Looking for fun things to do in Bismarck, North Dakota? We had the chance to visit the capital city of North Dakota and were pleasantly surprised by the fun things to do in Bismarck. North Dakota is a place to add to your family travel list.
Bismarck-Mandan is located along the east banks of the Missouri River. It’s the capital city of North Dakota and the second most populous city in the state.
P.S. This article is made in collaboration with Bismarck-Mandan. We are incredibly grateful they hosted us for our stay. It allowed me to write a deeper and more quality review. Note that all opinions are our own.
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Bismarck is famous for its rich history, well-documented in sites like the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum.
The striking natural beauty of the Missouri River, the expansive Dakota prairies, and the city’s role as a center for governance, education, and culture make it an appealing destination for families exploring North Dakota.
Let’s see what are all the fun things to do in Bismarck, ND.
11 Fun Things to Do in Bismarck, North Dakota for the Family
1. Dakota Zoo
A gem within the capital city of Bismarck is the Dakota Zoo. It’s a fantastic destination for families on a North Dakota road trip and one of the most popular Bismarck attractions. Nestled along the Missouri River, the zoo stretches over 90 acres and is home to over 600 animals, from native species to more exotic ones.
I loved seeing animal species we don’t always see in zoos, including many “big cats.” Also, the kids loved petting and feeding the ponies, miniature horses, and goats. They were really fun to feed.
The collection includes majestic tigers, river otters, and many species of primates. The Dakota Zoo’s primary goal is to promote understanding and conservation of animals and their habitats – a fantastic learning opportunity for children and adults alike.
One of the zoo’s highlights is the Prairie Dog Town, where you can watch these lively creatures scampering and burrowing. My boys loved going in the glass display and seeing them from close.
Don’t miss the chance to ride on the Zoo Express miniature train. It provides a guided tour around the zoo. It takes about 30 minutes. It’s a great way to explore the zoo when the kids tire of walking.
The Dakota Zoo is open from April through October, varying hours by season.
The zoo’s commitment to education, conservation, and family-friendly fun makes it a must-family thing to do in Bismarck.
2. Raging Rivers Waterpark
A visit to the Raging Rivers Waterpark in Mandan is the perfect way to cool off and add a splash of fun to your family trip in North Dakota. It’s open daily, from June to Labor Day.
Thrill-seekers will love the speed slides. There are 4 huge water slides to do (2 Speed Slides and 2 Twister Slides). Kids must be at least 48 inches to do those 4 slides, but the little ones will still get to use the smaller slides in the splash park.
The Speed Slides are the park’s main attraction for families with older kids. It launches you from a height of 66 feet. The dual Twister Slides offer a swirling ride down.
We didn’t get to do the slides. One of my sons is still too little, and the other was barely tall enough but a bit too intimidated by the height and speed of the slides.
If you have younger children, the Aqua Play Area is a dedicated zone with kid-friendly slides, water jets, and a huge dump bucket that keeps the little ones entertained and cooled.
For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the Lazy River lets you float along a 900-foot loop on a tube, taking in the park’s beautiful surroundings. We enjoyed the Lazy River float. I think we did it 3 or 4 times in a row. And we succeeded at not getting sprayed by the big waterfalls.
Lockers and changing rooms and a concession stand serving food and drinks are available. You can also bring your own picnic, but glass containers and alcohol are not allowed.
With its exciting water attractions and relaxing amenities, Raging Rivers Waterpark promises family fun and a refreshing respite from the summer heat.
3. North Dakota’s Gateway to Science
North Dakota’s Gateway to Science is open from Wednesday to Monday. They are closed on Tuesdays. There is a small admission fee ($14 per adult and $9 per child, free for children under 2).
This was one of our favorite attractions in Bismarck, ND. We wished we could have a science center like this back home.
The Gateway to Science is a fabulous stop for families who love hands-on learning experiences. This interactive science center aims to inspire the discovery of the world through science and make learning an enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.
With exhibits focusing on topics like:
- physics,
- biology,
- earth science, and
- technology
There’s something to spark curiosity in everyone.
There are so many exhibits and fun that kids can stay for hours. I would recommend at least 2 hours (if not more).
It’s hard to say which station we preferred, but we did have a lot of fun at the electricity circuit station. We had to find ways to power a light using a power source and test lead. The kids succeeded and were proud.
They also created their own spaceship and had to test their construction on a shaking and turning platform.
And we did so many others that were all so fun and educational.
This science center is a fantastic place to spend a few hours, offering kids (and adults!) the chance to learn, explore, and, most importantly, have fun with science.
It’s an educational visit that feels more like play than a learning experience – making it a great choice for families.
4. North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum
In Bismarck, the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum is a cultural and historical hub, offering families a fascinating look into the state’s past and present. It’s a FREE museum (but donations are greatly appreciated)
As North Dakota’s largest museum, it provides an immersive experience that both educates and entertains, making it a top destination for families.
The museum has four galleries, each presenting a different era of North Dakota’s history.
