12 Breathtaking Places in North Dakota You Can’t Miss

Real talk: North Dakota completely caught me off guard. Everyone told me it was “just empty plains,” but wow, were they wrong! I’ll never forget the moment I first saw Theodore Roosevelt National Park, where countless bison roam freely through towering buttes and canyons. It hit differently than any landscape I’d seen before in America.

These are the most beautiful places in North Dakota, and trust me, they’re way cooler than Instagram makes them look. From the mind-blowing rock formations at Painted Canyon to the quirky giant sculptures along the Enchanted Highway piercing that endless prairie sky, this state is full of surprises. Here are 12 spots that made my jaw drop…and they’ll do the same to yours.

Best Spots to Visit in North Dakota

Visiting North Dakota? Spend the day exploring the rugged beauty of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, marvel at the unique sculptures along the Enchanted Highway, or find tranquility at the International Peace Garden. Stroll through charming towns for shopping and dining, embark on an adventure along the Maah Daah Hey Trail, or enjoy the wide-open landscapes of the Great Plains. Whether you’re into history, outdoor adventures, or scenic beauty, North Dakota has plenty to offer!

1. Theodore Roosevelt National Park

• 📍 Location: Western North Dakota, near Medora in the Badlands region
• 🏆 Best For: Wildlife watchers 🦬, hikers 🥾, history enthusiasts 🏛️
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Dramatic badlands formations, painted canyons, wide-open prairies
• 📸 Top Experiences: Scenic drives through both Units, spotting wild bison, hiking Caprock Coulee Trail
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-September for optimal wildlife viewing
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Rough Riders Hotel – Historic lodging in Medora

Need an escape from endless Zoom meetings? Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers with mind-clearing vistas that once inspired a president’s conservation legacy. The park’s otherworldly landscape features colorful striped buttes that transform with the changing light—perfect for your Instagram grid upgrade.

The South Unit offers the 36-mile Scenic Loop Drive with numerous pullouts, while the more remote North Unit features even more dramatic scenery. I’ve watched herds of bison cross the road just feet from my car…a wild encounter I’ll never forget. For the full experience, hike Wind Canyon Trail at sunset when the badlands glow with amber light, or stargaze in some of the darkest night skies in the country. Your stress doesn’t stand a chance here.

• Read next: 12 Epic Badlands National Park Adventures for Your Bucket List

2. The Enchanted Highway

• 📍 Location: Southwestern North Dakota, running 32 miles from Gladstone to Regent
• 🏆 Best For: Road trippers 🚗, photographers 📸, folk art enthusiasts 🎨
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Whimsical, gigantic metal sculptures against vast prairie landscapes
• 📸 Top Experiences: Photos with all seven massive sculptures, visiting the gift shop in Regent
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Summer and fall for clear visibility
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Enchanted Castle – Themed hotel in Regent

Tired of the same predictable road trips? The Enchanted Highway transforms a rural drive into a surreal art safari that’ll flood your social feeds with double-take-worthy shots. This 32-mile outdoor gallery features some of the world’s largest scrap metal sculptures rising dramatically from endless prairies.

The journey begins with “Geese in Flight” (a Guinness World Record holder) and continues with massive installations including “Tin Family” and “Pheasants on the Prairie.” Each sculpture has a dedicated pullout area where I spent way more time than planned capturing perfect photos. The contrast between these playful creations and the vast landscape creates a uniquely North Dakotan adventure. Plan half a day for the round trip, stopping at each installation before finishing in Regent at the artist’s workshop. Your followers will wonder how they missed this place.

• Read next: The 10 Prettiest Fall Destinations in the US To Visit

3. The International Peace Garden

• 📍 Location: North-central North Dakota, straddling the US-Canada border near Dunseith
• 🏆 Best For: Garden enthusiasts 🌸, peace advocates ☮️, international travelers 🌎
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Meticulously designed floral displays, reflective monuments spanning two nations
• 📸 Top Experiences: Standing in two countries at once, exploring the Formal Garden, visiting Peace Chapel
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June-September when gardens are in full bloom
• 🏨 Where to Stay: International Peace Garden Lodge – Cozy accommodations surrounded by the beauty of the garden, offering scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Want to cross an international border without airport hassles? The International Peace Garden lets you freely wander between two countries while surrounded by breathtaking beauty. This living monument spans 2,339 acres across the world’s longest unfortified border, featuring over 155,000 flowers planted in intricate patterns annually.

