North Dakota

Best time to visit North Dakota

The best time to visit North Dakota is generally considered to be from late spring (May) through early autumn (October). This period offers the most favourable weather for outdoor activities and when most attractions are fully operational.

May is a beautiful time as the state emerges from winter. Temperatures are mild, wildflowers begin to bloom, and wildlife becomes more active. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying nature before the peak summer heat and crowds. June to August offer the warmest temperatures, perfect for exploring national parks like Theodore Roosevelt National Park and engaging in water sports on lakes and rivers. July and August can be hot, especially in the western part of the state, but nights are generally cooler. September is often considered a "sweet spot." Temperatures are pleasant, humidity drops, and the state begins to showcase stunning autumn foliage, particularly in areas with more trees. Crowds start to thin after Labour Day, making it a more relaxed time to visit.

Whereas North Dakota winters are known for being long, cold, and snowy. In November to March/April expect very cold temperatures, significant snowfall, and often strong winds. Average January temperatures can be as low as -18°C or even colder. While challenging for general sightseeing, winter is ideal for snow sports enthusiasts. Activities like snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, ice skating, and ice fishing are popular. If you're prepared for the cold, you can experience a serene, snow-covered landscape.

Discover North Dakota

Bordering the states of Minnesota, South Dakota and Montana and in the north the Canadian Provinces of Manitoba and Saskatchewan, North Dakota is ideal for a multi-state or country fly-drive holiday. It is also said that people who live in North Dakota are the happiest in the whole of America and there is plenty of reasons why. The rolling prairies, sweeping valleys and unique Badlands scenery offer peace and tranquillity. The state’s main attraction is the rippling expanse of Theodore Roosevelt National Park – that covers 70,000 acres of rugged, untamed landscape.

The state's different towns and cities add to its awe inspiring beauty from the charming cowboy town of Medora, located near the entrance of Theodore Roosevelt National Park with its toe tappin’ and jolly Medora Musical, the vibrant city of Fargo and its colourful murals and iconic theatre, to the historical capital Bismarck-Mandan where you can step back in time at Custer House in Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park.

North Dakota is proud of its Native American heritage which is showcased at various attractions including the MHA Nation Interpretive Center in New Town and the rich collection of displays honouring all the states five tribes at the North Dakota Heritage Centre and State Museum in Bismarck-Mandan. There is no better way to experience Native American culture than soaking up the atmosphere at the colourful powwows which take place throughout the year including the legendary United Tribes Powwow in September.

Highlights of North Dakota

What is South Dakota famous for?

• Theodore Roosevelt National Park
• Medora
• Fargo
• Bismarck-Mandan
• International Peace Garden

Swipe left or right to learn more about each destination.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Nestled in the rugged North Dakota Badlands, this stunning park was named after America’s 26th US President Theodore Roosevelt who often came to the park to hunt. Divided into the North and South Units, the latter being the most visited unit with access from the town of Medora.

This park offers pristine wilderness, not a hotel or shop in sight, and nothing but breathtaking lookouts including jaw dropping Riverbend Overlook that has views of rugged gorges and canyons, where prairie dogs, wild horses and bison roam free. The more remote North Unit is accessed at Watford City and offers dense forests and the popular and stunning Oxbow Overlook.

Medora

Gateway to the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, the cute cowboy town of Medora oozes authentic charm. Complete with saloons with horses tied up outside, horse and carriage rides, and unique stores, all of which are surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Badlands.

Come during the summer months to see the top tappin’ Medora Musical set against the North Dakota Badlands, taste steak at the Pitchfork Steak Fondue experience and opening in July 2026 is the new and exciting Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library.

Fargo

Fargo sits on the North Dakota – Minnesota border and is the states’ largest city and its biggest claim to fame is for the dark comedy television series ‘Fargo’. The walkable downtown area is home to the iconic gem of the Fargo Theatre, a collection of colourful and uplifting murals and unique shops, restaurants and plenty of breweries. Close to the airport you can see vintage and modern aircraft at the Fargo Air Museum in its two separate hangers including a Wright Brother’s flyer and MQ-1 Predator unmanned aircraft.

Bismarck-Mandan

Rich in history both in the great outdoors and indoors, the capital city Bismarck-Mandan is in the heart of the state. Experience Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park overlooking the Missouri River Valley near Mandan, where General Custer and his cavalry rode to their legendary battle at Little Bighorn.

Experience life as a Mandan Indian at the nearby On-A-Slant Indian Village, and don’t miss a visit to the North Dakota Heritage Centre and State Museum which tells the fascinating history of the state from prehistoric times through to the present day in four different galleries through high spec displays, and interactive exhibits.

International Peace Garden

The only one if its kind in the world, the beautiful International Peace Garden lies in the Turtle Mountains and is situated on the USA-Canada border. The garden symbolizes peace between the two countries and is shared between North Dakota and the Canadian Province of Manitoba. Covering 2400 acres of indoor and outdoor flower displays, hiking trails, a 9-11 Memorial and pretty sculptures and fountains this is a stunning and tranquil attraction to visit.