Even though many people think of North Dakota as a “fly-over state,” it is actually one of the most beautiful places in the nation. From stunning bodies of water to the rugged badlands, North Dakota is full of sightseeing opportunities. If you are looking for a great way to experience all that state has to offer, consider one of the following sightseeing tours. It will be time well spent.
When Theodore Roosevelt came to the Dakota Territories in 1883, he fell in love with the area, returning to visit many times. The Theodore Roosevelt State Park was created to honor the former president and protect the beauty of the land. The park includes over 70,000 acres canyons, rivers, and trails. Guided tours, including some on horseback, are available during the spring, summer, and fall.
Nowhere is the beauty of North Dakota more evident than in the Badlands. Dakota Cyclery provides guided bike tours of the area for riders of all ages and experience levels. Four tours are available, each with different lengths and difficulties. The flagship tour is the Wrangler—which includes a ride through the renowned Maah Daah Hey trail.
Fort Union was one of the most important trading posts in the Midwest between 1828 and 1867. The trading post has been largely restored and preserved to give visitors a first-hand look at what life in the 19th century was like. Guided tours are available, as are materials for self-guided tours.
The Northern Plains Indians are a vital part of the state’s history and the Knife River Indian Village gives visitors the opportunity to see how they lived. Guided tours will take you through each building, providing you with information about artifacts and exhibits as you go.
Experience life as it was centuries ago by visiting Bonanzaville. Nowhere else in the state will you see a larger collection of restored and replica buildings, equipment, and artifacts. Guided tours are available and include the chance to interact with some of the items. See if you think you could have handled life in the 1800s.
A part of Fort Abraham Lincoln, the riverboat cruises will take you down the Missouri River where Lew & Clark once traveled. Your guide will give you information about the history of the river and its most famous explorers. The boat can also be reserved for special events, the guide included.
Bike the Border’s Bicycle Tour takes place once a year, usually in the summer. Although routes are often different from year to year, most tours cover almost 150 miles of North Dakota’s beautiful terrain. The tour takes place at a slower pace than most, giving you the opportunity to interact with the land as much as possible.
Dickinson, North Dakota is a town full of unique architecture and fascinating history. This walking tour will take you through the city and give you inside information that isn’t available in any history book.
