Nestled in the heart of North Dakota, Medora is a hidden gem that offers an unforgettable experience for families seeking adventure, history, and a strong sense of community. As an Air Force family, we are always on the lookout for destinations that not only provide fun and relaxation but also embody the values of patriotism and resilience. This year, we chose Medora for our July 4th trip, and it turned out to be the perfect destination for military families like ours. From breathtaking landscapes to enriching historical sites, Medora has something for everyone. Here’s why this charming town should be on every military family’s travel list.
Why Medora, ND?
1. Patriotic Atmosphere: Medora comes alive with a vibrant patriotic spirit, especially around Independence Day. The town's celebrations are infused with a sense of national pride, making it a wonderful place for military families to feel connected and appreciated. The community's respect and admiration for service members are evident in the various events and activities planned throughout the year, especially during the July 4th festivities.
2. Family-Friendly Activities: Medora offers a wide range of activities that cater to families with children of all ages. From the mesmerizing Medora Musical (military discounts & kids discounts listed at the end), which features a special patriotic segment, to the adventurous horseback riding trails that wind through the stunning Badlands, there is no shortage of things to do. The town also boasts numerous parks, such as the Medora Children's Park, where kids can play and explore safely, or Point to Point park, home to mini golf, zipline adventures and a lazy river pool modeled after the Little Missouri.
3. Historical Significance: For military families who value learning and history, Medora is a treasure trove. The town is steeped in history, with attractions like the Theodore Roosevelt National Park and the Chateau de Mores State Historic Site offering educational and inspiring experiences. These sites not only provide insight into the area's past but also instill a sense of appreciation for the perseverance and dedication of those who shaped the region.
4. Educational Opportunities: Medora's museums and historical sites provide interactive and engaging ways for children to learn about the region's history and the great outdoors. The interpretive programs at Theodore Roosevelt National Park, for example, are designed to educate visitors about the natural and cultural history of the Badlands, making learning both fun and memorable for the whole family.
5. Sense of Community: One of the most remarkable aspects of Medora is its tight-knit community. As an Air Force family, we found it heartwarming to be welcomed so warmly by the locals. The town's community events, from parades to picnics, offer a chance to mingle with residents and other visitors, creating a sense of belonging and camaraderie that is especially meaningful for military families.
By choosing Medora for your next family vacation, you’ll not only enjoy a wide range of activities and sights but also experience the deep-rooted sense of patriotism and community that makes this town truly special!
July 4 - After a day of hiking Theodore Roosevelt National Park's (TRNP) North Unit (only 2.5 hours from Minot, ND), we enjoyed lunch at Sheriff Bear's Burgers & Ice Cream before roaming the streets of downtown and finding a spot for the Fourth of July Parade! Dinner was at the Little Missouri Saloon & Dining Room, Medora's oldest Saloon and Steakhouse before checking in to the Conestoga Covered Wagon at the Medora Campground! This style of covered wagon was used extensively from 1820 to 1840, in the United States and Canada. It was the perfect spot to watch the Fourth of July fireworks once the sun went down.
July 5 - After grabbing a quick coffee & homemade breakfast sandwich from the Medora C-Store, we made our way over to the Point to Point trailhead where we were greeted for a guided hike through the trails (Mornings on Town Butte). This 35m hike was filled with stunning views of Medora and featured facts about Theodore Roosevelt and his experiences in the area. After a somewhat strenuous hike, we opted for a scenic drive through TRNP while our little took a nap, where we spotted tons of wildlife, including a herd of wild horses (dream come true). We made our way over to Painted Canyon Visitor's Center to escape the rain, where we saw incredible panoramic views of the canyons! We grabbed lunch at Badland's Pizza & Saloon, now a buffet, and enjoyed endless slices outside to watch the horse-drawn carriages and listen to live music across the street in the Town Center. We took our toddler to the wooden Children's Park in Point to Point Park (a free kids play area) to burn off some energy before playing a round of mini golf at Little Bully Pulpit! Dinner was by far the best meal of the trip at Theodore's Room in the Rough Rider Hotel in town before checking in to Elkhorn Quarters for the remainder of the trip.
July 6 - We enjoyed a delicious homestyle breakfast at Cowboy Cafe before making our way back into TRNP to finally hike some trails! After a few hours of hiking, we headed back into town for a quick bite at Sheriff Bear's before another walk around town, this time to Chimney Park for a good loop. We stopped for the best huckleberry ice cream at the Fudge & Ice Cream Depot before getting ready for dinner. We grabbed a beer at Boots Bar & Grill then made our way over to Pitchfork Steak Fondue for THE most unique dining experience ever! After we had our fill of steak, we had the best night at the Medora Musical, which held our toddlers attention the ENTIRE two hours! Discounted musical tickets are available for military!
July 7 - We were up bright and early for an 8:00 am tee time at Bully Pulpit, where we played a full round of 18 holes before grabbing lunch at Sagebrush Grill, a quick services option located next to the clubhouse and heading back to Minot, ND. Military discounts available!
*Military Discounts:
National Parks Annual Pass - FREE for Military (must present ID upon each entry)
Medora Musical - 50% off, must show Military ID at ticket pickup (kids 6 and under are free every night, kids17 and under get in free every Wednesday and Sunday)
Bully Pulpit Golf Course - 15% off Green Fees (kids under 17 golf free, with certain restrictions)
Badlands Pizza & Saloon - 10% off with Military ID
*Free Activities:
National Parks Annual Pass - FREE for Military (must present ID upon each entry)
Pitchfork Steak Fondue - Kids 12 and Under eat FREE all summer
Medora Musical KIDS FREE DAYS - Kids 6 and under are FREE every night, kids17 and under get in FREE every Wednesday and Sunday
Bully Pulpit - Kids 17 and under can golf for free at Bully Pulpit (with restrictions)
Medora Magic Show - Kids 6 and under are FREE
Point to Point Park
Children's Wooden Park
Pickleball
Splash Pad
Jump Pillow
Point to Point Trails
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