Visiting North Dakota

North Dakota's I-94 is busy with summer travelers from Fargo to Bismarck, Mandan and Dickinson. Fargo is North Dakota's gateway to the west, set on the Eastern border with Minnesota. A cross roads for transportation in the state, Fargo is crisscrossed by I-94 and I-29, is home to Hector International Airport and is also a location on Amtrack train service. Bismarck's state capital building is the tallest building in the state, dominating the Bismarck skyline. Downtown shoppers fill upscale Kirkwood Mall browsing for the latest fashion and wares. Now is the time to be out and about in North Dakota.

Mandan Rodeo Days is a terrific getaway for the fourth of July. The 2010 celebration is three full days of fun and Rodeo July 2nd through 4th. Kids six and under love the mutton busting contest almost as much as the onlooking crowd. Three nights of PRCA Rodeo provide unparalleled action. A perfect family event, complete with a fourth of July parade, Art in the Park with over 150 vendors and 10K and 5K races. Something for all ages, put Mandan Rodeo Days on the calendar. The Best Western Seven Seas Hotel & Waterpark is the ideal location for a long summer weekend. The hotel features the largest in-door waterpark in the Bismarck area – perfect for keeping the kids entertained.

Athletes get your training on schedule for the 2010 Bismarck Marathon. Saturday, September 18th is the date, and events include the marathon, a marathon relay, 5K run and 5K walk. The course is fast and flat, beginning and ending in Sertoma Park. The course runs through the scenic Missouri River Valley and portions of the Lewis and Clark Trail. A beautiful event for athletes of all ages and abilities. The Best Western Doublewood Inn and The Best Western Ramkota both in Bismarck are excellent choices for accommodations in Bismarck. Enjoy race weekend with a visit to downtown Bismarck or area attractions.

The 2010 North Dakota State Fair runs July 24rd through July 31st in Minot. Nine days of fun and excitement in a great family event. The state fair is the largest event in North Dakota featuring a Rodeo, automobile events and exhibits of all the best agriculture, livestock and handiwork in North Dakota. Concert headliners include Kiss, Darius Rucker, Brooks and Dunn and Sugarland. A great summer event for everyone. The Best Western Kelly Inn in Minot is perfect for a getaway to the fair. Stay a few days and visit area historic attractions like the Knife River Indian Villages and the Three Affiliated Tribes Museum.