I’ll admit it, when it comes to exploring the United States I am guilty of always looking overseas for inspiration to fuel my wanderlust. Of course, I know America is home to a diverse landscape, natural beauty, rich cultures and charming cities but it wasn’t until recently did I start to embrace the fun of traveling sans passport stamps. One such beautiful America destination is North Dakota--a state I’ve always known but had never thought to visit. With its National Parks, historic attractions and western feel, North Dakota is a place that sparks the imagination and reminds visitors that great trips don’t always require an 8 hour flight. To tip my cowboy hat to North Dakota and all it offers, here I share what not to miss while there.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
The late Teddy Roosevelt was a man who loved nature and was a noted outdoorsman, so it’s no surprise that North Dakota’s beautiful park was named after him. The Theodore Roosevelt Park is stunning with its landscapes and natural beauty; although the main draw is the wildlife as the park is home to buffalo, deer, wild horses, elk and other animals.
A Visit to Fort Mandan
For American history buffs, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better way to step into the past in North Dakota than Fort Mandan, built by the iconic explorers: Lewis and Clark! The fort is where these two explorers met their iconic native guide, Sakakawea. Today Fort Mandan is an interactive exhibit allowing visitors to step back in time.
National Buffalo Museum
If there is one thing you’ll notice while in North Dakota it is that this state loves their buffalo. From the wild buffalo that roam the National Park to the National Buffalo Museum, it’s clear that the buffalo and their heritage are a cherished part of this community. At the National Buffalo Museum you’ll learn about this animal’s history, how it ties into North Dakota’s past and you’ll even meet a live herd of buffalo on premise!
The Chateau de Mores
The beautiful Chateau de Mores sits on a grassy plain surrounded by rising mountains and wilderness; it is frozen in time and dates back to its heyday in 1893 when the estate was purchased by the Marquis de Mores-a French aristocrat who came to North Dakota to establish a cattle operation. One thing led to another and the Marquis was wrapped up in a murder trial. At the Chateau de Mores visitors can find some of the family’s original artifacts, learn about their history and even observe a re-enactment of the great Marquis murder trial.
MAAH DAAH Hey Trail
This 96 mile trail connects Theodore Roosevelt National Park and brings visitors up close to the area’s more beautiful and remote areas. Named after the Maah Daah Hey symbol of a turtle, which represents perseverance and ambition, the trail is considered a must-do in North Dakota and allows people to camp overnight amongst nature and wildlife.
*This post is sponsored by North Dakota Tourism. As always, The Pin the Map Project only works with brands and tourism boards that I fully support and recommend to my readers.
