15 Great things to do in Bismarck, North Dakota
Bismarck-Mandan is located in the heart of Central North Dakota; I strongly believe that it’s an underrated destination. BisMan is loaded with awesome outdoor activities, great food and drink, and fun things to do. Jake and I recently spent a weekend exploring the cities and I have compiled a guide of 15 Great Things to Do in Bismarck, North Dakota!
Check out my WanderLog Map
Check back soon for a full itinerary for a weekend in Bismarck!
15 Things to Do in Bismarck Mandan: Fun Activities
It’s easy to spend a weekend in Bismarck-Mandan, North Dakota. After spending some time exploring I have concluded that this is a great destination for a trip away with your partner, a girl’s weekend, or even a family trip with kids! Here are 8 must-do things in BisMan that I can’t wait to do again!
Chief Looking’s Village: A great Overlook within the City
Fun Fact: I actually lived in Bismarck, ND for two months during the fall of 2020. While I was there I had very little money, but I enjoyed spending time at the Missouri River. Unfortunately, I had no idea that Chief Looking’s Village existed, otherwise I would have been there all the time!
Chief Looking’s Village is located in North Western Bismarck and has the best views of the Missouri River and Mandan. There are trails that lead up from Riverside Parks below, but if you aren’t interested in hiking the overlook has great spots to stop for a picnic. Chief Looking’s Village is a local’s favorite for taking in our beautiful North Dakota sunsets!
Dakota Zoo: The largest Zoo in North Dakota
It had been a long time since I had visited a zoo prior to this trip. I didn’t realize quite how expansive the Dakota Zoo is until I had this chance to explore. The Dakota Zoo is the largest in North Dakota with over 600 different animal species. I would suggest budgeting at least two hours for this stop on your trip!
Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park: A great place for Hiking near BisMan
I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again- I’m a State Park Girlie. This wouldn’t be a “Things to Do” round up without including the nearest place to explore the State’s beauty.
I can’t pick favorites (okay.. maybe I can) when it comes to State Parks, but if I did, Fort Abraham Lincoln would be up there! This park has unique North Dakota history, beautiful views of the river and great trails.
During our stop we parked at Cavalry Post and spent some time taking in the old barracks, shops, and other buildings. We headed North to the Gift Shop/Museum where we filled our waters and enjoyed the old buildings. From there, we walked through On-A-Slant Indian Village and down to Mato-Tope Trail (this trail was stunning!).
Next time we visit we look forward to exploring Little Soldier Loop and spending more time up in the hills!
Cross Ranch State Park: An awesome spot for Camping and Hiking
We didn’t visit Cross Ranch State Park during our most recent trip to BisMan, but we did spend a night camping with friends over Memorial Day weekend. Our campsite was lovely and we enjoyed hiking along the trails near the river.
For all the details of our trip to Cross Ranch, check out my full blog post:
How to Spend 24 Hours in Cross Ranch State Park
Bismarck Mandan Art Trail (and Art Alley 5.5)
Bismarck-Mandan is brimming with unique local art so the BisMan CVB developed the Bismarck-Mandan Art Trail. The Art Trail includes 45 locations with incredible local art. Visitors and locals can download the mobile passport to check in at various art-filled locations around the city to earn prizes.
For more information about Bismarck-Mandan Art Trail CLICK HERE!
While we were there we visited Alley 5.5 which is located just outside of the Radisson Hotel in Downtown Bismarck. Alley 5.5 included works from 20+ local artists!
There are also art stops located along Riverfront Trail (see next item!), including the Lewis & Clark Expedition Statue in Keelboat Park.
Missouri River: A great place to see the Sunset
While I lived in Bismarck I spent a lot of time exploring around the Missouri River. During our most recent trip I wanted to take my dog Brutus down to enjoy the trail.
Riverfront Trail is 2.9 miles of paved trail that connects several parks on the Bismarck side of the Missouri River. Be sure to walk near Keelboat Park for great views of the Northern Pacific Railway Bridge.
Golf: BisMan has many fun Golf Courses
Jake is the true connoisseur when it come to golf courses, and he raves about the courses in Bismarck. On our most recent trip while I took Brutus to Papa’s Pumpkin Patch, Jake went with a few friends to Hawktree Golf Club. He said that this course is beautiful, and definitely one of the more challenging courses he’s played in North Dakota.
During a previous trip to BisMan (before we went to Cross Ranch State Park) we played a round at Tom O’Leary Golf Course. This is a great course with a lot of change in elevation- different from what we see on the Eastern side of the State.
