Whether you’re a resident or a visitor to the Peace Garden State, you’ve likely wondered, “what are some day trips near me in North Dakota?” There’s a trip in North Dakota that draws in thousands of tourists, a trip that us North Dakotans should definitely do at least once in our lifetime if we haven’t yet. The reason this place is so popular is that it is truly one of a kind and there is no other place in the world like it. It is one of the last remaining slices of the Old West and is actually a place where the buffalo roam. It’s unique and will leave an impression on you for life, and here’s why you should take a trip there:

Medora, North Dakota is the place to be. You can take day trips here or entire weekends to experience it all.
James W/Tripadvisor
In the town of Medora itself there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and more to explore in an old west style town nestled directly in the badlands. It's full of history in a picturesque town that is fun for all ages.
Other attractions in Medora include places like the Cowboy Hall of Fame, a true testament to the west.
Jeff R/Tripadvisor
If you're looking for more history then you'll have to head out into the Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Violette54/Tripadvisor
The Maltese Cross Cabin is a must-visit spot while on a day trip to Medora and the TRNP. It was the original cabin of the very man who the park is named after, Theodore Roosevelt.
Of course, the national park itself is the main attraction that you cannot miss while you are here.
Ibyke/Tripadvisor
You can drive through it on a scenic journey and stop at all the overlooks that have the most magnificent views.
Violette54/Tripadvisor

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Or you can get out of the car and go exploring through the trails and get an up close look at some of the unique, sometimes unusual natural features of the park.
Ibyke/Tripadvisor
From the cannonball-shaped rocks to the fossilized tree stumps in the remnants of a forest that the dinosaurs would have roamed through, this place has so many special features that you won't find anywhere else.
Wildlife is also abundant here and it's one of the only places to see some of these animals still truly wild.
JMick6/Tripadvisor
Kyra H/Tripadvisor
Wild horses, bison, bighorn sheep, elk, and more can all be found here. It's like driving through a safari - don't be surprised if the animals block the road, either! There are even prairie dog "towns" you can observe.
Near the end of the day, you can head back into Medora and get a bite to eat.
JVM-Milford-MI/Tripadvisor
Have an elegant meal at Theodore's Dining Room or do it a little more wild west style at the Pitchfork Steak Fondue, where they literally cook the steaks fondue-style on the ends of pitchforks. Now that's something you can't find anywhere else!
After the full day, right as the sun is setting you can view the famous Medora Musical.
Dave J/Tripadvisor
This musical takes place on an outdoor stage with a backdrop of the actual badlands. It's fun, beautiful, and definitely a must-see.
If you decide to extend your stay, there are some great options of places to stay.
PasCaLady/Tripadvisor
The Rough Riders Hotel has been around since Roosevelt was still around and is both luxurious as well as special to the town with its history.

So if you find yourself in Billings County wondering, “what are some day trips near me in North Dakota?” you’re in luck. Truly, there’s no other place quite like this for a day trip. To learn more about it and all you can do there (because this is just scratching the surface), check out the Medora website.

Need some more North Dakota trip ideas? Check out our list of 11 Incredible Day Trips In North Dakota That Will Change Your Life.

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Beth C. | August 18, 2021

What's a famous historic attraction in North Dakota?

North Dakota may not be one of the oldest states in the U.S.; however, the state is absolutely brimming with must-see historic attractions. One site in particular that could impress historians and architect buffs alike is the 1883 Stutsman County Courthouse. To start, it's the single oldest surviving courthouse in all of North Dakota. Moreover, it's also considered to be an exceedingly rare example of the Gothic-Revival architectural style that can be found in the Upper Midwest. The 1883 Stutsman County Courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is located on Third Avenue in Jamestown, North Dakota. Some other famous historic attractions in North Dakota include the Fort Totten State Historic Site, Pembina State Museum, and Bagg Bonanza Farm.

What day trips can I take in North Dakota?

North Dakota is a vast territory, and one of the best ways to explore it is to get in your car and visit as many different regions as possible. From charming small towns to cozy saloons, restaurants, and natural wonders, there are so many places of interest in the Peace Garden State. Some of the top day trips in North Dakota to take include the State Capitol Grounds, Fargo Escape Room, Fort Abraham Lincoln, Strasburg, the Killdeer Mountains, Valley City, the International Peace Garden, Lake Sakakawea, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Scandinavian Heritage Park, and, of course, the town of Medora. How many of these unique day trips in North Dakota have you experienced?

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