bigtravelbuzzBismarck is the capital city of North Dakota and a great destination for travelers interested in history, culture, and outdoor activities. Here are some places to visit and things to do in Bismarck:
North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum: This museum offers exhibits on the state’s history, culture, and natural resources. It’s a great place to learn about the Native American tribes that lived in the area, the state’s role in the Lewis and Clark expedition, and the development of North Dakota’s agriculture and oil industries.
Dakota Zoo: The Dakota Zoo is a fun family-friendly attraction featuring over 125 species of animals, including tigers, bears, and monkeys. There’s also a petting zoo and a playground for kids.
Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park: This state park is located just outside of Bismarck and features historic sites like the reconstructed Mandan Indian Village and the former military post, Fort Abraham Lincoln. There are also hiking trails, a marina, and camping facilities.
State Capitol Building: The State Capitol Building in Bismarck is an impressive building with beautiful architecture and artwork. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history and functions of North Dakota’s state government.
Missouri River: Bismarck is located on the Missouri River, which offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking. There are several marinas and boat launches in the area.
Superslide Amusement Park: This amusement park is a great destination for families with young children. It features a variety of rides and attractions, including water slides, bumper boats, and mini-golf.
Downtown Bismarck: Downtown Bismarck is a charming area with boutique shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. It’s a great place to stroll around and explore the local culture.
Overall, Bismarck is a great destination for travelers interested in history, culture, and outdoor activities. There are plenty of things to see and do in and around the city, making it a great destination for a North Dakota vacation.
Best Time To Visit Bismarck
The best time to visit Bismarck depends on what you’re looking to do and see. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons in Bismarck:
Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Bismarck, with warm temperatures and plenty of outdoor activities available. This is a great time to explore the city’s parks and trails, go fishing on the Missouri River, or attend outdoor events like music festivals and fairs.
Fall (September to November): Fall in Bismarck is a beautiful time to visit, with cool temperatures and colorful foliage. This is a great time to go hiking or biking on the city’s trails, attend fall festivals, or take a scenic drive to see the changing leaves.
Winter (December to February): Winter in Bismarck can be cold and snowy, but it’s also a great time to enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowmobiling. The city also hosts several winter festivals and events, including the famous Medora Musical.
Spring (March to May): Spring in Bismarck can be unpredictable, with changing weather conditions and occasional snowstorms. However, this is also a great time to see the city’s wildflowers and visit local attractions without the crowds.
Overall, the best time to visit Bismarck depends on your interests and what you want to do while you’re there. Summer is the most popular time to visit, but each season offers its own unique experiences and attractions.
How to get around in Bismarck
Bismarck is the capital city of North Dakota, and there are several ways to get around the city:
Car: Bismarck has a well-maintained road network, and most people prefer to travel by car. There are several car rental agencies in the city, and you can also use ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft.
Public transportation: The Capital Area Transit System (CAT) provides bus services in Bismarck and Mandan. The buses run on several routes throughout the day, and you can buy tickets or passes from the driver or at the CAT office.
Biking: Bismarck has several bike trails that you can use to get around the city. The trails are well-maintained, and there are several bike rental options available.
Walking: Bismarck is a pedestrian-friendly city, and walking is a great way to explore the downtown area. Most of the city’s attractions are located within walking distance of each other.
Taxi: There are several taxi services available in Bismarck, and you can easily hail a taxi from any street corner or call for a pickup.
Overall, Bismarck is a relatively small city, and getting around should not be too difficult.
Where to eat in Bismarck
Bismarck has a wide variety of restaurants and eateries to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some popular options:
Pirogue Grille – This upscale restaurant offers a diverse menu with a focus on local ingredients and fresh seafood.
Fireflour Pizza – This artisanal pizza place features wood-fired pies made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
The Toasted Frog – This trendy restaurant serves American-style cuisine with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients, craft cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Blarney Stone Pub – This popular Irish pub serves classic pub fare like fish and chips, bangers and mash, and shepherd’s pie, along with a great selection of beers on tap.
Peacock Alley – Located in the historic Patterson Hotel, Peacock Alley serves upscale American cuisine in a cozy, upscale setting.
The Walrus Restaurant – This restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere and serves American-style dishes like burgers, sandwiches, salads, and a variety of craft beers.
Pho 701 – This Vietnamese restaurant offers a variety of pho dishes, along with other classic Vietnamese dishes like spring rolls, vermicelli bowls, and banh mi sandwiches.
There are plenty of other great restaurants to choose from in Bismarck, so be sure to explore the local dining scene to find your new favorite spot.
