The capital of North Dakota may be unassuming and underrated, but make no mistake - this friendly, creative city will leave its mark on you. If it isn't the city's beautiful location on a bend in the Missouri, it could be the thriving arts scene clustered around Main Street, the museums near the Capitol, or family attractions like the State Zoo. Failing that, it could be the eateries and bars of Downtown Bismarck, regularly rated as one of the country's most liveable neighborhoods.
Or it could be the outdoor activities available like hiking, golf, or water sports. What's certain is that Bismarck will find a way into your heart. If you are looking for a safe, walkable city with shopping opportunities, galleries, and museums aplenty, look no further: Bismarck is the place for you. Whether you are a North Dakotan or visiting from out of state, there's plenty to learn.
One of the things that makes Bismarck a great place to live is its thriving arts community. Another thing that makes the city so liveable is the range of things to do with kids. From the State Zoo where the residents include monkeys, snow leopards, and lemurs to the Super Slide Amusement Park, the city has plenty to keep youngsters happy.
The city has a high concentration of golf courses, the local countryside offers great hunting opportunities, and there are innumerable gorgeous hiking trails in the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. You can take cruises on paddle boat steamers - Huckleberry Finn style - or walk along the scenic river banks of the Missouri and even enjoy the sunshine at 'the Desert', a huge area of sandbanks that functions as Bismarck's city beach.
Water-skiing, tubing, boating - every kind of water sport is on offer in a destination where people love to cool off beside the river. North Dakota's past comes to life in this contemporary building, home to the State Historical Society.
