villages are also very scenic with its exotic wildlife.
5) International Peace Garden
Constructed in 1932, this garden lies on the US-Canada border and covers an impressive area of more than 2,000 acres. It symbolizes the peaceful relations that have been maintained between the two countries since ages. Annually, the garden plants 150,000 flowers as a reflection of peace and friendship. It features several fountains, chimes and concrete towers with chapels at their bases. Moreover, some fragment remain of the World Trade Center have been placed in the park as signs of memorial. An Interpretive Center located within the lush-green gardens guides the visitors about their trip as well as offers gift shops and restaurants.
4) Maah Daah Hey Trail
Winding through the southern and northern units of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Maah Daah Hey Trail is non-motorized single hiking track. Marked by the symbol of a turtle, the entire trail is available to be used for horse-riders and hikers. Looping around the flowing hills and the lush-green woods, this pathway packs in a lot of dramatic scenery and exciting rides for its visitors. On their way, hikers come across all kinds of wildlife including deer, bison and foxes that roam around the badlands. Campsites, with necessary equipment have been established at several intervals to accommodate the people during their journeys.
3) Chateau de Mores Historical Site
Named after its owner who was a renowned French entrepreneur, Chateau de Mores is a luxurious 26-room hunting lodge which was used as a summer home and was built in the surrounding woods in Medora, North Dakota. Presently, the Chateau preserves some of the original artifacts and furnishings from the life of de Mores. The house acts as a state museum where exhibits are arranged to display cultural arts to the visitors. Tourists can explore the area around the house known as Chateau de Mores State Historic Site which includes de Mores Memorial park and Chimney Park.
2) North Dakota Heritage Center
North Dakota Heritage Center is a state museum located in the city of Bismarck. Featuring several galleries, a couple of theaters, and a museum store; the center offers a preview of the state history dating back to the prehistoric times. Visitors can learn and explore the dinosaur age, the heritage of different Native American tribes, and the historic artifacts from the leftovers of legendary artists and performers. Specimens of gemstone and rocks are also preserved here. The center houses numerous events and cultural festivals during the tourist season.
1) Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Named after a U.S President, the Theodore Roosevelt National Park is one of the highlights on a trip to North Dakota. The park covers a large area of over 70,000 acres and comprises of three sections of forested and barren lands. The landscapes behind the swaying hills and flowing streams provide scenic views during the 100 mile drive along the park. Some of the best hiking trails, horse-riding facilities and campgrounds in the country are available here. The woods are home to a broad range of wildlife including free-roaming bison, buffaloes, horses and deer.