5 Reasons You Should Visit Medora, North Dakota
5 Reasons You Should Visit Medora, North Dakota
Have you visited the charming town of Medora? It’s the perfect destination for nature lovers, small-town seekers, and family fun. Here are 5 reasons to visit Medora, North Dakota, and explore this picturesque destination.
LITTLE PICTURES. BIG MOMENTS.
Here’s a challenge for you –
get out and show us your favorite Medora selfie spot!
Hashtag #MedoraND or tag @MedoraND and you might see yourself featured!
See More Selfies!
Top 6 Selfie Stops
Top 6 Selfie Stops
Teddy Roosevelt
Find Teddy Roosevelt in front of the Old Town Hall Theater! No time machine needed—just head over to this awesome Medora selfie stop and strike a pose next to the life-size Teddy.
Medora Musical
You can’t miss the big Hollywood Medora sign at the Medora Musical. Step into the spotlight with this larger-than-life landmark and capture a moment of pure entertainment magic.
Teddy Roosevelt National Park
Buckle up, selfie enthusiasts, because we’re about to embark on a wild adventure through the majestic landscapes of Teddy Roosevelt National Park. But hold on just a second before you hit the road—make sure to pause at the entrance and capture an epic selfie that sets the tone for your journey.
Painted Canyon
Painted Canyon Overlook, is the most photographed spot in the National Park for a reason! Head up at sunset to enjoy the sun setting over the majestic Little Missouri. But don’t forget to snap a selfie.
Pitchfork Steak Fondue
Grab a seat, raise your fork, and get ready to snap a selfie that will make your friends’ mouths water with envy.
Bully Pulpit
Here are some other must-have selfies
Let’s see if you can get them all!
Wooden Cowboy at the Burning Hills Amphitheater
Medora City Overlook in Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Atop a Point to Point Trails
At the Chateau de Morès State Historical Site
LITTLE PICTURES. BIG MOMENTS.
13 AWESOME Things to Do in Medora, North Dakota with Kids
13 AWESOME Things to Do in Medora, North Dakota with Kids
Medora, North Dakota is a teeny tiny town with massive charm. Located in the southwestern part of the state, there are roughly 100 residents in the town. But as the gateway to the south unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, there are so many fun things to do in Medora, North Dakota despite its small size.
This list of fun things to do in Medora, North Dakota includes the most popular attractions in Medora and the best activities for visitors to the small town. Plus, our Medora, North Dakota travel guide includes recommendations on where to stay, what to eat, and when to visit for the best experience.
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Stargazing Guide to Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Stargazing Guide to Theodore Roosevelt National Park
by | April 26, 2023
Whether you’re an amateur astronomer or just a curious stargazer, Theodore Roosevelt National Park’s wide-open skies offer a stellar opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and gaze into the cosmos.
Imagine gazing up into a velvet black sky, dotted with the twinkle of stars and planets, where the Milky Way unfurls like a cosmic ribbon across the horizon, and constellations dance across the darkness. But that’s not all you’ll find in this stunning natural oasis. The Northern Lights, meteor showers and man-made astronomical wonders like the International Space Station transit are all visible in the night sky at Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
So grab your telescope, a constellation guide, and get ready to experience the magic of the cosmos in one of the most breathtaking settings on the planet.
Stargazing Sights
Stargazing Sights
The Milky Way
When it comes to stargazing at Theodore Roosevelt National Park, few sights are more breathtaking than the Milky Way. This stunning ribbon of light stretches across the sky like a glittering bridge, inviting visitors to marvel at the majesty of the cosmos.
Did you know that the Milky Way is actually a barred spiral galaxy that contains over 100 billion stars?
Northern Lights
For those seeking a truly magical stargazing experience at Theodore Roosevelt National Park, plan a trip to coincide with the Northern Lights. Witness a true miracle of nature with the sky painted in hues of green, blue, pink, and purple.
Did you know that the Northern Lights are caused by the collision of charged particles from the sun with the Earth’s magnetic field?
