3 Exciting Summer Days in Jamestown, ND, with Kids

This post, featuring my weekend guide to Jamestown, North Dakota with kids, may contain affiliate links. This article was also written after a sponsored trip to Jamestown with Discover Jamestown-all thoughts and opinions about the visit are my own. For more, please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy (linked below).

If you're looking for a low-key, affordable, and surprisingly fun family road trip, put Jamestown, North Dakota, on your list! Located right along I-94 between Fargo and Medora, Jamestown makes an easy roadside stop. Or, better yet, make it a fun 3-day summer getaway (this itinerary will help!). There are plenty of kid-friendly things to see and do!

Jamestown is less than 5 hours from Minneapolis (our home base). We recently loaded up the car and made the trek to explore this charming North Dakota town. We loved exploring Jamestown's colorful murals and cute downtown, soaking up its Western flair, and spending time outdoors hiking and swimming. And, of course, you can't visit without meeting Dakota Thunder (the World's LARGEST Buffalo!). We visited during Buffalo Days, so my daughter even saw her first rodeo here. This experience made our Jamestown adventure one we won't soon forget. We left with big smiles and full hearts. It is undoubtedly one of the most underrated road trip destinations in North Dakota.

Let's plan your family road trip to Jamestown, North Dakota! Use my summer itinerary to explore  Jamestown with your kids (includes the best things to do, places to stay, and our favorite eateries along the way).

Day 1 in Jamestown, North Dakota, with Kids

Ease into your Jamestown adventure with a relaxed arrival day. More likely than not, you're arriving by car after a long drive. (It was nearly 5 hours for us from Minneapolis.) After the drive, I recommend getting settled into your Jamestown, ND, hotel. Then, stretch your legs and grab a delicious dinner in downtown Jamestown. 

READ NEXT: 6 Amazing Places to Eat in Jamestown, ND, with Kids

Check In + Get Settled at the Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Jamestown

For a comfortable and family-friendly home base in Jamestown, the Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Jamestown is a great choice. I highly recommend staying here, especially if you're traveling with kids who love a good hotel pool! The hotel is currently undergoing renovations, with updated guest rooms and gathering spaces, so everything feels fresh and new.

The real highlight for families is the huge pool area. Kids can race down the dueling water slides. Or, splash around the zero-depth entry area, which even has two cute water features. And, of course, parents will enjoy the large hot tub with a clear view of the pool area. There is a ton of seating around the pool deck, too.

You'll also appreciate the complimentary breakfast and convenient location right along the highway. Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Jamestown is also just minutes from downtown, making it easy to get out and explore throughout the weekend. After a day of driving, check in, unpack, and let the kids burn off some energy in the pool before settling in for the night.

A Few More Kid-Friendly Jamestown, North Dakota, Hotels 

Looking for additional kid-friendly Jamestown, North Dakota, hotels? Here are a few more to consider:

• Hampton Inn & Suites Jamestown, ND
• Baymont by Wyndham Jamestown Conference Center & Water Park
• My Place Hotel-Jamestown, ND
• Comfort Inn Jamestown South
• Lakeside Campground

Dinner at Drift Prairie Brewing

Once everyone has settled in, head downtown for dinner at Drift Prairie Brewing. It's a laid-back, family-friendly spot with something for everyone. The menu is packed with kid-approved options, including burgers, wings, pizza, lavash (a local highlight!), and BBQ. They also have a dedicated kids' menu for littles. No matter what you get for dinner, be sure to save room for the kuchen. It's a North Dakota favorite that makes a delicious sweet treat at the end of any meal!

The bright, airy taproom has plenty of room to spread out, including large tables that work well for bigger families and groups. Kids can play games and hang out in the designated play area while parents enjoy a great local beer-or grab a fresh-made lemonade if beer isn't your thing. There's also a patio for enjoying your summer meal outdoors, too.

Located right downtown, Drift Prairie Brewing is worth a stop even if you only pop in for a drink. It's an easygoing spot to kick off your Jamestown adventure and settle into the relaxed vibe of this North Dakota town.

Day 2 in Jamestown, North Dakota with Kids

Up next on this itinerary for Jamestown are all the summer things that Midwest families love! Day 2 is all about downtown coffee shops, hiking, murals, and learning about bison. Here's what to plan on your second day in Jamestown with kids.

