Bismarck Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Photo provided by Photo courtesy of the Bismarck-Mandan Convention & Visitors Bureau
Photo provided by Photo courtesy of the Bismarck-Mandan Convention & Visitors Bureau
Photo provided by Photo courtesy of the Bismarck-Mandan Convention & Visitors Bureau
Photo provided by Photo courtesy of the Bismarck-Mandan Convention & Visitors Bureau
Bismarck

This North Dakota city, set on the banks of the Missouri River, holds miles of walking trails, a 50-year-old zoo and the tallest building in the state.

The capital of North Dakota, Bismarck was founded on the spot where explorers Lewis and Clark crossed the Missouri River. Swim in the river, hike along wooded trails, and climb to the top of the Capitol Building in the state’s second-largest city.

A good way to get a bird’s-eye view of Bismarck is with a visit to the Capitol Building. This 18-floor cement building is the tallest in North Dakota. Climb up to the observation deck on the top floor to look out over the grassy mall and the Missouri River to the east. Notice the red and white petunias planted in front of the Capitol to spell “North Dakota.”

Explore the area around the Missouri River to see the beautiful countryside along the longest river in North America. Rent a bike to ride along the Riverfront Trail, which extends from Pioneer Park several miles north of town all the way to the Riverwood Golf Course in the south. If the water is low enough, wade out to the sand bars up by Pioneer Park.

Reserve a seat on the Lewis and Clark Riverboat for an hour-long ride along the river in an old steamboat. Take a history cruise to learn more about the area’s heritage, or book a sunset cruise to watch the day fade over the river.

Don’t forget to save time for a visit to the Dakota Zoo. With over 600 animals, this 50-year-old zoo is the largest in North Dakota. Walk through the exhibits among the trees on the bank of the Missouri River. Highlights include snow leopards, tigers, and river otters.

You can reach Bismarck by plane through the Bismarck Municipal Airport, which is about a 15-minute drive to the south of town.  The nearest major city is Minneapolis, Minnesota, and there are several bus lines which make the trip. Within Bismarck, you can get around by bus, but it is best to have a car to reach the parks on the outer edges of the city.

Bismarck Hotel and Conference Center

Bismarck Hotel and Conference Center

3 out of 5
800 S 3rd St, Bismarck, ND
The price is ₹9,911 per night from 27 Jul to 28 Jul
₹9,911
₹11,001 total
27 Jul - 28 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Bismarck. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a free airport shuttle. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful ...
7.2/10 Good! (1,013 reviews)
"We had a great stay there. Hotel staff were very nice and cleaned our rooms everyday and very convenient spot in Bismarck. So many things around to do."

Reviewed on 20 Jul 2025

Bismarck Hotel and Conference Center
EverSpring Inn

EverSpring Inn

2.5 out of 5
200 E.Bismarck Expressway, Bismarck, ND
Stay at this golf hotel in Bismarck. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,012 reviews)
"Good place to stay!"

Reviewed on 20 Jul 2025

EverSpring Inn
Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Bismarck

Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Bismarck

2 out of 5
1505 Interchange Avenue, Bismarck, ND
The price is ₹7,681 per night from 27 Jul to 28 Jul
₹7,681
₹8,526 total
27 Jul - 28 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Bismarck. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,014 reviews)
"Had a great experience at the hotel very friendly staff and on top of things I give it a 5+ star rating 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍"

Reviewed on 22 Jul 2025

Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Bismarck
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Bismarck Apartment < 5 Mi to Top Attractions!

Bismarck Apartment < 5 Mi to Top Attractions!

3 out of 5
1318 N 4th St, Bismarck, ND
Stay at this 3-star apartment in Bismarck. Enjoy free parking and air conditioning. Popular attractions Former Governor's Mansion and Belle Mehus Auditorium ...
Bismarck Apartment < 5 Mi to Top Attractions!
Welcoming Bismarck Apartment in Heart of Town

Welcoming Bismarck Apartment in Heart of Town

3 out of 5
1318 N 4th St, Bismarck, ND
Stay at this 3-star apartment in Bismarck. Enjoy free parking and air conditioning. Popular attractions Former Governor's Mansion and Belle Mehus Auditorium ...
Welcoming Bismarck Apartment in Heart of Town
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Cities near Bismarck