Astronomical Events
Pull up a front-row seat to a wide range of astronomical events, from meteor showers and comet sightings, to the International Space Station transiting across the sky. Planning a visit around these regular events will help make a great stargazing trip even better!
Did you know that during the annual Perseid meteor shower, up to 60 meteors can be seen streaking across the sky every hour?
Top 5 Stargazing Stops
Top 5 Stargazing Stops
Peaceful Valley Ranch
Located 7 miles into the park, Peaceful Valley Ranch features the original 1885 homestead ranch house of Benjamin Lamb. Today the ranch serves as a trailhead that allows hikers to ford the Little Missouri River into the park’s backcountry. It also serves as a site for park events such as the Annual Dakota Nights Astronomy Festival. Stargazers will find plenty of parking at the trailhead, open views of the overhead sky and plenty of developed ground to set up telescopes, chairs or blankets. Late night visitors should, however, keep an ear out for four-legged neighbors as this is a popular area for bison spottings.
Wind Canyon
Wind Canyon is one of Theodore Roosevelt National Park’s most photographed locations for a reason! This 0.5-mile loop trail brings visitors along eroded cliffs to a dramatic lookout above the Little Missouri River. Stargazers will feel like they are on top of the world with the Milky Way stretched across the sky and mirrored in the river below. Wind Canyon features multiple overlooks along the cliff edge, with ample opportunities for astrophotography to the South, West, and North.
Buck Hill
As one of the highest points in the park, Buck Hill offers 360°, unobstructed views of the North Dakota sky. From the parking loop, Buck Hill Trail brings visitors up a short 0.4-mile out-and-back hike to the crest of the hill. With Buck Hill’s unbeatable views across Painted Canyon, stargazers may choose to start their night here for a stunning sunset and starrise. Located near the southern edge of the park, Buck Hill is also a great stop for unpolluted northern views – perfect for seeing the Northern Lights!
Beef Corral Bottom
Beef Corral Bottom is a true treasure for stargazers, hiding in plain sight along the park’s scenic drive. During the day, visitors can enjoy up-close views of the prairie dog town, but at night, the wide valley transforms into a stunning spot for stargazing. Whether you’re an experienced stargazer with all the gear in tow or just looking for an easy night-time stop, Beef Corral Bottom has you covered. With its accessible location and clear sky views, you can simply park your car and gaze up at the stars.
Riverbend Overlook
Located in the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, River Bend Overlook offers stunning views from a historic shelter constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1937. Looking west stargazers will see the North Unit’s rugged terrain and Little Missouri River before the starry backdrop. The unique features and terrain make it a top choice for amateur astrophotographers and stargazers alike.
Star Studded Events
2023 Dates TBD
Every year astronomers and star gazing enthusiasts visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park for 3 days of education, story telling and viewing the night sky. Enjoy discussions of NASA missions, stories of the stars from cultures of the past and present day, and information about the park’s night time critters.
July 17 – August 24, 2023
The Perseid meteor shower is an annual event that takes place in August and is considered one of the best meteor showers of the year. It occurs when the Earth passes through the debris left behind by the Comet Swift-Tuttle, causing the debris to burn up in the Earth’s atmosphere and creating bright streaks of light in the sky. During the peak of the shower, stargazers can expect to see up to 60 meteors per hour.
In the News
Travel and Leisure
8 Places in the United States Where You May Spot the Northern Lights
This northern state is the perfect place for night sky viewing if you’re trying to see the northern lights. Scenic areas like Theodore Roosevelt National Park and….
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Five National Parks in North Dakota to Explore
Five National Parks in North Dakota to Explore
When planning a visit to some of the national parks in the United States, few people consider heading to the North Dakota national parks. And that’s both a shame and a blessing.
It’s a shame because there are a few downright magnificent national parks in North Dakota. On the other hand, it’s a blessing because those parks are generally much quieter than the top parks in the national park system, such as Zion, Yosemite, Yellowstone, Acadia and Olympic.
