Things to Do in Medora & Belfield, North Dakota

If you’re looking for adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and a taste of the Old West, Medora and Belfield, North Dakota, offer the perfect getaway. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or just passing through, there’s something for everyone in this charming corner of the Badlands.

Medora is filled with activities for everyone! Shopping, hiking, horseback riding, dining & entertainment bring people from all over the world to visit the small town of Historic Medora. See some of the local attractions for Medora & Belfield below!

Explore Theodore Roosevelt National Park

A trip to Medora isn’t complete without visiting Theodore Roosevelt National Park. This stunning park is home to roaming bison, wild horses, and some of the most picturesque landscapes in the country. The South Unit, accessible from Medora via Exit 27 off I-94, is the perfect place to hike, drive the scenic loop, and take in the beauty of the Badlands. If you’re up for a longer adventure, the North Unit—located 52 miles north on Highway 85—offers rugged terrain and equally breathtaking views.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is one of the most diverse national parks in the U.S. The terrain is rugged, the views are massive, and the wild life is abundant. Experience the same land and lifestyle that 26th U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt fought to preserve throughout his life.

The National Park consists of two units, the South Unit, located in Medora, and the North Unit, located near Watford City, ND. Both units offer incredible hiking trails, wild life, and inspiring views as the Little Missouri River zig zags through the terrain.

For more information on Theodore Roosevelt National Park, visit NPS.gov.

Drive the Enchanted Highway

One of North Dakota’s most unique attractions, the Enchanted Highway is a collection of massive metal sculptures dotting the countryside between Gladstone (Exit 72 off I-94) and the small town of Regent. Each piece tells a story of the region, from "Geese in Flight" to "The World's Largest Tin Family." It’s a fantastic road trip filled with quirky art and plenty of photo opportunities.

At Mile 0, you’ll see the "Geese in Flight" sculpture, the world’s largest of its kind. As you continue to Mile 1, the "Deer Family" sculpture greets you, showcasing a magnificent deer and its fawns. By Mile 3, you’ll encounter "The Fisherman’s Dream," depicting a giant fish catching a fisherman. At Mile 7, "Wildlife" arrives, a breathtaking piece representing various North Dakota animals. As you drive to Mile 12, the "Pheasants on the Prairie" sculpture captures the beauty of these iconic birds. At Mile 15, you’ll spot "The Tin Family," a family of whimsical, life-sized metal figures. Continuing to Mile 20, the "Grasshoppers in the Field" sculpture appears, offering a playful look at these creatures. By Mile 25, "The Last Supper" sculpture adds a unique and artistic touch to your journey. At Mile 27, you’ll reach "The American Eagle," a towering representation of the national bird. As you near Mile 30, "The Homesteader" sculpture stands tall, telling the story of early pioneers. Finally, at Mile 32.5, the Enchanted Highway journey concludes with the majestic "Giant Fish."

For more information, please visit www.ndtourism.com

Experience the Medora Musical & Gospel Brunch

No visit to Medora is complete without seeing the Medora Musical—a high-energy, family-friendly country-western revue that celebrates the spirit of the Old West. It features live music, variety acts, and even horses on stage! For a more soulful experience, check out the Medora Gospel Brunch, where you’ll enjoy delicious food and an uplifting musical performance.

The Medora Musical is one of the most exciting attractions Medora has to offer!

This historic musical has been performed in Medora every Summer since 1965. The cast performs an inspiring story around Medora’s history and President Theodore Roosevelt’s influence during his time spent here in the badlands. If you’re in the western edge of North Dakota, this is a must-see show.

For tickets and more information about the Medora Musical, visit Medora.com.

Hit the Links at Bully Pulpit Golf Course

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Badlands, Bully Pulpit Golf Course is a must-visit for golf lovers. This world-class course winds through meadows, woodlands, and even along the Little Missouri River, offering one of the most unforgettable rounds of golf you’ll ever play.

Take a Scenic DriveIf you’re in the mood for a peaceful drive, take Old Highway 10 west from The Crossings Campground towards Medora. Once you reach Fryburg, you can hop on I-94 or continue down East River Road, a scenic dirt road leading you into Medora from the south. It’s the perfect way to soak in the landscape without the crowds.

Take a day to relax and play Bully Pulpit Golf Course, one of the highest-ranked golf courses in the country, making the top 100 in the United States. Golf alongside the Little Missouri River, and play from butte to butte as Bully Pulpit takes you through North Dakota’s Badlands.

Take a virtual tour of the course, and find more information on golfing Bully Pulpit by clicking here.

Visit Painted Canyon

A stop at Painted Canyon is a must. Located in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Painted Canyon features vibrant red, orange, and purple rock formations carved by millions of years of erosion. This stunning landscape offers breathtaking views, perfect for photography, hiking, and wildlife spotting. Visitors can enjoy scenic overlooks, easy trails, and the chance to see bison and elk in their natural habitat.

To get there, take Interstate 94 and exit at Exit 32 near Belfield, North Dakota. Follow the signs to the Painted Canyon Overlook, where you'll find parking and easy access to the trails. A must-see destination for anyone exploring North Dakota's natural beauty!

For more information, please visit www.ndtourism.com

Photo from creator Kevin Ebi/LivingWilderness.com | Credit: Kevin Ebi/LivingWilderness.com

Hike the Maah Daah Hey Trail

The Maah Daah Hey Trail is a 144-mile single-track trail that runs through the heart of the Badlands, offering breathtaking views and a great way to explore the rugged terrain. You can access trailheads near Bully Pulpit Golf Course or Sully Creek Campground for shorter hikes.

Known for its diverse terrain, the trail offers an exhilarating adventure for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. It weaves through rolling hills, rugged ridges, and breathtaking views of canyons and rock formations.

With sections ranging from easy to challenging, the Maah Daah Hey Trail is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a remote and immersive experience in North Dakota’s natural beauty. Along the way, you can spot wildlife like bison, elk, and wild horses, making it a true escape into the wilderness. Whether you’re tackling a section of the trail or completing the full route, it’s a must-do for adventurers looking to explore the heart of North Dakota.

For more information, please visit www.ndtourism.com