4-Day North Dakota Road Trip Itinerary
Four days is enough to cross North Dakota and see how the state shaped Theodore Roosevelt — and how he shaped it back. This route runs west from Bismarck through Minot and New Town to Medora, ending at the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library on the edge of the Badlands.
Route: Bismarck → Minot → New Town → Medora
The Lewis & Clark Riverboat on the Missouri River at Bismarck.
The Missouri River High Bridge at Bismarck, built for the Northern Pacific in 1882.
The North Dakota State Capitol in Bismarck, an Art Deco tower finished in 1934.
Day 1: Bismarck — Capital City Adventure
- Start your day at Gateway to Science, a hands-on science center suited to curious minds of all ages. 1.5–2 hours
- Head to Huckleberry House for a cozy brunch or coffee in a locally loved setting. 1 hour
- Walk the Missouri River waterfront (30–45 minutes), then board the Lewis & Clark Riverboat Tour for scenic river views with historical narration. 2–2.5 hours
- Wrap up the day with dinner at Pirogue Grille or Blarney Stone Pub. 1–1.5 hours
Overnight in Bismarck.
The North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum in Bismarck.
The reconstruction of Fort Mandan, where Lewis and Clark spent the winter of 1804–05.
The North Dakota Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center in Washburn.
Day 2: Bismarck to Minot — History & Heritage
- Begin at the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum for exhibits on geology, paleontology, and Native American history. 1.5–2 hours
- Drive to Washburn. 45 minutes (40 miles)
- Visit the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center and Fort Mandan for an immersive look at the Corps of Discovery's winter encampment. 1 hour
- Grab lunch at Dakota Farms, a regional favorite for hearty comfort food. 1 hour
- Drive to Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site (12 miles) and explore the earth lodge village and museum exhibits, offering insight into Hidatsa life along the Missouri. 2 hours
- Drive to Minot. 1.5 hours (90 miles)
- Enjoy dinner in downtown Minot at 10 North Main, The Starving Rooster, or High Third. 1–1.5 hours
Overnight in Minot.
The full-scale stave church replica at Scandinavian Heritage Park in Minot.
Lake Sakakawea from Crow Flies High Overlook near New Town.
The country south of New Town, on the Fort Berthold Reservation.
Day 3: Minot to New Town — Culture & Scenic Views
- Start the morning at Scandinavian Heritage Park, where you'll see replicas of Nordic architecture including a full-scale Stave Church and traditional dwellings. 1–1.5 hours
- Drive to New Town along scenic routes near Lake Sakakawea. 1.5 hours (75 miles)
- Stop at Crow Flies High Overlook for panoramic views of the lake and Four Bears Bridge. 30 minutes
- Visit the nearby Earth Lodge Village to see traditional Mandan/Hidatsa dwellings (check seasonal availability). 30–45 minutes
- Tour the MHA Nation Interpretive Center, a striking modern facility sharing the culture and history of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara peoples. 1.5–2 hours
- If time allows, continue to the Painted Canyon Overlook near Medora (100 miles) for Badlands views and photo ops. 2–2.5 hours
Overnight in Medora.
The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library on the butte above Medora.
Exhibits cover Native Americans, homesteaders, ranching and rodeo.
More than 2,800 seats face the Badlands.
Day 4: Medora — Badlands, Bison & the Legacy of a President
- Spend the morning in Theodore Roosevelt National Park – South Unit, driving the scenic loop and pausing for short hikes at Wind Canyon or Buck Hill while spotting bison, wild horses, and prairie dogs. 2.5–3 hours
- Head to the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, where exhibits, trails, and architecture reflect Roosevelt's legacy and conservation ethos. About 3½ hours
- Enjoy lunch on-site at Salt+Scoria, the Library’s restaurant, featuring regional flavors and stunning views. 1 hour
- Return to town and explore the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame, where exhibits celebrate rodeo, ranching, and Native American heritage. 1–1.5 hours
- Spend free time browsing local shops and cafés in Medora, or just unwind and take in the western charm. 1 hour
- In the evening, opt for the seasonal Medora Musical or Pitchfork Steak Fondue for dinner and live entertainment with a view. 2–2.5 hours
Overnight in Medora.
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