Things to Do in Medora ND

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of North Dakota’s Badlands, Medora is a small town with a big personality. This charming frontier town serves as the gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park and offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, Wild West history, and modern entertainment.

Named after the wife of French nobleman Marquis de Morès, Medora has retained much of its 19th-century charm while evolving into a premier tourist destination.

From outdoor adventures in the rugged Badlands to evenings filled with music and entertainment, Medora provides an unforgettable experience that captures the spirit of the American West.

Key Facts

• Population: Approximately 130 (swells to thousands during tourist season)
• Established date: 1883
• Zip code(s): 58645
• Area code(s): 701
• Geographic area: 0.37 square miles
• County: Billings County
• Elevation: 2,267 feet
• Climate: Semi-arid, with hot summers and cold winters
• Nearest major city: Bismarck (about 130 miles east)
• Neighboring towns/communities: Belfield, Dickinson
• Closest airport: Dickinson Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport (40 miles east)
• Notable features: Gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Badlands
• Famous for: Medora Musical, Theodore Roosevelt’s Maltese Cross Cabin

Brief History

Medora was founded in 1883 by French nobleman Marquis de Morès, who named the town after his wife, Medora von Hoffman. The Marquis established a meat-packing plant and a stagecoach line, envisioning Medora as a cattle center for the region.

During this time, a young Theodore Roosevelt came to the area to hunt bison and eventually established two ranches nearby. His time in the Badlands profoundly influenced his conservation ethics and later policies as President of the United States.

Although the Marquis’s business ventures ultimately failed, Medora survived and gradually transformed into a tourist destination. The establishment of Theodore Roosevelt National Park in 1947 and the debut of the Medora Musical in 1965 solidified the town’s place as a must-visit location in North Dakota.

Today, Medora continues to celebrate its rich history while offering modern amenities and attractions to visitors from around the world.

Top 15 Things to Do in Medora ND

1. Explore Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Discover the stunning landscapes that inspired President Theodore Roosevelt. The park offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and opportunities to see wildlife such as bison, elk, and prairie dogs.

Practical information:

• Open year-round
• Entrance fee: $30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days
• Visitor Center open daily (hours vary by season)

Get your Theodore Roosevelt National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour

2. Attend the Medora Musical

Experience this Broadway-style show celebrating the American West and the legacy of Theodore Roosevelt. Held in the outdoor Burning Hills Amphitheater, it’s a must-see summer attraction.

Practical information:

• Runs nightly from early June to early September
• Show starts at 7:30 PM MDT

3. Visit the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame

Learn about the state’s ranch, rodeo, and Native American history through interactive exhibits and artifacts.

Practical information:

• Open May through September
• Admission: $9 for adults, $5 for children (7-17)
• Allow 1-2 hours for visit

4. Tour the Chateau de Morès State Historic Site

Explore the 26-room summer residence of the town’s founder, Marquis de Morès, and learn about life in the late 19th century.

Practical information:

• Open mid-May to mid-September
• Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for children (6-15)
• Guided tours available

5. Hike or Bike the Maah Daah Hey Trail

Experience the rugged beauty of the Badlands on this 144-mile trail that runs through the Little Missouri National Grassland.

Practical information:

• Trail open year-round
• Difficulty varies by section
• Bike rentals available in Medora

6. Play a Round at Bully Pulpit Golf Course

Enjoy a game of golf on this scenic 18-hole course nestled in the Badlands, offering breathtaking views and challenging play.

Practical information:

• Open May through October (weather permitting)
• Club rentals available

Discover more Small Towns in North Dakota

7. Take a Trail Ride with Medora Riding Stables

Explore the Badlands on horseback, just as Theodore Roosevelt did over a century ago.

Practical information:

• Operates May through September
• Various ride lengths available, from 1 hour to full day

8. Visit Theodore Roosevelt’s Maltese Cross Cabin

Step inside the first ranch cabin of Theodore Roosevelt, now located behind the South Unit Visitor Center of Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

Practical information:

• Open year-round
• Free with park admission
• Ranger-led talks available in summer

9. Enjoy the Pitchfork Steak Fondue

Experience a unique western dining event where chefs fondue steaks on pitchforks while you enjoy stunning views of the Badlands.

Practical information:

• Operates June through September
• Dinner starts at 6:30 PM MDT

10. Explore Old Town Hall Theater

Catch a showing of “A TR Salute to Medora,” a one-man show about Theodore Roosevelt’s time in North Dakota.

Practical information:

• Performances daily during summer season
• Located in downtown Medora
• Check local listings for showtimes

11. Visit the Harold Schafer Heritage Center

Learn about the man responsible for Medora’s restoration and development into a major tourist destination.

Practical information:

• Open May through September
• Free admission
• Located in downtown Medora

12. Take a Scenic Drive on the Badlands Loop

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Badlands on this 32-mile scenic drive through Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

Practical information:

• Accessible with park admission
• Allow 1-2 hours for the drive with stops
• Best enjoyed early morning or late afternoon for wildlife viewing

13. Attend a Show at the Old Town Hall Theater

Enjoy various musical and theatrical performances in this historic venue in downtown Medora.

