About Bismarck
Bismarck is the capital city of the U.S. state of North Dakota and the county seat of Burleigh County. It is the state's second-most populous city, after Fargo. The population was 73,622 at the 2020 census, and was estimated at 77,772 in 2024, while its metropolitan population was 133,626. In 2014, Forbes magazine ranked Bismarck as the seventh fastest-growing small city in the United States.
Places to visit in Bismarck
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North Dakota State Capitol
LandmarkAn Art Deco tower nicknamed the skyscraper of the prairie, with free guided tours of its polished interiors and an observation deck on an upper floor overlooking Bismarck.
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North Dakota Heritage Center
MuseumThe state museum on the Capitol grounds covers geology, dinosaurs, Native American cultures and pioneer history in modern, well-designed galleries, with free admission and plenty to keep families busy for hours.
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Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park
Historic · 4 mi from centreAcross the Missouri River in Mandan, the park features the reconstructed home of George Custer, rebuilt cavalry buildings and the earth lodges of On-A-Slant Village of the Mandan people.
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Dakota Zoo
Zoo · 1 mi from centreA zoo set along the Missouri River home to animals from North America and beyond, including bison, river otters and big cats, with shaded paths that suit a relaxed family visit.
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Former Governors' Mansion
HistoricA Victorian house that served as the residence of North Dakota's governors for decades, restored with period furnishings and open for tours during the summer season.
Best time to visit Bismarck
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Bismarck is June to September, when average daytime highs are around 75–82°F and rain falls on about 8 days a month.
Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.
Bismarck weather forecast
- Wed 21 Oct 62° 40° 1%
- Thu 22 Oct 78° 50° 1%
- Fri 23 Oct 74° 62° 22%
- Sat 24 Oct 65° 46° 14%
- Sun 25 Oct 46° 37° 4%
- Mon 26 Oct 46° 29° 5%
Know before you go
- Currency
- United States dollar (USD)
- Language
- English
- Calling code
- +1
- Driving
- On the right
- Time zone
- America/ChicagoUTC−5
- Capital
- Washington, D.C.
Upcoming public holidays in United States
- Veterans Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
- New Year's Day
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- Presidents DayWashington's Birthday
Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.
Getting to Bismarck
These are the airports closest to central Bismarck. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.
- BIS Bismarck Municipal Airport3 mi (5 km) from the city centre
Getting around Bismarck
The airport offers car rental services or you may use taxi services as well. The CAT (Capital Area Transit) now provides limited public transit service between the airport and Kirkwood Mall.
Bismarck travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Bismarck?
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Bismarck is June to September, when average daytime highs are around 75–82°F and rain falls on about 8 days a month.
What is the weather like in Bismarck?
July is usually the warmest month in Bismarck, with average highs of 82°F (28°C). January is the coolest, with average lows of 5°F (-15°C). The wettest month is typically June, with about 102 mm of rain.
Which airport is closest to Bismarck?
Bismarck Municipal Airport (BIS) is the closest airport, about 3 miles (5 km) from the centre of Bismarck.
What time zone is Bismarck in?
Bismarck uses the America/Chicago time zone (currently UTC−5). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.
How do I get around Bismarck?
The airport offers car rental services or you may use taxi services as well. The CAT (Capital Area Transit) now provides limited public transit service between the airport and Kirkwood Mall.
What are the best places to visit in Bismarck?
Top sights in Bismarck include North Dakota State Capitol, North Dakota Heritage Center, Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park and Dakota Zoo. An Art Deco tower nicknamed the skyscraper of the prairie, with free guided tours of its polished interiors and an observation deck on an upper floor overlooking Bismarck.
