Okay, so you want to explore Medora and the North Dakota Badlands, but don’t know where to start. That’s where I come in. I’m a junkie for creating itineraries, saving money, and sharing what I’ve learned.
Below you’ll find an awesome family travel guide to Medora, ND with lots of ways to save money in Medora. This is a detailed itinerary with exactly what my family did on a recent trip…and how we saved money along the way (so we’ve got more in the bank for future adventures.) We stayed three nights, plenty of time to explore without being overwhelmed. There are things we didn’t have time to see that will be fun to check out next time.
We had so much fun, this is sure to be a rinse and repeat vacation for years to come.
Why We Decided on This Trip
Here are some reasons we decided on this trip, and ways to save money in Medora.
We often center family trips around National Parks because they offer many free low-cost options.
Paid park entry is only $30 and good for seven days. Entry is FREE for military members and veterans—just be sure to ask for a military park pass!Park programs and ranger talks are free with admission.
Since Medora, ND is only a few hours drive from Minot, we weren’t in a rush to get up early and leave right away. **Also, it should be noted that Medora, ND is on mountain time.
Let’s save money in Medora:
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the road. We stopped at Riverside Park in Beulah, ND. It’s got a playground we love.
Stop in Dickenson on your way into Medora to pick up groceries you may need (or pack them from home.) We bought milk, and fruit at Walmart; we packed cereal, snacks, and PB&J fixings from home. This keeps costs down on eating out, if your kids are unadventurous eaters.
Checking In at The Badlands Motel
The nostalgic style of the Badlands Motel set the perfect tone for our trip. Here are some things to know:
Bathrooms have a shower, but no tub (which is nice to know if you’ve got young children.)
Complimentary coffee, ice, and water available in the lobby.
Rooms have a microwave and mini fridge.
The Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation provides wifi throughout the Badlands Motel and Point to Point Park. Overall, cell service was strong—even though this is a very easy place to disconnect and unplug for a few days!
Pickleball (all equipment can be checked out at the desk.)
Wooden park/playground
Hiking trails
Dinner + Bedtime
We grabbed dinner out at the Badlands Pizza Parlor, which offers buffet style dinners and carry out pizza. After eating, we took in live music at the Town Square Patio, then took the kids to Point to Point Park’s Wooden Playground.
Let’s save money in Medora!
There is a discount for kids buffet at Badlands Pizza Parlor.
We really enjoyed the buffet, but you can save even more money by ordering carry out pizza to eat in your room, or as a picnic at the Town Square Patio.
The Wooden Playground (Medora Children’s Park) was a highlight for our family, and it’s FREE.
Check out the attached museum to learn about Teddy Roosevelt’s time in the Badlands, animal life, and history of the park. It’s really beautifully done.
Look around Theodore Roosevelt’s Maltese Cross Cabin to see what life was like when he stayed in the Badlands.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
We began our day at the park at 8:30am. We spent about five hours in the park. Here’s what we did:
Drive the wildlife loop (note, parts may be under construction.)
Stop for wildlife along the way, as spotted. We saw bison, prairie dogs, feral horses, a porcupine, and deer.
Buck Hill—by this time our kids were pretty worn out and hungry. They stayed near the car eating a picnic lunch while my husband and I took turns exploring a bit more.
Drive back out, stop at the Visitor Center with completed Junior Ranger books.
Let’s save money in Medora!
If you’re military or a veteran, get your FREE national parks pass at the visitor center.
Doing the Junior Ranger workbook means your kids will leave with a souvenir from the trip. For us, this cuts back on spending money in the gift shop.
MUST SEE! Do not miss this! Drive back into the park to Wind Canyon Trail for sunset. Although this is a “hot spot,” the trail wasn’t crowded. The experience was transformative, peaceful, and idyllic. (And completely FREE.)
Day 3: Point to Point Park and Medora
Breakfast in town
Our third day in Medora focused on staying in town. We started the day with caramel rolls from The Cowboy Café, which I highly recommend, especially if you catch them straight from the oven.
After breakfast the kids wanted to play on the Wooden Playground (yes, it’s that fun). I went with them while my husband hiked the Point to Point Trails.
Let’s save money in Medora!
Instead of getting a full breakfast, just stick to something simple like caramel rolls (just $6 each) and coffee.
The Point to Point Trails are a short walk from the Badlands Motel and completely FREE to access. These are suitable for all ages.
