This post featuring great deals and things to do with kids in Medora, ND. It may contain affiliate links. Additionally, the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation sponsored this article. Unless otherwise noted, all images in this article belong to the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy.
Nothing quite says summer vacation like loading your kids into the car for an epic family road trip! And where should you go this year? Medora, North Dakota, of course! Located on the western side of North Dakota, near the border with Montana, Medora is a small town with BIG energy vibes. From its Western roots to its warm and inviting locals, families love exploring this charming town with kids. Plus, Medora is packed with budget-friendly and free things to do with kids, making it an affordable family road trip to boot.
Medora loves families! Many local restaurants and attractions have committed to helping make Medora an affordable getaway for families with kids of all ages. As such, there are many budget-friendly or FREE things to do in Medora with kids! This family guide breaks down all the fun things to do in Medora, including which places offer free or low-cost nights, meals, or experiences for kids. This way, you can plan your itinerary to maximize these free experiences and stretch your budget further – always a good thing when traveling with kids. Luckily, there are tons of great deals for families in Medora, ND!
I’ve also featured the top restaurants in Medora for families. From breakfast to after-dinner ice cream, I’ve got you covered with delicious meals to keep you fueled and on the go. Then, I’ve also compiled a range of family-friendly accommodations in Medora, from campsites to luxury hotels. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about visiting Medora, North Dakota, with kids—including all the best deals in town!
Tips + Packing List for the Medora, North Dakota
Before we dive into the deals and best things to do with kids in Medora, ND, there are a few things you should know about visiting the area first.
Then, read this to plan an Exciting 5-Day Itinerary for Medora, North Dakota, with Kids!
A Few Tips
Here are a few tips for getting to and visiting Medora, North Dakota, with kids:
- Only 8 hours from Minneapolis, Medora is a great family road trip destination! Great stops for lunch, gas, or to stretch your legs along the way: Fargo, Jamestown, and Bismarck/Mandan.
- Planning an epic, bucket-list-worthy family road trip? Consider adding nearby locations like Deadwood, South Dakota (3.5 hours from Medora), Billings, Montana (4 hours from Medora), Custer State Park or Badlands National Park, South Dakota (both about 4.5 hours from Medora).
- If you prefer to fly, Dickinson Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport (DIK) is the closest airport to Medora, about 30 minutes away. Alternatively, you can also fly into Bismarck (BIS) or Minot (MOT), North Dakota. Minot is about 3 hours and 15 minutes away, while Bismarck is about 2 hours. All three will require a car rental.
- When is the best time to visit Medora with your kids? Generally, summer (May through early September) is the best time to visit Medora due to the warm weather and seasonal hours of many attractions. Even in high tourism season, though, crowds are manageable for families.
- There are TONS of deals and free activities in Medora, ND, making it a really budget-friendly road trip for families!
Packing
In addition to the things you usually pack for a vacation with kids, don’t forget these things on your Medora, North Dakota, packing list:
- If you plan to hike at Theodore Roosevelt National Park (which you should!), pack hiking boots and gear. Here are the hiking shoes we like for kids and, for me, women’s hiking shoes.
- Water bottles or a hydration pack.
- Insect repellent (if you are visiting between May and October).
- Sun protection is recommended for all seasons.
- Layers! Regardless of the season, nighttime temperatures can drop, and it can get pretty windy.
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Free Things to Do in Medora with Kids
Alright, ready to dive into all the great deals and FREE things to do with kids in Medora, ND? Let’s do it! There are many free things to do across Medora with kids, but remember that some things may only be free on certain days or at certain times. This guide notes that (when it applies) to help you plan your kid-friendly itinerary.
Medora Musical
The Medora Musical is one of the biggest attractions in town – and it’s not to be missed! Seasonally offered, the Medora Musical is live on stage from early June to early September and is performed every evening (except Mondays). Boasting all the Western spirit that Medora is known for, this family-friendly show features dynamic singing and dancing, live horses, and dazzling fireworks to top it all off!
Attending the Medora Musical with kids is an entertaining way to learn more about the history of Medora, Teddy Roosevelt, and the American West. While the theme is the same each year, the production changes from year to year – meaning you can go back time and again for more Old West fun! You’ll also find Pitchfork Steak Fondue nearby (more on that below), making them an easy pair when planning your itinerary. Finally, dress for the weather; the show happens at an outdoor amphitheater.