The garden’s centerpiece is the 120-foot Peace Tower with four concrete columns representing people uniting from across the world. The emotional September 11 Memorial incorporates steel girders from the World Trade Center. I’ve never felt more patriotic than hearing the Carillon Bell Tower‘s 14 bells ring across these carefully tended grounds. The Conservatory houses more than 3,000 cacti and succulents for plant lovers. Don’t forget your passport—you’ll be crossing international boundaries within the garden itself!

4. Maah Daah Hey Trail

• 📍 Location: Western North Dakota Badlands, connecting both units of Theodore Roosevelt National Park
• 🏆 Best For: Mountain bikers 🚵‍♀️, long-distance hikers 🥾, adventure seekers 🧗‍♂️
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Untouched wilderness, dramatic overlooks, remote badlands terrain
• 📸 Top Experiences: Trail rides or hikes, camping under stars, spotting wildlife in pristine habitats
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late spring and early fall for moderate temperatures
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Cedar Canyon Campground – A rustic and peaceful campground located within the Theodore Roosevelt National Park, perfect for those wanting to camp under the stars and experience the natural beauty of the Badlands.

Craving an adventure that’ll make your CrossFit friends jealous? The Maah Daah Hey Trail offers North Dakota’s ultimate outdoor challenge—a 144-mile non-motorized single track winding through the most remote sections of the Little Missouri National Grassland. Its name comes from the Mandan language meaning “an area that will be around for a long time.”

This demanding trail traverses rugged terrain featuring steep climbs, river crossings, and spectacular vistas few ever witness. Look for concrete posts with the turtle symbol—a Native American representation of patience and determination. My legs still remember the burn from cycling even a small section! Opportunities abound to spot bison, bighorn sheep, and golden eagles in true wilderness. Dakota Cyclery offers shuttle services for bikers tackling sections. Whether riding a segment or committing to the full trail, expect an authentic backcountry experience unlike anything in your Instagram feed.

5. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park

• 📍 Location: South-central North Dakota, near Mandan, across the Missouri River from Bismarck
• 🏆 Best For: History buffs 🏛️, military enthusiasts 🪖, family outings 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Historic reconstructions, Missouri River views, rolling prairie landscapes
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Custer’s House, exploring On-A-Slant Indian Village, hiking scenic trails
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-September when guided tours operate
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Sleep Inn & Suites (Mandan) – Convenient accommodations in nearby Mandan, offering modern amenities, a relaxing atmosphere, and an easy drive to the park

History nerds, your dream destination awaits! Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park lets you step into Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer’s last home before his infamous defeat at Little Bighorn. The reconstructed Custer House offers a fascinating glimpse into 1870s military life on the frontier.

The park also preserves On-A-Slant Indian Village with reconstructed earthlodges telling the story of the Mandan people who lived here from 1575-1781. Interpretive guides in period clothing bring history alive with engaging demonstrations—I could listen to their stories for hours. Beyond history, miles of scenic trails offer sweeping views of the Missouri River Valley. A climb up Infantry Post Hill rewards you with panoramic vistas perfect for contemplative moments or killer selfie backgrounds. The Visitor Center houses fascinating artifacts that provide context to this pivotal place in American western expansion.

6. The Historic Town of Medora

• 📍 Location: Western North Dakota, at the entrance to Theodore Roosevelt National Park’s South Unit
• 🏆 Best For: Western history lovers 🤠, outdoor enthusiasts 🏕️, entertainment seekers 🎭
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Authentic Old West architecture, stunning badlands backdrop, charming main street
• 📸 Top Experiences: Attending the Medora Musical, horseback riding, exploring Chateau de Mores
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June-early September when all attractions operate
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Rough Riders Hotel with Theodore Roosevelt themes

Looking for a grown-up summer camp vibe with cocktails? The Historic Town of Medora offers with the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and evening entertainment. This charming town of fewer than 150 permanent residents swells each summer with visitors seeking natural beauty, history, and unforgettable nights.