READ NEXT: Amazing Places Worth Visiting in North Dakota with Your Kids

Grab Breakfast at Babb's Coffee House

Start your day at Babb's Coffee House. This downtown gem quickly became one of my favorite coffee shops in the Midwest. I absolutely loved the coffee (like, really love it-it was absolutely brilliant!), and we ended up starting every morning here for the delicious sips and laid-back vibes. 

Babb's has the eclectic, cozy feel you want from a great local coffee shop, with friendly staff and plenty of seating for both small and large groups. Plus, a menu that goes far beyond coffee. Grab a smoothie, lemonade, or expertly made cup of coffee. Pair that with kuchen (my recommendation!), pie, muffins, or something heartier from the diverse breakfast and lunch menu. And yes, there's even ice cream!

Babb's is a delicious way to start your day in Jamestown. They also have a location in Fargo.

Hike Overlook Trail

Get outside and take in some beautiful North Dakota scenery on the Overlook Trail. This prairie trail winds through gently rolling terrain and along the Jamestown Reservoir. The waterfront views are amazing! It's a great choice for families who want to see the prairie and enjoy some time outdoors together (even if you don't commit to the entire route). While the full loop trail is about 4.7 miles, you can simply turn around whenever you've had enough.

Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. We spotted a pelican and several other birds during our hike! There's also a playground at the top of the hill for kids who want to run around a bit more.

After your hike, you can even cool off with a swim in the Jamestown Reservoir. Bathrooms are conveniently located at the trailhead, too. If you're looking for fun outdoor things to do in Jamestown with kids, the Overlook Trail is a beautiful way to start your day.

Lunch at Johnny B's Brickhouse

After your morning hike, head downtown for lunch at Johnny B's Brickhouse. This locally owned restaurant is a great pick for families. It has a crowd-pleasing lineup, including burgers, wood-fired pizza, wings, sandwiches, salads, and more. They also have a kids' menu and gluten-free options available. There are plenty of options to please everyone at the table! I opted for the buffalo chicken wrap, and it hit the spot after our hike!

The restaurant is housed in a beautiful building dating back to the 1800s, complete with vaulted ceilings and large windows. The fun, hometown atmosphere and friendly staff make it an easy place to settle in for a leisurely lunch.

Walk Around Downtown + Find Colorful Murals

After lunch, spend some time wandering around downtown Jamestown. It's easy to explore on foot, with a handful of cute local shops to pop into along the way. I especially recommend The Story Nook (a children's bookstore) with young kids. You can easily browse while kids play at the play stations. They offer a weekly story time for kids too! We also really enjoyed The Melted Crayon Gift Shop.

Then, don't miss Jamestown's colorful murals! One of the most fun is the interactive mural on the east side of the Hugo's Family Marketplace on First Avenue. Created by North Dakota artist Max Patzner, this North Dakota-themed mural features more than 15 unique and colorful squares. The topics include catching fish, loving hot dish, bison, and more. Kids can even interact with the artwork, making it much more than a mural you simply walk past. It's a great spot to take family photos, too!

There are other murals spread across downtown. Don't miss the Welcome to Jamestown mural on the south side of the First Avenue Plaza (and the one located across from it, too!). Part of the fun of murals is wandering around and seeing how many you can find. And the mural scene in Jamestown keeps growing, with new artwork popping up around town (including a colorful addition at the brewery). Bring your camera and let the kids have fun finding their favorite photo spots!

Learn Something New at the North American Bison Discovery Center

Did you know that bison are our national animal? I learned that at this museum! If your kids love animals (like mine does!), the North American Bison Discovery Center is a must-stop in Jamestown. This engaging museum makes it easy to learn about one of the most iconic animals of the Great Plains. Plus, it's located right off I-94.

The center features six galleries covering everything from bison history and their importance to Plains cultures to the challenges that nearly wiped them out and the conservation efforts that helped bring them back. You'll also see life-size taxidermy, including the incredibly rare albino bison White Cloud, as well as prehistoric bison remains. There's also a 17-minute looping film if you want to dive a little deeper. 

Kids can get hands-on with interactive exhibits. Then, explore a fantastic children’s area filled with books, toys, puppets, puzzles, and more. We spent a long time playing in here. The puppet area is just a fun addition!

Step outside, and you can look across the pasture to spot the live bison herd roaming the preserve. Plan ahead, and you can even book a pasture tour to see the bison up close. I'm so sad that we missed this! So, hopefully, you can check it out.

