17.76 Ways to Celebrate America’s Birthday in Medora

As America’s 250^th birthday approaches, party preparations are well underway in Medora, North Dakota. And you and your crew are at the top of the guest list. Between patriotic shows, historical sites, and good old fashioned family fun, there’s always more to Medora.

Check out these 17.76 (and still counting) ways to commemorate the semiquincentennial. Rolls right off the tongue, doesn’t it?

1 – See the Medora Musical

Clap along to country hits and celebrate the history of Teddy Roosevelt and the American West at this summer’s (1) Medora Musical. Attend one of seven Summer Showcase Nights for themed fun, free gifts, and a whole new way to experience the tradition.

2 & 3 – Experience the Great Outdoors

See the beautiful for spacious skies in the North Dakota Badlands. Beneath those big skies you’ll find the rugged buttes and rolling prairies of (2) Theodore Roosevelt National Park. You and your crew can hike, bike, or drive. But for real Western fun, and a higher vantage point, hop in the saddle for (3) Medora Trail Rides.

4, 5, 6 & 7– Get Presidential

Before the presidency was even a twinkle in his spectacled eye, Teddy Roosevelt was a Dakota Territory rancher. See the (4) original cabin where he fell in love with the frontier and grew into the rugged leader the country knew. For a more in-depth look, visit the (5) Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, opening July 4, 2026. Or hear about it from Teddy himself at the (6) Teddy Roosevelt Show and (7) TR The Strenuous Life, as live portrayals capture the grit, humor, and determination of the 26^th president.

8 & 9 – Play the Day Away

It’s no celebration without a few party games. Play an unforgettable round at (8) Bully Pulpit Golf Course, chiseled into the Badlands. Or if you’re not a big golfer, try the miniature version at (9) Point to Point Park, along with pickleball, a zipline, and a lazy river pool modeled after the Little Missouri.

10, 11 & 12 – Let Freedom Ring

Hum, clap and sing along to daily live music ringing through Medora. Start the day off on a high note or two with (10) Medora Gospel Brunch, featuring soulful hits and endless breakfast helpings. And with the non-ticketed (11) Great American Folk Show and (12) live performances in Town Square, celebrating freedom is a little bit freer.

13, 14 & 15 – Step Back in Time

Journey through the defining symbols and legacy of the American frontier. For a roundup of legendary cowboys, cowgirls, Native Americans and rodeo riders, mosey over to the (13) North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame. Get to know the North Dakota businessman who brought Medora from frontier cow town to treasured destination at the (14) Harold Schafer Heritage Center.  And for a glimpse of life as a pioneer, find new frontiers of comfort spending a night in a (15) Conestoga covered wagon.

16, 17 & .76 – Patriotic Eats

Indulge in a dining experience as unique as the USA itself – (16) Pitchfork Steak Fondue, where cowboy chefs load 12 oz steaks onto pitchforks and sear them to perfection. For something a little more classically American, enjoy a burger at (17) Sheriff Bear’s. Finally, fill in the cracks from that remaining .76 with ice cream for a taste of sweet, sweet freedom.

There’s even more where that came from. Check out unique lodging, dining destinations, and family attractions to make your Medora trip one for the history books.