The town’s crown jewel is the Medora Musical, an outdoor show performed nightly in a spectacular natural amphitheater overlooking the badlands. Part variety show, part historical tribute, I’ve never seen anything that captures the Western spirit better. History comes alive at the Chateau de Mores State Historic Site, the 26-room summer home of the town’s founder. Nearby, the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame celebrates the region’s ranching heritage. For the full experience, enjoy a Pitchfork Steak Fondue dinner atop a bluff before the musical as the sun sets over the painted badlands.

7. Lake Sakakawea

• 📍 Location: Western North Dakota, stretching 178 miles along the Missouri River
• 🏆 Best For: Boating enthusiasts 🚤, anglers 🎣, outdoor recreation lovers 🏕️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Fishing for walleye and northern pike, sailing on vast open waters, camping along pristine shoreline
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May through September for warm weather activities 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Sakakawea State Park Cabins – Comfortable lodging with immediate lake access

Lake Sakakawea isn’t just another body of water – it’s the third largest man-made reservoir in America, with over 1,500 miles of shoreline. This enormous lake was created by the Garrison Dam and offers an unexpected oasis in the northern plains. The clear, deep waters have made it a premier fishing destination for trophy walleye and northern pike. I’ve never seen sunsets as spectacular as those reflecting off the lake’s vast surface at dusk. Don’t miss Four Bears Bridge, which offers panoramic views across the widest section. For the full experience, rent a pontoon boat to discover hidden coves or book a lakeside cabin. The vastness creates a unique feeling of solitude even during peak season.

8. Fargo

• 📍 Location: Eastern North Dakota, sitting on the Red River at the Minnesota border
• 🏆 Best For: Art enthusiasts 🎨, foodies 🍽️, quirky culture seekers 🎭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the Plains Art Museum, strolling Broadway’s shops, seeing the famous wood chipper movie prop
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June through August for outdoor festivals 🎡
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Donaldson – Boutique hotel featuring local art in every room

Fargo defies expectations at every turn, transforming from a city known for its namesake film into one of the Midwest’s most vibrant cultural hubs. This revitalized downtown offers an unexpectedly hip urban experience on the prairie. The city’s centerpiece is the Plains Art Museum, housed in a renovated warehouse featuring impressive regional art. 

Walking down Broadway Drive presents a stretch of independent boutiques and the iconic art deco Fargo Theatre. I’ve spent hours browsing the eclectic shops that would rival those in much larger cities. For a taste of the quirky side, visit the Visitors Center to see the actual wood chipper prop from the movie. Time your visit during the Fargo Street Fair in July for the city’s most vibrant atmosphere.

9. Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site

• 📍 Location: Central North Dakota, near Stanton, about 60 miles northwest of Bismarck
• 🏆 Best For: History enthusiasts 🏛️, cultural explorers 🗿, archaeology buffs 🔍
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking among earth lodge depressions, exploring the visitor center, hiking riverside trails
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May through September for best trail conditions 🌿
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Holiday Inn Minot (Riverside) – Cozy accommodations with views of the Missouri River, offering a serene atmosphere and proximity to the historic site

Knife River Indian Villages offers a profound window into the lives of Northern Plains Indigenous peoples that you won’t find in textbooks. This archaeological treasure preserves three Hidatsa village sites, including Sakakawea’s home. The most striking features are the numerous circular depressions scattered across the prairie – remains of earthlodges that once housed extended families. The excellent Visitor Center brings this history to life through recovered artifacts and a full-sized reconstructed earthlodge. 

I was mesmerized by the authentic craftsmanship visible in every exhibit. Follow the Village Trail (less than a mile) to the largest village site and continue to the peaceful Knife River banks. History buffs should plan at least half a day here to fully appreciate this important cultural crossroads.

