For first-time visitors, North Dakota offers an idyllic destination where travellers can create their own uniquely memorable and legendary experience.
Many prominent figures in American history have left their legacies on this land that now invites visitors to share in their experiences. Theodore Roosevelt came to North Dakota to grieve the loss of his mother and wife on the same day, and found the inspiration to become the 26th president of the United States.
Bison in Theodore Roosevelt National Park (credit North Dakota Tourism)
The future president arrived in Dakota Territory as the wealthy, sheltered son of a prominent New York family. He became a rancher, rugged outdoorsman and military leader, later observing, “I have always said I would not have been president had it not been for my experience in North Dakota.”
Roosevelt is just one of the legendary figures transformed by North Dakota. It was here that explorers Lewis and Clark met Sakakawea, who guided the Corps of Discovery on its way to the Pacific Ocean and back. Chief Sitting Bull, meanwhile, lived near Fort Yates – mere miles from Fort Abraham Lincoln, the post of George Armstrong Custer, whom he would later defeat at the Battle of Little Bighorn in Montana. Learn how these legendary figures lived at Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park and On-A-Slant Indian Village, Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site and Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site.
North Unit Theodore Roosevelt National Park (credit North Dakota Tourism)
Be sure to leave time to marvel at North Dakota’s wide-open spaces and diverse landscape, and experience its incredible outdoor recreation. The 140-mile Maah Daah Hey Trail through the Badlands of North Dakota is a must for any mountain biker, hiker or horseback rider. Kayaking, canoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling also are popular activities, and few places can match North Dakota for hunting and year-round fishing.
For those who prefer simply admiring the scenery, North Dakota offers 10 officially designated scenic byways and backways, with thousands of miles of highways carved through majestic landscapes.
NORTH DAKOTA ROUNDUP
North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum
Take a trip through time, from roughly 600 million years ago to present-day North Dakota at the museum on the state capitol grounds in Bismarck. Learn more here: www.statemuseum.nd.gov
United Tribes International Powwow
The pageantry of Native American tribes from around the world is on display through drumming, dancing and singing at this annual event held in late summer in Bismarck. Learn more here: www.unitedtribespowwow.com
Norsk Hostfest
Immerse yourself in the culture of North America’s largest Scandinavian festival held each fall in Minot. Savour Scandinavian delicacies and enjoy authentic music and entertainment. Learn more here: www.hostfest.com
To learn more about North Dakota visit here: www.NDTourism.com