Even if you only have an hour to spare, this is one of the most fun things to do in Jamestown with kids. Just don't forget to browse the adorable souvenirs in the gift shop! I'm sure you'll walk away with just as many treasures as we did.

Check out the Jamestown Frontier Village & Frontier Village General Store

Step back in time at Jamestown's Frontier Village, a fun attraction that brings North Dakota's pioneer days to life. The village features several historic buildings filled with antiques, artifacts, and displays. Kids can peek inside the old post office, blacksmith shop, church, school, bank, jail, railroad depot, saloon, and more. According to my daughter, many of the buildings were "surprisingly detailed and visually interesting" (so funny when kids talk a bit like adults)!

For an extra dose of old-fashioned fun, kids can take a stagecoach or pony ride. Or, check out the playground area. And, of course, you can't miss the World's Largest Buffalo, which stands right next to the village (more on that next!).

Before you leave, stop at the Frontier Village General Store. The shop has cute souvenirs, but the real star is the ice cream. It's fantastic! This is another great place to try kuchen, if you haven't already had it (or if you want to try them all and pick a favorite). 

Frontier Village is easy to explore and completely free to visit, although donations are welcome. It's a fun, low-key stop that gives kids a glimpse into what life was like on the frontier.

Say Hi to Dakota Thunder, the World's Largest Buffalo

You can't visit Jamestown without saying hello to Dakota Thunder, the World's Largest Buffalo! Towering above Frontier Village, this larger-than-life roadside attraction is one of the most iconic stops in this North Dakota road trip destination. Built in 1959 by sculptor Elmer Petersen, the concrete buffalo stands an impressive 26 feet tall and weighs 60 tons. In 2010, he officially received the name Dakota Thunder.

Take a stroll along the paved, accessible trail to get a closer look and snap a few photos. Of course, it's hard to resist taking a selfie with Dakota Thunder and touching his beard.

Before you leave, check out the viewing scopes nearby for a chance to spot the real bison roaming the preserve. It's a pretty incredible sight with the wide-open North Dakota sky as your backdrop. For families exploring the best things to do in Jamestown with kids, Dakota Thunder is an easy (and wonderfully quirky) must-stop. Plus, it's located right off I-94 (you can even see it from the highway!).

Dinner at Buffalo Grill

For dinner, head downtown to Buffalo Grill. This spot quickly became one of my favorite restaurants in Jamestown. I went in hoping to try the bison steak, but they were sold out-which is probably a good sign! Thankfully, my steak alternative was absolutely incredible, and I left very happy.

Steak is the specialty here, but you can also find bison steak and burgers on the menu (when they're available). They also have pastas and other menu features, too.  Parents can also enjoy one of the restaurant's great cocktails (my husband loved the smoky Old Fashioned). There's also a  kids' menu with all the usual favorites for little ones. Plus, plenty of indoor seating (and some outdoor seating when the weather cooperates). 

The friendly service and classic steakhouse atmosphere make dinner feel like a special night out, while still being really affordable. The fun bison accents and photo opportunities add a little Jamestown flair to the experience. Buffalo Grill is an easy choice for families looking for a great dinner while visiting Jamestown.

Day 3 in Jamestown, North Dakota with Kids

There are still plenty of fun things to do in Jamestown to round out day three of exploring with your kids. Today is all about the beach! Spend as long as you want swimming, splashing, and playing before heading home.

Breakfast Picnic + Swim at the Jamestown Reservoir

Kick off your final day in Jamestown with a relaxed breakfast and some time in the sun at the Jamestown Reservoir. You have several options for breakfast. You can grab your favorite coffee and pastries from Babb's Coffee House, pick up supplies at a local grocery store, or stop at Hondo's, which is right next to the beach. We opted for Babb's and brought breakfast along for a picnic. I couldn't pass up one last time to eat their kuchen! There are several picnic tables on the beach. Or, you can always throw a blanket down if you want to sit in the sand.

Then, settle in for a morning of swimming at this popular local hangout. The sandy beach is spacious, and the water gradually gets deeper from shore, making it a fun spot for families. On a hot Sunday, the beach was already hopping by noon! Bring sand toys, a tube for floating, or your kayak or SUP. There are bathrooms near the parking lot and an accessible ramp to the water. And, a playground just up the hill, if you're planning to spend the whole day here.