The Medora Musical offers tons of great deals for families! As one of the most budget-friendly things to do in Medora with kids, kids 17 and under can attend the Medora Musical for FREE:
- Every showing from June 5 – 18 and on July 4 (2024 dates)
- Every Wednesday and Sunday all summer long
- All 5:30 pm shows on June 22, July 13, August 3, and August 31
- Kids 6 and under are always free
Pitchfork Steak Fondue
Not only is Pitchfork Steak Fondue one of the best restaurants in Medora for families, but it is also a fun EXPERIENCE for all ages. In fact, it’s the ultimate Cowboy cookout! Here, Cowboy chefs load up pitchforks with steaks and cook them in oil – fondue-style – to *perfection*.
The meal is served lunchline style with all the fixins’. Top your meal off with your choice of delicious sides, such as baked beans, baked potatoes, coleslaw, vegetables, and fresh fruit salad. For dessert, don’t miss the gooey brownies and cinnamon-sugar donuts! Additionally, as one of the most budget-friendly things to do in Medora with kids, kids 12 and under get a FREE hot dog meal daily at Pitchfork Steak Fondue – all summer long.
Once your plates are filled, find a seat to enjoy the beautiful Badlands views. There are also family-friendly games on-site so that you can enjoy the warm weather and precious time together. Finally, the Medora Musical is just steps away, making them the perfect pair to kick off your family trip to Medora. Talk about a night you won’t easily forget!
Point to Point Park
If you really want to impress your kids, Point to Point Park must be on your itinerary! In fact, you may even need a second day here just to pack everything in. A kid’s paradise, Point to Point Park offers free and paid attractions.
If you are looking for some free activities to fill your family itinerary in Medora, Point to Point Park offers several excellent options, including:
- Self-guided or guided Point to Point Trails. Either option ensures your family can enjoy one of the best views of Medora!
- Pickleball. You can borrow paddles from the Poolhouse or the Badlands Motel Front Desk.
- The Medora Children’s Park (see more below).
- A summer splash pad – great for littles!
- A large jump pillow (which kids of all ages will love!).
Then, you can have even more fun together by upgrading to the All Day Packages. These packages include one round of Mini Golf, one Manitou Zipline ride, and admission to the Lazy River and Pool. Mini Golf enthusiasts will love that the back 9 holes of the course are built into the Badlands! Then, the Manitou Zipline is a two-seat zipline that offers beautiful views of the Badlands and surrounding area. It’s the perfect option for an unforgettable parent-and-me experience in Medora! Plus, kids recieve a discounted price, making this one of the best deals in Medora, ND. Finally, depending on your plans, these attractions can be booked individually (instead of investing in the All Day Packages).
North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame
When traveling to new places, museums are always a great way to learn about an area’s local people, culture, and history. In Medora, the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame is one of the best museums to visit with kids.
Throughout the exhibits, you can immerse yourself in the thrilling history and experience of plains horse culture. In fact, stories throughout the museum will bring to life the experiences of North Dakota’s Native Americans, homesteaders, ranchers, and, of course, their world-class rodeo cowboys! As one of the best things to do in Medora with kids, the museum features exhibits on everything from local indigenous tribes and bucking rodeo bulls to ranching and homesteading throughout North Dakota.
Finally, kids 17 and under (visiting with a paying adult) are free every Wednesday and Sunday!
Kids Show: Max Patzner’s Medora ABCs
If you have toddlers or young kids in tow, head down to the Medora ABCs. Performed by North Dakota artist, writer, and musician Max Patzner, Y will always be for YEEHAW here! This interactive musical story time for kids (and kids at heart!) provides fun facts about Medora and the Wild, Wild West.
After making your way through this clever alphabet, you’ll also be able to dance and sing along to some family-favorite campfire tunes together. Littles will adore putting a little boogie in their cowboy boots. Plus, they may even have a chance to meet Sheriff Bear!
The show takes place on the Andrist Stage in downtown Medora. Finally, the show is free for all (kids and adults)!
Medora Children’s Park
When we travel, we always make sure to add a playground or two to our itinerary for our daughter. She loves having the unstructured opportunity to run around and play. Meanwhile, as busy parents, we love the chance to sit back with a coffee and chat for a bit! If your children are anything like mine, they have energy to spare, and playgrounds are an excellent place for that excess energy! In Medora, the Medora Children’s Park is a wonderful place to burn this extra energy and relax together.
This newly refreshed playground looks like an Old West Fort, continuing the Western theme experienced across Medora. In fact, the wooden playground features unique play areas embracing the theme, like a stagecoach and train engine! Kids can run, swing, and slide themselves across the playground. From the thrilling tire swings to the towering lookout points, kids will love everything about this playground.
