Bismarck, ND

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Photo courtesy of the Bismarck-Mandan Convention & Visitors Bureau
Photo provided by Photo courtesy of the Bismarck-Mandan Convention & Visitors Bureau
Photo provided by Photo courtesy of the Bismarck-Mandan Convention & Visitors Bureau
Photo provided by Photo courtesy of the Bismarck-Mandan Convention & Visitors Bureau
Bismarck
This North Dakota city, set on the banks of the Missouri River, holds miles of walking trails, a 50-year-old zoo and the tallest building in the state.

The capital of North Dakota, Bismarck was founded on the spot where explorers Lewis and Clark crossed the Missouri River. Swim in the river, hike along wooded trails, and climb to the top of the Capitol Building in the state’s second-largest city.

A good way to get a bird’s-eye view of Bismarck is with a visit to the Capitol Building. This 18-floor cement building is the tallest in North Dakota. Climb up to the observation deck on the top floor to look out over the grassy mall and the Missouri River to the east. Notice the red and white petunias planted in front of the Capitol to spell “North Dakota.”

Explore the area around the Missouri River to see the beautiful countryside along the longest river in North America. Rent a bike to ride along the Riverfront Trail, which extends from Pioneer Park several miles north of town all the way to the Riverwood Golf Course in the south. If the water is low enough, wade out to the sand bars up by Pioneer Park.

Reserve a seat on the Lewis and Clark Riverboat for an hour-long ride along the river in an old steamboat. Take a history cruise to learn more about the area’s heritage, or book a sunset cruise to watch the day fade over the river.

Don’t forget to save time for a visit to the Dakota Zoo. With over 600 animals, this 50-year-old zoo is the largest in North Dakota. Walk through the exhibits among the trees on the bank of the Missouri River. Highlights include snow leopards, tigers, and river otters.

You can reach Bismarck by plane through the Bismarck Municipal Airport, which is about a 15-minute drive to the south of town.  The nearest major city is Minneapolis, Minnesota, and there are several bus lines which make the trip. Within Bismarck, you can get around by bus, but it is best to have a car to reach the parks on the outer edges of the city.

Days Inn by Wyndham Bismarck

Days Inn by Wyndham Bismarck

2 out of 5
1300 E Capitol Ave, Bismarck, ND
The price is ¥10,453 per night from Sep 21 to Sep 22
¥10,453
¥11,603 total
Sep 21 - Sep 22
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in Bismarck. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
Days Inn by Wyndham Bismarck
EverSpring Inn

EverSpring Inn

2.5 out of 5
200 E.Bismarck Expressway, Bismarck, ND
Book a stay at this golf hotel in Bismarck. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
EverSpring Inn
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Bismarck Waterpark

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Bismarck Waterpark

2.5 out of 5
3205 N 14th St, Bismarck, ND
The price is ¥15,453 per night from Sep 14 to Sep 15
¥15,453
¥17,152 total
Sep 14 - Sep 15
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this family-friendly hotel in Bismarck. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in ...
7.4/10 Good! (1,004 reviews)
"…"

Reviewed on Aug 20, 2025

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Bismarck Waterpark
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Spacious Home Away From Home!

Spacious Home Away From Home!

Bismarck
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Bismarck. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Former Governor's Mansion ...
Spacious Home Away From Home!
7th Heaven Condo in Downtown Bismarck

7th Heaven Condo in Downtown Bismarck

Bismarck
Stay at this condo in Bismarck. Enjoy free WiFi, a water park, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Former Governor's Mansion and Belle Mehus Auditorium ...
7th Heaven Condo in Downtown Bismarck
House in central Bismarck location. Stay at a spacious 4-bedroom house

House in central Bismarck location. Stay at a spacious 4-bedroom house

Bismarck
Stay at this vacation home in Bismarck. Enjoy laundry facilities and air conditioning. Popular attractions Former Governor's Mansion and Belle Mehus Auditorium ...
House in central Bismarck location. Stay at a spacious 4-bedroom house
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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