The beach has very little shade, so pack sunscreen and an umbrella or shade tent if you have one. The sand in the water can also be a little rocky, so water shoes are helpful. And as with any natural swimming area, check for current algae advisories before getting in.

One of the best things about this spot is its location right next to the Overlook Trail. You can easily combine a hike and a swim into one fun summer adventure! Jamestown has a surprising amount of boat and water activities for families. It's pretty easy to rent a kayak, too. A beach day is just one of your many options. You could plan a whole weekend just on the Jamestown Reservoir.

Lunch at Hondo's Hideaway on the Jamestown Reservoir

After your morning on the water, stay lakeside for lunch at Hondo's Hideaway. Perched on the hill overlooking the Jamestown Reservoir, this casual, family-friendly restaurant is a fun place to refuel before heading home. You'll find comfort food favorites like burgers and the popular hot beef, along with a kids' menu.

Hondo's has both indoor and outdoor seating, so you can choose a table with a view or escape the heat inside. Kids get their own menu, plus games and coloring supplies to keep little hands busy while you wait for lunch.

And there's an extra bit of fun for kids: Hondo's has a treasure hunt! If they find the hidden treasure chest, they get a prize. It's a small touch that makes this more than just a lunch stop.

Named after a character from famous Western novelist Louis L'Amour, Hondo's Hideaway is a fitting place to grab a bite while soaking up Jamestown's Western spirit.

If You Can, Attend Buffalo Days!

If your visit lines up with Buffalo Days, you can easily rearrange this summer itinerary to fit in some of the many events with your kids! And, I highly recommend that you do. This is one of the best small-town festivals we have ever been to in or outside of the Midwest. 

Buffalo Days is an annual community celebration held in July in Jamestown. It was one of the highlights of our trip! If your dates are flexible, this would be a great weekend to be in town. We added three Buffalo Days events to our summer weekend, including the parade, lunch at the food trucks, and the rodeo. 

The parade was easily one of the best we've ever attended in the Midwest (it even rivaled some of the ones we've seen in New Orleans and the South). The parade rolls down Main Street at 9:30 a.m. and is packed with colorful floats, music, horses, big trucks, candy, and plenty of hometown spirit. Bring a bag for the candy-the kids will need it! We walked away absolutely stunned by this parade. I know my daughter will ask to go back next summer.

After the parade, we headed to McElroy Park for food trucks and vendors. There was a great variety of food, manageable lines, play areas, and inflatables for kids. It was a great spot to grab lunch and let everyone run around.

Of course, we had to attend the Buffalo Days Ranch Rodeo at the Stutsman County Fairgrounds. It's a smaller rodeo, but incredibly well done and a fun introduction for kids who have never experienced one. This was my daughter’s very first rodeo, and she absolutely loved it! Bring cash, sunscreen, and plenty of water, as the stands are in full sun.

If you love small-town festivals in the Midwest, Buffalo Days is going to blow you away! I would even recommend planning your whole trip around attending the parade and rodeo. 

Even More Fun Things to Do in Jamestown, North Dakota, with Kids

There are a few more things to do in Jamestown with kids that we saved for next time. If you're looking to add more stops or make a few swaps to this summer itinerary for Jamestown, here are a few more things to consider experiencing with your kids.

• Stutsman County Memorial Museum
• Fort Seward
• Meidinger Splash Park (located at the Two Rivers Activity Center)
• Jamestown Speedway
• Attend Kite Fest (typically held in May)

Have Fun Exploring Jamestown with Your Kids!

Sometimes the best family adventures are the ones you didn't see coming. Jamestown was that kind of place for us. Jamestown is packed with kid-friendly experiences, offering a fun-filled weekend getaway packed with bison, swimming, hiking, colorful murals, and great food.

There's something wonderfully relaxed about Jamestown, ND, with kids. You can fill your days with summer adventures without feeling rushed. And, the town's affordable prices and friendly locals make it an especially easy destination for families.

Whether you're planning a dedicated getaway or adding Jamestown to a family road trip across North Dakota, I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your time. From the best places to eat in Jamestown with kids to outdoor adventures and quirky roadside attractions, there's plenty here to keep your crew smiling. Have fun exploring Jamestown with your kids!

Unless otherwise noted, all images in this article were taken by and belong to the blog's author, Antonia Grant. This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information.