On our final day, we took advantage of the paid activities at Point to Point Park. These include the Manitou Zip Line, Little Bully Pulpit Mini Golf, and the wading pool + lazy river. Here’s what you should know:
Minimum height for the zipline is 42” (must be accompanied by a rider over 47”.) Riders 48” and taller may ride alone.
The pool and lazy river have towels available.
Be sure to pack goggles and a life jacket/water wings for your kids if they like to use those while swimming.
Little Bully Pulpit mini golf is 18 holes beautifully built into the landscape. Each hole is paired with a bit of history for the area, which was great for a fun-fact nerd like me.
Let’s save money in Medora!
Activities can be purchased alone or as a bundle. Bundling the activities will save you money.
Save the zip line for the last day of your trip if you don’t want to face pressure from your kids to buy a second, third, or fourth ride.
Mini golf is discounted for kids, and FREE for kids under seven.
Kids under three are FREE at the pool and lazy river.
The pool and lazy river offer discounted admission from 4-7pm daily.
Pitchfork Steak Fondue Dinner
There’s a good reason Medora is famous for its Pitchfork Steak Fondue dinner. You won’t fully understand until you experience for yourself. The dinner is held near the amphitheater for the Medora Musical, and the scenery looks like a something out of a painting.
Open air seating, live music, and fresh Badlands breeze make this an unforgettable night. Not only is the setting wonderful, the food and service are top notch. Throughout our meal, the chef came out to ensure everything was above expectations, and explaining how staff and volunteers were there to help as needed. As he said, “If you don’t think you’re getting your money’s worth, it’s your own fault.”
The Pitchfork Steak Fondue is a bit of a splurge for a frugal family, but the experience is worth it.
Let’s save money in Medora!
This meal is HUGE (steak, baked potato, fruit, veggies, coleslaw, baked beans, bread, drinks, and dessert), and served buffet style! Skimp on lunch and come hungry.
Kids 12 and under eat FREE! (They get the full buffet with a hot dog entrée.)
The Big Finale—The Medora Musical
No trip to Medora, ND is complete without taking in The Medora Musical. If you’re not familiar, this is a two-hour patriotic music spectacular performed nightly in an amphitheater settled right into the hills. It’s got cowboy vibes, a dancing Teddy Roosevelt, and all the nostalgic red, white, and blue you can handle.
Again, it’s something you have to see to appreciate. Even if musical theater isn’t your jam, it’s impossible to sit through The Medora Musical without being entertained. Here are some extra tips you should know.
Some days have a 5:30pm and 7:30pm show—if you’ve got young kids, I highly recommend the earlier show. My three year old was too tired to stay for the whole show and left with my husband at intermission.
After intermission, a variety act performs. This changes through the season, so check out the schedule when planning your trip to maximize your enjoyment.
There is a short firework display at the end. They weren’t super loud, but I like to let other parents be aware in case they have noise/light sensitive kiddos.
I’m really glad we saved this as the finale to our Medora trip. It was a great way to round off an unforgettable weekend.
Let’s save money in Medora!
Military and veterans get 50% off tickets all season long.
Certain dates off military FREE admission.
Kids attend FREE every Wednesday and Sunday.
Save This One
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly vacation, this itinerary from Medora, ND is it! There are plenty of things to do, even if you just stick to the freebies. And with all that money you’ll save, you can start planning your next adventure.
For more great ideas on Midwest travel, North Dakota living, and ways to save money and maximize fun, follow me on Instagram at Hey Minot and Amy Allender. If this guide was helpful, remember to save it and share it with a friend who loves fun and saving money.
When our family first moved to North Dakota for an assignment at Minot, AFB, I knew little about the state beyond its reputation for cold winters and flat landscapes. However, I was determined to uncover the hidden gems of this region.
Fast forward to today, and I’ve become a guru of all things Minot, and an advocate of North Dakota living. I try things, visit destinations, and make mistakes along the way in order to give you the best, most valuable information possible—so you can enjoy North Dakota as much as I do!
When you embark on a journey to explore, discover, or fall in love with North Dakota, there is one destination you should not miss: Medora. Nestled in the heart of the North Dakota Badlands, Medora offers a wealth of experiences that cater perfectly to military families. There are also lots of military discounts in Medora to take advantage of. With its rich, patriotic history, breathtaking scenery, and family-friendly activities, Medora is a top destination you won’t want to miss.
