Things to do & places to visit in Medora, North Dakota, United States

Medora city in North Dakota, United States. Timezone: America/Denver, current date and time: Monday, May 06, 2024, 22:25.

Top things to do (20)

Top places to visit (25 attractions)

5.0 Old Town Hall Theater (78 reviews)
- Teddy Roosevelt Show
Theaters

A rainy afternoon in Medora led us to buy tickets for the 1:30 p.m. show. What a treat! Hats off to Joe Wiegand for his portrayal of Teddy Roosevelt - engaging, witty and entertaining. We were a part of an audience of 50 including about ten children. The children were attentive and seemed to enjoy the show, too. I would highly recommend this show as a part of your Medora/Teddy Roosevelt National Park experience. See more..
5.0 Boicourt Overlook Trail (14 reviews)
- How did that sidewalk get there?
Spent < 1 hour Hiking Trails

The trail is listed as 0.3 miles, 15 minutes. Maybe they are measuring to the end of the new concrete sidewalk (or maybe *from* the end), but the narrow dirt trail goes farther, culminating on a narrow ridge with a stunning panoramic view of a spectacular valley landscape. I would not advise small children or anyone unsteady on his feet to go to the end as a fall or misstep could easily be fatal. The round trip from the car took me 30 minutes. See more..
5.0 Wind Canyon Trail (10 reviews)
- Small risk with great rewards!
Spent 1-2 hours Hiking Trails

A pretty gentle hike from the parking lot. The trail takes you to the riverside, then to the top of the hill, then back to the parking lot, offering unparalleled views of the North Dakota grasslands. Absolutely not hard of a trail and it rewards you an absolute gem of a view. When we visited, there was also a bison resting at the butte opposite the trail and that was a cool sight to see. See more..
5.0 Maltese Cross Cabin (6 reviews)
- Excellent ranger program
Historic Sites

The Maltese Cross Cabin ranger program was literally the first experience we had of what would be a multi-state, two week vacation through the Dakotas, so I am biased on the newness of it all, but this was wonderful. The cottonwood trees were blowing their fluff too which made it ethereal as we stood outside. We came whipping over from the Rough Riders Hotel with about 30 seconds to spare slipping into this ranger program on the history of the cabin. I wish I could remember our ranger’s name but she was excellent. She had tons of factoids and tidbits to impart as she walked us (literally and figuratively) around and through the history, and how this all came to be here in Medora North Dakota. Kids actually seemed to like this program too. I would highly recommend if visiting the park to add this into your plans - it will give you a good foundation on the history of the man and how the national park came to be. See more..
5.0 Scenic Loop Drive (6 reviews)
- About the road closure, and how to use it efficiently
Scenic Drives

The final 4 miles of the "Scenic Loop Drive" going clockwise are closed and impassable. Funds have been procured, reconstruction should start this year (2022), and work is expected to last for 2 years, meaning the full looping loop *might* be open by spring/summer 2024. Do your research before planning your venture into the park. We decided to first drive all the way into the park, up to the obvious barricades well into the scenic loop, which are 23.5 miles from the park entrance. The Badlands Overlook is at this point and appears to be sufficient for a large vehicle to turn around. We then stopped at the various trailheads on the way out, which proved to be an efficient way to approach our visit. It started raining as we exited the Boicourt trail overlook (our 4th mini-hike of the day), and since we had already spent 4 hours, we just drove out knowing we had seen pretty much everything on the scenic loop. See more..
5.0 Dakota Cyclery (4 reviews)
- Great customer service
Bike Tours • Gear Rentals
Went in with a rear brake problem for my bike. Despite keeping the owner late, we left with not only the parts to 100% fix the problem, but great local advice on trails and places to cycle. Great service! See more..
5.0 Painted Canyon Nature Trail (2 reviews)
- Great Hike
Hiking Trails

Beautiful views. Short trial well marked. Great workout enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Badlands! See more..
5.0 Christine Kman (1 review)
- Wild horses, Knowledgeable Guides
Private Tours