Famous street stalls in Bismarck
Street food culture is not as prominent in Bismarck as in some other cities, but there are still a few popular street stalls that are worth checking out:
The Hot Dog Peddler – This food cart is a popular spot for grabbing a quick and delicious hot dog. The cart is usually parked near downtown Bismarck during lunch hours.
Broadway Dogs & More – This food truck serves up a variety of hot dogs and sausages, as well as other street food classics like nachos and corn dogs. The truck can be found at various events and festivals around town.
Kroll’s Diner – While not technically a street stall, Kroll’s Diner is a local institution that serves up classic American diner fare in a retro setting. The diner is known for its “Knoephla Soup,” a traditional German soup made with dumplings.
The Donut Hole – This family-owned bakery has been serving up fresh, handmade donuts for over 30 years. The shop is located on 7th Street, just a few blocks from the State Capitol.
While the street food scene may not be as robust in Bismarck as in some other cities, these spots are still beloved by locals and are worth checking out for a taste of the local flavor.
Where to stay in Bismarck
Luxury accommodation
Bismarck offers several luxurious accommodation options for visitors. Here are some popular choices:
Radisson Hotel Bismarck – This upscale hotel is located in the heart of downtown Bismarck and offers luxurious rooms and suites with modern amenities. The hotel also features an on-site restaurant and bar, fitness center, and indoor pool.
The Blarney Stone Bed & Breakfast – This charming bed and breakfast is located in a historic building in downtown Bismarck and features luxurious rooms with elegant decor and modern amenities. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning.
Hyatt Place Bismarck – This modern hotel offers spacious rooms and suites with separate living areas, as well as a fitness center, indoor pool, and on-site restaurant and bar.
Staybridge Suites Bismarck – This all-suite hotel offers spacious and luxurious rooms with full kitchens and separate living areas. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning and an evening social hour with complimentary snacks and beverages.
Hilton Garden Inn Bismarck – This hotel offers modern and luxurious rooms and suites with premium amenities, as well as an on-site restaurant and bar, fitness center, and indoor pool.
These are just a few of the luxurious accommodation options available in Bismarck. Each offers its own unique amenities and features, so be sure to explore your options to find the perfect fit for your travel needs.
Where to stay in Bismarck
Budget accommodation
Bismarck offers several budget-friendly accommodation options for visitors. Here are some popular choices:
Motel 6 Bismarck – This budget hotel offers basic but comfortable rooms at an affordable price. The hotel features an outdoor pool and is conveniently located near the Bismarck Municipal Airport.
Super 8 by Wyndham Bismarck – This budget hotel offers simple and clean rooms at an affordable price. The hotel features a complimentary breakfast and is located near several shopping and dining options.
AmericInn by Wyndham Bismarck – This budget hotel offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price, as well as an indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center. The hotel is located near several shopping and dining options.
Expressway Suites Bismarck – This budget hotel offers spacious rooms with separate living areas and kitchenettes, as well as a complimentary breakfast and evening social hour with complimentary snacks and beverages.
MainStay Suites Bismarck – This budget hotel offers spacious and comfortable suites with kitchenettes and separate living areas, as well as a complimentary breakfast and on-site fitness center.
These are just a few of the budget-friendly accommodation options available in Bismarck. Each offers its own unique amenities and features, so be sure to explore your options to find the perfect fit for your travel needs.
Travel Tips Bismarck
Here are some travel tips to keep in mind for your visit to Bismarck:
Plan for the weather: Bismarck experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Make sure to pack accordingly, especially if you plan on spending time outdoors.
Rent a car: While there are public transportation options available in Bismarck, renting a car is the most convenient way to get around and explore the surrounding area.
Visit the State Capitol: The North Dakota State Capitol is located in Bismarck and offers free guided tours of the building and grounds.
Enjoy the outdoors: Bismarck is home to several parks and recreational areas, including the Missouri River, which offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking.
Explore local history: Bismarck has a rich history, and there are several museums and historic sites to visit, including the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum and the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center.
Try local cuisine: Bismarck has several restaurants that feature locally-sourced ingredients and regional cuisine, so be sure to try some local favorites while you’re in town.
Take in the local culture: Bismarck is home to several cultural institutions, including the Bismarck Art & Galleries Association and the Dakota Stage Ltd. theatre, so be sure to check out some of the local arts and entertainment offerings.
Overall, Bismarck is a friendly and welcoming city with plenty to see and do, so take your time and enjoy all that it has to offer.