Seeing this side of the great plains will prove that North Dakota is anything but flat and boring.
Your leave days are precious. Here’s a few reasons we decided—as a military family—to spend our time off in Medora:
Proximity to Military Bases
Medora’s location makes it an accessible getaway for military members and their families. Here’s how far you’ll need to travel from nearby bases:
Minot AFB: 220 miles, approximately 3.5 hours driving
Ellsworth AFB: 246 miles, approximately 4 hours driving
119 Wing, ANG: 330 miles, approximately 4.5 hours driving
Grand Forks AFB: 370 miles, approximately 5.5 hours driving
Malstrom AFB/120 AW: 410 miles, approximately 6.25 hours driving
Whether you’re stationed locally or just passing through, Medora is an ideal spot for a weekend or extended getaway.
Free Admissions and Military Discounts in Medora
Saving money on travel means being able to afford more adventures in the future! Military discounts in Medora make this a budget-friendly vacation, perfect for families.
Park Programs: The National Park hosts various programs throughout the day, and on special occasions (a night sky program was going on while we were visiting). These are free with park admission or a military park pass.
Medora Musical:Discounts of 50% on tickets for military members throughout the season. There are select days that offer military free admission. Kids gain free admission on Wednesdays and Sundays.
Discounts for kids + free activities abound:
In addition to military discounts in Medora there are a plethora of free activities for all ages and discounts for kids. These include:
Pitchfork Steak Fondue: Kids under 12 get a free hot dog meal at the Pitchfork Steak Fondue. They access the full buffet and dessert—the only difference a hot dog entrée instead of steak.
Medora Musical: Kids attend for free on Wednesdays and Sunday.
Military Family Travel Guide to Medora: The Itinerary
Use this rinse and repeat Military Family Travel Guide to Medora to make the most out of your trip!
We stayed at the charmingly nostalgic Badlands Motel, which offered:
Great accessibility to Point to Point Park
Walkable/bikeable proximity to town attractions
A pool for guests
Clean rooms with complimentary coffee, ice, and iced water in the lobby.
Rooms equipped with a microwave and mini fridge, ideal for families with young children.
First Adventure – Point to Point Park
Located just across from our motel, Point to Point Park was a MASSIVE hit with the kids. While we unpacked, they were eager to explore and immediately headed to check out the jumping cushion, splash pad, and small zip line swings.
Dinner and Evening Fun
Once settled, we headed to dinner at the Badlands Pizza Parlor. The all you can eat buffet is a no-hassle choice for the whole family. Kids can fill up on cheese pizza, lemonade, and dessert. Adventurous eaters can sample an array of specialty pizzas. And salad lovers will love the DIY salad bar. (The cucumber salad was my favorite!!)
After dinner, take a walk to Town Hall Square Patio for free, live music. Finish your day with a trip to the Medora Children’s Park (a gigantic wooden playground!) to let the kids burn off any energy they’ve got left before bed.
Explore museum exhibits on Theodore Roosevelt’s time in the Badlands, and park wildlife. American history is often a special part of military family travel. We all really enjoyed this.
Visit Theodore Roosevelt’s Maltese Cross Cabin to see what life was like when he stayed in the Badlands.
Park Itinerary
Inside the park, follow the wildlife loop. Give yourself plenty of time to stop and observe the wildlife. On our drive we spotted bison, deer, feral horses, prairie dogs, and a porcupine. These are places we stopped to get out and explore along the way.
Wind Canyon Trail (We came back and did this at sunset, and it was my FAVORITE part. If you only do one thing in the park, make it this!)
Our kids are six and three years old. These hikes were doable for them, but they were pretty tired by the end. On the way out of the park, we stopped back at the Visitor Center so the boys could show their Junior Ranger workbooks and earn their badge. This itinerary took about five hours, moving at a very lax pace.
Rest, Pool, and Dinner
After a busy morning at the park, enjoy a late lunch at Point to Point Provisions, relax in the room, and swim in the Badlands Motel pool. Head to The Little Missouri Saloon for dinner where a second story patio offers a beautiful view of town.
Sunset over the Badlands
Cap off the evening with a sunset view over the Badlands at the Wind Canyon Trail. This is truly a transformative excursion that shouldn’t be missed. And, despite being a “hot spot”, it wasn’t crowded, making for a serene and idyllic experience.
