Overview
Bismarck (Hidasta: mirahacii arumaaguash; Arikara: ituhtaáwe) is the capital of North Dakota and the county seat of Burleigh County. Bismarck is North Dakota's second most populous city, after Fargo.
10 sights · 7 things to do · 12 places to eat · 1 bars & cafés · 15 places to stay
Updated from Wikivoyage on 1 October 2026 · Something wrong or missing? Improve it on Wikivoyage
Best things about Bismarck
North Dakota State Capitol Building
The state's tallest building, and the location of all three branches of state government. Tours available M - F 9AM-11AM and 1-3PM year round, M - F 8AM-11AM and 1-4PM, Sa 9AM-11AM and 1-3PM, Su 1-4PM from Memorial Day t…
Camp Hancock
State historic site. Open May 16 to September 15, W-Su 1-5PM. It was established in 1872 as a military post, Camp Creeley, then renamed Camp Hancock in 1973. Its mission was to provide protection for work gangs building …
Chief Looking's Village
Native American village site with self-guided tour of the grounds, contains earthlodge depressions and a fortification ditch.
Dakota Zoo
Variety of animal exhibits, including endangered monkeys, moose, and brown bears, some in natural habitats. Open late April to end of September from 10AM-8PM daily. In the winter (October to late April), open Friday to S…
Double Ditch Indian Village
Remains of a large Mandan Indian earthlodge village that is believed to have been inhabited for almost 300 years until 1781. Eight interactive signs provide information on the site.
Old Governor's Mansion
State historic site. Restored Victorian mansion and carriage house. It was built in 1884, and housed 21 ND governors from 1893 to 1960. Exhibits explain the restoration process, architectural style changes, and furniture…
Plan your trip
Best time to visit & weather
Most comfortable: May–Sep. Summer highs reach about 82°F; winter lows dip to about -6°F. Cold months (Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov, Dec) can bring snow and ice; check road conditions. Wettest: Jun and Jul. (climate data from nearby New Rockford)
Blue bars: average daily high and low (°F). Purple columns: average monthly rain and melted snow (inches).
Getting there
- From you: to see whether to drive or fly, and how long it takes.
- BIS Bismarck Municipal Airport, Bismarck — 3 mi away. Directions
- DIK Dickinson Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport, Dickinson — 96 mi away. Directions
The nearest Amtrak station is located in Minot, North Dakota, which is around 100 miles (160 km) north of Bismarck on US-83. There are no Amtrak Thruway bus/shuttle connections, see below under 'By bus' as to what's available.
Full “Get in” guide ↓Budget & where to stay
- Typical meal: about $8 per person at listed restaurants.
See the Sleep guide ↓ for places to stay.
Sample 3-day itinerary
Day 1
- Morning North Dakota State Capitol Building, Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Hall of Fame, North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum
- Lunch The Walrus
- Afternoon Old Governor's Mansion, Bismarck Art and Galleries Association
- Dinner Pirogue Grille
- Evening Steep Me
Day 2
- Morning Chief Looking's Village, Lewis and Clark Riverboat
- Lunch Kobe's Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar
- Afternoon Double Ditch Indian Village
- Dinner Space Aliens Grill & Bar
Day 3
- Morning Huff Hills Ski Area
- Lunch Scotty's Drive-In
- Dinner Bistro
Stops are grouped by area so each day needs little backtracking. Check opening hours before you go.
Food for you
Most national chain restaurants are off of I-94 Exit 159 (Hwy. 83/State St.), near Kirkwood Mall on the south side, and in the Pinehurst area (Exit 157, Tyler Parkway and Divide Ave.) on the west side. For a more unique dining experience, explore restaurants in the historic Downtown area. This district's Peacock Alley, in the former Patterson Hotel is a local favorite.
Many North Dakotans are meat-eaters and these restaurants do not disappoint in this area. Pasta entrees and seafood are quite popular as well, rounding out most menus. Due to ND's landlocked location, seafood must be flown in regularly, so a seared ahi tuna steak is likely to be at least 'good'. However northern pike, walleye, buffalo, and pheasant are likely to be local and fresh. These items are worth a try to capture a more authentic taste of North Dakota.
Cuisine (tap to filter)
What to ask about, for your diet
Diet labels come from each listing's description and cuisine; “likely” means the cuisine usually has good choices, not a promise. Check with the restaurant. Open the food finder
Photos
Map
Every listing with a location. Tap a pin for its Google Maps link.
