Leah Rovey State #50 North Dakota at age 18
August 5, 2024
While pursuing the goal of visiting all 50 states, one state inevitably is destined for the grand finish. For roughly half of travelers, Alaska or Hawaii have this honor, as these states typically require extended travel time and higher costs. Following close behind is North Dakota, which is the most often the last visited state out of the contiguous states. Its location, not being "on the way" to most other places, means it is often left for last. Many travelers regret not making it to North Dakota when they were "close by" exploring South Dakota's Mount Rushmore. However, this is a blessing in disguise, as it means North Dakota often gets a trip all its own, offering travelers a more intentional and immersive experience. Discover all the amazing reasons why saving North Dakota for last can be a rewarding choice!
Join the exclusive "Best for Last" Club! To become a member, you must visit North Dakota as the final stop on your journey to all 50 states. The Fargo-Moorhead Visitor Center will celebrate your achievement with a special Best for Last Club certificate, a t-shirt, and a photo op with the big "5-0" next to the official Best for Last Club sign. We, at the All Fifty Club, love that North Dakota honors this milestone! While the All Fifty Club cheers for you no matter which state is your last, North Dakota goes the extra mile by offering this unique, on-the-spot recognition—making it the only state to do so!
Time for adventure! If you're planning a special trip, you might have the chance to enjoy activities that wouldn’t normally fit into your usual travel schedule—like mountain biking, hiking, trail riding, or even hunting. It's the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories! In the winter, why not try something new, like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, or snowmobiling? Mountain bike with Dakota Cyclery. Ride a horse through the North Dakota Badlands with Medora Stables. And if you're into hunting or fishing, visit NDtourism.com for guides and outfitters.
A road trip made easy! Road trips are an essential part of any USA adventure, and North Dakota offers the perfect opportunity for one final, carefree drive across the state. I-94 will take you on a scenic journey from Fargo to Medora, with plenty of fascinating stops along the way—including historical landmarks and some of the world’s largest attractions! It’s the perfect route to explore and discover all that North Dakota has to offer. Read more about this journey on I-94 from Fargo to Medora!
Explore Theodore Roosevelt National Park, where stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife await. The park is divided into four unique sections, offering a variety of experiences whether you have just a few hours or several days to explore. Whether you're in for a quick visit or an extended stay, the beauty of this national treasure is sure to leave a lasting impression.
A moment to reflect on your journey. In Medora, the must-do experience is attending the Medora Musical, an outdoor performance set against the stunning backdrop of the North Dakota Badlands. Featuring talented singers and dancers from across the nation, the show weaves together a bit of Theodore Roosevelt history with timeless American classics and recent hits. As you tap your foot to "This Land is Your Land" and watch the American flag proudly displayed, you'll get chills reminiscing about all the incredible sights you've encountered on your 50-state adventure.
Free food and lodging for your final state? Medora Foundation volunteers play a key role in creating the welcoming atmosphere that makes Medora special. Greeters at the Pitchfork Steak Fondue and Medora Musical come from all around the globe. As a thank-you, Medora provides volunteers with complimentary food and lodging in exchange for working 4-6 hours a day for one to two weeks. Applications open in the fall, and while not everyone is selected, it’s worth a shot! Learn more and apply on the Medora Foundation website. What a great way to finish your 50-state journey by volunteering and interacting with fellow travelers.
North Dakota will hold a special place in your heart forever. Cherish every moment and make it an unforgettable experience!
news Archive
Medora, North Dakota
North Dakota Summer Non-stop Three-Day Itinerary Part 1 – Fargo Part 2 – I-94 North Dakota Road trip Part 3 – Medora Why save North Dakota for last? Planning a North Dakota Trip After a quick breakfast at the Enchanted Castle Hotel in Regent, we drove for an hour to arrive in Medora […]
I-94 North Dakota Summer Road Trip
North Dakota Summer Non-Stop Three Day Itinerary Part 1 – Fargo Part 2 – I-94 North Dakota Road trip Part 3 – Medora Why save North Dakota for last? Planning a North Dakota Trip
Fargo, North Dakota
North Dakota Summer Non-Stop Three-Day Itinerary Part 1 – Fargo Part 2 – I-94 Road trip – Fargo to Medora Part 3 – Medora Why save North Dakota for last? Planning a North Dakota Trip
Planning a trip to North Dakota
Planning a North Dakota Trip A 50-state journey is not complete without going to North Dakota. Get there, someway, somehow! Plain and simple, North Dakota is not on the way to most places in the United States. Life takes its twists and turns but doesn’t usually go the way of North Dakota, making it, […]
Why save North Dakota for Last?
While pursuing the goal of visiting all 50 states, one state inevitably is destined for the grand finish. For roughly half of travelers, Alaska or Hawaii have this honor, as these states typically require extended travel time and higher costs. Following close behind is North Dakota, which is the most often the last visited […]
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