Spend the afternoon enjoying the paid activities at Point to Point Park. These include:
The Manitou Zipline—riders must be at least 42” tall, this was definitely a highlight for my kids!
The wading pool and lazy river—remember to pack goggles and a puddle-jumper if your child uses those.
Little Bully Pulpit mini golf—18 holes beautifully incorporated into the landscape.
Steak Fondue Dinner and Medora Musical
The Pitchfork Steak Fondue dinner is an iconic part of a trip to Medora, ND. With its open-air seating, live music, and delicious buffet, you’ll never forget this meal. Don’t forget—kids eat FREE!
Following dinner, attend The Medora Musical—a must-see patriotic performance brimming with national and state price. Complete with bedazzling red, white, and blue finale costumes and a fireworks display. This is the perfect way to wrap up a trip to the North Dakota Badlands.
One of the best military discounts in Medora is 50% off show tickets.. There are also dates when military/veterans attend FREE! And don’t forget that kids attend for free on Wednesday and Sunday all season long!
Medora is Great For Military Families
With a blend of historical charm, outdoor adventure, and family-friendly fun, Medora is great for military family travel. From stunning landscapes, to the engaging activities in town, Medora is a destination worth exploring. Save this Military Family Travel Guide to Medora for quick reference on military discounts in Medora, and an itinerary your whole crew will enjoy.
Easy Tips For More Fun
Still want more? Check out this post with even more details on our itinerary in Medora.
For more ways to have fun, save money, and live on fire—but never burned out—join me on Instagram. For more on life in North Dakota and being stationed in Minot, be sure to follow @HeyMinot. If this Military Family Travel Guide to Medora was helpful, be sure to share it with your armed forces friends!
My mom has been visiting us in Minot from out of state for years–she says these things should be on your visitors’ itinerary this summer.
*There are lots of links in this post, but none of them are affiliated or sponsored. These are just genuine recommendations.*
A question floated into my inbox this week: “My parents are visiting this month. Any must-sees you recommend?”
I love this question. It merges two of my passions: proving that Minot is awesome...and trip planning. But instead of giving you my own opinions, I asked an expert to give me her opinion on the best attractions for visitors to Minot.
Notebook and favorite pen in hand, I propped my phone up on the couch arm and dialed. “Hey, Mom,” I said when the FaceTime call went through. “I’m working on an article and I need your help.”
My parents have been faithful Minot enthusiasts since we first moved here in 2012, and were happy along with us when we returned for a second tour in 2019. They’ve been here often enough to have developed opinions on what to do and how to spend their time in Hotdish Land.
Below is a list of my parents’ favorite things in the area. Some are common attractions; others might be overlooked as places to take a visitor. This is a curated list from someone who has visited many times and seen all the major sites. According to Susi Allender, these are the things you should do when your parents come for a summer visit.
My Mom’s Best Attractions for Visitors to Minot | Summer Edition
Walk the parks. We’ve got lots to choose from, but my parents’ favorite is Oak Park along the Camp Owetti trail.
Go to the zoo. This is something we’ve enjoyed doing together with and without kids.
Get coffee and breakfast. “You can go to a different cute coffee shop every single day!” my mom said on our call. Our favorites are Central Brew, Prairie Sky Breads, and Bearscat. (My dad, a donut connoisseur, has declared Bearscat’s old-fashioneds top-notch.) If your family isn’t familiar with caramel rolls, pick some up from Karma Convenience Store for breakfast at home. But there are LOTS of other choices–a couple years ago I made this coffee directory.
Go shopping. My mom’s favorite shops for gifts are Vintage City and The Foundry. My dad loves SCHEELS (it’s not a thing where we’re from).
Summer Theater. My mom said, “If there is a summer theater show happening, we go.” Don’t forget single dollars for root beer floats at intermission.
Grab a drink. If your parents enjoy adult beverages or local beer and wine, I recommend Atypical Brewery, Blue Rider, and Off the Vine. Pointe of View Winery also offers wine tastings, or wine by the glass to enjoy at the vineyard while taking in gorgeous valley views.
Check the event calendar. Consult the Visit Minot event calendar and take advantage of any special events that coincide with the visit. Unique events–even the small ones–make for great, memorable ways to spend a day.
Go to the Peace Garden. According to the expert, a day trip to the International Peace Garden is worth the drive. My parents’ pro tip is to bring a passport, even though it’s not required because it speeds up reentry into the US.
