Fort Yates North DakotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Fort Yates, North Dakota.
1. Sitting Bull Burial Site
HISTORIC LAKOTA LEADER MEMORIAL
The Sitting Bull Burial Site in Fort Yates marks the original resting place of the renowned Lakota leader who was killed on December 15, 1890. Though his remains were relocated to Mobridge, South Dakota in 1953, the site remains an important historical landmark commemorating his legacy. Visitors can pay respects at this significant location that honors one of the most influential Native American leaders in history.
2. Sitting Bull Visitor Center
CULTURAL EDUCATION HUB
The Sitting Bull Visitor Center offers guests an immersive experience into the life and legacy of the renowned Lakota leader. Exhibits showcase historical artifacts, photographs, and informational displays about Sitting Bull and the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. Visitors can gain valuable insights into Native American history and the significance of Sitting Bull to the indigenous peoples of the region.
3. Standing Rock National Native American Scenic Byway
CULTURAL HERITAGE ROUTE
The Standing Rock National Native American Scenic Byway takes travelers through the stunning landscapes of the Standing Rock Reservation. This designated scenic route showcases important cultural and historical sites related to Lakota and Dakota heritage. Visitors can experience breathtaking views of the Missouri River while learning about the rich Native American history of the region.
4. Prairie Nights Casino
ENTERTAINMENT AND GAMING
Prairie Nights Casino offers visitors a variety of gaming options including slot machines and table games in a vibrant atmosphere. The venue features dining options serving both casual meals and more upscale fare for guests. Beyond gambling, the casino hosts regular entertainment events including live music and special performances throughout the year.
5. Lake Oahe
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Lake Oahe provides excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water-based recreational activities near Fort Yates. The reservoir, created by Oahe Dam on the Missouri River, extends approximately 231 miles from central South Dakota into North Dakota. Visitors can enjoy stunning natural landscapes while fishing for walleye, northern pike, and other popular game fish in one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the United States.
6. Standing Rock Monument
TRIBAL CULTURAL LANDMARK
The Standing Rock Monument stands as a significant cultural landmark giving the reservation its name. According to tribal history, the stone formation resembles a seated woman with a child on her back, representing an Arikara woman who turned to stone while waiting for her husband. Visitors can learn about the cultural significance and legends associated with this important tribal symbol.
7. Grumpy's Bar & Grill
LOCAL DINING FAVORITE
Grumpy's Bar & Grill serves as a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors looking for hearty meals and cold drinks in Fort Yates. The establishment offers a casual, welcoming atmosphere with a menu featuring American comfort food favorites. Visitors can enjoy the friendly service while experiencing an authentic taste of local dining culture.
8. Prairie Bells Grotto
SERENE NATURE SPOT
Prairie Bells Grotto offers visitors a peaceful natural setting to enjoy the beauty of North Dakota's landscape. This scenic spot provides opportunities for reflection, photography, and appreciating native flora and fauna. Visitors can experience the tranquility of this hidden gem while exploring the natural environment of the Standing Rock area.
9. The Blue Room
LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Blue Room offers entertainment options for visitors and locals in the Fort Yates area. This venue serves as a gathering place for social events and occasional live performances. Visitors can experience local culture and community atmosphere while enjoying the offerings of this Fort Yates establishment.
10. Club Diamond Z
NIGHTLIFE AND ENTERTAINMENT
Club Diamond Z provides nightlife entertainment options for visitors to Fort Yates seeking evening activities. The venue offers drinks, music, and a social atmosphere for adults to unwind and socialize. Visitors can experience local culture and nightlife in this Standing Rock Reservation establishment.
11. Welk Homestead State Historic Site
MUSICAL HERITAGE LANDMARK
The Welk Homestead State Historic Site preserves the childhood home of famous bandleader Lawrence Welk, located near Strasburg. Visitors can tour the restored homestead, which includes the original farmhouse, summer kitchen, barn, and blacksmith shop. The site offers a glimpse into the early 20th century German-Russian immigrant experience in North Dakota and the humble beginnings of the renowned musician.
12. Klein Museum
REGIONAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Klein Museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts and exhibits detailing the history of the Mobridge area and Native American culture. Displays include items from pioneer days, Native American artifacts, and information about the region's development over time. Visitors can gain valuable insights into the cultural heritage and historical significance of this area near the Standing Rock Reservation.
13. Sitting Bull Monument
LAKOTA LEADER TRIBUTE
The Sitting Bull Monument in Mobridge marks the final resting place of the renowned Lakota leader after his remains were moved from Fort Yates in 1953. The memorial overlooks the Missouri River near where Sitting Bull lived, featuring a bust sculpture and commemorative plaque. Visitors can pay their respects at this significant historical site that honors the influential Native American leader with a more appropriate monument than his original burial place.
14. Mount Rushmore National Memorial
ICONIC PRESIDENTIAL SCULPTURES
Mount Rushmore National Memorial features the colossal faces of four American presidents—Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln—carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore. The impressive sculpture, created by Gutzon Borglum between 1927 and 1941, stands as one of America's most recognizable landmarks and attracts millions of visitors annually. While located a few hours from Fort Yates, this iconic national memorial offers a spectacular display of American artistry and history worth visiting when in the region.
15. Black Hills National Forest
NATURAL MOUNTAIN WONDERLAND
Black Hills National Forest encompasses over 1.2 million acres of forested hills and mountains, offering spectacular scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing among ponderosa pines, spruce, and aspen groves. Though requiring a day trip from Fort Yates, the forest's natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and recreational options make it a worthwhile addition to any regional travel itinerary.