Published on
August 17, 2025
Medora, North Dakota, is the perfect summer destination for travelers looking to experience the Old West in a scenic, vibrant setting. Situated at the entrance of the iconic Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Medora is brimming with history, adventure, and activities for all ages. As a gateway to the park and a historic town with a unique charm, Medora offers visitors a taste of both nature and culture, making it an unforgettable summer escape.
How to Get to Medora
Nearby Airports:
Bismarck Municipal Airport (BIS) – Located about 133 miles from Medora, this is the nearest major airport with regular flights to North Dakota.
Dickinson Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport (DIK) – Situated around 30 miles from Medora, providing regional access to the area.
Minot International Airport (MOT) – About 150 miles away, offering additional options for visitors flying into North Dakota.
These airports provide easy access to Medora and the surrounding area, making it a convenient destination for travelers from near and far.
Visitor Statistics
Medora is the most visited town in North Dakota, drawing over 800,000 visitors annually. This number continues to grow, especially during the summer months when visitors come to experience the stunning Theodore Roosevelt National Park and Medora’s historic charm. Despite the influx of visitors, Medora maintains its peaceful, small-town atmosphere, offering a much quieter experience than larger tourist destinations.
Key Attractions in Medora
Theodore Roosevelt National Park: The main attraction in Medora is the Theodore Roosevelt National Park, which spans over 70,000 acres and is known for its striking Badlands landscapes, bison herds, and diverse wildlife. Medora is located at the entrance to the South Unit of the park, where visitors can explore hiking trails, scenic drives, and awe-inspiring vistas. The park’s Painted Canyon, while not directly visible from Medora, is just a short drive away and offers an amazing panorama of the rugged terrain.
Chateau de Mores State Historic Site: A short walk from the town, Chateau de Mores was built by the French nobleman Antoine de Vallombrosa, the Marquis de Mores, who founded Medora in 1883. The Chateau overlooks the town and serves as a museum, showcasing the legacy of the Marquis and his ambitious attempts to establish a cattle industry in the area. Visitors can explore the home, which provides a fascinating look at the early days of the town and its founder.
Medora Musical at the Burning Hills Amphitheatre: Medora is also known for its lively Medora Musical, a country and western music revue held every summer evening at the Burning Hills Amphitheatre. This family-friendly show offers a fantastic blend of entertainment, with lively music, dance, and humor celebrating the Wild West.
Adventure Activities in Medora
Hiking and Nature Walks: Medora is a fantastic starting point for hiking adventures. Visitors can explore several trails within Theodore Roosevelt National Park, such as the South Unit’s Painted Canyon Trail and Buck Hill Trail. These hikes offer stunning views of the park’s Badlands terrain, with the added bonus of seeing wildlife like bison, wild horses, and mule deer up close.
Horseback Riding: For a true Wild West experience, horseback riding is a must in Medora. The Medora Riding Stables offers guided horseback rides through the scenic Badlands, where visitors can enjoy a peaceful ride while taking in the beautiful landscape.
Scenic Drives: The Scenic Loop Drive within Theodore Roosevelt National Park provides a fantastic way to see the park’s wildlife and rugged landscapes from the comfort of your car. The drive offers several pull-off points for photography and enjoying the stunning views of the Badlands, rivers, and canyon vistas.
Mini-Golf and Zipline: For those traveling with families, Point to Point Park offers a mini-golf course, zipline, and a lazy river pool modeled after the Little Missouri River, giving visitors a chance to relax and enjoy some fun activities while soaking in the scenic surroundings.
Upcoming Concerts and Events in Medora
Medora offers a range of events and live performances throughout the summer months. The Medora Musical is one of the town’s biggest attractions, offering nightly performances from June to September at the Burning Hills Amphitheatre. The show features local talent and celebrates Medora’s history, giving visitors a taste of Western culture and entertainment.
Additionally, Medora hosts various cultural events, including Theodore Roosevelt-related performances and local music festivals that add to the town’s charm. Visitors can also catch other performances and events that are scheduled as part of the Medora Summer Season.
Upcoming Event:
Medora Musical 2025: This iconic country musical will run throughout the summer, drawing audiences from across the country to experience the sights and sounds of the Old West in Medora.
Best Time to Visit Medora, North Dakota
The best time to visit Medora is from late May to early September, when the weather is warm, and the town’s events and activities are in full swing. Summer is particularly ideal for exploring outdoor adventures like hiking, horseback riding, and enjoying the Medora Musical. The warmer temperatures make it perfect for enjoying the outdoor scenic views, while avoiding the peak crowds of other tourist destinations.
Spring and Fall are also great times to visit, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds, but certain events and attractions may have limited hours during the shoulder seasons. Winter in Medora can be cold and snowy, with some areas of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park experiencing road closures, so visiting during the warmer months is recommended for outdoor activities.
Why Visit Medora This Summer?
Medora offers a fantastic summer getaway that combines the beauty of Theodore Roosevelt National Park with small-town charm and plenty of adventure. Whether you’re exploring the park’s Badlands, enjoying a horseback ride, or experiencing the Medora Musical, the town is the perfect destination for families, history lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts. It’s the ideal place to immerse yourself in the Wild West while enjoying the breathtaking natural beauty of North Dakota.