If you’ve got family coming to town, hopefully, this will get your wheels spinning. Or maybe it’ll inspire you to get out and act like a tourist if there are places on this list you haven’t been yet.
If you’re planning for out of town guests, what do you think are the best attractions for visitors to Minot? Find me over on Instagram at @HeyMinot and join the conversation.
I’ve lived in Indiana, Florida, Oklahoma, Louisiana, South Dakota, and North Dakota. In each place I did my best to make our house into a “home.”
On the casual end of the spectrum that meant painting a wall or two. On the extreme end, it meant tearing out walls during a deployment, or overhauling a kitchen on the weekends.
No matter where we live, come summer, there is only one thing I set my mind to when it comes to creating homey vibes: plants.
Growing Flowers in North Dakota (and Everywhere Else) Has Always Been Hard
Herein lies the problem. I’m convinced that there is something in me at a molecular level that causes me to be absolutely pitiful when it comes to choosing plants, choosing where to put plants, (and most importantly) keeping plants alive.
This is all quite shocking because I come from a long line of gifted gardeners. All my grandparents were fabulous gardeners. Growing up, my parents grew all the vegetables our family needed for the year. They still do this, and also grow the most beautiful annual containers and perennial beds you’ve ever seen. My sister has a knack for choosing perfectly suited landscaping plants.
Me? Every year I try really hard. I’ve tried pretty containers, window boxes, and hanging baskets. I’ve done veggies in giant pots on a deck and so called impossible-to-kill succulents in a windowsill. Each time the story is nearly the same. Things start off well, but by July things look pretty sad. Historically speaking, many of my attempted perennials have turned out to be only annual plantings.
Part of me firmly believes that I’m naturally ungifted. Another part of me believes my plant woes stem from chronically being “not from around here.”
Trusty plants from my formative years in Indiana were no good in Florida. Tips for coaxing grass to grow in Oklahoma didn’t translate to life in Louisiana. My first year in Minot gave me a rude awakening when I tried to put my plants out at the end of April and they all died of frostbite. Later I tried again, only to discover that the shrubs I’d chosen would likely not survive the depth at which the soil freezes.
They didn’t.
The Information That’s Been Missing
I’ve finally hit some kind of stride, or at least formed some kind of gentleman’s agreement with the plants in my yard. I promise not to put anything out before Mother’s Day. The plants promise not to die until after the 4th of July. I promise to only expect the hostas and daylilies to return in the spring. The invasive weeds in my backyard flower beds promise to flower just enough to pass as “ground cover.”
It’s not great, but it’s a start.
Then, last week I attended an event that completely blew me away. This was precisely what I’d been waiting for since moving to Hot Dish Land–and I didn’t even know it. Now, I can’t shut up about it.
My church hosted a DIY planter event with a horticulture and gardening representative from the NDSU Ward County Extension Office. Everyone brought their own pot, the church supplied potting soil and a variety of annuals. The program covered how to create an appealing container, and came complete with simple handouts listing NoDak-friendly plants for all types of landscaping and containers. Then at the end there was open Q&A time for us to ask all our most burning houseplant and gardening questions.
Why did my geranium stems turn red? Why are my houseplant’s leaves turning brown at the tips? Should I be putting eggshells in the soil? How often should I be using plant food?
This may sound simple, but I just sat there with my jaw on the table. This was the exact information I have been craving in all of the places we’ve lived. In all the places I’ve lived and wanted to create a bit of curb appeal, this is what I needed.
I had no idea it existed until last week. And maybe you didn’t either. Well, now we both do.
The Simple Secret to Growing Flowers in North Dakota
Here’s my recommendation: If you need an easy event for a group who isn’t from around here, this is it. If you aren’t from around here and want a few plants to help it feel more like “home,” check out the resources at the NDSU Ward County Extension site.
Particularly, this publication has become a simple secret weapon when it comes to choosing plants that will actually GROW up here. It’s made growing flowers in North Dakota less of a guessing game and honestly has been a game changer.
Will my planter from the event survive the summer? I’d like to believe it will because I am more well informed. But only time will tell. You’ll have to ask me in August.
Why bunnies? Why eggs? Why doesn’t it look like spring? These can be tough questions to answer. This article was originally written for the Northern Sentry and I am so grateful for their partnership and support.
