Explore The Magic Of Medora, North Dakota
We recently had the pleasure of spending a weekend in Medora, North Dakota, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! From delightful dining experiences to historical explorations, our time in Medora was packed with fun, excitement, and a dash of nostalgia. Here’s a rundown of our amazing trip, filled with tips and highlights to inspire your own Medora adventure. If you’ve been looking for family vacation ideas look no further!
The Wooden Park: A Kid’s Paradise
Our first stop was the beloved Wooden Park. Carolynn, our little adventurer, had a blast as always. This park is a must-visit if you have kids. With its intricate wooden structures and endless play opportunities, it’s a dream come true for children. Watching Carolynn run around, climb, and explore with pure joy reminded us why this park is one of our favorite spots in Medora, North Dakota. Growing up a short drive away, I’ve made so many fun memories at the wooden park and I love that it was refreshed and is now able to be enjoyed by an entire new generation of kids! This is a great free activity if you are looking to spend some time and NOT money!
Comfortable and Convenient: Badlands Motel
For our stay, we chose the Badlands Motel Medora, and it was the perfect choice for a family trip. The rooms were spacious, impeccably clean, and well-appointed. One of the best features was being able to park right in front of our room. This convenience is invaluable when traveling with kids, making it easy to unload luggage and get settled quickly. If you haven’t stayed here yet, you’re definitely missing out on a comfortable and hassle-free experience. I’ve honestly driven past the motel dozens if not hundreds of times, and we will definitely be back!!
Dining Delight at Pitchfork Fondue
Dinner at Pitchfork Fondue was a highlight of our trip. Although we’ve dined here many times, this visit was particularly memorable. The steak was perfectly cooked and crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The live entertainment added a wonderful touch, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere. Combined with the perfect weather, it was one of the best dining experiences I’ve had at Pitchfork Fondue. Camden enjoyed his first visit and there is a hot dog option for kiddos! You will want to show up early here – it fills up fast and the steaks are delicious!
Captivating Medora Musical in Medora, North Dakota
No trip to Medora is complete without seeing the Medora Musical, and this time, it was more spectacular than ever. If you are looking for family vacation ideas, head to Medora! The show was packed with talent, and the storyline stayed true to the heart of Medora and Theodore Roosevelt’s story, with fresh twists and new faces. We even learned some new facts and tidbits about Medora’s history that we hadn’t heard before. It’s definitely a show worth checking out if you’re in town. Carolynn loved all the costume changes and fun songs, while Camden was mostly just along for the ride on this one! I’ve attended the musical nearly every single summer of my life and I’m so glad I get to share that tradition with my kids.
Breakfast Bliss at The Farmhouse Cafe
Our morning started right with breakfast at The Farmhouse Cafe. The breakfast sandwich was delightful, and the fruit parfait was a refreshing treat. This cafe never disappoints, providing a cozy atmosphere and delicious food that kickstarts your day on a high note. Served up with a family full of smiles, you wont regret making the stop here!
Coffee and Treats at Hatlee + Brae
In the same area, we revisited Hatlee + Brae, a fantastic spot for great-tasting coffee. We also indulged in some ice cream and browsed through unique North Dakota gifts and souvenirs. It’s a charming little place that adds a special touch to your Medora experience. They are *usually* open year round, but check their Facebook Page just to be sure!
Historical Exploration at Chateau De Mores North Dakota State Historic Site
For a dose of history, we toured the Chateau De Mores State Historic Site. This site offers a fascinating glimpse into the past with real historical artifacts and stories. They even have a fun scavenger hunt to keep the kiddos engaged and interested perfect when searching for family vacation ideas. It’s a great way to spend some time and learn about the rich history of the area. You can also take the short walk down the hill to check out where the stables used to be and see some horses!
Lunch at Sheriff Bear Burgers and Ice Cream
For lunch, we headed to Sheriff Bear Burgers and Ice Cream. The burgers were delicious, and the root beer float was the perfect treat on a warm day. It’s a great spot to grab a bite, relax, and enjoy some classic American fare. Conveniently located in the heart of Medora, it’s an easy place to grab a quick bite!
Fun and Adventure at Point-to-Point Park
Before leaving Medora, we made sure to visit Point to Point Park. If you haven’t been here yet, you need to add it to your itinerary! From the splash pad to the jump pillow, mini-golf, and the lazy river, there’s so much fun to be had. While it was a bit cool for Cam to get in the river this time, we can’t wait to come back when it’s warmer to enjoy it fully. Carolynn jumped her heart out on the jump pillow – it was definitely her favorite! When she is a little bigger, we are going to take her on the zipline, too! Truly if you are on the hunt for family vacation ideas, make this your next step!
Scenic Drive through Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota
On our way home, we took our traditional detour through Theodore Roosevelt National Park, close to Medora, North Dakota. This drive is a yearly ritual for us, and it never gets old. The stunning views, wild horses, bison, and playful prairie dogs create a breathtaking and serene experience. It’s the perfect way to end our trip on a high note, immersed in the natural beauty of North Dakota. Every year our family takes at least one trip out to TRNP and the Badlands to enjoy the beauty of the area. Shane and I took our engagement pictures as well as maternity pictures out there – it’s so gorgeous and holds such a special place in our hearts.
Plan Your Medora North Dakota Getaway
If you’re looking for a jam-packed, family-friendly weekend, Medora is the place to be. With its unique blend of outdoor activities, historical sites, and charming local spots, it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a vacation or a staycation, Medora promises an unforgettable adventure.
Looking for other places to travel that are family friendly? Check out Great Wolf Lodge, Wyndham Orlando, or Wilderness at the Smokies.
