Bismarck Art Gallery also known as BAGA, showcases local and national artists. It’s a great place to experience art, the artists change frequently and the gallery has numerous events and classes throughout the year. Some of the hands on classes are detailed and can help you sharpen a skill or learn something new. Visit the gallery store to purchase one of a kind greeting cards, art and small gifts including jewelry. Tuesday through Friday 10am-5pm Saturday 1-3 pm *FREE 422 East Front Avenue Bismarck 701-223-5986 or visit their page Here .
- Bismarck Downtown Artist Cooperative is a working studio space for local artists in addition to exhibits of local and national artists. They also offer classes and art for purchase. *FREE 222 N 4th st 701-223-5986 Check out their Page
- Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center Okay, this one is a drive, it’s in Washburn, 38 miles from Bismarck, but it’s worth it. If you have not gone, you must make the journey! Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for students. You could easily spend an entire day here visiting Ft Mandan and the interpretive center. My kids always have a blast here. Details and hours here
Fort Mandan Desk
- Governors Mansion- Built in 1884 it was the Governor’s Mansion from 1893-1960. It has been restored and shows off the architecture and styles of the era. It’s a rare chance to see a beautiful Victorian home. They also host fun events throughout the year. *FREE. 320 E Ave B Bismarck Follow their Facebook page to see the events and hours Here.
- Gateway to Science- A hands on science center for all ages. The exhibits and areas of focus change frequently and they offer a lot of programs and science based activities so it’s a good idea to check out their facebook page and keep up with what is new. 4 and under free, but there is a charge for everyone else. If you come a lot it might be a good idea to look into a membership. Details and hours here
Gateway to science
Discounts and Deals at Gateway to Science in Bismarck North Dakota
- Fort Lincoln Trolley- If you haven’t ridden the trolley yet to Ft Lincoln, you are missing out. It’s a fun ride and a great way to see the river and some scenic areas on your way to Fort Lincoln. Small charge. Closed for now. Hopefully a fresh start in 2022! Ft Lincoln Trolley
- 522 Gallery- The oldest local continuous exhibit space featuring local artists. Works are in multiple mediums. Most of the art can be purchased for reasonable prices. *FREE 200 West Main st Bismarck ND Get hours and see some current art on display here
- Fort Lincoln State Park- This park is composed of a few different sites of great historic significance. There is Custer house, the recreated Fort Lincoln and On a Slant. There are knowledgeable guides and there are frequent events and renactments. There is a also a gift shop on the Fort side and Five Nations Arts for unique items. *FREE, must pay to park. You can also stay the night in a Tipi or small cabin, Details.
- Camp Hancock -This is a small site that was founded in 1872 and it is packed with things to see/do/learn. See a real locomotive, a picturesque early church and several other artifacts on display. *FREE 101 E Main Ave Bismarck Nd Details and hours here
- Heritage Center and State Museum– *FREE admission. 4 museums in one fill this 97,000 square foot building. See everything from Native artifacts to art. This bright and airy venue is also popular with photographers and the shop has some educational items to keep the learning going, some exhibits change so it’s worth it to visit again if you haven’t been there in a while. Details
Heritage Museum
- The Capital Gallery-A non profit fine art gallery that supports the Lewis and Clark Center and Fort Mandan. Artists and exhibits change frequently and there is a beautiful gift shop filled with gifts, art and jewelry. *FREE Details and hours here
- Buckstop Junction- Buildings as old as 1875 can be viewed here, see buildings from all over North Dakota that have been moved here and carefully restored so you can talk a walk back in time. There is a gift shop with books and local treasures for sale. *FREE Check calendar for events. Some events do charge.Details and hours here
buckstop sign
- Railroad Museum- Railroad artifacts and pictures, Railroad Hall of Fame, 5 acres with rolling stock and 3,000-square-foot railroad displays.*FREE Facebook Page
- Downtown Bismarck- When you live someplace and see it every day, it’s easy to take it for granted. Don’t forget, Downtown Bismarck used to be a Prohibition hot spot filled with gangs, gambling and violence. Take a walk thru downtown and checkout the buildings with fresh eyes. Walking map of Bismarck.
- Chief Lookings’ Village and Pioneer Park Trail– Scenic area overlooking the Missouri River. Site of former archealogical dig now a small interpretive trail with markers explaining significance of earth lodge depressions and fortification ditches. Close to a memory garden and trails that lead past the River. 2023 Burnt Boat Drive Bismarck *FREE
- Downtown Mandan – Downtown Mandan has almost as much history as Bismarck although in a smaller area. The bandshell and park host many music acts and festivals when weather permits. Downtown Mandan
Downtown Mandan
- Missouri River- One of the most historic places in North Dakota, visit the Missouri river and picnic on the banks or take the Riverboat and visit Keelboat Park.
- Lewis and Clark Riverboat- This Riverboat is the only way to see the Missouri River up close, it’s not free but an afternoon cruise or the pizza cruise are pretty reasonable. You can check out Keelboat Park, a short walk away and learn more about steamboats and keel boats through plaques and displays. 1700 North River Road Bismarck Details and hours here
- TruNorth Theatre- A local theatre group made up of energetic artists that are driven to bring an original theatrical experience to North Dakota at an affordable price. 1810 Schafer Street Bismark. Shows change frequently, check out schedule and buy tickets Here
- Dakota Stage and Shade Tree Players- Merged in 1991 they are committed to bringing children’s theatre and quality productions to the area. Check out their shows and Children’s Theatre program here. 412 East Main Ave Bismarck ND Details and events her
20 Places to Learn History and Find Culture Free or Cheap in Bismarck and Mandan
POSTED BYMisty Mitchell
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