Heritage, history, and the great outdoors are easy to find in Bismarck, the capital of North Dakota. Among the many tourist attractions are the skyscraper State Capitol, wonderful city parks, and a great zoo, to name just a few. Culture is alive in Bismarck, and a multitude of art shops, galleries, and museums are a testament to this fact. And the different state parks and historic sites surrounding Bismarck speak to its frontier and pre-colonial past.
For a fun afternoon or evening on the water, the Lewis and Clark Riverboat Cruises is an enjoyable experience for the whole family. Plan your sightseeing and learn about the best places to visit with our list of the top things to do in Bismarck. One of Bismarck's best family tourist attractions is the Dakota Zoo. The zoo has been in operation since and has grown over the years. It now houses more than animals on a acre facility.
Some of the resident animals at the zoo include Bengal tigers, American alligators, arctic foxes, African tortoises, and Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs. The Jack and Joyce Schuchart Big Cat Complex at the zoo features a viewing area complete with family-friendly tunnels that lead to an up-close look. And the zoo's resident gray wolves are seen from an overhead viewing platform. The zoo, which focuses on education, allows close-up encounters and offers a variety of scheduled events to make visits even more interesting.
The zoo is open daily between late April and September and only open on the weekends throughout winter. It features a landmark skyscraper tower at one end, contrary to most state capitol designs, adding to the unique experience of visiting and photographing. This building replaced the original State Capitol, which burned down in The Rough Rider Hall of Fame on the ground floor of the State Capitol building recognizes people who have contributed significantly to the state.
On the 18th floor is an observation deck with views over Bismarck. Artworks and other furnishings within tell the unique story of North Dakota's statehood. Guided tours are available seven days a week between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Reservations are not necessary, except for big groups.