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Theodore Roosevelt National Park Is Spectacular In The Winter
Theodore Roosevelt National Park Is Spectacular In The Winter
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is spectacular in the winter. If you are not visiting national parks in the winter, why not? The beauty that you will find in America’s National Parks shines all year long, and winter is exceptional.
It won’t take you long to see what you are missing out on, as you see what the park looks like in winter. Here’s my experience in visiting Theodore Roosevelt National Park in the winter. I visited the South Unit on this visit and need to make a return trip to see the North Unit in the winter.
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The TR Triangle
The ultimate Teddy Roosevelt roadtrip
The TR Triangle
The ultimate Teddy Roosevelt roadtrip
by | January 9, 2023
Teddy Roosevelt is known as one of the most adventurous and conservation-minded presidents in American history. As a young man, he was an avid outdoorsman and explorer, traveling to distant lands and experiencing all that the natural world had to offer. These passions carried over into his presidency, where he dedicated himself to preserving America’s wild spaces and promoting the value of outdoor recreation.
One of Roosevelt’s greatest legacies is the creation of the National Park system, which now includes over 400 protected areas across the country. These parks – some of the most breathtaking and diverse landscapes in the world – serve as a testament to Roosevelt’s belief that the natural world should be protected and preserved for future generations to enjoy.
In addition to his conservation efforts, Roosevelt was also deeply connected to the great American West. He spent much of his youth in the Dakota Territory and was known for his love of the western landscape and his efforts to promote the development of the region.
Today, adventurous travelers can follow in Roosevelt’s footsteps and explore the western landscapes that he loved so much. From hiking in his beloved Badlands to sleeping at his Yellowstone camp, there are countless opportunities to experience the beauty and grandeur of the great outdoors. And by visiting these protected areas, we can honor Roosevelt’s legacy and his commitment to preserving the natural world for future generations.
North Dakota
North Dakota
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
When Theodore Roosevelt came to Dakota Territory to hunt bison in 1883, he was a skinny, young, spectacled dude from New York. He could not have imagined how his adventure in this remote and unfamiliar place would forever alter the course of the nation. The rugged landscape and strenuous life that TR experienced here would help shape a conservation policy that we still benefit from today.
The park is comprised of three separate areas of land. The North and South Units feature scenic drives, wildlife viewing, hiking, visitors’ centers, ranger-led programs, and much more. The undeveloped Elkhorn Ranch Unit preserves the site of Roosevelt’s ‘home ranch’ in a remote area along the Little Missouri River. History lovers can also visit Teddy’s Maltese cross cabin, which stands today at the South Unit Visitor’s center.
White Horse Hill National Game Preserve
In 1904 President Theodore Roosevelt set aside the land, today known as White Horse Hill, as America’s 8th National Park. In 1931 control of the park was transferred to the Fish and Wildlife Service and the land was redesignated as a wildlife refuge.
Today the refuge is home to bison, elk, deer, and prairie dogs and overlooks the shore of Devil’s Lake. Stop by the visitors center – open June through August – to learn more about the park’s history, wildlife, prairie flora, and the Spirit Lake Dakota people.
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Where to Stay:
The historic Rough Riders Hotel, in Medora, ND offers a charming but luxurious place to stay while visiting the National park. Request a room in the historic section for a taste of what Teddy himself would have experienced, and stop by the lobby to explore the largest private collection of books on and by Roosevelt.
What to Eat:
Medora, ND offers a variety of restaurants for travelers. The iconic Pitchfork Steak Fondue provides an old-fashioned cowboy experience with unbeatable views of the badlands. Plus, Theodore Roosevelt himself will greet you at the door.
What Else to Do:
Stop by the Teddy Roosevelt Show where Joe Wiegand, the world’s top Roosevelt reprisor, takes the stage to tell stories of TR’s time living and ranching in the Badlands.
South Dakota
South Dakota
Wind Cave National Park
Wind Cave National Park was established in 1903 by Theodore Roosevelt as the United State’s 7th National Park. The park was set aside to preserve its vast cave system – the densest cave system in the world! – but today is also celebrated for its above-ground beauty. Visitors will want to plan time to explore both above and below ground.
