I love visitor guides. When we travel, I’m the person who scans the brochure rack in the hotel lobby. I’ll read the guide cover to cover and relay any fun facts I find. At national parks, the pamphlets handed through the window upon entry are never relegated to the floorboards or that crevice between the console and seat. I carefully read those, too—ready to dazzle fellow passengers with my newfound knowledge.
This is who I am. I don’t recall a time I didn’t read tourist literature on trips. In college, while studying abroad, I became our group’s unofficial guide. My knack for devouring brochures and my willingness to ask locals for honest opinions made me a natural fit for the job.
But if I’m being honest, the travel guides I love reading most are the ones geared toward the place I call home. If there’s fun to be had right under my nose, I want to know about it. And that’s exactly what visitor bureaus are for—uncovering and publicizing all the fascinating things we have at our fingertips. You may not always be able to travel far, but you can always be a tourist in your own town and state.
Months ago, I picked up the 2025 North Dakota Travel Guide. It’s been sitting in my nightstand ever since, with a pen and highlighter tucked inside as a placeholder. When I have a spare moment, I read a few pages—highlighting anything that strikes me as interesting. The goal? Learn more about what our state offers and build a mental rolodex of places I’ve yet to explore.
With summer upon us—or at the very least, summer break from school—I thought I’d share five attractions that caught my eye while flipping through the guide. These are places I’ve never been but hope to visit this season. Maybe they’ll inspire your summer plans, too.
- Lewis and Clark Riverboat – Bismarck, ND
This charming riverboat has a Mark Twain vibe and offers public cruises on the Missouri River from May through September. Cruises last 90 minutes, are family-friendly, and include a meal—either dinner or Sunday brunch. This looks like a one-of-a-kind experience I’d like to try at least once while living in North Dakota. - Lund’s Landing – Ray, ND
Lund’s Landing is a full-service resort on Lake Sakakawea with a restaurant, cabins, tipi camping, and an array of lake rentals. I’ve heard rumors of legendary juneberry pie, gorgeous scenery, and unbeatable hospitality. I’m curious to see what the hype is all about. - Williston Water World – Williston, ND
With our beloved Roosevelt Park Pool closed for the summer, I’m on the lookout for other pools and waterparks around the state. Williston Water World, set to open July 15, 2025, is one I’m especially excited about. The plans look promising, and I’m eager to see how it compares to Raging Rivers Waterpark in Mandan. - Jamestown, ND
I’ve never been to Jamestown, but the number of circles it earned in the travel guide tells me I need to go. Attractions on my radar include the Jamestown Reservoir, Frontier Village, the National Buffalo Museum, and of course, seeing the giant buffalo in person. - Lone Butte Ranch – Grassy Butte, ND
The opportunity to stay in a handcrafted cabin on a working cattle ranch, right on the edge of the North Dakota Badlands? Yes, please. While we love Medora, I’d love to experience the Badlands from a new perspective.
North Dakota is full of hidden gems waiting to be explored—and you don’t have to go far to feel like you’re on an adventure. So grab a travel guide, a highlighter, and see what sparks your curiosity. You might just discover your new favorite getaway is right down the road.
Want more ideas for loving your life in North Dakota?
Follow along on Instagram and Facebook at @HeyMinot or find me at amyallender.com.