Understand
Etymology
The city was first named Edwinton, but the name was changed only a year later after Otto von Bismarck, a German statesman and politician. It was believed that the name change would attract foreign investment from Germany and encourage German immigration to the city.
History
Early history
Very little is known about Bismarck's history prior to the 1800s (during which time Europeans started immigrating to the United States in large numbers). It is believed that the first settlers in the area were the Mandan (a Native American tribe) and they are believed to have resided in the city for thousands of years.
The 1800s
During the Lewis and Clark expedition, the Corps of Discovery, a specially-established unit of the US Army, came into the area and stayed for a few years. The Corps of Discovery aimed to establish diplomatic relations and peace with the Native American tribes who resided in the area.
In 1872, Camp Greeley (later Camp Hancock) was established in the city to protect those working on the Northern Pacific Railway. During this time, the area continued to be flooded with immigrants and the city was officially born.
The discovery of large gold reserves in the Black Hills attracted numerous people to Bismarck, but this caused tensions with the Lakota tribe, who believed that the European immigrants had no business encroaching on territory sacred to them.
In the late 1880s, Bismarck became the capital of North Dakota.
Present day
As the capital of North Dakota, many of Bismarck's residents work for the North Dakotan government. Approximately 70,000 people live in Bismarck, making it one of the smaller cities in the United States.
Ancestry
Germans are the largest ethnic group in the city, comprising half of the total population of the city. Large numbers of Germans came from Russia during the 19th century, and they were drawn by the prospect of owning large amounts of land in the United States. Almost all German-Americans in North Dakota have Russian roots.
Climate
Bismarck's climate is characterized by cold, somewhat snowy and windy winters, and hot, humid summers. Thunderstorms occur in spring and summer, but much of the rest of the year is dry.
Tourist information
Get in
By plane
Go Bismarck Municipal Airport (BIS)
is served by: There are taxis, rideshare (Lyft & Uber), and hotel shuttles to bring you into town locally. There are also car rentals available from the airport which is the preferred method for greater flexibility in getting around to the surrounding areas. See this Link for a list of what is available. Bis-Man Transit's Green 3 Route bus connects the airport into downtown and Inglewood Mall.
By train
The nearest Amtrak station is located in Minot, North Dakota, which is around 100 miles (160 km) north of Bismarck on US-83. There are no Amtrak Thruway bus/shuttle connections, see below under 'By bus' as to what's available.
By car
You can get to Bismarck from the east or west via I-94, or from the north or south via US-83. Taxi 9000 does offer cab service for the area. They are usually at the airport upon arrivals. The city is spread out, so a vehicle is recommended.
By bus
Go Jefferson Lines
Travels primarily on Interstate 94 between Fargo and Billings (via Valley City, Jamestown, Bismark, Dickenson, Glen Dives, Miles City). They also have another route going south towards Vivian, South Dakota on I-90 via Fort Yates, McLaughlin, Selby, Morbridge, Gettysburg, Adar, Onida, Pierre); Passengers transfer in Fargo, Vivian, South Dakota; and Billings to reach additional destinations.They also have a less frequent connections to Minot (Walmart Supercenter) via US 83.
Get around
The airport offers car rental services or you may use taxi services as well. The CAT (Capital Area Transit) now provides limited public transit service between the airport and Kirkwood Mall.
The city services public transportation by running several bus routes throughout the area. It is called the Capital Area Transit (CAT). Route maps and information should be available at all major bus stops and the airport.
See
See Camp Hancock
State historic site. Open May 16 to September 15, W-Su 1-5PM. It was established in 1872 as a military post, Camp Creeley, then renamed Camp Hancock in 1973. Its mission was to provide protection for work gangs building the Northern Pacific Railroad. The camp headquarters, a log building, is still standing on the site.
See Dakota Zoo
Variety of animal exhibits, including endangered monkeys, moose, and brown bears, some in natural habitats. Open late April to end of September from 10AM-8PM daily. In the winter (October to late April), open Friday to Sunday, 1-5PM. Admission for children under age two is free, $4.25 for children 2-12, $7.25 for ages 13-60, and $6.25 for 60+.
See Old Governor's Mansion
State historic site. Restored Victorian mansion and carriage house. It was built in 1884, and housed 21 ND governors from 1893 to 1960. Exhibits explain the restoration process, architectural style changes, and furniture used by several governors. Open May 16 to September 15, Wednesday thru Sunday, from 1-5PM.
See North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum
This is North Dakota's largest museum. It displays a collection of Plains Indian artifacts, and exhibits of North Dakota's military, agricultural, and natural history. Includes a special children's historical area. Sakakawea was the guide for the Lewis and Clark expedition of 1804-1806. Her statue is displayed near the center's entrance.
See Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Hall of Fame
In the State Capitol. Displays portraits of recipients of the Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Award, the state's highest, given to North Dakotans who have brought honor to the state. Open year-round, Monday-Friday 8AM-5PM and during Memorial Day to Labor day, also open on Saturday 9AM-4PM and on Sunday 1-4PM.
Do
Missouri River
The Missouri River is a favorite with locals for fishing, swimming, and other water sports. Rivers can be dangerous: young children must wear life jackets and everyone must be conscious of those around them.
Do Lewis and Clark Riverboat
A 150-passenger paddle wheel riverboat based at the Port of Bismarck, River Road, Bismarck. Afternoon and evening round-trip cruises on the Missouri River from the historic Port of Bismarck to Fort Lincoln and the On-A-Slant Mandan Village. Dinner and beverage service available for regular cruises and charters. Narrations and reenactments provided during cruises. Call for regular scheduled cruises from April through October.
- The Desert is a local hangout in the summer. The Desert is on the east bank of the Missouri south of the University of Mary. It takes about 15–20 minutes to reach by car. There is a boat ramp (Kimball Bottoms) in the area, and continuing past the boat ramp while following the shoreline for about another mile will bring you to a large sandbar beach where you may park your car and camp. This area is often extremely crowded during the summer, especially on holidays and weekends. During the week, it can be much more relaxing. A large area is located adjacent to the beach that is used by off-road vehicles, including dirt bikes and 4-wheelers. While generally North Dakotans are very respectful and generous people, when large numbers of people are at the Desert, it can be a hard place for families to enjoy time together. There is often plenty of partying and alcohol consumption. If you have small children, this is an area best avoided on weekends and major holidays (mainly the 4th of July), especially when the weather is good.
- Boating is a great way to spend a long weekend or a lazy summer evening. A map showing boat ramps can be found here. There are generally many sandbars available in the Bismarck area to dock on. Much like the desert, sandbars near the bridges in the middle of Bismarck-Mandan often become crowded and rowdy on hot summer days. Head away from the middle of town, to the north or south, for some seclusion and relaxation.
- Water-skiing, tubing, and wakeboarding are all popular activities, as well. Be aware that it is often dangerous to do these things within the vicinity of the four bridges spanning the river, as there is often too much boat traffic. Heading one mile up or down river will help you to have a safer (and more fun!) time. State law requires two people on the boat/jet-ski in cases of pulling someone on a tube, wakeboard, etc. One person is required to sit at the back of the boat and 'spot' for the people being pulled. There are state Game & Fish patrol boats enforcing these rules.
- Play Cro-Shoes. This is a great river tradition. The game was invented by Vern Peterson, a local, in 1987. The game combines elements of horse shoes and other games to provide a unique sandbar game. Game sets are available at Scheel's Sports, located at Kirkwood Mall, or through the Cro-Shoes website contact page.
Ski & snowboard
Do Huff Hills Ski Area
Located in the buttes on the western banks of the Missouri River, is the largest downhill ski area in North Dakota, with a vertical drop of 450 feet (140 m). Huff Hills is 18 miles (29 km) south of Mandan on ND State Highway 1806. The scenic drive takes around 45 minutes from Bismarck, and around 30 minutes from Mandan.
- Cross-country skiing is often possible in Bismarck. Bismarck Parks & Recreation Department grooms trails at Riverwood Golf Course if snow conditions allow. It is often possible to ski in the countryside around Bismarck, but remember that trespassing on private property is a crime!
Other
Learn
Place Ft. Abraham Lincoln State Park
Is made historically important because within its boundaries are the ruins of On-A-Slant Mandan Indian Village and the Fort Abraham Lincoln cavalry and infantry post. It was from this fort that Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer and the Seventh Cavalry rode out on their ill-fated expedition against the Sioux at the Little Big Horn. It has 95 camping sites. There are special events year-round. Guided horse-back trail riding is available in the summer and offers a wide view of the Missouri basin in this area.
Buy
Bismarck offers two major shopping malls, [https://www.gatewaymallbismarck.com/ Gateway Fashion Mall] in north Bismarck, and [https://www.shopkirkwoodmall.com/ Kirkwood Mall] in south Bismarck. Kirkwood Mall is the city's largest mall. It is anchored by Target, JCPenney, Herberger's, Scheel's Sports, and I. Keating Furniture World.
