Sun, Aug 17: Depart Indianapolis for Bismarck, North Dakota. You’ll be introduced to all things North Dakota at the North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum. Encounter the early Native American tribes of North Dakota, learn about the changing landscapes of the region, and see the world’s largest giant squid fossil! After checking in to the hotel, relax, or take a moment to explore the nearby Bismarck Art Alley. Celebrate your first night with an evening cruise along the Missouri River and hear about Lewis and Clark’s expedition through North Dakota. The perfect vantage point for bald eagles and catch a view of Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park from the river’s vantage point. (Meal: Dinner)

Mon, Aug 18: Depart the hotel after breakfast for Minot, and keep your eyes peeled for North Dakota’s famous sunflower fields along the way! Once in Minot, you will be introduced to the Scandinavian heritage of North Dakota at the Scandinavian Heritage Park, which honors the cultures of the five Scandinavian countries: Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, and Iceland with stunning architecture and displays. On the grounds you can visit the iconic Gol Stave Church, which is a full replica of the church now in Oslo, Norway. After lunch, tour the Dakota Territory Air Museum. Through displays and guides that inspire, educate, and entertain, the museum offers a unique perspective into the aviation history of the state. End the day by enjoying a hearty dinner of local cuisine. (B,L,D)

Tue, Aug 19: From Williston, continue to the Fort Union Trading Post, which was the most important fur trade post in the area during the 1800’s. Fort Union, founded in 1828, was a vital trading post during the height of the fur trade. This post alone traded over 25,000 buffalo robes annually. Visit Fort Buford and discover the important history of the Yellowstone and Missouri rivers. Both forts provided protection for settlers moving west and allow you to catch a glimpse of life on the western frontier. End the day at your leisure in the town of Medora, situated on the edge of the North Dakota Badlands, and full of western charm and history. (B,L)

Wed, Aug 20: Spend the morning being guided through Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Experience the pristine beauty of the park through the eyes of a local and see why President Roosevelt fell in love with the North Dakota Badlands. Spectacular views surround you as you listen to the history of the area along with the cowboy traditions that are still prevalent today. This evening you will be treated to a Pitchfork Steak Fondue dinner overlooking the badlands before attending the famed Medora Musical at the Burning Hills Amphitheatre. This rollicking musical depicts the story of the state in dance and song, with special emphasis on Theodore Roosevelt’s connection to the area and American patriotism. There isn’t a show quite like the Medora Musical, and the outdoor setting is fitting for this high energy, western-style performance, considered the “rootin’-tootinest, boot-scootinest show in all the west!” (B,D)

Thu, Aug 21: Enjoy your final morning in Medora and poke around in local shops and restaurants or take a walk over to the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame, which showcases the history and lifestyle of Western ranching, rodeo, and area Native Americans. Depart late morning for Bismarck to fly home. (B)