Esco Corp

The ultimate goal of most nature lovers is to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find solace in a relaxing, natural setting. In Bismarck, the McDowell Dam Recreation Area is such a place. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities that include paddle boating, swimming, fishing, and picnicking. If you want to make yourself comfortable there are shelters available for full or half-day stays.

The Shade Tree Players Children's Theatre is a veritable breeding ground for young talent in Bismarck. Aspiring young actors, singers and performers get the chance to learn about the art of theater and then put their new-found skills to good use in a variety of productions that the group presents throughout the year. Several seasonal stage projects are presented year-round at this entertainment venue.

The Lewis and Clark Trail in Bismarck is one of the area's most popular outdoor treks for road bikers. It stretches 87 miles from Bismarck to Pick City. Cyclists enjoy this well-maintained recreational trail that features a moderate degree of difficulty. The elevation gain is minimal, so that assures a somewhat comfortable ride for those who choose to experience part of the trail, but for those making the full trip, stamina and focus along physical agility are most definitely required.

Hark back to a time when steamboats ruled the country's waterways as the chief means of transportation. Those mighty vessels had to be constructed, and it was no easy task! Learn about the fascinating and sometimes complicated story of how steamboats were built when you take a tour of the Steamboat Warehouse. This State Historical Marker is located on the east bank of the Missouri River in Bismarck across the road from the water treatment plant and it stands to commemorate the Northern Pacific Railroad warehouse where the steamboats were originally constructed.