NORTH DAKOTA TRAVEL USA

Your Weekend Guide for Medora North Dakota

June 28, 2023 by Kat No Comments

Medora, North Dakota is a place like no other. It has a unique combination of the North Dakota small town feel and Wild West vibes. This tiny town is PACKED with incredible things to do and see. After exploring Medora for a weekend I can see how this town has people coming from across the country year after year.

A few of the most popular things in (and around) Medora include the Medora Musical, the Bully Pulpit Golf Course, and Theodore Roosevelt National Park. In this weekend guide for Medora, North Dakota I share information about these attractions as well as lesser-known hidden gems!

Your Weekend Guide for Medora, North Dakota

The Medora Musical

From the beginning of June through early September the Medora Musical is performed every evening (except Mondays). The cast takes the stage to celebrate the story of how Medora came to be and Theodore Roosevelt’s relationship with the Badlands. The grandeur of Burning Hills Amphitheater only adds to the spectacle of the Medora Musical. What used to be a gulch now holds up to 2,800 attendees at one time!

Book your tickets for the Medora Musical HERE!

The Medora Musical has been on my North Dakota bucket list for quite some time now and I was finally able to take it in! This iconic North Dakota performance was fun, entertaining, and informational. We loved experiencing the Burning Hills Amphitheater and watching the performers tell the story of Theodore Roosevelt in the Badlands. I think we may have to make seeing the Medora Musical an annual event!

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Medora, North Dakota is the gateway to North Dakota’s only National Park. Theodore Roosevelt National Park is upwards of 70 thousand acres of badlands and wildlife. The South Unit park entrance is located within the town of Medora and provides easy access to Scenic Loop Drive. The 36 Mile (58Km) Scenic Loop is host to multiple trailheads and overlooks.

Things to do in Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Drive the Scenic Loop Highway (36 Miles/58 Km)
Go for a Hike (Check out this detailed Trail Guide on the National Parks Service Website).
Look for Wildlife (TRNP is home to bison, wild horses, ground hogs, deer, and dozens of other animals).
Go Camping (There are several campgrounds and backcountry camping areas).
Explore on Horseback (Bring your own horse!)
Go Mountain Biking (Allowed on paved and dirt roads, not allowed on trails).

During a recent trip to Medora we went into Theodore Roosevelt National Park both days. We were treated to awesome views at scenic overlooks and saw tons of wildlife. Visiting in May, we had the opportunity to see herds of bison with calves and wild horses. I look forward to exploring the trails next time I visit!

A Park-Specific Annual Pass can be purchased for Theodore Roosevelt National Park for $55. If you’re planning on visiting multiple National Parks in one year consider an America the Beautiful Pass for $80!

Bully Pulpit Golf Course

The Bully Pulpit Golf Course in notably acclaimed to be one of the top 100 public golf courses in America. With the Badlands as its backdrop, this 18-hole golf course is an itinerary must if you have any interest in golf.

During our most recent trip to Medora, Jake and I had the opportunity to play a round of golf at Bully Pulpit. As an amateur golfer I can’t necessarily give an accurate review of the golf course (I lose plenty of balls no matter where I play)! This course was exceptionally challenging, but a blast to play none-the-less. The views of Medora and the Badlands were unparalleled.

Book at tee time at Bully Pulpit HERE!

Maah Daah Hey Trail

While Theodore Roosevelt National Park may be the more well known park in the region, Maah Daah Hey Trail is not to be overlooked. 150 miles of single track trail cut through the badlands and are host to thousands of hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders each year.

The trail can be easily accessed via the Trailhead off I-94 North-West of Medora, at Sully Creek State Park, or at Bully Pulpit Golf Course.

During our most recent trip to Medora we stayed at Sully Creek State Park. The Maah Daah Hey Trail snakes through Sully Creek so I had a brief opportunity to walk part of it. From what I saw the trail provides beautiful views of the Badlands. I hope to eventually rent or bring a bicycle and spend more time exploring the miles of trail.

North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame

The Cowboy Hall of Fame in Medora, North Dakota was developed in 1994 as a way to educate, remember, and celebrate North Dakota’s history. The museum begins with the history and development of North Dakota and transitions to the evolution of the modern-day cowboy.

Visiting the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame was not in our original Medora Itinerary. However, a rainy Saturday encouraged us to discover some of Medora’s wonderful indoor offerings. Although I was skeptical at first, the Hall of Fame ended up being one of my favorite parts of the trip! I had the opportunity to learn tons about North Dakota history, and I enjoyed reading about the accolades and development of North Dakota Cowboys.

Chateau De Mores State Historic Site

Chateau de Mores State Historic Site is located on a hill overlooking the town of Medora. Much of Medora’s history involves Marquise Du Mores and his family. The Chateau and accompanying information site tell the story of Marquise and his wife Medora’s relocation from New York to North Dakota and settlement in the Badlands. The Chateau which was constructed in 1883 as Marquise and Medora’s summer home, and welcomes guests who are interested in stepping back in time.

