Visit Medora
Tucked into the dramatic Badlands of western North Dakota, Medora is a small town with an outsized story. Surrounded by the landscapes that inspired Theodore Roosevelt, Medora serves as the gateway to adventure, history, and the rugged beauty of the American West.
Just minutes from the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and the entrance to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Medora blends frontier heritage with modern experiences—making it the perfect base for exploring Roosevelt’s Badlands.
A Town with a Frontier Story
Medora was founded in 1883 by the French nobleman and entrepreneur Marquis de Mores, who envisioned a thriving cattle and meatpacking town on the northern plains. Though his ambitious business ventures eventually failed, the town he established endured.
That same year, Theodore Roosevelt arrived in the Badlands following the death of his wife and mother. Seeking renewal in the frontier, he began ranching nearby and immersed himself in the life of the American West. His experiences here—riding the range, working alongside cowboys, and witnessing the beauty of the land—would shape the conservation ideals he later carried to the presidency.
Today, Medora preserves this history while welcoming visitors from around the world.
Minutes from the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library
Medora and the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library are closely connected. Located just outside town on the edge of the Badlands, the Library rises from the prairie overlooking the Little Missouri River Valley.
From downtown Medora, visitors can reach the Library in only a few minutes by car, bicycle, or local shuttle. Many guests choose to begin their day exploring the Library’s galleries and outdoor spaces before heading into town to enjoy Medora’s shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
Together, the Library and Medora create a complete experience—combining Roosevelt’s story with the landscape and community that helped shape it.
What You’ll Find in Medora
Historic Downtown
Stroll along the town’s boardwalk-style streets, where locally owned shops, galleries, and restaurants reflect the spirit of the Old West.
Medora Musical
Each summer, this beloved outdoor show celebrates the history, music, and spirit of the American West in the dramatic setting of the Burning Hills Amphitheatre.
Chateau de Mores
This beautifully preserved 26-room home tells the story of the Marquis de Mores and the early days of Medora.
Pitchfork Steak Fondue
One of Medora’s most iconic experiences, this outdoor dining tradition features steaks cooked on pitchforks over an open flame while guests enjoy sweeping Badlands views.
North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame
Located in the heart of Medora, this museum celebrates the people, culture, and traditions of the Northern Plains. Through exhibits and storytelling, visitors learn about ranching, rodeo, Native American heritage, and the working cowboys who helped shape the region.
Old Town Hall Theater
A historic venue in downtown Medora that hosts films, presentations, and live performances throughout the season.
Medora Showhall
Home to a variety of indoor performances and family-friendly productions that add to Medora’s vibrant summer entertainment scene.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
The entrance to the park’s South Unit sits just outside Medora, offering visitors immediate access to scenic drives, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing in the dramatic Badlands landscape that inspired Theodore Roosevelt.
Point-to-Point Trails
A network of scenic paths connects key locations around Medora, allowing visitors to walk or bike between town, the Badlands, and nearby attractions while enjoying expansive prairie views.
Point-to-Point Park
A relaxing green space along the Little Missouri River where visitors can picnic, enjoy the scenery, and connect with trails leading into the surrounding landscape.
Bully Pulpit Golf Course
Consistently ranked among the top public golf courses in the United States, this stunning course winds through the Badlands with dramatic elevation changes and unforgettable views.
Little Bully Pulpit Mini Golf
A fun, family-friendly course that brings the spirit of the Badlands to life with creative obstacles and playful design.
Dining in Medora
From casual cafés to iconic Western dining experiences, Medora offers a variety of restaurants serving everything from hearty frontier fare to modern cuisine. Visitors can enjoy meals with sweeping Badlands views or relax on downtown patios after a day of exploration.
Shopping and Local Finds
Downtown Medora features locally owned shops offering Western apparel, regional crafts, books, art, and souvenirs that capture the spirit of the Badlands and the legacy of Theodore Roosevelt.
Horseback Riding
One of the most authentic ways to experience the Badlands is on horseback. Guided trail rides departing from Medora allow visitors to explore the rolling prairie and rugged terrain much as Theodore Roosevelt did during his ranching days.
Carriage Rides
Classic horse-drawn carriage rides offer a slower, scenic way to experience Medora and its surroundings, giving visitors a taste of frontier travel while enjoying views of the town and nearby Badlands.
Maltese Cross Cabin
Visitors can see the historic Maltese Cross Cabin near the South Unit entrance of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, where it offers a glimpse into Theodore Roosevelt’s early ranching life in the Badlands.
Dining with a Taste of the West
From casual cafés to classic Western dining experiences, Medora offers a variety of restaurants serving hearty meals, local favorites, and scenic views of the Badlands. Whether you’re fueling up for a day in Theodore Roosevelt National Park or relaxing after exploring, there’s something for every appetite.
Find a Piece of the Badlands to Take Home
Medora’s locally owned shops offer everything from Western apparel and regional art to books, gifts, and souvenirs inspired by Theodore Roosevelt and the Badlands. Stroll the walkable downtown and discover unique finds that capture the spirit of the American West.
Stay in the Heart of Roosevelt Country
Visitors to Medora can choose from charming historic hotels, comfortable lodges, campgrounds, and scenic cabins. Staying overnight allows you to fully experience the beauty of the Badlands, the evening entertainment of Medora, and easy access to the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and nearby park.