- The Adaptation Gallery: Geologic Time provides insights into the prehistoric creatures that once roamed the area, from the Tyrannosaurus rex to the fascinating woolly mammoth.
- The Innovation Gallery: Early Peoples explores the life and culture of the indigenous tribes that called this land home.
- The Inspiration Gallery: Yesterday and Today covers the recent history of North Dakota from the 1800s to the present day, and
- The Governors Gallery hosts traveling exhibits from around the world.
You’ll see a huge mammoth skeleton as soon as you enter the museum. You can then follow the steps on the floor leading to the different galleries. We particularly loved the Adaptation Gallery, but they are all worth seeing.
But the best part for children? Young kids will love the Treehouse. It’s a hands-on play and learning space encouraging younger visitors to explore North Dakota’s heritage and culture through interactive exhibits. I would say it’s targeted at 6 years old and under.
The center also features an outdoor picnic area, an auditorium, and a café.
I would recommend planning at least 2 hours to visit the museum.
A trip to this museum provides families with a deeper understanding and appreciation of North Dakota’s history and people, making it an enriching and enjoyable visit during your stay in Bismarck.
5. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park
For a memorable step back in time, Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park is a must-visit destination for families traveling to North Dakota. This historic state park is located just south of Mandan and combines nature, history, and cultural exploration.
There is a $7.00 per vehicle entrance fee, with additional fees if you’re interested in guided tours.
Fort Abraham Lincoln was once an important infantry and cavalry post. It’s most famous as the place from which Lieutenant Colonel George Custer and the Seventh Cavalry rode out on their ill-fated expedition against the Sioux at the Little Bighorn.
Today, you can tour reconstructed military buildings, including the Custer House, enlisted men’s barracks, and the commissary.
Adjacent to the military post, the park also features a reconstructed Mandan Indian Village. The On-A-Slant Village offers a fascinating look into the lives of the Mandan Indians who inhabited the area over 400 years ago.
Guided tours provide insight into the daily life and culture of the Mandan people. But you can also do self-guided tours like we did.
The village is named “On-A-Slant” due to the inclination of the area where the village was built around the year 1575. At its peak, the village was home to around 1,000 to 1,500 Mandan Indians, living in approximately 85 earth lodges.
The village was a major hub of commerce and trade, with tribes from across the Great Plains visiting to trade goods.
Tragically, a smallpox epidemic 1781 decimated the Mandan Indian population, and the survivors eventually abandoned On-A-Slant Village.
The Mandan Indian Village was the highlight of our visit and the main reason we wanted to visit Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park. It was amazing to walk inside the earth lodges and try to imagine how it must have been living there.
This park combines outdoor adventure and historical education, making it a valuable and engaging family experience.
6. BisMarket
The BisMarket is a local farmers market in Bismarck, North Dakota, and is a delightful place for families to visit. Open from July through October on Saturdays, it provides a venue where local vendors sell a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, meats, homemade crafts, and more.
The market encourages a community-focused, farm-to-table lifestyle, promoting local agriculture and fostering relationships between farmers, artisans, and consumers. It’s an ideal place to teach kids about where their food comes from while supporting local businesses.
The BisMarket offers more than just shopping; it’s also a venue for entertainment and community engagement. You can often find live music performances. Plus, there is a really nice kids’ playground, so kids can have much fun before or after strolling through the market.
Remember to bring reusable bags for your purchases, and consider packing a picnic blanket – after shopping, families can enjoy the green spaces nearby, visiting BisMarket a lovely day out.
7. Playgrounds
There are so many cool and unique playgrounds in Bismarck. The town has a long history to create inclusive and accessible playgrounds. Plus, many playgrounds have themes: music, monkeys, horse-drawn carriages, and the wild west.
We went to the Universal Playground in Mandan, and the kids loved it. There were multiple play modules, including a mini zipline. We stayed for hours.
8. Bismarck-Mandan Art Trail
The Bismarck-Mandan Art Trail in North Dakota is a fantastic experience for families who appreciate creativity and the great outdoors. It showcases a series of public art installations scattered throughout the cities of Bismarck and Mandan, allowing you to discover a wide array of artistic expressions while also exploring the cities and their beautiful surroundings.
The art trail includes everything from large-scale sculptures and murals to smaller installations. Each piece tells a unique story and reflects the area’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant arts community. You’ll find works by local artists, each bringing a distinct creative vision to their piece.
One of the highlights is the Art Alley, located between 4th and 5th Street in downtown Bismarck, where the walls of buildings have been transformed into a colorful outdoor gallery. It’s the section of the Bismarck-Mandan Art Trail we did, and it was a lot of fun to look at all the murals.
9. Bismarck Landing & Keelboat Park
Bismarck Landing and Keelboat Park are emerging, lively districts in Bismarck, North Dakota, with outdoor recreational activities along the scenic Missouri Riverfront.
The area offers some beautiful spots for walking, biking, and picnicking. There is a nice walking/biking trail along the river. You’ll even find some BisPark BCycle nearby, an easy way to rent a bicycle in town.
