Did you know that famous exploring duo Lewis and Clark spent more time in North Dakota during their expedition than they did any other state? Though it was long before the Peace Garden State was a state at all, they set up a fort and wintered on the prairie, and even met Sakakawea here. You can learn about all of this and more at one of the best museums in ND:

Lewis and Clark and their Corps of Discovery embarked on a journey across the west in the first few years of the 1800s. Their expedition was exceptionally well documented and we follow their path to this very day.

JNFII/Tripadvisor

During the expedition, they spent quite a bit of time in North Dakota at a place they established called Fort Mandan, named after the native peoples living in the area. It was here they established trade relationships, learned more about the area and its history, and spent the winter. Today, you can take a peek back into this time by visiting the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center.

limey52/Tripadvisor

This state-of-the-art museum has tons of amazing exhibits showcasing real artifacts and scenes from the days of Lewis and Clark’s stay here.

Rudolph Gerber/Google

It’s located beautifully overlooking the Missouri River, which the team would have arrived on by boats. This spot is stunning and just another great reason to visit here.

Lewis & Clark’s Fort Mandan/Facebook

Along with the museum, there is also a reconstruction of the actual Fort Mandan to explore. The fort is only open from April to September, however, so keep that in mind when planning your visit.

Lewis & Clark’s Fort Mandan/Facebook

Inside the fort, you’ll find accurate representations of the way they lived on the fort, the supplies they had, and the materials they would have been trading with the Native Americans. It will transport you back in time and it’s quite an experience.

Lewis & Clark’s Fort Mandan/Facebook

With such a standout museum, beautiful location, and so many historic features, the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center is surely a must-see for any history buff out there - and everyone else, too. People of all ages love this place!

Lewis & Clark’s Fort Mandan/Facebook

Find out more about the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center by visiting this website. They are open year-round but have seasonal hours listed on their page. Have you ever visited this remarkable interpretive center? Tell us about your visit in the comments.

JNFII/Tripadvisor

limey52/Tripadvisor

Rudolph Gerber/Google

Lewis & Clark’s Fort Mandan/Facebook

Check out this other awesome fort in North Dakota for another great historic attraction. Let us know what your favorite historic spot in the Peace Garden State you feel we should cover is.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: 2576 8th St SW, Washburn, ND 58577, USA