The Best Things To Do In Watford City, North Dakota
Watford City, North Dakota, is where the Badlands of North Dakota come to life. It’s through outdoor adventure and history in the area, you learn quickly that the area is loaded with things to see and do.
*This post is sponsored by Watford City, North Dakota. All opinions are mine and nobody else’s.
It is beyond me, as to why North Dakota is the 50th state for so many people.
Things To Do In North Dakota’s State Capital, Bismarck
You will quickly find the best things to do in Watford City. The setting is Rural, meaning you do need a car to get around. This also means you will have some epic experiences when you visit Watford City.
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The Location of Watford City, North Dakota
Watford City makes a great road trip destination. If you choose to fly, the Williston Airport offers air and rental car service.
Things To Do In McKenzie County
North Unit: Theodore Roosevelt National Park
There are two units to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, and the North Unit is a short 15-minute drive from Watford City. Bison and longhorn steers are often seen as you explore the park. Plan a fun day of hiking and exploring. The beauty around you will quickly win you over.
I have hiked many trails in the North Unit and came across many bison. When you are hiking, be bison aware. As you never know when you will walk around a rock and come upon a lone bison or a herd.
Door 204- Coffee & Mail
204 N Main St.
Watford City, ND 58854
(701) 842-6441
facebook.com/door204
Door 204 has to be one of the few coffee shops in the country that also provides mail service. Enjoy the local art for sale, a cup of coffee, and ship a package or two.
The mailboxes are used by locals, making it a one-of-a-kind stop. Fast, friendly service is what you can expect. Grab your cup to go or hang out with the locals, as they visit their personal mailboxes.
The Best Things To Do In McKenzie County, North Dakota
Stonehome Brewing
313 Fox Hills Parkway
Watford City, ND 58854
(701) 444-2337
stonehomebrewing.com
Stonehome Brewing opened its doors in 2016. In 2018, a 2nd location was opened in Bismarck. Stonehome Brewing is a destination in itself. The Stenehjem family wants everyone who visits to enjoy a real, authentic craft beer.
Enjoy your authentic craft beer with a delicious cheesy bread with an incredible marinara dipping sauce. Top off your visit with a stone oven pizza. We LOVE Stonehome Brewing, as the craft beers and food menu are top-notch. The atmosphere is cozy and you will feel welcome as soon as you set foot in the restaurant.
The Best National Park For Families
Outlaws Bar & Grill
120 N Main St.
Watford City, ND 58854
(701)842-6859
outlawsbarngrill.com
Outlaws Bar & Grill is where the locals hang out. When it comes to steak, this seems to be the sizzling entree that hits the plate of many. We enjoyed steak and fish dishes for the win.
With two areas for seating, the bar and dining area, take the first seat that is open. Kick back and enjoy your flavorful meal to round out your perfect day in Watford City.
Long X Trading Post Visitor Center
100 2nd Ave. S.
Watford City, ND 58854
(701) 444-2990
longxmerc.com
The Long X Trading Post Visitor Center is more than a visitor center; it’s a hub for Watford City. Inside, you will find The Merc, a gift shop that carries all of your souvenir needs, featuring the Badlands and North Dakota.
Looking for an ice cream treat? The Trading Post has you covered.
Stay With A Legend – Roosevelt Inn & Suites
600 2nd Ave SW
Watford City, ND 58854
(701) 842-3686
rooseveltinn.com
The Roosevelt Inn & Suites offers the perfect base camp for your North Dakota experience. This family-friendly property will welcome you with Teddy Roosevelt on the front lawn. The indoor pool and delicious breakfast make this one of my all-time favorite hotels. In fact, I have had the BEST breakfast sandwiches, found at any hotel across the country.
You will find yourself located near the heart of everything in McKenzie County, Watford City, and the Badlands. If you find lodging is full in Medora, this is a great location for your base camp.
Veteran’s Park
299 Park Ave E.
Watford City, ND 58854
watfordcityparks.com/Parks/Veteran-s-Park
Veteran’s Park honors past and present veterans of McKenzie County in the heart of Watford City. Todd and I found ourselves visiting late in the day, while the sun was shining.
I’d like to return for an evening visit, as I’m sure the flags shine brightly across the dark North Dakota skies.
Watford City is a town with old-west charm, yet everything has been brought into the 21st Century. You can experience the Badlands of North Dakota, taking you back into time, and enjoy all the “hip” experiences you expect to find in today’s world. For me, Watford City is the ideal place to kick back and enjoy North Dakota, a state that I have fallen in love with.
If you find yourself venturing to North Dakota to visit the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, Watford City is a great place to base yourself in Western North Dakota. Take a hard hat tour of the soon-to-be Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library.
Most importantly, enjoy North Dakota and allow yourself to take it all in.
SaraB
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