When the Northern Pacific Railway established the major city along its rail line in 1872 (the year Bismarck was created), it was destined for greatness. Early settlers hoped to make a living in what was expected to become a large metropolis. Some even referred to it as the "new Chicago." Bismarck was initially named Edwinton in honor of transcontinental railway proponent Edwin L. Johnson. The city was renamed in honor of German chancellor Otto von Bismarck in 1873 to attract German investment in the railway. The railway arrived that year, accelerating the growth of the community. Bismarck became a prospecting center after gold was discovered in the Black Hills in 1874. Bismarck's rich past is full of innovative businesspeople, legendary historical characters, and great affluence. The city also established itself as a prominent health, economic, and government center by the turn of the century. It was named capital in 1883 and two years later received the territory's first hospital.

North Dakota Heritage Center
The North Dakota Heritage Center houses the permanent collection of the North Dakota State Historical Society. The center covers everything from prehistoric origins to the twentieth century, giving you a comprehensive perspective of North Dakota.

A prairie post office, Dinosaur bones, and a Native American Hall of Honor are among the permanent objects and antiques on display at the site.

Temporary exhibits are featured at the museum, so there is always something fresh to see when searching land for sale in Bismarck, ND. The Capitol Arboretum Trail makes its way through the planted property outside, while the Northern Lights Atrium is a stunning piece of architecture within the facility.

Dakota Zoo
The Dakota Zoo is one of Bismarck's most popular family attractions. The zoo has been open since 1961 and has grown throughout the years. On a 90-acre complex, it now accommodates over 600 animals.

The zoo's Jack and Joyce Schuchart Big Cat Complex includes a viewing area with family-friendly tunnels that lead to an up-close look at the animals. In addition, the above viewing platform allows you to watch the zoo's resident gray wolves.

State Capitol Building
The majestic 19-story Art Deco state capitol, the city's tallest building, and the seat of the North Dakota government dominate the city skyline. You can see it 20 miles away before reaching Bismarck.

The 18th level, the highest point in the state, features an observation deck. The building is situated in the heart of a stunning green complex that includes six other government buildings, Capitol Park, Myron Atkinson Park, and Capitol Mall.

McDowell Dam Recreation Area
McDowell Dam Recreation Area is a 271-acre park centered on a man-made lake created only for recreational purposes. It's roughly five miles outside of Bismarck and one of the most popular local parks in the summer. The sandy beach is ideal for sunbathing and swimming, and kids like building sandcastles there.

Picnic shelters and a children's playground are available to hire for parties and festivities throughout the hot summer weekends. The park also has a horseshoe pit, seldom found in many other parks. In addition, a paved track around the lake and another through the park's woodland part are available for hiking or running.

Former Governors’ Mansion
One of the memorable things to see when you acquire land for sale in Bismarck, ND, is the Former Governors' Mansion. It provides an insight into the life of a 19th-century governor. The mansion has been lovingly restored to its former splendor and is furnished with antiques. It was erected in 1884 and served as the home of 20 governors until 1960.

The site has been managed by the State Historical Society of North Dakota since 1975. The site grounds, including the huge flower garden, are open all year, while the mansion is open every day from May to September.