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.
Get a stunning picture of the incredible art scene when you buy a picture---or several of them–at Bismark's highly popular Five Nations Art Depot. This historic Burlington Northern Railroad Depot has been converted into an eye-popping collection of several different varieties of Native American arts and crafts. The works of more than 200 North Dakota American Indian artists are on display and available for sale, so the chances are better than good that you'll find something you'll want to bring home with you!
Satisfy your adventurous nature by hopping aboard the Lewis and Clark Riverboat for an unforgettable day of exploration. You will cruise through the picturesque Missouri River on this state-of-the-art 150 passenger riverboat. This is an all-weather paddlewheeler and it docks at Port Bismarck. There are various packages to enjoy that include excursion cruises, moonlight treks, and dinner cruises, as well.
Get a taste of what life was like for the various individuals who served as North Dakota governor when you spend some time at the Former Governor's Mansion State Historical Site in Bismarck. This impressive mansion and museum was originally built back in 1884 as a private residence by Asa Fisher. It remained the governor's residence from 1893 until 1960. Those years are detailed through the use of vintage items, personal effects, exhibits, documents and photographs that all go to tell the story of what life was like for the man who had the responsibility of holding the highest political office in the state of North Dakota.