48 Hours in Bismarck, ND

So, you’ve found yourself in Bismarck, North Dakota for the weekend, and you’re new to the city. 

Wondering what to do with your time? 

The good news is that Bismarck has plenty to offer families and individuals alike. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing time in the outdoors or a fun-filled thrill, Bismarck has you covered. 

This suggested itinerary will provide options for both types of travelers, and will ensure that you see the best of the city (or, as much as you possibly can in 48 hours). 

Friday Evening

Depending on when you begin, Friday evening will be a perfect time to acquaint yourself with the restaurant and bar scene of the city.

Bismarck is home to a generous selection of breweries, and hitting them all is likely too ambitious for one weekend. In order to maximize efficiency, we recommend hanging in the center of town for this night. 

For some casual pub food, head to either Blarney Stone Pub or JL Beers (located within two blocks of each other). If that sounds too heavy, make sure to stop at Fireflour Pizza for incredible Napoli-style pizza — also located on Main Street. 

Some of Bismarck’s best local brews are located not too far from these restaurants, including Laughing Sun and Bird Dog. Both of these taprooms are definitely worth a visit, and the flavor of their beers are otherworldly. 

Saturday Morning

If you’re staying with us at the EverSpring, we’re located right across from the Kirkwood Mall, which houses great quick-service coffee and breakfast joints like Caribou Coffee and Panera Bread (after a night of eating and drinking, something lighter may suffice). 

Once you’ve grabbed your morning bite, walk around the mall and explore an awesome combination of big-time chains and quaint local shops. 

Saturday Mid-Day

Here is where the options seem endless. 

If you’re in the mood for some family fun, make your way to either the Dakota Zoo or SuperSlide Amusement Park (another pro tip: if you book your stay with us, ask about our Dakota Zoo Package, where we throw in 4 free tickets to the zoo). 

If your vibe is leaning more towards exploratory, venture towards one of Bismarck’s beautiful parks or the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum, where you’ll experience thousands of artifacts and specimens, 3-D displays, and a number of other high-tech exhibits. 

Saturday Evening

If your meal on Friday evening was more casual, this may be the night to dine at one of Bismarck’s best. 

Pirogue Grille, 40 Steak & Seafood, and Peacock Alley are all local favorites for the finest American dishes. Pirogue and Peacock Alley are located close to each other on Main Street, and 40 Steak & Seafood sits on the north-end of town. If you make it north to 40 Steak & Seafood, StoneHome Brewing is right down the road for some craft brews and games beforehand. 

Make sure to call ahead for reservations at any of these restaurants. 

After dinner, you can continue exploring the surrounding area, or check the Bismarck Event Center for concerts and shows. With big-name artists frequently visiting the arena, there are good chances the Saturday event is something you won’t want to miss. 

And the cherry on top: the Event Center is only a half-mile from the EverSpring. 

Sunday

What you didn’t do on Saturday during the day, may be your opportunity on Sunday. 

Start the morning with brunch at The Starving Rooster for some delicious cast-iron scrambles, breakfast pizza, or meaty breakfast sandwiches. Or, if you’re at the EverSpring, Perkins Restaurant & Bakery is only a 3-minute walk away. 

Spend the rest of your time catching what you missed the day before, whether it’s hiking around McDowell Dam Nature Park, exploring some of Bismarck’s historic sites, or any other adventure that caught your eye. 

While this list is not exhaustive, we hope it has provided a solid itinerary of some of Bismarck’s best for whatever your weekend vibe. 

You may not be able to experience everything you want in only a weekend, but that’s okay. 

You can save the rest for next time.