Papa’s Pumpkin Patch: A fun Fall Activity for Families
Although this stop is seasonal, I have to mention Papa’s Pumpkin Patch. This Pumpkin Patch really is a spectacle. This pumpkin patch has EVERYTHING. There are tons of games for kids and families, zip lines, hayrides, pools of corn kernels, pumpkin catapults.. the list goes on!
Papa’s Pumpkin Patch is an awesome family friendly stop in Bismarck-Mandan.
15 Things to Do in Bismarck-Mandan: Where to Eat
Nothing rounds out a trip like a few good meals, and I’m here to share where to find them in Bismarck-Mandan, North Dakota. From charcuterie, to coffee, to good beers, I’ve got you covered!
Amina Cucina: A top spot for Charcuterie
When I was heading to BisMan I had so many people suggest stopping at Amina Cucina. This a quaint coffee shop and eatery located on a cute corner in Downtown Bismarck. We caught the tail end of patio seating, but the inside seating makes for a great date night location, or place to meet a friend in any season.
I started with the Turmeric Latte made with Dogwood Coffee (out of Minneapolis). Lunch for me was the Amina Cucina Charcuterie Plate, and Jake ordered the Mushroom Scramble. We both loved our food, but Jake was raving about the English Muffin Toast that came with his Omelette!
Balancing Goat Coffee Co.: A cute Coffee Shop in Mandan
I have been to Balancing Goat Coffee several times, and let me tell you.. it does not disappoint! The coffee is always delicious and the setting is wonderful. Balancing Goat Coffee Co. is actually also a yoga studio! They offer tons of classes including traditional yoga, aerial yoga, and pilates. This would be a great place to sneak in a workout class if that’s what you enjoy doing on vacation!
I ordered an Iced Matcha Latte with coconut milk and honey while I was there; it was so good!
Laughing Sun Brewing: The most popular Brewery in Bismarck
Visiting local breweries while traveling is one of our favorite things to do. It’s so fun to see where the locals congregate and try brews that often have a unique twist. Laughing Sun Brewing is a Bismarck staple, and a great place to spend an evening. While visiting on a Saturday night the place was bustling and there was live music. For more information check out the upcoming events calendar HERE!
I’m a pretty basic beer girl, you can find me with either a light beer, an ale, or a sour. While we were there I went with the Red Dwarf Fruited Sour, it was great! For food we ordered the Brisket Mac and Cheese; Laughing Sun Brewing has a resident BBQ menu.
Copper Dog Coffee and Waffles: An awesome spot to grab Breakfast in Mandan
Copper Dog Coffee and Waffles is located in the heart of Mandan. This cute coffee and waffle shop has tons of seating and great food.
Jake and I both ordered the Strawberry Cheesecake Waffle! Normally we would order two different things and share them, but this option just looked too good! I ordered a hot cinnamon roll latte to go with my waffle- 10/10, would recommend!
Stonehome Brewing: The best place for Pizza in BisMan
Jake and I were trying to find a place to grab a quick bite to eat before driving home. We saw some good reviews for the pizza at Stonehome Brewing and we were sold! Stonehome Brewing has locations in Bismarck and Rapid City- I would describe it as an elevated sports bar.
Because we visited early on Sunday there was a special on Bloody Mary’s and Caesars. Naturally, I ordered a Caesar and added tons of extra Tabasco! We started our meal with the Jalapeño Egg Rolls, the raspberry sauce on top was a delicious add.
For me the Rusty Tractor Pizza was the star of the show: bacon, fig, garlic oil, cheese blend, Gorgonzola, and honey drizzle on top. You can’t go wrong.
Country House Deli: A local Deli with great Sandwiches
Although we didn’t hit Country House Deli during our most recent trip, it was a memorial spot from trips prior! It may not be the most aesthetically pleasing restaurant, but the sandwiches are second to none! I had “The Bismarck” on sourdough: pastrami, ham, bacon, Swiss cheese, coleslaw, horseradish, and house sauce.
Eat Thai- Where to get Thai Food in Bismarck
I’m a sucker for Thai Food, and while I lived in Bismarck, Eat Thai was the primary place I would order takeout from. The Pad Thai is delicious, and their spicy scale is excellent!
15 Things to Do in Bismarck-Mandan: Where to Stay
While in Bismarck, we had the pleasure of staying at the Radisson Hotel in Downtown Bismarck. The rooms are dated, but this is a great location if you’re interested in being near the action.
Another option is this cute vacation rental I have been eyeing! This Downtown Dream House looks so cute, and it can sleep up to 8 guests!
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Bismarck-Mandan is a great place to visit in Central North Dakota. The city is full of wonderful activities, delicious places to eat and drink, and awesome places to stay. These 15 things to do in Bismarck-Mandan will guarantee you a wonderful trip!
Be sure to check out the BisMan CVB site HERE for additional information while booking your trip!
