Even though we enjoyed this site as adults, I can see where kids would really enjoy this site. Hands on activities in the museum and the outside fort - can't be beat. Tour of the fort and special talks inside. Worth the drive. Included with the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center fee.
While visiting the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center our group also visited the sister site of Fort Mandan. We were given a 30 minute presentation of Native Americans that we had set up prior to our visit and also a 30 minutes tour of the fort. Even though it was relatively cold outside the fort tour was still very interesting and we learned a lot about the Mandan Tribe in the area.
You must see Fort Mandan to appreciate how the Lewis & Clark expedition lived and worked during their first winter. The hardships of winter in this wilderness can only be understood by visiting the small fort. For those who want to gain a better understanding of the US history, this is a must stop.
Pros: Had a fantastic tour of the fort. After, we went on another tour of the native plants and their relevance to Native American life and Lewis and Clark. Visitor center at the fort is small, but informative.Cons: No-see-ems were thick by the river.
Again, another site on my feb ND visit. I was continuing my trek on the lewis and clark trail, which ive travelled (albeit in multiple legs) from St Louis to Wiliston ND. not sure ill make any more of it but what I have traveled is fascinating. to imagine they did it 200 years ago is amazing. I was privileged to travel some of it on the 200 year anniversary, just fantastic. the fort and indian site a few miles away are worth the visit
This is a reconstruction of Fort Mandan where Lewis and Clark wintered. There is a nice visitor center and a guided tour of the fort to give insight into what the experience must have been like. We also attended a short talk on Sacagawea and the many myths surrounding her. All in all a great experience for the entire family.
It was a thrill to finally make it to this replica of Fort Mandan.. The Corps of Discovery survived the harsh winter with the Mandan Indian's help and Sakakawea joined them for their journey west in the Spring. This fort says it all. Helpful guides help you to understand the experience. .Loved the "statue" of Lewis' dog Seaman.
A great view into what life might have been like during the Lewis & Clark expedition. We visited with our Newfoundland Dog and were allowed to bring him into the Visitors Center and then on the short walk to the Fort. Our guide suggested setting up a photo of our Newf representing a painting by artist Michael Haynes, " Awaiting the Captain". It was great fun and we really enjoyed the tour and the views of the Missouri River
I guess I wasn't too impressed as I have been to so many better historical exhibits. This was fine if you're super into North Dakota history but I felt it was lacking just a bit. We're not historical buffs so that probably played into it also.
Although the fort is a reconstruction - the site of the real fort has been lost to history and probably to the waters of the Missouri - it is most informative. The fort is set up to give the visitor maximum understanding of what life was like during the winter the Corps of Discovery spent there. Rooms are richly furnished with artifacts to demonstrate different activities that would have gone on within the fort. The guide who conducted our tour was very engaging and knowledgeable. There is a small museum in the Visitors Center. There is an adjacent park area with walking trails and views of the Missouri River.