To explore underground, Wind Cave operates five cave tours ranging from the easy Garden of Eden tour, to the adventurous Candlelight tour which lets visitors explore the cave as if it was 1889. Most tours operate on a first-come-first-served basis, so travelers should stop by the visitor’s center early to reserve their spot.
Above-ground explorers can take the short, 1-mile, Rankin Ridge hike through the beautiful Ponderosa Pines. On clear days the top of the ridge offers a view of neighboring Badlands National Park – another great stop while you’re in the area. Or if you’re looking to lead the “strenuous life” the Lookout Point and Centennial Trail Loop was rated amongst the best hikes in all national parks by Conde Nast Traveler.
Mount Rushmore
Carved by Gutzon Borglum from 1927-1941, Mount Rushmore commemorates the legacy of four of America’s most influential figures, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and of course, Theodore Roosevelt. The national memorial tells the story of our country, from birth to growth, development, and preservation.
Many people speculate which of Theodore Roosevelt’s accomplishments earned his place in the monument. Throughout his time as president, he was instrumental in building the Panama Canal, linking the east to the west. His work ending corporate monopolies and fighting for workers’ rights earned him the moniker ‘the trust buster’. And his military and diplomatic efforts were many, including the commissioning of the great white fleet and negotiating the end of the Russo-Japanese war which earned him a noble prize.
Friendship Tower – Mt. Roosevelt
This little-known Roosevelt landmark is a must-see piece of wild west history. In 1892, shortly after Dakota territory was split into North and South, Theodore Roosevelt met Seth Bullock while crossing the Belle Fourche River on horseback. This chance meeting was the start of a lifelong friendship between the soon-to-be ‘Cowboy President’ and the famed first sheriff of Deadwood.
Throughout their friendship, Roosevelt described Bullock as “a true Westerner, the finest type of frontiersman.” Upon Roosevelt’s death in 1919, Bullock erected a physical monument to their friendship, today known as Friendship Tower, outside of Deadwood, SD. Visitors can take a short hike to the tower to experience stunning panoramic views of the Black Hills – including a view of Mount Moriah Cemetary to the southeast, where at the end of his life Bullock requested that he be buried with a view of Friendship Tower.
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Where to Stay:
Centrally located in South Dakota’s Black Hills, minutes away from Mt Rushmore is K Bar S Lodge. This top-rated boutique hotel is the perfect base camp for exploring the area.
What to Eat:
Saloon #10 in Deadwood offers a taste of the past, with western artifacts and antiques from floor to ceiling, living history performances, and South Dakota’s largest whiskey selection.
What Else to Do:
The Black Hills of South Dakota have a whole lot of exploring to offer. Just east of the hills is Badlands National Park which offers an otherworldly beauty to outdoor adventurers. And Custer State Park is a great stop for travelers wanting to experience the heart of the Black Hills.
Wyoming
Wyoming
Devils Tower
Devils Tower was established in 1906 by Theodore Roosevelt as the first United States National Monument. Originally protected for its beauty, jutting up above the surrounding prairie, Devils tower is now studied for its fascinating geologic history. The tower is formed of rare igneous rock, phonolite porphyry, and is the largest example of columnar jointing in the world.
Visitors to Devils Tower can spend the day hiking, including the accessible 1.3-mile Tower Trail that circles the base of the tower. See if you can spot climbers scaling the joints up the tower, and stay up after dark to experience some of the best stargazing in the west.
Yellowstone National Park
In 1903 Theodore Roosevelt returned to his beloved American West as president. On this grand presidential tour, ranging from Chicago to Los Angeles, Roosevelt split his time between giving speeches in frontier towns and escaping into the backcountry – ultimately spending two weeks camping in Yellowstone National Park.
Accompanied by famed naturalist writer John Burroughs and acting-superintendent Major John Pitcher, Teddy hiked strenuous distances, was thrilled by the wildlife, and thoroughly explored all corners of the park.
