Dakota Zoo - Lewis and Clark Trail Experience

X

Plan Your Visit

x

Information

Summer Hours - late April to September 10:00am - 6:00pm daily (weather permitting) Winter Hours - October to late April 1:00 - 5:00pm Friday thru Sunday (weather permitting)

(701) 223-7543

No Pets are permitted on the zoo grounds. Bona fide sevice animals for persons with disabilities are permitted. Exotic species, therapy or emotional-support animals are not permitted at Dakota Zoo. Guests that have service animals are asked to alert the staff at the admissions window that they are here with a service animal.

lat: 46.7994838 long: -100.8067539

The Dakota Zoo offers 125 species of birds, reptiles, insects, and mammals and is just steps from downtown Bismarck. Opened in 1961, the Dakota Zoo today welcomes more than 100,000 visitors a year to its expansive grounds which house Bengal tigers, whitetail deer, bald eagles, and Texas longhorns, to name a few.

For those interested in the history of the Lewis and Clark, many of the animals on the display are the same species as those that were encountered on their expedition. Make sure to visit our website to find a list of animals to keep an eye out for as you venture through the grounds.

Nearby Attractions

Super Slide Amusement Park

Super Slide Amusement Park

Super Slide Amusement Park, Riverside Park Road, Bismarck, ND, USA
Distance: 0.15 mi (straight line)

View Listing

The Paddle Trap

The Paddle Trap

2500 Pirates Loop Southeast, Mandan, ND 58554, USA
Distance: 0.73 mi (straight line)

View Listing

Food and Drinks

Camp Hancock State Historic Site

Camp Hancock State Historic Site

101 E Main Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501, USA
Distance: 0.87 mi (straight line)

View Listing

General History

Turtle Effigy

Turtle Effigy

Bismarck, ND, USA
Distance: 0.95 mi (straight line)

View Listing

Tribal Experiences

Bismarck, North Dakota

Bismarck, North Dakota

Bismarck, ND, USA
Distance: 0.99 mi (straight line)

View Listing

Cultural Districts

Raging Rivers Waterpark

Raging Rivers Waterpark

Raging Rivers Waterpark, 46th Avenue Southeast, Mandan, ND, USA
Distance: 1.05 mi (straight line)

View Listing

Outdoor Experiences Fun and Sports

Brick Oven Bakery

Brick Oven Bakery

112 N 4th St, Bismarck, North Dakota 58501, USA
Distance: 1.06 mi (straight line)

View Listing

The Firepit

The Firepit

307 N 3rd St, Bismarck, ND 58501, USA
Distance: 1.08 mi (straight line)

View Listing

Food and Drinks

The Capital Gallery

The Capital Gallery

109 N 4th St, Bismarck, ND 58501, USA
Distance: 1.08 mi (straight line)

View Listing

Galleries and Venues

Dakota Stage

Dakota Stage

412 E Main Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501, USA
Distance: 1.10 mi (straight line)

View Listing

Pirogue Grille

Pirogue Grille

121 N 4th St, Bismarck, ND 58501, USA
Distance: 1.10 mi (straight line)

View Listing

Food and Drinks

Peacock Alley American Grill and Bar

Peacock Alley American Grill and Bar

422 E Main Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501, USA
Distance: 1.12 mi (straight line)

View Listing

Food and Drinks

Magic Photo Art

Magic Photo Art

Magic Photo Art, North 5th Street, Bismarck, ND, USA
Distance: 1.13 mi (straight line)

View Listing

Galleries and Venues

Bismarck Art Alley

Bismarck Art Alley

117 N 5th St, Bismarck, ND 58501, USA
Distance: 1.17 mi (straight line)

View Listing

Galleries and Venues

Former Governors’ Mansion State Historic Site

Former Governors’ Mansion State Historic Site

320 East Avenue B, Bismarck, ND, USA
Distance: 1.24 mi (straight line)

View Listing

General History

Steamboat Warehouse State Historic Site

Steamboat Warehouse State Historic Site

444 River Rd, Bismarck, ND 58504, USA
Distance: 1.25 mi (straight line)

View Listing

General History

Laughing Sun Brewing Co.

Laughing Sun Brewing Co.

1023 E Front Ave, Bismarck, ND 58504, USA
Distance: 1.49 mi (straight line)

View Listing

Food and Drinks Bars Breweries and Distilleries

Walrus Restaurant

Walrus Restaurant

1136 North 3rd Street, Bismarck, ND 58501, USA
Distance: 1.53 mi (straight line)

View Listing

Food and Drinks

LCTE Travel Newsletter

Our bi-weekly newsletter provides news, history, and information for those interested in traveling along along the Lewis & Clark Trail.