Additionally, the playground is located downtown, so you can pop in and out whenever kids need a chance to play (it’s across the street from the Little Bully Pulpit Mini Golf Course). With so many great features, no wonder this is one of the best free things to do in Medora with kids!
Maah Daah Hey Trail
Self-proclaimed as North Dakota’s best-kept secret, Maah Daah Hey Trail is a great option if you are looking for free* hiking trails in Medora. The trail system at Maah Daah Hey Trail showcases some of America’s most breathtaking terrain—think beautiful plateaus, rolling prairie lands, and sweeping rivers!
Here, there are 150 miles of single-track trails that cut through the badlands—perfect for hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding. Several trails can be easily reached from one of the many trailheads, including those off I-94 (northwest of Medora), at Sully Creek State Park, or at Bully Pulpit Golf Course (there are 17 trailheads total). You can find a trail guide to mark your route here. Bennett (3.2 miles) is generally considered a great hike with kids. Though, more adventurous families may prefer Summit (3.8 miles), with its steep trail and epic views. You may even glimpse a mule, whitetail deer, antelope, or prairie dog while hiking if you’re lucky!
*Please note that some trailheads may require paid parking, while others offer free parking.
The Great American Folk Show
Are you in the mood for more melodic family fun? As you meander through town in the evening, be sure to stop by Medora’s Townsquare at 6:30 pm to enjoy The Great American Folk Show. Grab a spot on the lawn to listen to live music by North Dakotan, Tom Brosseau, and his special guests (find the special guest line-up here). It’s the perfect way to end the day exploring Medora together. Then, you can make the evening even more special with an ice cream cone from Sheriff Bears!
The show occurs every evening, from June 14 to August 31 (2024 dates) at Medora’s Town Square Patio. Finally, the show is free for all (kids and adults)!
Live Music on the Patio
Medora loves its live music! If you’re looking for more free things to do in Medora with kids, spend select afternoons at Medora’s Town Square Patio. From July to September, you can enjoy free live music on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The excellent line-up features local and regional artists. Finally, you can find the summer line-up here.
More Fun Things to Do in Medora with Kids
There are more budget-friendly (and some splurge-worthy) things to do in Medora with kids. If you still have room in your Medora itinerary, keep reading to learn what to add next!
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Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Medora is the gateway to the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. As North Dakota’s only national park, it’s a must-stop on any family trip to Medora. To explore this park, you will need your own vehicle. No shuttle service or public transportation is available in Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
The park can be enjoyed by hiking or by vehicle. Several of the best viewpoints are just a short walk from car parks and along the drive. Hiking isn’t necessary to fully enjoy this park! Those interested in hiking with kids have several trails to choose from. While exploring, keep an eye out for the park’s bison, wild horses, and prairie dogs! Before embarking on your journey, stop to get a Junior Ranger book for kids to complete and receive their special badge.
After exploring the park for yourself, you’ll undoubtedly see why Theodore Roosevelt chose this spot as the location for his home ranch in 1883. In fact, Roosevelt’s time in North Dakota’s Badlands is what inspired many of his conservation policies and the legacy he left in creating the National Park System. Indeed, Theodore Roosevelt National Park is one of the best outdoor things to do in Medora for families with kids.
Finally, the entrance to Theodore Roosevelt National Park is about $25/vehicle (the price varies by season). If you plan to visit three or more national parks, purchase an America the Beautiful Pass to save on entrance fees. Or, if you have a child entering 4th grade this year (like we do!), register for the Every Kid Outdoors program. This program gives 4th graders and their families a free annual pass to all national parks, lands, and waterways in the United States for the school year and the following summer.
Brunch with President Roosevelt
Looking for unique restaurant experiences in Medora for families? Add Brunch with President Roosevelt to your itinerary to Medora, North Dakota, with kids. This brunch experience is a great way to learn about President Roosevelt’s life and legacy. Plus, the buffet features a hearty breakfast and endless coffee.
After breakfast, let Joe Wiegand, the world’s best Theodore Roosevelt reprisor, regale you with animated tales of epic adventures! The stories all showcase President Roosevelt’s time living and ranching in the Badlands, including his first visit to Medora on a bison hunt. Kids will certainly enjoy the story of his capture of the notorious “Boat Thieves”!
Brunch is offered on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. from June 17 to September 5 (2024 dates). Discounted tickets are available for kids or those who are only interested in attending the show. Get your tickets here!
