What are the best things to do in Medora, North Dakota? What is good in this small city? This piece strives to explore every part of the city to find out. Stick around to learn more.
Sometimes, life in the big cities can get quite overwhelming. And, the only thing that seems to excite you is a few-days vacation to some fantastic, remote, not-so-busy place.
But do you have a place in mind? How about we suggest Medora, North Dakota? This small city, nestled in the western region of North Dakota, is undoubtedly an excellent place to take that break.
According to World Population Review, the city is pretty small, with just over 129 people. However, it oozes numerous tourist attractions, ensuring your stay here is fun and relaxing.
If this feels like the place for you, here are some fun things to do in Medora to keep your days all lit. But ensure you’ve researched the best places or hotels to stay in before starting your trip.
Things to Do in Medora, North Dakota
The truth is Medora offers numerous exciting things to do for anyone visiting. But if you are unsure what to do in Medora, here is a list of the best places to explore and activities there.
1. A Visit to Theodore Roosevelt National Park
A tour to Medora would never be complete without visiting its most iconic place – Theodore Roosevelt National Park. This is the first place most people visiting Medora, North Dakota, head to.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a United States National Park Service (NPS) unit located in three sections of western North Dakota. This national park was named after former US President Theodore Roosevelt, who loved the badlands and was instrumental in their conservation.
As you drive into the park, you’ll see some pretty unique landscapes with beautiful formations that will take your breath away. The best way to experience all the park offers is by embarking on a hike or scenic drive.
For instance, a hike through the Wind Canyon Trail leads you to the bluff overlooking the Little Missouri River. As for the wildlife, the park is home to bison, elk, pronghorn, and wild horses. You might also spot some of the more than 185 bird species that live or pass through the park.
The best thing about this park is that it has relatively low traffic. This ensures that you experience all its beauty in peace and quietness. With all these, visiting Theodore Roosevelt National Park should undoubtedly be on your list of things to do in Medora.
See Related: Best Things to Do in Wyoming
2. Medora Musical & Pitchfork Steak Fondue
Almost every night in Medora is made unique by the Medora Musical. This usually occurs at the Burning Hills Amphitheatre, which can hold up to 3000 people.
The musical is a two-hour, family-friendly show that celebrates the spirit of the Old West. It features live horses, can-can dancers, and some of Medora’s best cowboys and cowgirls. Also, it showcases some of North Dakota’s most beautiful scenery in the background.
If you want to enjoy some of the region’s best cuisines, you should attend the Pitchfork Steak Fondue. It is a vast outdoor cookout for those who don’t wish to set their campfire cookout.
During the event, huge slabs of steak are cooked on pitchforks and dipped in 400-degree hot oil. Your accompaniments include baked potatoes, coleslaw, baked beans, and salad. And after your meal, you can enjoy a taste of Medora’s world-famous chocolate or mint fudge.
The event is held every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night from mid-June to early September.
3. Biking
If you stay for a few days, you should explore Medora’s terrain. And biking is one of the best ways to do this. Whether an experienced cyclist or a beginner, you’ll find some great trails to explore.
One of the most popular biking trails is the Maah Daah Hey Trail. This trail is 144 miles long and takes you through some of North Dakota’s most stunning landscapes. The place is simply breathtaking, from beautiful rivers and valleys through the badlands and prairies.
Another great option is the Little Missouri National Grassland. This one is ideal for beginner bikers as it is relatively flat and easy. However, don’t be fooled by this and think the trail is less scenic. You will still enjoy some of the region’s most stunning outdoors while at it.
The best time biking in Medora is late spring to early fall. This is when the weather is ideal, and you’ll avoid the winter snow and mud.
See Related: Best Things to Do in Fargo, North Dakota
4. Enjoy the Rich History
Like many other towns and cities, Medora has rich history and heritage. So, several options are available if you want to learn more about the place.
You could start with a visit to the Chateau de Mores State Historic Site. This is the site of the former summer home of Marquis de Mores. De Mores was a French aristocrat who came to Medora in 1883 with grandiose plans to establish a cattle empire.
The Chateau de Mores is now a museum that tells the story of de Mores and his family. It is one of the most visited historic sites in Medora. And while at it, you can also visit the Marquis de Mores Memorial, a granite monument erected in De Mores’ honor.
Maltese Cross Cabin is among the best history museums you can visit here. It is the first cabin built by Theodore Roosevelt in the Badlands, showing his love for the region and the people. The house tells the story of Roosevelt’s time in Medora, North Dakota, and local history.
Lastly, if you are interested in Native American history, visit the Knife River Indian Villages. This is the site of three former Hidatsa villages, just 2 hours from Medora. The Knife River Indian Villages was designated a national historic site in 1974. It is open all year round, and there is no admission fee.
See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Bismarck, North Dakota
5. Go Golfing
Do you love golfing? This is another exciting thing you can do in Medora. The town is home to the beautiful Bully Pulpit Golf Course. This course has been rated as one of the best public courses in North Dakota.
It is situated in the scenic North Dakota badlands and offers a challenge to even the most experienced golfers. The course is open from mid-May to mid-September.