Practical information:

• Schedule varies by season
• Check local listings for current shows

14. Visit the Billings County Museum

Explore local history through artifacts and exhibits showcasing early settler life, ranching, and the oil industry.

Practical information:

• Open May through September
• Admission by donation
• Located in the old Medora schoolhouse

15. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

See the Badlands from a new perspective with a scenic hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscape.

Practical information:

• Seasonal operation (usually summer months)
• Weather-dependent activity

Nature and Outdoor Recreation

Medora’s location in the Badlands provides numerous opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts:

• Wildlife viewing in Theodore Roosevelt National Park
• Canoeing or kayaking on the Little Missouri River
• Stargazing in the dark skies of the Badlands
• Mountain biking on the Buffalo Gap Trail

Arts and Culture Scene

While small, Medora has a rich cultural offering:

• Attend the Medora Musical nightly during summer
• Visit the Dakota Nights Astronomy Festival (September)
• Explore Western art galleries in downtown Medora
• Check out local craft fairs and markets during summer months

Seasonal Activities and Events

• Spring: Theodore Roosevelt National Park birding events
• Summer: Medora Musical, Fourth of July Celebration
• Fall: Dakota Nights Astronomy Festival, Medora’s Old-Fashioned Cowboy Christmas
• Winter: Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Things to Do in Medora ND – Day Trips

1. Dickinson, ND (40 minutes): Visit the Dakota Dinosaur Museum and the Dickinson Museum Center
2. Watford City, ND (1 hour 30 minutes): Explore the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park
3. Williston, ND (2 hours): Visit Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site
4. Bismarck, ND (2 hours): Explore the North Dakota State Capitol and the Dakota Zoo
5. Little Missouri National Grassland (varies): Discover vast prairies and unique geological formations

Local Products and Shopping

• Western Edge Books, Artwork, Music: Local bookstore specializing in Western literature
• Medora Fudge and Ice Cream Depot: Homemade treats
• Moomaw’s Mercantile: Western-themed gifts and souvenirs
• Chasing Horses: Native American art and jewelry

Where to Stay in Medora ND

1. Boots Bison Cabin

A fully furnished cabin has everything you need for an easy stay. Enjoy awe-inspiring views of the badlands from the front porch.

Book Boots Bison Cabin

2. AmericInn by Wyndham Medora

AmericInn by Wyndham Medora is located close to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, and provides free full breakfast, a library, and laundry facilities. For some rest and relaxation, visit the spa tub.

Book AmericInn by Wyndham Medora

3. Maltese Ranch Cabin

Live like Teddy Roosevelt in this 1-bedroom, 1-bath vacation rental cabin in Medora. The ‘Maltese Ranch Cabin,’ which sits mere minutes from Theodore Roosevelt National Park and Maah Daah Hey Trail, is a replica of the home that the 26th President once called home.

Reserve Maltese Ranch Cabin

4. Prairie Tiny Home

This cabin is located at The Crossings Campground in Belfield, North Dakota. The campground is 15 miles from the entrance of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The campground sits close to town but also gives you a secluded prairie feel.

Book Prairie Tiny Home

Things to Do in Medora ND – Getting Around

• Medora is small and walkable, especially the downtown area
• Biking is popular for exploring the town and nearby trails
• Personal vehicle or rental car recommended for exploring Theodore Roosevelt National Park and surrounding areas
• Shuttle service available for some attractions during peak season

Family-Friendly Activities in Medora ND

• Junior Ranger program at Theodore Roosevelt National Park
• Medora Children’s Park
• Cowboy Lyle’s Candy Store
• Medora Mini Golf

Wellness and Relaxation

• Spa services available at some local hotels
• Yoga in the Badlands (seasonal offering)
• Peaceful walks along the Little Missouri River
• Stargazing in Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Best Time to Visit Medora ND

• Summer (June-August): Peak season with all attractions open, warm weather
• Fall (September-October): Beautiful fall colors, fewer crowds
• Spring (April-May): Wildflowers blooming, wildlife active, some attractions beginning to open
• Winter (November-March): Quiet season, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing available, limited services

Things to Do in Medora ND – Local Cuisine

• Try the famous Pitchfork Steak Fondue
• Enjoy Western-style dining at Theodore’s Dining Room
• Sample local game meats at the Cowboy Café
• Don’t miss the homemade ice cream at Medora Fudge and Ice Cream Depot

Things to Do in Medora ND Conclusion

Medora, North Dakota, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, Western history, and family-friendly entertainment that makes it a standout destination in the American West. From the rugged landscapes of Theodore Roosevelt National Park to the lively performances of the Medora Musical, visitors can immerse themselves in the spirit of the Badlands and the legacy of Theodore Roosevelt.

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, historical insights, or simply a peaceful retreat in a scenic setting, Medora provides an authentic Western experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

Plan your visit to this charming frontier town and discover why Medora is considered North Dakota’s #1 tourist destination.

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