Visiting Theodore Roosevelt National Park? You Also Need to Explore Medora, ND

You will not believe what this town of under 200 residents has to offer! Theodore Roosevelt National Park is amazing and underrated, but so is the town of Medora. Truly, Medora is cute beyond words. 

From western entertainment and historic sites to unique cultural attractions, Medora offers a mix of history, charm, and small-town wholesomeness that makes it worth adding a few extra days to your visit to Theodore Roosevelt National Park. 

If you’re planning a trip to Medora, check out our complete guide to planning your visit for tips on timing, itineraries, and where to stay.

Why You Should Explore Medora itself?

Plainly, if you have any interest in national parks, you have Theodore Roosevelt’s ties to Medora to thank. 

Ever since we visited Medora, we’ve been telling everyone we know they need to visit. It’s perfectly charming and was honestly unexpected. 

It’s easy to think of Medora as just a gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, but the town plays an important role in understanding the region’s history and culture. 

Medora is deeply connected to Theodore Roosevelt, who spent time ranching in the Badlands during the 1880’s. Today, the town brings that history to life through performances, preserved sites, and interactive experiences that provide context for the surrounding landscapes.

Medora was also our first exposure to presidential libraries, as we visited the planning office for the much- anticipated Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, which officially opened in Medora on July 4, 2025.

Best Things to Do in Medora (That Aren’t Theodore Roosevelt National Park)

We think Theodore Roosevelt National Park is so underrated, and the best part is that this is a vacation that the entire family will enjoy. There is truly something for everyone in the vehicle. 

Here is a list of the best things to do in Medora outside of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. 

Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum

The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library opened on July 4th and we can’t wait to check it out. This is the only attraction on this list we haven’t been to yet, though we got a preview on a previous trip when they were in the very beginning planning stages.

We just know it’s going to be fantastic and we can’t wait to get there. Dedicated to the 26th president of the United States, this immersive museum serves as a research center and interactive library. 

Attend the Medora Musical

One of the most iconic experiences in Medora is the outdoor Medora Musical. Held in the stunning open-air amphitheater overlooking the Badlands, this high-energy family show combines music, dancing, patriotism, and storytelling inspired by the American West. 

If you think you don’t like musicals, we’re here to tell you that you will after the Medora Musical.

We don’t want to give too much away, but this is such a wholesome experience and something you just need to do.

The best part, it’s truly a family show. It’s appropriate for all ages. We were completely wowed by the musical experience. 

See the Teddy Roosevelt Show

Talk about history coming to life. 

This one-man performance brings Roosevelt’s personality, humor, and stories to life, offering insight into his time in the Badlands and how it shaped his character.

For a deeper but entertaining look at the life of Theodore Roosevelt, don’t miss the Teddy Roosevelt Show. 

Explore the Chateau de Mores Interpretive Center

This is a fascinating historical home to visit. Built in 1883 overlooking the beautiful but rugged Badlands, this 26-room building was the summer residence of the Marquis family. 

Antoine de Vallombrosa, the Marquis de Mores, was a French aristocrat who came to the Dakota Territory in 1883 to seek fortune in the meatpacking industry. 

In just three years’ time, the Marquis built houses, a Catholic Church,  a meat-packing plant, cattle and sheep ranches, and the Medora-Deadwood Stagecoach line. 

Oh, and he named the town after his wife, Medora von Hoffman. Learning this solved the mystery for us as Medora was a unique name to us.

This site helps visitors understand what life was like when Theodore Roosevelt first arrived in the Badlands.

Visit the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame

This was really a fantastic stop, really allowing you to take in Western history.

Located in downtown Medora, the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame celebrates the history and culture of ranching and rodeo in the region.

This museum highlights the people and traditions that shaped the Western lifestyle Roosevelt encountered during his time in North Dakota.

Take a Behind-the-Scenes Tour of the Medora Musical

If you’re interested in what goes into producing the Medora Musical, consider taking a behind-the-scenes tour.

This show has been running for more than 50 years for a reason. It’s like a Broadway show but in North Dakota, featuring live horses and fireworks.

We loved getting insight into the details and learning things we’d never have known otherwise.

Stroll Through Downtown Medora

One of the simplest but most enjoyable things to do in Medora is to walk through its historic downtown. The views are incredible, and it’s really one of the cutest downtowns we’ve ever seen. Even the post office is adorable. 

You’ll find:

• Locally owned shops- we recommend stopping into Chateau Nuts- a perfect souvenir to take home
• Western-themed storefronts
• Casual dining options- check out our Medora vegan guide!
• Photo-worthy streets
• A bronze statue of the Marquis de Mores

The town’s compact size makes it super easy to explore. It’s a couple of square blocks, flat and very walkable. 

Experience the Pitchfork Steak Fondue

A very unique Medora dining experience is the Pitchfork Steak Fondue. This popular event includes steaks being cooked on pitchforks over an open flame, lunch trays, and unbeatable views for dinner.

Super cool and unique dining experience with a fantastic view. 

We don’t eat meat, and believe it or not, we were able to find things to eat for dinner! We definitely think the experience is worth it. 

Visit the Harold Schafer Heritage Center

Remember Mr. Bubble? That’s Harold Schafer’s invention. The Harold Schafer Heritage Center tells the story of philanthropist Harold Schafer, the entrepreneur who played a major role in preserving and revitalizing Medora.

Learn how he helped transform Medora into the destination visitors experience today, including the Medora Musical.

Tour the Von Hoffman House

It’s free to tour this historic Von Hoffman house, which ties back to the Chateau de Mores State Historic Site. The home was built by Medora, the wife of the Marquis de More, for her parents, the Baron and Mrs. Von Hoffman. 

The home is a National Register Historic Place and contains a mix of original pieces and period furnishings. Go upstairs to see old letters from their friend, Theodore Roosevelt. 

How to Add These Stops to Your Explore Medora Itinerary

If you’re planning a trip to Medora, it’s easy to combine these attractions with a visit to Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

Here is an example of how you could spend a day:

• Morning- drive into the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park
• Afternoon-  grab lunch and explore nearby historic sites in Medora
• Evening- take in the Medora Musical

For a full breakdown of how to plan your visit, including how many days to stay, check out our Medora travel guide. 

Road Trip Tip: Don’t Skip Nearby Stops After you Explore Medora, ND

Many travelers visiting Medora are on a larger trip through the Dakotas and the northern plains. 

If you’re exploring the region, consider adding these experiences:

• The giant roadside sculptures along the Enchanted Highway. We really enjoyed this drive and the sculptures. 
• Another western experience just over the border in Circle, Montana, is to stay on a working horse ranch. Staying at the Mahlstadt Ranch will be an experience like no other. 
• If you’re coming from the east, we also recommend checking out Bismarck, North Dakota’s capital city. Check out our list of things to do in Bismarck.

Why We Think You Need to Explore Medora, ND

While Theodore Roosevelt National Park is the main draw, the town of Medora offers an experience that rounds out your vacation, bringing the region’s history and culture to life. 

From live performances and historic sites to unique dining experiences, Medora adds depth to any visit to the North Dakota Badlands. 

If you’re a fan of National Parks, visiting Medora is an absolute must! Seriously, the town of Medora and Theodore Roosevelt National Park are both so underrated. 

Tell us, have you been to Medora, North Dakota, or do you plan to go?