As his stay in Yellowstone came to a close, Roosevelt returned to Mammoth Hot Springs to speak at the cornerstone-laying ceremony for the arch at the park entrance, now known as Roosevelt Arch. In his speech, Roosevelt remarked, “The geysers, the extraordinary hot springs, the lakes, the mountains, the canyons, and cataracts unite to make this region something not wholly to be paralleled elsewhere on the globe. It must be kept for the benefit and enjoyment of all of us.”
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Where to Stay:
Roosevelt Lodge Cabins, located within Yellowstone National Park, is built on the campsite once used by President Theodore Roosevelt himself. Cabins are just rustic enough to awaken your ‘old west spirit.’ Plus, you can explore the park on horseback or by stagecoach from the Roosevelt corral!
What to Eat:
On your way to Yellowstone stop by another famous cow town, Cody, Wyoming for a bite at Proprietress Market + Bar. Small plates, soups, salads, and snacks are served picnic-style on the patio.
What Else to Do:
Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody, WY, includes five museums with unique stories of the Great American West. Learn about Buffalo Bill and Annie Oakley, hear the stories of the Plains Indians, or explore the exhibits of the Cody Firearms museum.
Roosevelt had a lifelong love of western cowboy culture. In 1883 he left New York to become a rancher and cowboy in Dakota Territory. Roosevelt’s experiences as a cowboy contributed to his rugged, individualistic personality and his leadership style. Roosevelt was known for his energetic and decisive leadership. His time in the West helped to shape these qualities.
Throughout his life, Teddy was a strong advocate for the protection and preservation of the natural environment. He was an avid outdoorsman and spent many years hunting, fishing, and camping in the western states. This experience gave him a deep appreciation for the beauty and majesty of the natural world, and he became convinced that it was important to protect and preserve the environment for future generations.
LITTLE PICTURES. BIG MOMENTS.
Winter in Medora
Winter in Medora
by | November 28, 2022
The weather outside may be frightful, but Medora is a delightful winter wonderland this time of year! With bison and buttes, snow and sweeping vistas, Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a great place to explore on a winter day. And in the charming town of Medora, you’ll find shopping, dining, and entertainment galore. So bundle up and hit the road – you’ll be glad you did!
Theodore Roosevelt National Park and Medora ND are the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and enjoy the simple things in life. The fresh air, tranquil scenery and friendly people are sure to put you in the holiday spirit. So whether you’re a nature lover, history buff or just need a little rest and relaxation, Theodore Roosevelt National Park and Medora, ND are the perfect place to be. Here’s our recommendations to make the most of your getaway!
Entertainment
Tickets Available Soon
Dining
Mosey over to Theodore’s Dining Room — conveniently located in the Rough Riders Hotel, so there’s no need to get dressed for the cold! Theodore’s is open all year for breakfast, dinner and drinks. Ask about their winter specials!
Shopping
Check off your Christmas list with unique finds at Rough Riders Gift. Their shelves are overflowing with art, jewelry, accessories, and housewares. If you have a foodie on your holiday shopping list the kitchen section is a do not miss!
Next door to Rough Riders Gift you’ll find Lilly & Zella’s. Stop by for women’s apparel, accessories, jewelry and made-in-America goods.
Cozy Up
Check-in at the Rough Riders Hotel. This time of year the lobby is decorated for Christmas cheer! Stop by during Medora’s 27th Annual Old Fashioned Cowboy Christmas
for photos with Santa or take a moment to settle in by the hearth with a coffee and a book from the largest private library of books on, and by, Theodore Roosevelt.
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More to Do
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Experience the magic of the stunning, snowcapped badlands with a drive – or a hike for those brave enough – through North Dakota’s national park. Winter offers sweeping landscapes unlike any other time of the year. Learn more about Teddy Roosevelt National Park here.
Chateau de Mores
The Chateau de Mores memorializes the life and activities in North Dakota of Antoine de Vallombrosa, the Marquis de Mores, who arrived in 1883 and founded a new town, named after his wife, Medora. Visit history.nd.gov to learn more and see hours of operation.
