The Best Experiences in North Dakota: Top 10 Must-Do Activities (Currently Open)
North Dakota may look quiet on a map, but step onto its plains, into its historic towns, or along its rugged buttes, and you discover a place filled with extraordinary experiences. From breathtaking national parks to hands-on cultural adventures, this northern state surprises travelers with beauty, history, wildlife, and moments you simply can’t recreate anywhere else in the country.
Below, you’ll find 10 must-do activities—each one chosen for its uniqueness, its immersive feel, and its ability to offer visitors something truly special. Let’s dive into the very best experiences North Dakota has to offer.
The Legendary Adventure at Theodore Roosevelt National Park
When travelers imagine North Dakota, this is often the place they picture—and for good reason. Theodore Roosevelt National Park stands as a rugged, colorful masterpiece shaped by time, wind, and the spirit of the American West.
What makes it unforgettable?
Rolling badlands carved into striking layers of color
Wild bison roaming freely across open landscapes
Scenic drives, including the famed South Unit Loop Road
Peaceful hiking trails like Wind Canyon and Buck Hill
This national park feels untouched and wild in a way that reminds visitors why Roosevelt himself fell in love with the region. Whether you visit at sunrise, sunset, or under a star-filled night sky, the experience is transformative.
Journey Into History at Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site
Located along the Montana border, the Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site offers one of the most immersive historical experiences in North Dakota. Built as a major fur-trading hub in the 1800s, it connected Native American tribes with traders from around the world.
Visitors today enjoy:
Reconstructed fort buildings
Demonstrations on trade, craftsmanship, and frontier life
Costumed interpreters who bring the era to life
Peaceful views along the Upper Missouri River
This is not just a museum—it’s a living window into America’s early frontier days.
Walk Among Art and Iron at the Enchanted Highway
There is nothing else quite like North Dakota’s Enchanted Highway, a one-of-a-kind roadside attraction stretching between Regent and Gladstone.
Along this 32-mile stretch, travelers encounter towering scrap-metal sculptures rising out of the prairie, including:
Geese in Flight
Grasshoppers in the Field
Fisherman’s Dream
Teddy Rides Again
These enormous artworks—created by artist Gary Greff—turn a simple drive into an unforgettable adventure. It’s quirky. It’s imaginative. And it’s a true North Dakota original.
Discover Scandinavian Culture at the Scandinavian Heritage Park
In Minot, you’ll find a cultural treasure that feels both global and local. Scandinavian Heritage Park honors the state’s strong ties to Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland.
Highlights include:
A full-sized replica of a Norwegian stavkirke (stave church)
A Swedish Dala horse statue
Traditional Scandinavian architecture and gardens
Exhibits celebrating immigration and heritage
It’s peaceful, educational, and beautifully designed—an excellent stop for families and culture lovers.
Explore Frontier Life at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park
Just south of Mandan, this historic state park blends outdoor exploration with meaningful storytelling. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park is the oldest state park in North Dakota and offers a rich look into military history and Native American culture.
Visitors often come for:
Reconstructed Mandán earthlodges
The Custer House, fully furnished as it was in the 1870s
Stunning views from the On-A-Slant Village
Miles of scenic hiking and biking trails
This destination allows you to feel—not just learn—what frontier life was like.
Cruise the Waters of Lake Sakakawea
For those who love water recreation, Lake Sakakawea delivers one of the top lake experiences in the Midwest. Stretching more than 180 miles, it is one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States.
Here’s what makes it special:
Boating, kayaking, sailing, and jet skiing
Some of the best walleye fishing in the country
Remote beaches and quiet coves
Campgrounds with breathtaking lake views
Whether your style is relaxation or adrenaline, this lake gives you the best of both worlds.
Experience Culture and Creativity at the Plains Art Museum
Fargo may surprise first-time travelers, and one of its best gems is the Plains Art Museum—an award-winning contemporary museum with a vibrant atmosphere.
Step inside to experience:
Large-scale installations
Regional and national artwork
Rotating exhibitions and events
A local studio space supporting emerging artists
It’s modern, inspiring, and the perfect stop for those who want a cultural break between road trips.
Step Back in Time in Medora
Few places capture the Old West charm of North Dakota like the town of Medora. This iconic destination is known for its entertainment, small-town friendliness, and scenic beauty.
While in Medora, don’t miss:
The Medora Musical, a beloved outdoor summer show
Historic sites tied to Theodore Roosevelt
Charming shops and Western-style eateries
Trailheads and scenic points entering Theodore Roosevelt National Park
This is one of the most family-friendly experiences in the state—and an excellent home base for exploring the region.
Walk the Past at Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site
One of the most culturally significant destinations in the Upper Midwest, the Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site near Stanton offers deep insight into the lives of the Northern Plains Native Americans.
Visitors can explore:
A reconstructed earthlodge
Museum exhibits showcasing traditional tools, clothing, and crafts
Walking trails through ancient village sites
Interpretive programs rich with storytelling
This is an experience that brings history to life in an authentic and deeply respectful way.
Experience the Unique Magic of the International Peace Garden
Located on the U.S.–Canada border, the International Peace Garden is one of the most peaceful and symbolic destinations in North America.
Travelers love it for:
Beautiful botanical gardens
Scenic drives and walking paths
Dramatic monuments celebrating peace and friendship
Picnic areas, lakes, and serene photo spots
It’s an ideal stop for couples, families, and anyone who appreciates beautiful outdoor spaces.
Conclusion: Discover the Wild, Beautiful Spirit of North Dakota
North Dakota delivers experiences that stay with you. From rugged national parks and immersive historic sites to artistic trails, cultural parks, and peaceful gardens, the state invites you to explore at your own pace—and connect with the land, the people, and the stories that shaped this region.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a family road trip, or a cross-country adventure, the best experiences in North Dakota offer a mix of scenic beauty, hands-on history, and unforgettable moments that you’ll want to relive again and again.