The North Dakota Road Trip You Need To Take
Many people travel “through” North Dakota and don’t take the time to experience all it has to offer. Over the last 10 years, I have taken many road trips through the state. I am thrilled to share my travel finds with all of you. This is the North Dakota road trip you need to take.
I hope that many of you will take this epic road trip as you trek through the state. A highlight for many is the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, which will open July 4, 2026.
You can travel east to west or west to east. I am going to start on the east side of the state in Fargo. This epic road trip begins in Fargo, a city that seems small, but it is North Dakota’s largest city. Stop at the welcome center, which welcomes the “Best for Last Club” for travelers looking to conquer their 50th state. Take advantage of the photo ops as you begin your trek across North Dakota.
Fargo – Moorhead Visitors Center
2001 44th St South
Fargo, ND 58103
701-282-3653
This epic route will take you through the following areas of the state:
When you travel this route, you will not be traveling on an Interstate Highway. You will be traveling through small towns that pepper the North Dakota landscape. Don’t pressure yourself to see and do it all, as this is a road trip. On your next visit to North Dakota, take more time in each community.
Things To Do In Fargo
Most people don’t realize that Fargo sits on the North Dakota and Minnesota state line. The town of Moorhead, Minnesota also offers some fun things to see and do. Many people travel between the two towns and don’t realize they are in a different town and state.
It’s easy to become a Norwegian for a day when you are in the area. With so many things to see and do, you will be kept busy throughout your time in the area. You will continue to see unique experiences on this North Dakota road trip.
With this being the first big stop on this road trip, you may be asking, “How can this be topped?” That’s the beauty of this road trip. There are truly thousands of fun finds in North Dakota.
Stay In A Cabin At Lake Metigoshe State Park
On your way to Lake Metigoshe State Park, swing into the International Peace Garden. Here is where you can experience magical gardens and stand with one foot in the United States and the other in Canada.
You will cross into Canada, turning into the International Peace Garden from the United States, so you will want to have a current passport in hand.
After spending a few hours at the International Peace Garden, stay in a cabin (reserved in advance) and enjoy the park’s peace and quiet. We stayed in Cormorant cabin, which sleeps four.
From kayaking to nighttime skywatching, this area is magical. Staying in a state park makes this North Dakota road trip different from others.
Explore Minot
Minot is the town that surprised us the most on this road trip. I’ve had this town on my radar for several years, and I am so glad that it worked out to visit on this road trip. For several years, I’ve been a huge fan of Australian Artist Guido van Helten. Imagine my excitement when I learned he was in town painting North Dakota’s Tallest Mural.
I am so thrilled I was able to meet him, as his work is featured in my Iowa book, 100 Things To Do In Iowa Before You Die.
Norway’s history, an incredibly small zoo, Roosevelt Park Zoo, which knows how to play big, and golf were highlights of our visit.
And the food, the BBQ at Bone’s BBQ Smokehouse and Grill was some of the best food we had in 2025. Bonus: They have a delicious bread pudding in a cup!
We still talk about our meal there, everywhere we go.
Play In Watford City
Watford City is the home base for the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Your North Dakota road trip continues to get more beautiful as you head west.
A fun experience in Watford City is to stay with a legend at the Roosevelt Inn, Theodore Roosevelt.
View the numerous photos that line the walls of America’s 26th President, Theodore Roosevelt. Making time to play in Watford City will help you understand why Theodore Roosevelt means so much to North Dakota.
If you find lodging is booked in Medora, book a stay in Watford City. Here you can experience the North Unit and drive to Medora to experience the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park and visit the new Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library (Opening July 2026.) A delicious stop is Stonehome Brewing – pizza and a drink for the win!
Door 204, a fun coffee shop, featuring coffee and mail, is ready for your morning cup of joe.
The Long X Trading Post Visitor Center showcases all things in the area and the perfect place to pick up your memorabilia from your trip.
Experience McKenzie County
As you depart Minot, on your way to Watford City, plan to stop at the MHA Nation Interpretive Center in New Town, which is a 45-minute drive east of Watford City in McKenzie County. This educational museum is a walk through the history and culture of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arkara Nation.
McKenzie County is home to Watford City and unique experiences to the area. When you are in Watford City, travel north toTobacco Gardens Resort on Lake Sakakawea. A stop at Lake Sakakawea introduces you to a lake with more shoreline than the California Pacific Coast. Your North Dakota road trip includes numerous facts and fun for the outdoor enthusiast.
Peggy and her team will welcome you and introduce you to an area of the country that many never see. If you enjoy Lewis & Clark adventures, this county is calling your name.
Spend as much time as you want exploring the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The unique rock formations and beauty unique to the area will win you over. The bison roam free, making the 14 mile (28 miles out-and-back) scenic drive one to remember.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park – Best For Families
Experience Medora All Year Long
The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library is slated to open July 4, 2026. Now is the time to book your room to experience everything Medora has to offer. Take a hard-hat tour with us showcasing what is to come!
On a recent January, 2026 visit, you can see the progress in the photo below of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. The building has taken shape and the wild horses of Theodore Roosevelt National Park can be seen in the foreground. This photo was taken from inside Theodore Roosevelt National Park, across I-94. Tip: When you are in the South Unit of the national park, stop at Skyline Vista for this view of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library.
If you visit Medora during high-season; June – Middle of September, you can experience the Medora Musical, the longest running outdoor musical in the country.
Anothermusical highlight is the Gospel Brunch, playing in town during the summer months.
Winter In Theodore Roosevelt National Park Is Spectacular
The South Unit entrance of Theodore Roosevelt National Park sits in the town of Medora. You can experience this anytime of year.
Lodging & Dining In Medora
Medora has numerous lodging options, but summer dates book fast. Book your room well in advance to avoid disappointment. If you are looking for a basic room to call home for the night, Elkhorn Quarters offers clean, cozy lodging with an outdoor pool. The Americinn in Medora offers an indoor pool and larger family-friendly accommodations.
Things To Do In Bismarck, North Dakota
Dine at the Little Missouri Saloon in Medora in a fun, family-friendly saloon with good food! Grab a seat on the outdoor, upper deck with a view of the town or belly up to the bar.
The legendary steaks, fried pickles (a favorite of mine), and burgers will entertain you and your family while in Medora. Numerous family-friendly activites in Medora will keep you and everyone in your party wanting to stay longer on your visit.
Most importantly, slow down and take the time to explore North Dakota on your road trip. The people, experiences, and communities will welcome you. Don’t be afraid to ask the locals, “Where do you like to eat?” The locals know. This North Dakota road trip will give you hours of fun and years of things to talk about.
Things To Do In Jamestown, North Dakota
I’m not sure why North Dakota is often ranked 50th by many, but I assume it’s because of its location. Did you know that North Dakota is #1 in sunflower production?
Rural America is my home and I know North Dakota will showcase what it has to offer on your visit, as Rural America often does. I hope I have shown you that North Dakota is more than just a place to cross off your bucket list; it’s a destination that will reconnect you with the magic of travel.
