The Best Small Town In North Dakota For A 3-Day Weekend
Many people claim to have discovered Medora by chance, often seeking to gain access to the sprawling natural wonder that is Theodore Roosevelt National Park. However, when you do see this frontier town, you get a mix of the old life and modern amenities that make it a perfect destination for a long weekend excursion. Whether you are here for the scenery or just want to check out one of North Dakota's lesser-known towns, take the time to experience Medora fully and discover all that it has to offer.
Where You Should Stay When You Visit
Medora accommodations are as unique and attractive as the rugged scenery surrounding the town. The Rough Riders Hotel, sitting proudly in the middle of Medora, is one of the community’s famed spots. First constructed in the 1880s, this hotel underwent a complete restoration, yet it retained its vintage appeal and period décor. The foyer, fireplace, and book-lined walls, inspired by the era of Theodore Roosevelt, immediately immerse the visitor in a world steeped in history. The rooms are tranquil, providing a haven of peace after a busy day, either exploring the park or experiencing Medora's nightlife.
Also in the spirit of Teddy Roosevelt's Elkhorn Ranch, the Elkhorn Quarters pays homage to the famous president. The rooms are quaint and rustic, showcasing the unique charms that can only be found in Medora. As an added benefit, you can have quick access to the Maah Daah Hey Trail. If you are traveling as a larger group, check out a family room for extra space.
Taking a Bite Out of Medora’s Food Options
While it may be small in size, Medora has a great deal to offer, even to the most discerning eaters. Countless locations should be on your ‘to try’ list, but most would suggest starting with the local favorite Little Missouri Saloon. This classic steakhouse is renowned for its charming Old West ambiance, which perfectly complements its hearty portions. Plus, the view of the badlands from your seat is a bonus. Breakfast is also a big deal on the frontier, and you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to get some of the best around at the Cowboy Café. This stop is known for many things, but the residents here pop in daily for huge cinnamon rolls, heaping plates of savory breakfast food, and homemade pies.
Historic Landmarks: Medora's Living Past
A part of Medora's heritage and history can best be experienced at the Chateau de Mores State Historic Site. This 26-room summer mansion, built by the French aristocrat Marquis de Mores in the 1880s, symbolizes the ranching empire the Marquis envisioned for the Dakota Territory. Guided tours of the summer estate offer visitors a peek into the life of the Marquis and his wife, Medora, for whom the town is named.
Another quintessential experience is the Medora Musical at Burning Hills Amphitheater. Though neither a museum nor a monument per se, this show has become representative of a tradition that is dear to North Dakotans today. This seasonal, open-air musical unfolds against the stunning natural backdrops of the Badlands as it retells stories of Roosevelt, cowboy traditions, and that indomitable pioneer spirit that forever characterizes the American West.
To truly understand the history, heritage, and story of Medora, be sure to visit the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame. This unique location offers a glimpse into the long-standing historic significance of the ranchers, homesteaders, Native Americans, and renowned rodeo stars of days past. It is a place where you and the family can spend hours lost in the grandeur of the rugged side of the Flickertail State.
Natural Landmarks: The Perfect Setting for Rugged Living
Medora is the southern entrance to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, a key component of the national parks system that showcases the rugged beauty of North Dakota. Located just minutes from downtown Medora, the South Unit features a scenic driving route that will take you through the Badlands, prairies, and grazing grounds of bison and wild horses. Hikers will enjoy the short routes that lead to vistas of rock formations and expansive skies, such as the Wind Canyon Trail and Ridgeline Trail.
For a show-stopping vista, Painted Canyon Overlook is a must. It lies just east of town, so the drive is easy, and the vantage point is fantastic. For the best time of the day to experience this spot in all its majesty, make sure you plan to be there at sunrise or sunset. Amateur and professional photographers will likely linger at this spot, watching as the changing light plays off the painted stripes of red, yellow, and gray in the rock patterns.
Also within this region are a series of trails, known as the Maah Daah Hey, that extend for a hundred miles into the Badlands and other portions of the park. Whether you visit the region in spring or fall for the warm temperatures and changing foliage, or in summer, with its extended daylight hours perfect for fully exploring the area, you will get a sense of North Dakota's beauty and isolation.
Why Medora Makes the Perfect Three-Day Weekend Destination
A long weekend in Medora is a lot like stepping back in time without sacrificing comfort and convenience. The town seamlessly fuses history and modern amenities, preserving its frontier heritage while delighting in world-class dining, incredible natural wonders, and historical sites that combine to create a memorable experience for those exploring the Peace Garden State.
Three days is just what you want: a day to acclimate and soak up the small but lively downtown, a day to take in as much as you can of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, and a final day to explore the history that gave Medora its name. Whether you're watching the sun set over the Badlands, taking in a live music performance at a saloon, or touring the halls of the Chateau de Mores, you'll have a very authentic experience to treasure.