North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame
Medora’s history was built on the back of a horse. Experience the legends of cowboys, cowgirls and the Native Americans in this immersive museum experience. Visit northdakotacowboy.org to learn more and see hours of operation.
More to Eat
Boots Bar & Grill
Grab a seat at this mellow spot offering steaks, burgers & other basics, plus brews & wines in homey digs with a patio. Learn more at bootsbarmedora.com.
The Little Missouri Saloon
Medora’s oldest Saloon & Steakhouse. Established as a place where cowboys could hang their hats, the Little Missouri Saloon has a long history of great food, friends and drinks! Learn more at littlemosaloon.com.
Uncork’d
Full Service Wine, Beer and Spirits Bar also featuring small plate food options! Learn more at www.medorauncorkd.wine.
Hidden Springs Java
Coffee Shop to start your day in Medora. Serving Espresso, Lattes, Smoothies. Learn more at @hidden_springs_java.
More to Shop
Shop timeless pieces including all things Pendleton, home decor, handbags, gifts, blankets, towels and more. Learn more at @bardiamondbar.
Holiday Events
December 2-4
In the News
Medora ranked #6 coziest town in the USA!
If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle, Medora is the place to be. Ranking #6 in the Cozy Town Index, with a score of 80.13, Medora’s small-town charm makes it feel like you are truly getting away.
“Travelers can’t help but fall in love with the kindness and welcoming attitude shown by locals and other travelers coming through.”
LITTLE PICTURES. BIG MOMENTS.
The Best Things To Do In Medora, North Dakota
The Best Things To Do In Medora, North Dakota
Originally published by Sara on travelwithsara.com | September 29, 2022
It’s no secret that I love the small town of Medora, North Dakota. If you have not visited Medora, place it at the top of your list of places to visit. This charming, authentic small western town will win you over as soon as you step foot on the ground. You can begin to plan your visit now, as I’m going to give you tips on how to get the most out of your visit. With many choices of things to do, you will find that Medora offers more than you ever imagined.
LITTLE PICTURES. BIG MOMENTS.
Family Fun in Medora
August 20, 2022 | Written by Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation
Looking for some family-friendly fun before you and your family head over to the Burning Hills Amphitheatre for a night at the Medora Musical? Look no further! There’s a wide array of family-friendly activities for you to enjoy during the day in Medora.
Point to Point Park
Don’t be surprised if Medora’s newest attraction, Point to Point Park, soon becomes a family favorite!
Lazy Li Mo & Wade In Pool
Floating on the Lazy Lil Mo is a relaxing and fun way to cool off on those hot Medora days.
Manitou Zipline
If you are feeling a little adventurous, the Manitou Zipline (named after Theodore Roosevelt’s horse) is the way to go. Plus you get a great view of Medora!
Little Bully Pulpit Mini Golf
Here’s where the family-friendly competition comes in! You’ll enjoy putting around eighteen holes with unique western hazards.
Badlands Shooting Gallery
Speaking of competition…take aim at this family-friendly attraction and step back into a time of quickdraws and outlaws!
FREE Kids Entertainment
Legendary: A Campfire Tale is fun for the whole family! Put on by two of the stars of the Medora Musical, it will have you laughing and learning all about Medora, North Dakota history, and of course camping!
Wild and the Animal Band is a book reading and musical performance by Max. You’ll leave singing songs about howling at the moon and tweeting with the birds. This WILD show is great for those age 4 to 8 and those young at heart!
Medora Children’s Park
The newly refreshed, western style Medora Children’s Park will make you feel like you are playing in the Wild West! So, drop the kids off and let them play while you get some much-deserved rest.
Medora Magic Show
Take a break from the heat and enjoy some mind-bending magic in the air conditioned Old Town Hall Theater at the Medora Magic Show. This close-up magic will leave you guessing.
Come experience Medora! Where your family adventure is just around the corner!