By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive the Lewis and Clark Travel Experience newsletter provided by the Lewis & Clark Trail Alliance. You can revoke your consent at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact.

Submit an Attraction | Submit an Event | Submit Feedback

Instagram Feed

Download and explore our APP! Check it out if you

Download and explore our APP! Check it out if you haven’t yet to bring the adventure and magic of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail on your mobile device. Scan the QR code here or find it on your app store.

Check out our digital Travel Magazines! Today’s

Check out our digital Travel Magazines!

Today’s Feature, The Inaugural Issue: https://publuu.com/flip-book/561309/1367654

In this issue you can find interesting historical anecdotes from the trail, key sites to see while traveling, and business/ park/ state travel information to help you along on your journey!

Click the link above for this issue or see this link for the full catalogue of available magazines: https://lewisandclark.org/travel-magazine/

Site of the Week: Travelers’ Rest Step Into His

Site of the Week: Travelers’ Rest

Step Into History at Travelers’ Rest State Park!

Located in western Montana, Travelers’ Rest State Park is the only confirmed campsite of the Lewis and Clark Expedition with physical evidence. The Corps of Discovery stopped here twice—first in September 1805 before crossing the Bitterroot Mountains and again in June 1806 on their return journey. Archaeologists have uncovered fire pits and traces of mercury from the expedition’s medical supplies, confirming this as a key location on their route.

During Lewis and Clark’s time, the area was an important meeting place for Indigenous tribes, with open meadows, dense forests, and the nearby Lolo Creek providing fresh water and resources. Today, the landscape remains much the same, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.
Fun fact: During the summer of 2002, archaeologists unearthed a trench latrine containing traces of mercury, fire hearths, and remnants of lead used for firearm maintenance and production. This discovery established Travelers’ Rest as the only known campsite along the Lewis and Clark Trail with physical proof of the expedition’s stay.

Visitors can explore a museum, hiking trails, and interpretive programs, where they can learn about the expedition and the Native peoples who shaped this region’s history. If you love history and nature, Travelers’ Rest is a must-visit!
Have you been there? Share your experience below!

All photos courtesy of Cait Clark

Discover History at the Nez Perce National Histori

Discover History at the Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center!

The Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center in Idaho offers a deep look into the history and culture of the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) people, who played a crucial role in the Lewis and Clark Expedition. In 1805, after a grueling journey through the Bitterroot Mountains, the Corps of Discovery arrived in Nez Perce territory, starving and exhausted. The Nez Perce provided food, shelter, and guidance, helping Lewis and Clark continue their journey westward.

Back then, the area was home to vast prairies, towering pine forests, and winding rivers—landscapes that remain largely unchanged today. The visitor center, set against this breathtaking scenery, offers exhibits, artifacts, and stories that highlight the Nez Perce’s enduring legacy.

Fun fact: The Nez Perce not only aided Lewis and Clark but also introduced them to their expertly crafted Appaloosa horses, known for their speed and endurance.
Visitors can explore museum exhibits, watch cultural demonstrations, and walk interpretive trails. Nearby, the Lolo Trail offers a chance to experience part of the same route Lewis and Clark traveled.

For history lovers and outdoor adventurers alike, the Nez Perce National Historical Park is a must-visit!

All photos credited to Cait Clark.

Step Into History at the Lewis and Clark Interpret

Step Into History at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Sioux City, Iowa!!

Located along the Missouri River, the Sioux City Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center offers an in-depth look at the legendary Lewis and Clark Expedition and its impact on the region. This site is especially significant as it honors Sergeant Charles Floyd, the only member of the expedition to die during the journey. His passing in 1804 near present-day Sioux City remains an important chapter in expedition history.

During Lewis and Clark’s time, this area was an untamed wilderness of rolling prairies and towering cottonwood trees. Today, it is home to a modern interpretive center surrounded by beautiful riverfront landscapes, parks, and monuments, including the Sergeant Floyd Monument, a 100-foot obelisk marking his burial site.
Fun fact: The center features life-sized animatronic figures of Lewis, Clark, and Floyd, bringing history to life in an engaging way!

Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, historical reenactments, and educational programs. The nearby riverfront trails and parks offer a perfect place for walking, biking, and reflecting on the expedition’s journey. Whether you're a history enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, the Sioux City Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is a must-visit!

All photos credited to Cait Clark