Plaza North DakotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Plaza, North Dakota.
1. Theodore Roosevelt National Park
WILDLIFE AND SCENIC BEAUTY
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a scenic park with diverse wildlife including bison and wild horses. The park features informative visitor centers and a picturesque scenic loop drive with several overlooks. This inspiring landscape caused Teddy Roosevelt himself to pour his heart into conservation efforts after his 1883 visit to hunt bison.
2. Medora Musical
WESTERN ENTERTAINMENT SPECTACLE
The Medora Musical is a renowned spectacle of colorful costumes, singing, dancing, and patriotism. It stands as one of North Dakota's must-see experiences that visitors need to witness firsthand to truly appreciate. The musical serves as a cultural cornerstone in this gateway town to Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
3. Pitchfork Steak Fondue
UNIQUE DINING EXPERIENCE
The Pitchfork Steak Fondue offers a distinctive dining experience in the town of Medora. Chefs load steaks onto pitchforks and fondue them western-style for a memorable meal with panoramic views. This culinary attraction complements the other entertainment options in this tourist-friendly town.
4. Fort Union Trading Post
HISTORIC FUR TRADING SITE
Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site preserves the most important fur trading post in the region from 1829 to 1867. Visitors can experience a partial reconstruction of the site, representing what plains travelers might have encountered in 1851. The park also houses an impressive collection of Native American art and offers Junior Ranger activities for young visitors.
5. World's Largest Buffalo
ICONIC CONCRETE SCULPTURE
The World's Largest Buffalo in Jamestown is a massive concrete sculpture standing 26 feet tall and weighing 60 tons. This iconic North Dakota landmark can be seen from Interstate 94, though visitors should venture into Jamestown for a closer look. While there, tourists can explore the adjacent Frontier Village and the National Buffalo Museum with its herd of real bison.
6. Frontier Village
OLD WEST EXPERIENCE
Frontier Village offers visitors a glimpse into North Dakota's pioneer past with authentic and reconstructed buildings. The village creates an immersive Old West atmosphere adjacent to the World's Largest Buffalo monument. Visitors can explore historical exhibits, shops, and experience the charm of the frontier days.
7. National Buffalo Museum
BISON HISTORY AND CONSERVATION
The National Buffalo Museum in Jamestown showcases the cultural and historical significance of the American bison. The museum features educational exhibits alongside a living herd of bison that visitors can observe. This attraction provides valuable insights into conservation efforts and the importance of bison to North Dakota's heritage.
8. Enchanted Highway
ROADSIDE ART GALLERY
The Enchanted Highway features large, whimsical metal sculptures dotting a scenic drive through North Dakota's countryside. This unique outdoor art gallery concludes in a charming town offering photo opportunities, a gift shop, and ice cream. Each massive roadside sculpture was created by local artist Gary Greff, making for an unforgettable road trip experience.
9. Sandy the World's Largest Sandhill Crane
TOWERING BIRD SCULPTURE
Sandy, the World's Largest Sandhill Crane, stands 40 feet high in Steele, North Dakota. This impressive sculpture was built in 1998-99 by self-taught ironworker James Miller and has become a popular roadside attraction. Visitors can enjoy the surrounding park with interpretive signs about birding and use the designated photo spot to capture this unique landmark.
10. International Peace Garden
TRANQUIL BORDER LANDMARK
The International Peace Garden spans the border between North Dakota and Manitoba, Canada, symbolizing friendship between the two nations. These tranquil gardens feature a carillon bell tower, floral clock, and various memorials amid beautiful landscaping. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails and scenic picnic spots while reflecting on the garden's message of peace.
11. White Horse Hill National Game Preserve
WILDLIFE AND NATURE
White Horse Hill National Game Preserve (formerly known as Sullys Hill) offers visitors a chance to observe native wildlife in a protected setting. The preserve features hiking trails through diverse landscapes including woodlands and prairie. Visitors can spot bison, elk, and prairie dogs while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
12. Dakota Zoo
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ANIMAL ATTRACTION
The Dakota Zoo in Bismarck was founded in 1961 by Marc and Betty Christianson with help from dedicated volunteers. From its modest beginnings on 15 acres of developed land, the zoo has grown into a beloved regional attraction. Visitors can observe various animal species in naturalistic habitats while enjoying educational programs and family-friendly amenities.
13. Fargo Air Museum
AVIATION HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Fargo Air Museum houses an impressive collection of aircraft and aviation memorabilia that appeals to history buffs and flight enthusiasts. Visitors can view both static displays and airworthy planes that showcase the evolution of flight technology. The museum offers educational programs and special events that celebrate North Dakota's aviation heritage.
14. North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame
WESTERN HERITAGE CELEBRATION
The North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame preserves and promotes the history and culture of Native Americans, ranching, and rodeo in North Dakota. Located in Medora near Theodore Roosevelt National Park, this interpretive center features exhibits on western heritage and cowboy life. Visitors can explore galleries showcasing artifacts, photographs, and stories of influential figures in North Dakota's western history.
15. Historic 1883 Stutsman County Courthouse
PRESERVED TERRITORIAL ARCHITECTURE
The Historic 1883 Stutsman County Courthouse stands as the oldest courthouse in North Dakota and represents an important piece of territorial history. This restored building showcases period architecture and offers visitors a glimpse into 19th-century governmental operations. The courthouse now serves as a museum with exhibits detailing the region's development and legal history.