FREE STUFF TO DO

1. North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum

Located on the grounds of the state capitol, this is North Dakota’s largest museum which features four museum galleries tracing the state’s rich history. From a life-size T. rex skeleton cast to a 1950s soda shop to rare beadwork, the State Museum offers interesting opportunities for you to connect North Dakota history with your life.

2. On-A-Slant Village at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park

Located in Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, the On-A-Slant Indian Village is a 400-year-old Mandan village, which thrived for 200 years. The Mandan were hunters and gardeners who lived in permanent villages. Includes five reconstructed earthlodges.

3. McDowell Dam Recreational Area

A 271-acre park with available activities including swimming, boating, fishing and paddle boating. There is a public beach, picnic shelters (can be reserved for special occasions), horseshoe pits, a small concessions area, a playground and modern restrooms. There is a paved trail on the grounds and wooded area for nature walks or runs. There is also a nature trail encircling the banks of McDowell Dam.

4. Bismarck Parks and Trails

Links to all of the parks, trails, dog parks, plygounds and more in Bismarck.