10. North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum

• 📍 Location: Bismarck, North Dakota’s capital city
• 🏆 Best For: History lovers 📚, dinosaur enthusiasts 🦕, Native American culture seekers 🪶
• 📸 Top Experiences: Viewing the rare mummified dinosaur “Dakota,” exploring Native American exhibits, experiencing interactive displays
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with special events frequently rotating 🗓️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Radisson Hotel Bismarck – Central downtown location with easy museum access

The North Dakota Heritage Center isn’t your average state museum – it’s a world-class facility that takes you on an epic 600-million-year journey. This free attraction serves as the state’s largest museum and perfect introduction to North Dakota’s story. The crown jewel is “Dakota,” one of the world’s rarest dinosaur fossils – a hadrosaur with mummified skin intact, discovered by a local teenager. I could spend hours examining the incredible preservation of this prehistoric creature. Equally impressive is the Innovation Gallery, showcasing human adaptation to the Northern Plains environment. 

Don’t miss the Native American Hall of Honors, celebrating tribal accomplishments both historical and contemporary. The dramatic glass architecture of the Northern Lights Atrium makes a perfect photo opportunity before exploring the museum grounds.

11. Lake Metigoshe State Park

• 📍 Location: North-central North Dakota, near the Canadian border in the Turtle Mountains
• 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🌲, winter sports enthusiasts ❄️, peaceful retreat seekers 🧘
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking woodland trails, paddling on pristine lakes, cross-country skiing in winter
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Summer for water activities, January-March for winter recreation 🎿
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Lake Metigoshe State Park Cabins – Cozy year-round accommodations surrounded by forest

Lake Metigoshe State Park feels like it teleported from Minnesota or Canada rather than belonging in North Dakota. Its rolling hills, dense forests, and crystal-clear lakes create an unexpected woodland paradise amidst the state’s famous prairies. The park centers around beautiful Lake Metigoshe, a natural body of water with irregular shorelines creating secluded bays perfect for kayaking. Over 12 miles of hiking trails wind through oak and aspen forests, revealing wildflower meadows and excellent birdwatching opportunities. I’ve never felt more refreshed than after a morning paddle on the misty lake at sunrise. 

What truly sets this park apart is its spectacular winter transformation. When snow blankets the landscape, the extensive trail system becomes a premier destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with the Old Oak Trail offering particularly scenic winter adventures.

12. Little Missouri National Grassland

• 📍 Location: Western North Dakota, surrounding Theodore Roosevelt National Park
• 🏆 Best For: Wilderness adventurers 🏜️, wildlife spotters 🦬, backcountry campers ⛺
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the Maah Daah Hey Trail, witnessing free-roaming bison, watching sunrise over the badlands
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late spring and early fall for moderate temperatures 🌄
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Roughrider Campground – Rustic camping experience with easy access to trails, scenic views, and peaceful surroundings

The Little Missouri National Grassland isn’t just another protected area – it’s the largest public grassland in the country, encompassing over 1 million acres of wild badlands. This vast wilderness preserves the rugged country that transformed Theodore Roosevelt into a dedicated conservationist. The grassland’s most remarkable feature is the Maah Daah Hey Trail, a 144-mile path through remote badlands terrain. Each time I hike a section, I discover new sculptural rock formations unlike anywhere else. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound with chances to spot bison, bighorn sheep, and golden eagles in their natural habitat. 

For a unique experience, visit the Buffalo Gap Campground area, where free-roaming longhorn steers maintain a historic connection to ranching heritage. Photographers shouldn’t miss Burning Coal Vein, where underground coal seams once baked the surrounding clay into vibrant red formations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in North Dakota

Interested in broadening your understanding about the most scenic spots in North Dakota? Here are some common inquiries I frequently receive about the top North Dakota attractions and activities.

What is the best time of year to visit North Dakota?

The best time to visit North Dakota is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm, and all attractions are open. Fall can also be a beautiful time to visit for the changing foliage.

Where is the prettiest place in North Dakota?

