Relax A Little

The Japanese Garden in Bismarck is one of those startlingly unexpected treasures that you will find yourself coming back to again and again. Many people find this beautiful swath of greenery the perfect natural escape from the pressures of the everyday. When you visit, it won't be unusual to see many folks strolling leisurely on the walkways and basking in the natural allure and serenity of these meticulously landscaped gardens and the floral attractions in bloom.

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!

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.