Bismarck, North Dakota · Published by Emberlight Studios
Updated October 2026 · 9 places · Bismarck
Quick answer
Our top picks are North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum, North Dakota State Capitol and Dakota Zoo.
These museums, historic sites, galleries, and attractions are physically located in Bismarck, North Dakota. Hours can vary by season; check each venue’s official site before visiting.
Free · 612 East Boulevard Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58505
The North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum is the state’s largest museum, with four galleries tracing North Dakota history from its geological formation to the present. Its exhibits include artifacts about Native peoples and a hands-on Treehouse space for children.
Best for: North Dakota history
Free · 600 East Boulevard Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58505
The North Dakota State Capitol is a state government building that offers self-guided tours on weekdays. Its observation deck provides a 360-degree view of the Bismarck-Mandan area.
Best for: Capitol architecture and views
602 Riverside Park Road, Bismarck, ND 58504
Dakota Zoo is a zoo on the east bank of the Missouri River in Bismarck. The city describes it as a 90-acre facility housing mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish representing 125 species.
Best for: Animals
320 East Avenue B, Bismarck, ND 58505
The Former Governors’ Mansion is a state historic site and former residence of North Dakota governors. The site is open to visitors seasonally, with grounds open year-round; during the off-season, the house is available for events, school tours, and by appointment.
Best for: Historic homes
101 East Main Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58501
Camp Hancock State Historic Site preserves part of a military installation established in 1872 to protect railroad construction crews. Its former building serves as an interpretive museum, and the grounds have outdoor interpretive signs.
Best for: Local and military history
1600 Canary Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58503
North Dakota’s Gateway to Science is a STEM-based learning and hands-on science center. Its official site lists its Bismarck location and visitor information.
Best for: Hands-on science
Free · 422 East Front Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58504
Bismarck Art & Galleries Association is a nonprofit gallery in a historic building that was formerly a Burlington Northern Railroad warehouse. It presents monthly visual-art exhibits, including paintings, photography, and sculpture by local, regional, and national artists.
Best for: Visual art
1700 River Road, Bismarck, ND 58503
The Lewis & Clark Riverboat offers cruises on the Missouri River from Bismarck. Its official site gives the riverboat’s location at Heritage River Landing.
Best for: Missouri River cruises
Free · 444 River Road, Bismarck, ND
The Steamboat Warehouse State Historic Site commemorates the Northern Pacific Railroad warehouse that stored goods transferred between steamboats and freight trains. The year-round site has a fieldstone monument and an aluminum plaque.
Best for: Riverfront history