The Chasing Horses tour with Gary and Christine was all I hoped for, and so much more. They picked me up in front of their store and customized each aspect of the tour to my wishes. My main focus was the wild horses in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, and Chris and Gary know all the best areas to check. During my half day we saw multiple bands of horses, countless buffalo, a coyote, and prong horn sheep. Chris and Gary also knew where to find a golden eagle’s nest and we checked on a tree that had been a home for baby owls. (They were gone.) The time flew by quickly, and I savored every moment. If you’re looking for a special activity while in Medora, I cannot recommend the Chasing Horses Tour more highly! See more..
4.5 Theodore Roosevelt National Park (1.855 reviews)
- Underrated Gem of the National Park System
Spent More than 3 hours National Parks

Well, well! We have found another hidden gem of the National Park system. We found TR National Park to include critters and fowl by the score, scenics to beat the band...the works! I'm sure it helped that we visited in April, and so had many trails and pullouts all to ourselves. We were the only visitors to the phenomenal petrified forest and other trail sights. The southern unit seems to have the critters and the northern unit the speculator views. We preferred the beauty of the northern unit...and we strongly recommend you travel the 60 miles north of Medora to visit that jewel. Thank you, National Park Service...you've got a gem on your hands! See more..
4.5 Medora Musical (859 reviews)
- So worth it on a nice night
Theatre & Performances

If you’re expecting Broadway level voices and theatrics, you’ll be disappointed, but if you’re looking for an entertaining night in a beautiful outdoor amphitheater, this is the show for you! I had no idea what to expect as I had never heard of Medora Musical until I arrived in Medora. I was pleasantly surprised. It’s a little pricey (~$50 for the cheapest seats) but I got a really clear night, so the view from the amphitheater was incredible. The stage design was also pretty cool and they sing a lot of songs many people will recognize. I would definitely recommend attending if you find yourself with a free night in the Medora area. See more..
4.5 Chateau de Mores State Historic Site (188 reviews)
- Very good museum and home, but know the facts about the man it honors
Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • History Museums

Summer Hours: 8:30am - 5:30pm MST, Daily. Last tickets sold at 4:30pm MST. Covers entry to the Interpretive Center and Chateau de Morès. Off-Season Hours: 9:00am - 5:00pm MST, Tuesday-Saturday. Last tickets sold at 4:00pm MST. Covers entry to Interpretive Center. Located SW of Medora, the site interprets the North Dakota ambitions of Antoine de Vallombrosa, the Marquis de Morès, who arrived in 1883. His enterprises included a beef packing plant, stagecoach line, freighting company, refrigerated railway cars, cattle, and sheep raising, land ownership, and a new town named Medora in honor of his wife. See more..
4.5 Badlands Overlook (175 reviews)
- Great views (but be quiet).
Spent < 1 hour Lookouts

This is the last overlook after 24 miles of driving before you have to turn around on the former “Scenic Loop” road. There is a small parking area and great views of the vista. Just remember to be courteous. We wanted just a minute to take in the views, wind and everything nature had to offer but a man had to tell other travelers (loudly) of all the places he has been. So, we enjoyed the views but the company not so much. We quickly left and headed back. See more..
4.5 North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame (122 reviews)
- Outstanding Museum
Speciality Museums

We had dedicated a day in the town to museums while staying in Medora, and glad we did, it was worth the visit. The staff are really helpful and clearly (and with good reason !) take pride in their museum. The first floor was packed with interesting exhibits on Lakota life, ranching, prairie life, and all things bison. Second floor was displays on rodeo life. Our dwell time here was about at least an hour - so much too see. The staff told me people slip in to escape the midday heat, then stay for the true interesting experience. Well done town of Medora, this museum is outstanding See more..
4.5 Bully Pulpit Golf Course (106 reviews)
- Stunning Scenery
Golf Courses

The reviews I read were spot on. Everyone was very helpful and pleasant. My husband and 12 year old golfed and I tagged along. The last 8 holes were spectacular. My husband said it was a great course to play and he never thought he would get a chance. There are some steep slopes but the carts have auto braking and they worked very well. I didn't feel scared only excited. It was a little rainy and we had a tee time delay due lightning. They have good Saftey protocols. We didn't see any snakes, but lots of other critters. This is rattlesnake country so be aware. Be prepared to lose a few balls unless your a master. You may find a few as well. Excellent ice filled water stations in a few places. Nice coolers attached to their carts for your bevs. We had mild weather and I think this course would be much more difficult in extreme hot and humid weather cycles. Probably a bucket list golf course for golfers. Highly recommend. See more..
4.5 Medora Riding Stables (80 reviews)
- 2 Hour Trail Ride
Horseback Riding Tours

