If you think that the concept of the cowboy was invented by John Wayne-types, Bismarck's North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame will challenge everything you think you know about cattle rustlers from the past. This attraction is an interpretive center for the history of Native Americans, and you will see the dramatic link between their culture to various “western” traditions like the rodeo, ranching, and the rustic “cowboy” lifestyle that owes much to the tribes that first inhabited the land.
Even though it began as a fur-trading outpost, the Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park now stands as a stunning haven for nature lovers and history buffs alike. Located in nearby Mandan, Fort Abraham Lincoln dates all the way back to the 18th century. One of the most stunning aspects of the fort is that it looks almost as it did back in 1876 around the time of Custer's last stand. There are also some carefully reconstructed sights that you won't want to miss like an On-a-Slant Indian Village that features earthen lodges to look like early settlements.
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.