Best Things to Do in Medora with Kids

If you are looking for a family road trip that combines breathtaking scenery, small-town charm, outdoor adventure, and unforgettable entertainment, Medora, North Dakota deserves a spot at the top of your list.

We first visited Medora a couple of years ago, but only had about 24 hours to explore. It did not take long for us to fall in love with this little western town tucked into the Badlands. Before we even drove away, we were already talking about coming back.

This summer, we finally did.

We planned our return around two incredible milestones, the 250th birthday celebration of the United States and the grand opening of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. Spending several days in Medora allowed us to experience so much more of what makes this destination one of the best family-friendly vacations in the Midwest.

Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or adding Medora to a longer road trip, here are the experiences your family won’t want to miss.

Start Your Visit with the Teddy Roosevelt Show & Brunch

One of our favorite surprises was kicking off our trip with the Teddy Roosevelt Show & Brunch.

The performer portraying Theodore Roosevelt does an incredible job bringing history to life. Instead of simply giving a presentation, he interacts with the audience, shares stories from Roosevelt’s life, and keeps everyone engaged from beginning to end. It was educational without ever feeling like a history lesson.

Then of course there was the food! Everything was delicious, but the standout for our family was the incredible bread pudding. Trust me … save room for dessert.

If you are visiting with kids, this is a wonderful way to introduce them to Theodore Roosevelt before exploring the places connected to his legacy throughout Medora.

Don’t Miss the Medora Musical

No trip to Medora is complete without seeing the Medora Musical.

This alone is worth planning a trip around. The talented singers and dancers put on an incredible performance against one of the most beautiful outdoor backdrops you will ever see. The show blends country music, patriotic favorites, classic songs, and today’s hits into an entertaining production the entire family can enjoy.

The live horses, colorful costumes, fireworks, and breathtaking views make it unlike any musical we have ever experienced. It’s patriotic, inspiring, funny, and packed with energy from beginning to end.

Explore Theodore Roosevelt National Park

One of the biggest reasons families visit Medora is its location just outside the entrance to Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

If you have never experienced the North Dakota Badlands, prepare to be amazed. Spend a day driving the scenic loop, stopping at overlooks, and taking short family-friendly hikes through the colorful landscape. Around nearly every corner there is another breathtaking view.

Some fun things to do while in the park include:

• Watching prairie dogs pop in and out of their towns.
• Spotting massive bison grazing nearby.
• Seeing wild horses roaming across the landscape.
• Hiking among the beautiful Badlands formations.
• Pulling over simply to soak in the incredible scenery.

Nature-loving kids will absolutely love seeing wildlife in its natural habitat, and parents will appreciate just how peaceful the park feels.

Visit the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library

The newest addition to Medora is the incredible Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, and it completely exceeded our expectations. This is not a museum where kids quietly walk from display to display. Instead, it is an immersive experience designed for visitors of all ages.

At the beginning of your visit, everyone receives a unique bracelet that allows you to create a personal profile. Throughout the museum, you scan your bracelet at different stations to unlock interactive experiences, collect memories, participate in scavenger hunts, and even create vintage-style photographs of your family. It quickly became one of our kids’ favorite parts of the visit.

There are hands-on exhibits throughout the museum, opportunities to learn through play, and even a small climbing structure where younger children can burn off a little energy.

The building itself is just as impressive as what is inside. Built directly into the foothills of the Badlands, the architecture blends beautifully into the landscape. Before you leave, make sure to head outside and walk the path that climbs over the roof of the museum. The panoramic views are worth the visit. Even if your kids aren’t history lovers, this museum makes learning fun, interactive, and memorable.

Have Dinner at the Famous Pitchfork Steak Fondue

Looking for a unique family dinner? The Pitchfork Steak Fondue is a Medora tradition.

Steaks are literally placed on pitchforks and cooked over an open fire before being served alongside a buffet of delicious sides. Add live music, gorgeous Badlands views, and a relaxed atmosphere, and you have got one of the most memorable meals of your trip. It’s also perfectly timed before heading to the Medora Musical, making for an easy evening of food and entertainment.

Stroll Through Downtown Medora

One of our favorite parts of the trip was simply wandering through downtown Medora. The streets are lined with locally owned shops, western-themed stores, restaurants, coffee shops, and plenty of places to stop for ice cream or a sweet treat.

One stop you absolutely shouldn’t miss is Hidden Springs Java. Order the Huckleberry Latte. You’re welcome.

Eat at the Little Missouri Saloon

If you are looking for a restaurant with history and personality, make time for the Little Missouri Saloon.

Established in 1883 and one of the oldest saloons in the state, this historic spot is packed with western charm and character. In fact, we loved it so much we visited twice during our stay. The food was fantastic, the cocktails were excellent, and the atmosphere made it feel like we had stepped back in time.

Breakfast at the Farmhouse Café

Before heading out for another day of adventure, grab breakfast at the Farmhouse Café. The standout for us? The Croissant French Toast. Served with housemade chocolate syrup, you do not want to leave Medora without trying it! It’s cozy, welcoming, and the perfect place to fuel up before exploring the Badlands.

Where to Stay in Medora

Because Medora is a small tourist town, accommodations fill quickly during the summer.

You will find a variety of options, including:

• Traditional motels
• The newly opened Hotel 1883, located just outside Theodore Roosevelt National Park
• Two campgrounds for families who love camping

We have camped during both of our visits, and it’s been a wonderful experience each time. Waking up surrounded by the beauty of the Badlands is hard to beat. No matter where you stay, be sure to book early if you’re visiting during peak summer travel.

Skip the Car and Ride the FREE Medora Trolley

One of the best tips we can give families is to park once and take advantage of the FREE Medora Stageline Trolley.

The trolley makes frequent stops throughout town, including shopping, restaurants, entertainment venues, and attractions. Instead of worrying about traffic or finding another parking spot, you can simply hop on and off as you explore. The kids loved riding it, and it made getting around incredibly easy. It is a little details that makes Medora such a family-friendly destination.