North Dakota is home to some stunning natural landscapes. And one of the most beautiful places in the state is Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Here’s a bit more about this location and other beautiful spots in North Dakota:

1. Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Divided into three separate areas, the North Unit, South Unit, and Elkhorn Ranch Unit. This national park offers breathtaking badlands scenery. The rugged landscapes, mixed-grass prairies, and winding Little Missouri River create a stunning backdrop for wildlife viewing, hiking, and photography. The Painted Canyon Overlook is particularly famous for its colorful vistas.
2. Maah Daah Hey Trail: This 144-mile non-motorized single-track trail runs through the Little Missouri National Grasslands. It offers some of the most beautiful views of the Badlands. It’s a favorite among hikers, bikers, and horseback riders.
3. Lake Sakakawea: The largest man-made lake in North Dakota. Lake Sakakawea offers beautiful shorelines, clear waters, and excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping.
4. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park: This park provides a mix of history and natural beauty. There are reconstructed military and Native American buildings and scenic views of the Missouri River.
5. International Peace Garden: Straddling the border between North Dakota and Manitoba, Canada, this garden is dedicated to peace and friendship between the two nations. It features beautiful floral displays, fountains, and a peace chapel.

What are the top attractions in North Dakota?

Some of the top attractions in North Dakota include Theodore Roosevelt National Park, the historic town of Medora, Lake Sakakawea, Fargo, and the International Peace Garden.

Is North Dakota good for outdoor activities?

Absolutely! North Dakota is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and wildlife watching. The Maah Daah Hey Trail in the Little Missouri National Grassland and the trails in Theodore Roosevelt National Park are particularly popular.

What is North Dakota most known for?

North Dakota is most known for its stunning natural beauty, from its expansive prairies and Badlands to its serene lakes. It’s also famous for its rich history, particularly the historic town of Medora and the Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site.

Is North Dakota a good place for a family vacation?

Yes, North Dakota offers plenty of attractions and activities for a family vacation. Children would enjoy visiting the Dakota Zoo, exploring the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum, and participating in outdoor activities like fishing and boating at Lake Sakakawea.

Which Dakota is better to visit?

Comparing North Dakota and South Dakota in terms of which is “better” to visit depends on individual preferences, interests, and what you’re looking to experience. Both states offer unique attractions and beautiful landscapes. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

North Dakota:

1. Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Offers stunning badlands scenery, wildlife viewing, and hiking opportunities.
2. Fargo: Known for its arts scene, museums, and cultural attractions.
3. Lake Sakakawea: Great for fishing, boating, and camping.
4. International Peace Garden: A symbol of peace and friendship between the U.S. and Canada.
5. Maah Daah Hey Trail: A renowned trail for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

South Dakota:

1. Mount Rushmore: The iconic monument featuring the faces of four U.S. Presidents.
2. Badlands National Park: Known for its dramatic landscapes, fossil beds, and hiking trails.
3. Custer State Park: Offers wildlife viewing (including bison), scenic drives, and outdoor recreation.
4. Black Hills: A beautiful mountain range with opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring caves.
5. Deadwood: A historic town known for its Wild West history and gaming.

Is there anything worth seeing in North Dakota?

Definitely! North Dakota is home to an array of worth-seeing attractions. From the breathtaking landscapes of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park and the Little Missouri National Grassland to the unique Enchanted Highway and the historic Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site. Additionally, the charming cities like Fargo and Bismarck offer a variety of cultural and historical attractions.

What is pretty in North Dakota?

North Dakota is full of pretty sights. Some of the prettiest include the stunning Lake Sakakawea, the International Peace Garden with its array of beautiful flowers, and the expansive vistas of the Little Missouri National Grassland. The state’s beauty also extends to its cities, with Fargo’s historic downtown and Bismarck’s capitol grounds being particularly scenic.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in North Dakota

From the rugged badlands to the sweeping grasslands, North Dakota is a state that surprises at every turn. It’s a place where nature and history come together, where the wild spirit of the frontier still thrives, and where the beauty of the landscape is as diverse as it is enchanting.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of outdoor adventures, intrigued by unique cultural experiences, or simply seeking the tranquility that comes with immersing yourself in nature, the best places in North Dakota await your exploration. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to discover the unspoiled beauty of the Peace Garden State. In North Dakota, every journey promises to be an unforgettable adventure.