North Dakota Itineraries. 3 Days, 1 Week, Budget Travel

Time-Based Itineraries

Whether you have a day, a two-day trip, or a full week, The Peace garden state has options for you. Prepare for your trip to experience the best of the state.

As an example, an AROUND-THE-CLOCK-hour layover in Fargo might include exploring Downtown, visiting the Plains Art Museum, and dining at a local brewery. A two-day trip could focus on Western North Dakota, including Theodore Roosevelt Park And the Medora Musical.

Popular Itinerary Durations

24-hour Layover: Ideal for experiencing urban highlights like Fargo's downtown.
Weekend Getaway (2-3 days): Focus on Western North Dakota's Badlands and Medora.
One-Week Comprehensive: Mixes Eastern and Western North Dakota's prime attractions.

Interest-Based Routes

Put together your The Peace garden state adventure around specific passions, from history to outdoor thrill-seeking.

Historical & Heritage Focus

History Enthusiast's Route

Route: Bismarck to Fort Abraham Lincoln, Knife River Indian Villages.
Includes Jamestown (National Buffalo Museum) and Fort Totten.
Concludes at Pembina (Gingras Trading Post State Historic Site).
Give yourself plenty of time for each historical site for complete appreciation.

For booking historical tours, check GetYourGuide for available experiences.

Adventure & Outdoor Activities

Seek out thrills and natural beauty across The Peace garden state's varied landscapes.

Outdoor Enthusiast's Itinerary

Medora/Theodore Roosevelt National Park: hiking, mountain biking, wildlife viewing.
Lake Sakakawea: being on a boat and fishing pursuits.
Pembina Gorge: hiking and canoeing.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

Schedule a vacation that delights all ages, with engaging attractions and outdoor fun.

Fun for All Ages

Fargo: Bonanzaville USA and Children's Museum.
Jamestown: World's Largest Buffalo.
Bismarck: Heritage Center and Dakota Zoo.
Medora: Theodore Roosevelt National Park and Medora Musical.

Art & Architecture Emphasis

Discover North Dakota's artistic forms plus major amazing buildings.

Art & Design Highlights

Fargo: Plains Art Museum, Downtown art galleries, Fargo Theatre.
Enchanted Highway: Is characterized by unique metal sculptures.
Bismarck: The Seat of the state government building, Peacock Alley restaurant architecture.
Seek out public art installations in urban areas.

Spiritual & Wellness Journey

Find tranquility and renewal in North Dakota's quiet green areas and sacred sites.

Natural Serenity

Theodore Roosevelt National Park and quiet state parks like Lake Metigoshe offer calm and natural settings.

Monastic Peace

Visit Assumption Abbey in Richardton for an experience of monastic calm and contemplation.

Mindful Exploration

Engage in practices like meditation or calm walks to enhance your wellness journey.

Budget-Based Plans

North Dakota offers options for diverse budgets, from frugal exploration to luxurious getaways.

Backpacker's Guide

Travel on a budget by prioritizing cost-effective accommodation, food, and activities.

Frugal Travel Strategies

Accommodation: Focus on going camping in state/national parks or budget motels.
Food: Self-catering by purchasing groceries. Supplement with quick-service food or affordable diners.
Transportation: Rely on your own mode of transportation or carpool with a rental car.
Activities: Prioritize free attractions such as scenic drives, hiking, and state trips to the park (with a pass).

Seeking free city attractions and picnicking are further ways to save.

Mid-Range Traveler's Itinerary

Balance comfort and cost, having a mix of experiences without excessive spending.

Comfortable Travel Choices

Accommodation: Choose mid-range hotels, B&Bs, or comfortable vacation rentals.
Food: Enjoy casual restaurants, some mid-range dining, and occasional self-catering.
Transportation: Rent a moderate-size sedan for travel across the state.
Activities: Include national park entry fees, paid museum admissions, and available guided tours.

Luxury Experience Plan

Indulge in premium accommodations, fine dining, and exclusive experiences for a heightened journey.

Premium Travel Choices

Accommodation: Opt for premium hotels, upscale vacation rentals, or unique ranch stays.
Food: Experience fine dining and unique food events, like the Pitchfork Fondue.
Transportation: Choose a premium rental car (e.g., a SUV) or private transfers.
Activities: Arrange private tours, special access experiences, and higher-end equipment rentals.

Consider charter flights for remote access.

Value-Focused Recommendations

Smart planning can stretch your travel budget further while still enjoying North Dakota's offerings.

Budgeting Advice

Travel during shoulder seasons (May, September, October) to get better deals and fewer crowds.
Utilize state park passes and National Parks Passes to save on entry fees.
Pack snacks and drinks for road trips to avoid impulse purchases.
Seek hotel deals that include breakfast for added savings.

Further Value Tips

Additional ways to make your budget go further in The Peace garden state.

Extra Savings

Consider visiting smaller, lesser-known state parks for quiet and affordability.
Look for no-cost walking tours or self-guided historic district explorations.
Check local community calendars for free events or concerts.
Utilize picnic areas in public gardens to enjoy packed lunches.

Food & Culinary Experience

Explore The Peace garden state'the food environment, from diverse urban restaurants to local specialties.

Culinary Journey

Fargo: Artisan breweries and diverse restaurants.
Bismarck: Gourmet dining and local eateries.
Villages: Seek out Knoephla soup and Fleischkuechle.
Look for local fresh markets in season for fresh produce.

Budgeting Insight:

Careful planning concerning accommodation, food, and activities can transform your North Dakota trip into an enjoyable and budget-friendly experience, or an indulgent luxury escape.

Seasonal Exploration

North Dakota's distinct seasons define the available activities and experiences. Plan your visit to align with your preferences.

Summer Highlights June-August

Summer offers peak opportunities for outdoor recreation and cultural events.

Warm Weather Activities

Ideal for hiking, boating, and fishing.
Wildlife viewing is most lively.
The Medora Musical runs, and numerous local fairs and festivals occur.
Enjoy long daylight hours for extended outdoor enjoyment.

Perfect for camping and road trips.

Winter Highlights December-March

Experience the unique beauty of a snow-covered landscape and enjoy winter sports.

Cold Weather Pursuits

Opportunities for ice fishing and snowmobiling.
Cross-country skiing in a stark, quiet environment.
Fewer crowds and often lower prices.
Witness wildlife in winter settings.

Spring April-May

Witness the landscape awaken having novel growth and enjoy prime bird migration.

Spring's Offerings

The landscape gets busy having novel vegetation.
Good for noticing active bird migration.
Weather can be unpredictable, so wearing layers is advisable.
Excellent for nature photography as colors begin to emerge.

Late Fall November

This quieter period marks the transition to winter, offering unique outdoor pursuits.

Autumnal Experiences

A quieter time for exploration.
Often good for hunting activities.
Marks the transition to winter weather, prepare for colder temperatures.
Some lingering fall foliage may still be present in early November.

Festival or Event-Centered Visits

Norsk Høstfest Minot

Time your visit for this early October festival for an in-depth look at Scandinavian culture.

United Tribes Powwow Bismarck

A significant gathering during The month of september for experiencing Native American culture and traditions.

ND State Fair Minot

Late July brings a timeless American fair experience with agriculture, entertainment, and rodeo events.

Seasonal Travel Note:

Each season in The Peace garden state brings a different feel and set of activities.

North Dakota Itineraries