Besides the mall Bismarck has Wal-Mart, Staples, Office Depot, and Menards. Bismarck had two Super Walmarts, Sams Club, Lowes, Kohls, and many other shops. The majority of the newer retail centers are in the northern part of the city.
Eat
Most national chain restaurants are off of I-94 Exit 159 (Hwy. 83/State St.), near Kirkwood Mall on the south side, and in the Pinehurst area (Exit 157, Tyler Parkway and Divide Ave.) on the west side. For a more unique dining experience, explore restaurants in the historic Downtown area. This district's Peacock Alley, in the former Patterson Hotel is a local favorite.
Many North Dakotans are meat-eaters and these restaurants do not disappoint in this area. Pasta entrees and seafood are quite popular as well, rounding out most menus. Due to ND's landlocked location, seafood must be flown in regularly, so a seared ahi tuna steak is likely to be at least 'good'. However northern pike, walleye, buffalo, and pheasant are likely to be local and fresh. These items are worth a try to capture a more authentic taste of North Dakota.
Budget
Eat Kroll's Diner
American and German cuisine. Famous for their Knoephla soup, which you can purchase by the bucket.
Eat
Eat
Eat Scotty's Drive-In
A locally owned, retro-style drive-in from 1965. One of the oldest restaurants in the city. Burgers, hot dogs, fries – all the things you'd expect, plus the possibility of a dill pickle milkshake at the end.
Mid-range
Eat The Walrus
A local favorite, The Walrus has been open since 1996. Try any one of their signature pasta dishes, unique pizzas, house-made soups, or select from 41 beers on tap, in addition to their reasonably sized wine menu. Live music on Tuesdays.
Eat Fireflour Pizza
Hand made pizzas fire roasted in a stone oven. Free parking up to 2 hours with $10 purchase.
Eat Space Aliens Grill & Bar
BBQ and pizza, in an alien themed atmosphere. Contains an arcade for the young, and young at heart.
Splurge
Eat Peacock Alley American Grill and Bar
In the historic Patterson Hotel Building, within walking distance of the Bismarck Civic Center and Bismarck's downtown events. A healthy fresh lunch menu is available daily. Voted the best martini year after year and featuring 23 different tap beers.
Eat Bistro
Consistently rated best restaurant in Bismarck by readers of the Bismarck Tribune. It features a variety of dishes including regional Italian specialties. Thursday night is sushi night with live music.
Eat 40 Steak and Seafood
Another well-known fine-dining establishment in Bismarck. Monday night is sushi night with live music.
Eat Pirogue Grille
The restaurant concept features Midwest regional cuisine that changes with the seasons. Featured menu items include walleye, bison, duck, and house-made venison sausage. Great selection of desserts and breads, all made in house; extensive wine list featuring many different varietals.
Eat Kobe's Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar
Come for the sushi, stay for the Teppanyaki grill show. A variety of sake, beer, wine, and spirits are also available.
Drink
Bismarck has several local adult establishments. Popularity shifts as frequently as the weather. If you're into the nightlife, you'd be better asking the locals where most people in your age group hang out. The Elbow Room can be a veritable local high school reunion on some weekend nights.
If you like a variety of beers, try O'Briens, Sport's Page, or Peacock Alley.
The hangout for politicians when the state legislature is in session is the Peacock Alley Bar, in the historic Patterson Hotel building in downtown Bismarck. Government-types have been calling the "Peacock" their after-hours home for more than half a century. The regular crowd includes a variety ranging from 20-somethings to middle-aged downtown business folk, generally people that appreciate the atmosphere, good conversation, and variety of libations the location has provided since first opening in 1911.
Drink Steep Me
A tea shop that is a daily stop for locals. Once a dream by a local tea-maker is now a bustling business.
Sleep
See also Mandan listings.
Stay safe
Bismarck is a relatively safe town. Your biggest danger is the winter weather.
In the winter don't forget proper clothing for harsh weathers. For 20 days in Jan-Feb 2004, the temp did not get above 0 °F (−18 °C). The coldest temp was in Minot, ND, at -45 °F (−43 °C) (-75 °F (−59 °C) windchill) while Bismarck was at a "balmy" -43 °F (−42 °C).
If your car has a block heater, remember to plug it into a wall outlet. Local rental cars will have block heaters installed. If you don't know what to look for, ask the rental place; they will know. Block heaters will keep the car from freezing up during sub-zero temps.
From April–October, most of the state will conduct its road construction projects. During this season, plan for occasional delays in Bismark and on the roads connecting the city to neighbouring areas.
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