Bismarck Travel Guide

North Dakota's capital city, Bismarck, is the second largest city in the state. It's home to a number of popular attractions and boasts an exciting history that is rich in intrigue and makes for a fun educational experience.

Things to Do in Bismarck

For travelers who like history, a visit to Bismarck should be added onto the bucket list. Bismarck is home to the Former Governor's Mansion, the Camp Hancock State Historic Site, and the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum- all of which will satisfy even the biggest cravings for historical knowledge. Nature lovers can enjoy days spent at one of Bismarck's public parks, or an hour or two at Chief Lookings Village, which overlooks the Missouri River. If the weather is nice, visitors can also attend a game at the Bismarck Municipal Ballpark or play a game of golf at the Hawktree Golf Club, Bismarck's top rated golf course and clubhouse.

Best Places to Stay in Bismarck

There are a number of unique places to stay near Bismarck. The vacation homes in and around the city boast a variety of modern amenities such as hot tubs, internet access, and full kitchens. Visitors can enjoy a memorable stay in any of the homes, and are destined to find the perfect one whether it be a quaint lakeside cottage or a large, two-story Acadian home.

Best Time to Visit Bismarck

The best time to visit Bismarck is between June and September. The summer months in North Dakota are pleasantly warm and sunny, but can be extremely hot also, so plan for the heat.

Best Events in Bismarck

Applefest is an annual Bismarck tradition. The proceeds go to the Bismarck Cancer Center. Activities at Applefest include paintball, a bake sale and food vendors, a petting zoo, kids games and activities, live entertainment, an arts and crafts sale, a succulent making workshop, a blacksmith, and gem and mineral demonstrations.

Things to Do for Families in Bismarck

The Dakota Zoo is a common tourist attraction that is especially appealing to families with animal-loving children. The zoo has over 600 animals and 125 species, various penny press machines, and a luscious rose garden in memory of Carol Bothun. Dakota Zoo provides animal close ups, camps, conservation lessons, art with the animals, field trips, and educational events geared towards toddlers and small children. For a more thrilling family experience, visiting families can spend the day at Superslide Amusement Park. Superslide features a bouncy house, roller coasters, a ferris wheel, games, spinning tea cups and an assortment of other kid-friendly rides, and of course- a superslide.