Discover Bismarck: STEM, wildlife, and trails along the Missouri

There are many different themes to choose from during a stay in Bismarck: hands-on science, museum exhibits for young children, wildlife, interpretive trails, and seasonal cruises on the Missouri. The offerings also vary in format: they range from exhibits and wildlife viewing to themed trails and a river trip. When comparing hotels in Bismarck, these differences can help you decide what to focus on during your stay. First, consider whether you would rather include science learning, a museum exhibit for children, animals, trails, or a seasonal trip in your plans.

STEM and museums: options for different age groups

At North Dakota's Gateway to Science, hands-on learning experiences in STEM subjects are offered for people of all ages. The Science First exhibit is aimed more specifically at young children and their adult companions: together, they can explore science through inquiry-based learning. This brings together the science center's broad age range and an exhibit format with explicitly defined audiences.

The Treehouse at the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum offers a different museum experience. This museum exhibit was designed specifically for young children and aims to introduce them to the world of museums. While Science First focuses on inquiry-based science learning, Treehouse offers a child-friendly introduction to museums. If you are traveling with young children, this distinction can help you decide whether a science exhibit or an introduction to museums better suits your interests.

Wildlife and interpretive trails

The Dakota Zoo covers 90 acres and is home to around 400 mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish from 125 species. This makes both the size of the grounds and wildlife from four named groups and 125 species part of the picture. Compared with other nature-related attractions, the zoo has its own focus: animals and their diversity take center stage.

The Bismarck Conservation and Outdoor Skills Area offers a different perspective: three interpretive trails cover uplands, wetlands, and fish. Rather than focusing on an animal collection, it presents three themes along its trails. If you are sorting nature attractions by subject, you can distinguish the area's trails from the zoo's wildlife: one attraction names specific animals and species, while the other highlights its three trail themes.

Trails and river cruises: connections, scope, and season

When considering trails, a specific connection and the extent of a trail system offer different points of reference. The Missouri Valley Trail connects Bismarck and Mandan with several historic, recreational, and cultural sites along the Missouri River. The Bismarck Parks and Recreation District owns and manages more than 85 miles of trails in the City of Bismarck and Burleigh County. Its trail system offers opportunities for hiking, running, and biking. The Missouri Valley Trail describes the connection to the named sites; the District's figures cover a larger network and the activities listed for it. This helps you avoid treating a single named connection as if it were the entire trail system.

A trip on the Missouri adds a seasonal activity to your itinerary. The Lewis & Clark Riverboat offers public cruises from Memorial Day through Labor Day; exact dates may vary because cruises are scheduled seasonally. Check the current cruise dates if you would like to include a cruise in your travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Menoken

For the regional travel overview: Burleigh County.