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Between visiting the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame and the Chateau de Mores State Historic Site I had the opportunity to double my knowledge of North Dakota history. I found the information at each location to supplement the other well. It was fun to learn the history of the area that I have enjoyed exploring.

Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library

Most of the past US Presidents have Presidential Libraries or Museums in significant places across the country. North Dakota and Medora will soon be welcoming the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. In addition to having an immense amount of information about the 26th President- Theodore Roosevelt, the museum will be an architectural beauty. If you’re visiting Medora after July 4th, 2026 you can’t miss it!

Where to Stay in Medora

Medora Campground

The Medora Campground is located on the edge of town. The full-service campground offers a variety of sites for tents and campers alike. If that’s not quite your style, consider staying in one of their unique Conestoga wagons or quaint cabins. For more information CLICK HERE.

I have had the opportunity to stay at Medora Campground twice and had a wonderful experience both times. The sites are are a reasonable size and the facilities are great. I loved waking up to views of Theodore Roosevelt National Park (across the river) from my tent or Camper Van.

Other places to stay in Medora

South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Sully Creek State Park Campground
Roughriders Hotel
AmericInn by Wyndham
Badlands Motel
Elkhorn Quarters

If you’re in a pinch, Dickinson, North Dakota is a short 35 minute drive from Medora. There are tons of hotels and accommodation available in varying price ranges.

I had the opportunity to visit Medora in a Vanna Adventure Van. I loved sleeping on a real mattress in a climate controlled van. If you’re traveling from the East I highly suggest stopping in Fargo-Moorhead to pick up a Vanna Van on your way. This is an awesome way to experience North Dakota’s Badlands!

Be sure to use code KAT40 for $40 off your booking!

Where to Eat and Drink: Your Weekend Guide for Medora, North Dakota

During the warm summer months business owners flock to Medora to open their seasonal restaurants and cafes. I have only had the opportunity to sample a few of Medora’s offerings, but I am happy to provide information about the places I have tried (or want to try!)

Pitchfork Steak Fondue

Much like the Medora Musical Pitchfork Steak Fondue is considered a Medora Classic. This North Dakota delicacy is just what it sound like- a 12oz juicy steak cooked in vat of broth right on a pitchfork! The steak comes with a buffet of fixings and costs about $40 per person.

The Pitchfork Steak Fondue is the perfect meal prior to watching the Medora Musical. In addition to being absolutely delicious, the Pitchfork Steak Fondue is a unique experience. It was cool to see the staff members cook the steak right on the pitchforks! The steak was cooked to perfection and the sides complimented it well. I absolutely recommend Medora’s Pitchfork Steak Fondue!

Tickets for Medora’s Steak Fondue can be purchased HERE.

Boots Bar and Grill

Boots Bar and Grill is an American Restaurant located right in Medora. With classic food and a laid back vibe, this was a great spot for supper. While visiting we ordered the Southwest Egg Rolls (highly recommend!), the Caprese Pizza (recommend), and Boots Quesadilla (don’t recommend).

Hidden Spring Java

I can confidently recommend Hidden Springs Java as I’ve been a paying customer on three separate occasions! They have great brews and the staff is incredibly friendly. During my first and last stops I ordered a Vanilla Latte and on my second I went with a Maple Latte. Both were incredible- I don’t think there’s a bad thing on the menu!

Medora Convenience and Liquor Store

Is it weird seeing a convenience store on a list for restaurant recommendations? I think so! However, after having breakfast twice at Medora Convenience and Liquor Store I’m ready to share my secret. This “gas station” cooks up homemade fresh breakfast sandwiches each morning on a first-come first-serve basis served from 5am-9am. If you’re looking to grab breakfast for the road, this is the place to do it.

Hatlee and Brae (Ice cream, coffee, and gifts)

This cute shop is a must-visit while exploring Medora, North Dakota. Get your fix of all of life’s best things all in one place- coffee and ice cream! We made a stop at Hatlee and Brae in Medora on our second night to satisfy an ice cream craving- I’m glad we did. The ice cream was incredible and the owner operators were so friendly!

I ordered a two scoop- Lemon Bar and Strawberry Rhubarb. Both were incredible!

Other places to eat in Medora

When visiting in May, only a few shops and restaurants were open. There are a few places that are still on my list to try:

Farmhouse Cafe (I have heard this is one of the best places to eat in Medora!).
Theodore’s Dining Room (Your destination for fine dining in Medora).
Badlands Pizza and Saloon (Just what it sounds like).
Sheriff Bears Ice Cream.
Medora Fudge and Ice Cream Depot.

Medora is one of the most unforgettable places I have ever visited. Although it’s nestled in the “Badlands,” Medora is nothing but warm and welcoming. I encourage you to use this Weekend Guide for Medora, North Dakota to plan your own trip and see what all the buzz is about!