Medora Riding Stables & Trail Rides
Kids will love exploring the Badlands on horseback, just like Theodore Roosevelt would have back in the 1880s. There are so many amazing free things to do in Medora with kids that I think horseback riding is worth splurging on if you have time! Along the trail, families will view beautiful scenery and create life-long memories together.
The stables are located on the eastern edge of Medora. From here, families can embark on 1-hour or 2-hour rides with a knowledgeable guide. Loading and safety lessons are required and provided before each ride. Rides are available daily from May 25 to September 7 (2024 dates), with several times available throughout the morning and early afternoon.
Finally, please note that riders must be at least 7 years old and at least 48 inches tall. Those 12 and under are outfitted with a riding helmet. There is also a 250-lb weight limit.
Where to Eat in Medora with Kids
When you’re hungry, families can choose from several delicious Medora restaurants during your visit! Whether you are craving pizza, burgers, or something more unique, there is an eatery on this list ready to satisfy hungry tummies. Did you know there aren’t any chain restaurants or fast food options in Medora? This is as locally owned and operated as it gets! Plus, I’ve also included a couple of ice cream spots for that much-needed afternoon pick-me-up. If you’re wondering where to eat in Medora with kids, start here!
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Breakfast + Coffee in Medora with Kids
- Farmhouse Cafe: You’re go-to breakfast spot in town! They have options the whole family will love.
- Hidden Springs Java: Baked goods and espresso drinks galore! They have smoothies for kids, too.
Lunch + Dinner in Medora with Kids
- Theodore’s Dining Room: Looking to splurge on one meal to celebrate your family vacation? Make it this spot!
- Pitchfork Steak Fondue: I mentioned this spot before because it is an EXPERIENCE, but the food and family-friendly environment warrant a second mention here, too. Remember that kids 12 and under get a free hot dog meal here (available daily).
- Badlands Pizza: They offer a buffet with pizza, chicken, and more! This is definitely the easiest (and fastest!) way to feed hungry kids quickly in Medora.
- Little Missouri Saloon: Families will love the vibrant dining room here, plus you can enjoy unique entree options featuring bison and elk!
- Point to Point Provisions: Located in Point to Point Park, this restaurant offers convenient grub while you explore the many on-site attractions. You can munch on everything from chips and hot dogs to Walking Tacos!
Where to Grab Ice Cream in Medora with Kids
- Sheriff Bears: Fast and delicious burgers and ice cream for the whole family! It is open all day, featuring everything from breakfast sandwiches to burgers and fries. Not to mention, yummy floats and ice cream.
- Fudge Depot Ice Cream: The tastiest one-stop shop to indulge your sweet tooth! Here, families can enjoy ice cream cones, sundaes, and, of course, their beloved fresh-made fudge. They even have unique ice cream flavors like Huckleberry and Juneberry!
Where to Stay in Medora with Kids
Now that you know all the fun things to do in Medora with kids, let’s talk about where to stay! There are several family-friendly Medora hotels perfect for traveling with kids. Here are a few great options to consider.
Firstly, Badlands Motel is a western-themed motel with all the amenities families love just steps away from Point to Point Park. Plus, it offers one of the most convenient locations for families. Then, Elkhorn Quarters is a more budget-friendly option, featuring family rooms and an outdoor pool. If you want a more authentic Old West experience, the Medora Campground is an excellent option for families. They offer both powered and primitive camping spaces, as well as group sites that feature private fire pit and charcoal grills. Finally, many Medora accommodations provide excellent deals for families during certain seasons; check their websites for more information.
Finally, if you are looking for a more upscale stay, Rough Riders Hotel is your best option. Here, families will enjoy a carefully crafted mix of luxury and Western charm! Plus, its downtown location makes it an easy choice for families who want to be at the center of all the action. Please note that Rough Riders Hotel is the only year-round option featured here.
Keep Exploring Medora, North Dakota, with Kids
Ready to explore all the fun things to do in Medora with kids? I thought so! Medora, North Dakota, is an exciting destination with kids. From enjoying the melodies at the Medora Musical to hiking in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, there is much to love about visiting this North Dakota destination with kids. I hope this article has helped you find the many great deals and budget-friendly things to do for families in Medora, ND, so you can plan a memorable (and inexpensive) family trip with your kids. Enjoy Medora with your kids!
Unless otherwise noted, all images in this article belong to the article’s sponsor, the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation. This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information.
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