The capital city of North Dakota is also the state’s retail and economic hub. Home to 75,000 residents, it’s currently ranked as one of the fastest-growing small cities in the United States.
Discover the small-town charm and employment opportunities of Bismarck, but be sure you do so with visitors medical insurance to look after you.
Visitors Medical Insurance for Travelers visiting Bismarck – FAQs
Are you or a family member visiting Bismarck from outside the USA? If so, visitors medical insurance is essential. It’s the only way you can protect yourself from the high cost of American healthcare if you get sick or injured.
Do I need visitors medical insurance for the Bismarck?
There is no legal requirement for visitors medical insurance if you’re on a tourist visa or visiting the US without a visa, but you should consider it a practical necessity. It only takes a single accident or unexpected illness to rack up thousands in hospital bills in the US, and you don’t want to be stuck paying for them out of your own pocket.
Why buy visitors medical insurance before visiting the Bismarck?
It just makes financial sense. No one can guarantee they’ll stay healthy during an international trip. So why put your finances at risk? Visitors medical insurance can help cover necessary treatment costs for any new illness or injury that occurs after the effective date of the policy while traveling outside your home country.
Bismarck’s Most Popular Activities for Tourists
North Dakota might not be the first place you think of when it comes to American tourism, but Bismarck might surprise you. Here are five places we recommend checking out during your trip.
The North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum
If you want to learn about the history of North Dakota, this is the place. Check out exhibits detailing the region’s extensive Native American history, the fur trade, early European settlement, and the role North Dakota played in World War II. You’ll also find a collection of fine art such as paintings, sculptures, and photographs from North Dakota artists and others.
The State Capitol Building
Bismarck is the center of state government in North Dakota, and you can explore where it all happens at the Capitol. Built in 1932, the State Capitol Building is a shining example of the era’s art deco architecture, and sits commandingly on a hill overlooking the Missouri River. Visitors can take a guided tour where they walk through the governor’s office, the House and Senate Chambers, and the State Supreme Court courtroom.
The Former Governor’s Mansion
Originally built in 1884, this beautiful Victorian home housed every North Dakota governor for over a century. Today it functions as a public museum. Guided tours are available, allowing you to see the governor’s office, the dining room, and the bedrooms. If you’re a fan of American history or classic architecture you’re sure to enjoy this.
McDowell Dam Nature Park
Ready to spend some time outside? McDowell Dam Nature Park is one of the best places in Bismarck to do it. With more than 10 miles of trails winding through forests, meadows and along the Missouri River, this park is the ideal place to take a peaceful walk or bike ride, plan a picnic, or go fishing in the river.
Harmon Lake Recreation Area
If you enjoy the water, Harmon Lake is the place for you. The waters are known for their walleye, bass, and northern pike, so it’s ideal for anglers. The lake is also a popular spot for boating and swimming in the summer. There’s even a campground if you’d like to spend a night under the stars, and cabins you can rent if you prefer a few more creature comforts.
Key Guidelines for Visitors to Bismarck
What Weather to Expect
Bismarck has warm (but rarely hot) summers and brutally cold and snowy winters. Unless you’re extremely comfortable with extreme winter weather, it’s far better to visit during the warmer seasons. Even in summer it’s good to pack a light jacket, as mornings and evenings can be cool by most standards.
Getting Around
Although Bismarck is served by Bis-Man Transit for public bus service, the vast majority of visitors rely on private automobiles to get around. Traffic is not heavy here, and parking is typically plentiful compared to larger cities. Common rideshare and taxi services are also available for shorter trips.
Crime and Safety
Bismarck does have a rather high rate of violent crime and property crime compared to similarly sized American cities. You can lower your chances of being a victim by not walking alone at night in dark or desolate areas, keeping the doors of your residence and car locked, and avoiding wearing expensive jewelry or flashing large amounts of cash.
Before You Visit Bismarck – Do This
- Pack plenty of warm clothing if you plan to visit in the winter, late fall, or early spring.
- Be sure to check out some local restaurants and independent coffee shops while you’re in Bismarck.
- Be a prepared traveler and purchase visitors medical insurance prior to your trip.