My wife and I took a two hour trail ride at Medora Riding Stables and had a marvelous time. We opted for the first slot in the morning so got ahead of the heat and I would advise this to anyone visiting in July or August. The guide was great and very informative. The horses were gentle and we went at a slow pace. Both of us had done a lot of riding as younger people but hadn't been in the saddle in years! Despite that we were not sore at all. The ride was advertised as two hours but in reality it was about 1:45. The other 15 minutes involved getting organized, safety speech and then dismounting. FUN! See more..
4.5 Medora Visitor Center (61 reviews)
- Ranger Run Visitor Center
Visitor Centers

Stands at the entrance to the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. See more..
4.5 Harold Schafer Heritage Center (47 reviews)
- Great History mixed with Great memories
History Museums

Phone - 1-800-633-6721 See more..
4.5 Maah Daah Hey Trail (29 reviews)
- An Epic Ride, Amazing Views. Bumps in the road are expected!
Biking Trails • Equestrian Trails • Hiking Trails

A 120-mile biking, hiking and horseback riding trail. See more..
4.5 Billings County Court House Museum (26 reviews)
- Small but Excellent
Speciality Museums

There is a small museum on the first floor, but one of my favorites. There is a courtroom on the 2nd floor with a great skit for a small fee. Everything is reasonably priced. This, in my opinion, is a hidden gem in Medora. See more..
4.5 The Buffalo Gap Gift Shop (11 reviews)
- So much high quality variety! Love this shop!
Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops

Are you looking for something special to commemorate your trip to the North Dakota Badlands? There’s no better place to get all your shopping done than at The Buffalo Gap Gift Shop. Located in the heart of Medora, our store is home to aisles and aisles of vibrant gifts full of character and meaning. As a Pride of Dakota merchant, we carry a variety of embroidered clothing, caps, and other merchandise that is skillfully crafted by artisans -- one-of-a-kind souvenirs that you'll be hard-pressed to find elsewhere on your trip. From your gardener grandparents to your history-loving friend, you’ll find something for everyone on your list here. So grab a bag and start shopping. You never know what fun things are in store at The Buffalo Gap Gift Shop. See more..
4.5 Little Bully Pulpit (2 reviews)
- Good family fun
Monday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Miniature Golf

We slipped this experience in our last night in town and had a lot of fun. The course is newly designed and adorably laid out. I think it took us about an hour to complete. Only thing that surprised me was closing time was 8:00pm, and the lazy river pool was even earlier at 6:00pm. Keep in mind it is still daylight at that time of night in the summer, and hot too. However, most of the town’s staff seems to slip over to support the Medora Musical each night, so I understand the staff can only be so many places at once ! Had fun with this and would recommend. See more..
4.0 Von Hoffman House (11 reviews)
- OK but not great
Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites

This is a historic home and you do your own tour. It could be improved with tour guides who know something about the history of the town. See more..
4.0 Perception (6 reviews)
- Be Prepared to Play (and have your camera ready)
Game & Entertainment Centers

This was a new, just opened attraction when we were there, and I think they were still developing the initial tour . We had lots of fun trying out these activities. The first part is by guided tour, and as each activity is explained you learn how the eye can fool the brain. Then you try it and wow! your perception is still altered, even though you know what to expect. This area was a bit hurried because there are a whole group of people, playing, posing and taking pics, and there is another group waiting to enter the area. The second part, the Perception House is even more daunting. It is truly surprising because just one step in does it! How do you stand up? Walk? Climb the stairs? No rush here, stay and play until you are done. See more..
Rushmore Mountain Taffy, Nd (0 review)
Monday: Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops
We are located in Medora, ND. We make fresh kettle taffy, caramels, peanut brittle, fudge, and caramel apples. We have many other gifts. See more..
Family Fun Center (0 review)
Monday: Game & Entertainment Centers
See more..