And it’s not the only course here. The Little Bully Pulpit Mini-golf Course is also an excellent place for you and your family. It is an 18-hole, Medora-themed mini-golf course that is great for all ages. Adding these golf courses to your itinerary is a relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors and have fun in Medora.
6. North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame
This is usually a tribute to the ranchers, cowboys, and rodeo stars that have shaped the history of North Dakota. The Hall of Fame is located in the heart of Medora, and you’ll undoubtedly find something interesting here. You can learn about the state’s cowboy culture and see some fascinating exhibits. This includes cowboys and Native American clothing, art, and other cultural items.
Established in 1995, the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame helps preserve North Dakota’s history. It’s also meant to promote the area’s culture and the cowboy way of life. You’ll learn something about the Native Americans and the rodeo and ranching communities.
If you are visiting Medora, this is a place you wouldn’t want to miss. It gives visitors a taste of this small city and its colorful heritage.
See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Minnesota
7. Makoshika State Park
While it’s not precisely in Medora, this fantastic park is just 1 hour and 10 minutes away from the city. This means you can still access the park and return to Medora for your night stay. Makokisha State Park is undoubtedly the largest state park in Montana. It covers an area of more than 11,000 acres and is home to some fascinating hiking trails.
The park also boasts spectacular badlands and dino fossils. This is the place if you’ve wanted to see these ancient animals’ fossils. In 1997 explorers Bob Harmon and Jack Horner discovered the remains of a Thescelosaurus. And you will also get to see the remains of Triceratops.
Also, if you are a bird lover, Makoshika State Park offers excellent bird-watching opportunities. It is home to some of the most striking birds, including prairie falcons, turkey vultures, and eagles.
Lastly, the small visitors’ office in the park is also worth visiting. You’ll find fascinating displays about the area’s natural history, geology, and some local fossils. Typically, there is no shortage of things to see in Medora.
See related: Why is everyone obsessed with travel?
8. Enjoy Some Delicious Meal
Regarding belly matters, Medora has more than enough to offer. The city has some excellent restaurants serving various foods, taking you back to the area’s old days.
You’ll find everything American that you’ve longed for. There’s also a good selection of vegetarian options if that’s what you want.
Some of the best eateries here include;
Boots Bar and Grill
Have you ever tasted an elk or buffalo burger? This is the best place for that. You can also enjoy a delicious ribeye steak, one of the best options for dinner in town.
The Grill is also a great place to enjoy live music and dance the night away. And the hand-brewed beer from Beaver Creek Brewery is also worth trying.
The Farmhouse Café
This rustic restaurant is another excellent place for a tasty meal or snack. From the hearty omelets, Croissant French Toast (deep-fried), badlands pizza, and North Dakota sausages, you’ll leave the place yearning for even more.
Therefore, after your long day on the trails or the park, an evening snack at the Farmhouse Café will be worth it.
Theodore’s Dining Room
Theodore’s Dining Room is in the Rough Riders Hotel and was once home to Teddy Roosevelt and his men. The place oozes history, and you can feel it as soon as you step in.
If you want the authentic taste of the American West, this is where to find just that. Whether it’s the tasty bison steak or a sweet walleye, you have more options than you can imagine.
The Brew
The Brew is just 40 minutes from Medora in Dickinson. However, what you get here is worth every minute on the road. For starters, the Brew is an 1887 church converted into a cafe. Also, the booths here are built from original pews, giving the place a great antique look.
So, as you enjoy the locally inspired sandwiches or the tasty brewed coffee, you’ll undoubtedly be thinking about your next visit here.
See Related: Best Restaurants in Fargo, North Dakota
Where to Stay in Medora, North Dakota
Looking at the best things to do in Medora isn’t enough. Exploring some of the best places to rest your head would be best. You’ll enjoy staying in one of the following places;
1. The Rough Riders Hotel
As mentioned earlier, this hotel was once home to Theodore Roosevelt and his men. It is now a national historic landmark that offers excellent accommodation and dining experiences.
The rooms here are comfortable and reasonably priced, making the hotel an excellent option for budget travelers. If you want luxury blended with the old-west charm, this hotel is the hotel.
Check-in to the hotel is at 4:00 pm, while checkout clocks at 11:00 am – Mountain Time. A fitness center is on the first floor, and all other essential amenities are present.
2. Badlands Motel
The Badlands Motel is another excellent accommodation option in Medora. The rooms here are clean and comfortable, perfectly fitted with Western-themed furnishings.
You’ll also find an outdoor pool, a great place to relax after a long day exploring the town. Plus, the motel offers excellent views of the beautiful North Dakota landscape.
And to crown it all, this motel is close to most attractions in Medora, making it easy to explore the city. The motel also has some great family rooms if you’re traveling with your family.
3. AmericInn Lodge & Suites
The hotel is conveniently located just a few minutes from the Medora Musical. So, if you plan to catch a show, this is where you want to stay. It’s also close to two main Medora attractions, Theodore Roosevelt National Park and Little Missouri National Grassland.
As for the rooms, they are pretty spacious and come with all the modern amenities. For instance, they come with;
- Free Wi-Fi
- Free Parking
- Fitness Center
- Free Breakfast
You’ll also find an indoor pool and hot tub, perfect for relaxing after a long day. Therefore, after enjoying some of the great Medora attractions, your night sleep will be as good.