In Keelboat Park, you’ll find a few art sculptures, including a large thunderbird. The kids particularly loved the 55-foot full-scale replica keelboat. It’s similar to the one used by Lewis and Clark.
It’s also from the Bismarck Landing that the Lewis and Clark river boat departs.
This modern-day riverboat offers cruises on the Missouri River to enjoy the river’s scenic beauty, just as the famous explorers Lewis and Clark did in the early 1800s.
Families can choose from several cruises, each providing a different experience:
- Afternoon Cruise
- Dinner cruises:
Bismarck Landing offers a peek into the city’s future and its commitment to creating community-focused, mixed-use spaces that locals and visitors alike can enjoy.
Other Fun Things to Do in Bismarck, ND
We had the chance to visit all 9 places listed above but sadly didn’t have enough time to see two other places on our list (maybe another time).
But those two places might interest you, especially if you love paddleboarding and outdoor adventures.
10. MacDowell Dam Recreation Area
The MacDowell Dam Recreation Area is located just east of Bismarck on the way to Fargo. It’s an outdoor oasis that offers many recreational opportunities for families, including paddleboarding, beach time, kayaking, …
It’s an ideal place for a day in nature, providing relaxation and adventure.
The lake is also stocked with fish, making it a popular spot for fishing. If you have your own watercraft, there’s a boat ramp for easy water access, or you can rent paddle boats, canoes, or kayaks on-site.
The recreation area also features several land-based activities if you prefer to stay dry. There are picnic shelters for a leisurely lunch, grills for cooking, and a playground to entertain the young. A paved walking and biking path loops around the lake, offering beautiful water views.
Whether you’re looking for a place to swim, fish, hike, picnic, or relax by the water, the McDowell Dam Recreation Area is a fantastic spot for families to enjoy the great outdoors.
11. Harmon Lake Recreation Area
The Harmon Lake Recreation Area is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families just north of Mandan.
This extensive area offers a variety of recreational activities centered around the beautiful Harmon Lake, making it a perfect spot for a day trip from Bismarck.
The lake itself is the main draw of the recreation area. Visitors can engage in various water sports, from boating and fishing to swimming. The lake is stocked with various fish. There’s also a designated swimming beach area where families can enjoy a refreshing dip in the lake.
For those who prefer land-based activities, Harmon Lake Recreation Area has plenty to offer. There are numerous trails for hiking and mountain biking. There are also two children’s playgrounds.
Harmon Lake Recreation Area is wonderful to unwind and enjoy North Dakota’s natural beauty.
Whether you’re a fan of water sports, love hiking, or want to relax by the water, this recreation area has something to offer everyone in the family.
F.A.Q Things to Do in Bismarck, North Dakota
How to Get to Bismarck, North Dakota
There is an airport, the Bismarck North Dakota Airport, that serves 6 domestic destinations. Otherwise, you might want to fly into Fargo, ND, and rent a car to drive to Bismarck.
What is Bismarck, North Dakota, known for?
The state capitol (occupied 1935) is a 19-story skyscraper; on its grounds are the governor’s mansion and the North Dakota Heritage Center, a historical museum. Bismarck is also known as a site on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail and as the home of the Dakota Zoo
Why visit Bismarck?
The capital of North Dakota, Bismarck, is a hub of culture, history, and shopping. Don’t miss attractions like the Dakota Zoo and the North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum. Trees cover the Capitol Grounds just as they do the land on either side of the river.
Is Bismarck worth a visit?
Yes. Bismarck is worth a visit. We had 3 days in Bismarck during our cross-country road trip and didn’t get to see everything they were to see.
On the east bank of the great Missouri River, Bismarck is the capital city of North Dakota and is a beautiful ND destination that’s great for tourists looking for arts, culture, and natural beauty.
Does Bismarck have a downtown?
Yes. Bismarck has a downtown. The historic Downtown Bismarck is the heart of the Capital City!
Final Thoughts: Things to Do in Bismarck, ND
If you’re planning a family road trip to North Dakota, a stop in the twin cities of Bismarck-Mandan is a must. There are so many things to do in Bismarck and North Dakota.
Known for its rich history, friendly communities, and diverse recreational activities, Bismarck-Mandan offers plenty of fun and educational experiences for the whole family.
Visit the North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum, where families can delve into the state’s history from prehistoric times to the present. Just a short drive away is the Dakota Zoo. Home to over 600 animals, including tigers, grizzly bears, and river otters, the zoo promises an exciting day out for the whole family.
Next, head to the McDowell Dam Nature Park. This outdoor haven offers a range of activities, including hiking, picnicking, and swimming.
With its mix of educational museums, outdoor adventures, and historical landmarks, Bismarck-Mandan offers a well-rounded and enjoyable experience for families.
It’s a stop that will add many memories to your North Dakota road trip.
Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families. Because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids? She’s based in the Canadian Rockies and shares her love for the region as well as other unique places in Canada & USA. She works with tourism boards and outdoor brands to inspire families to experience new unique destinations and outdoor activities.