Tough Questions About Spring Symbolism
“Mom, why are there so many bunny things at Easter? Why do we hide eggs? What do eggs have to do with Easter anyway?”
These springtime questions seem to be an annual tradition in my household. And this year is no different. The first time the question arose, I delved into some research. Over the years, explaining the answer has become more straightforward. Sure, we could skirt the issue, or get lost in the weeds of pagan practices, fertility goddesses, and Christian symbology. But in my experience, its more effective to simplify. The answer is simple: spring and Easter point to hope and life.
Several days ago, my sons—now six and three years old—revisited the topic of rabbits, eggs, chicks, and Easter. “Think about it,” I replied. “Why do you think eggs and bunnies are symbols of Easter?”
“I don’t know,” my oldest said. “Because that stuff comes out in the spring? But isn’t it going to snow again? It doesn’t look like spring.”
“Yes, they are symbols of spring. Easter and spring are kind of knotted together. Symbols of spring often mirror those of Easter,” I explained.
Easter holds spiritual significance for my family. However, spring is a is a special time for all of us. It is a vital part of life’s rhythm, brimming with hope. Spring signals renewal and new growth, even after a season of stillness and snow. These transitional weeks are exhilarating, reassuring us that change is imminent. Spring and Easter reaffirm that warmth will return, life will regenerate, and growth persists—even when we can’t see it.
*NOTE: The answers below have been expanded from the original article.
Why are Bunnies an Easter/Spring Symbol? A Simple Answer
When explaining Easter to my children, I emphasize that all symbols of Easter and spring signify new life. “Did you know rabbits have a superpower?” I asked my boys. They laughed, and my three-year-old guessed that it was hopping. I elaborated, explaining that a bunny’s superpower is its ability to have babies. Lots and lots of babies. Rabbits remain fairly concealed throughout winter, almost forgotten. Then, spring arrives, and suddenly, bunnies abound— an abundance of life, almost as if by magic.
Spring serves as a reminder that life flourishes and multiplies after periods of scarcity.
As Christians, Jesus has told us to “Go make disciples.” I tell my kids, “When I see a bunny at Easter, I remember that Jesus wants His kingdom to expand; He wants my faith to lead to more who know Him as the Rescuer.”
Why Do We Use Eggs at Easter?
We then discussed eggs. From the outside, an egg seems mundane. It lays hidden, wears muted colors, and remains motionless. To the untrained eye, an egg appears dull and lifeless, resembling little more than a rock. However, inside, life is burgeoning, awaiting the perfect moment to emerge.
The outside of the egg can remind us of the rock rolled in front of Jesus’ tomb.
Inside the egg, a life form develops in darkness, instinctively moving towards transformation. For a chick, hatching propels them from a secure, dim world into a vivid, vibrant realm of life and possibility. Knowing that life is forming inside the egg reminds us that Jesus’ body did not stay dead, but life returned, even though we couldn’t see.
Spring reminds us that life happens even in dark, unremarkable places. It underscores that growth isn’t always flashy. Spring invites us to step into the light, embrace a colorful existence, leaving behind our empty shells.
I tell my kids, “An empty egg reminds me of Jesus’ empty tomb. The chick coming out of the egg reminds me that when Jesus rescues us, we can walk out of the darkness of sin and into new life.”
Why Do We Hide Eggs?
Why do we hide eggs? Because signs of new life and growth are worth seeking. I tell my kids that looking for eggs reminds me of Mathew 6:33, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
Why are there treats inside? Because surviving winter to welcome back spring and summer merits celebration. From a Christian perspective, this is how I explain it to my kids. “The women were surprised when they came to find an empty tomb. Easter eggs also hold surprises for us.”
But It Doesn’t Look Like Spring?
“You also said it doesn’t look like spring. You’re right,” I said. Look outside. What do you notice about the trees and grass?”
“They’re dead.”
“The leaves are gone, and the grass isn’t green. But they aren’t dead. Death is final, irreversible. Do you think our trees will have leaves next month?” They both agreed they would. Not only do leaves return, but perennials come back heartier. Bushes grow taller, and grass requires regular trimming.
Winter ushers life into a dormant state. But dormant isn’t dead.
Spring reminds us that dormancy is temporary. Life can rebound more vigorously, even after months of bitter cold stillness. Even though Jesus died, a new kind of life was just beginning. He had to pass through death to bring Salvation and life to all. When we trust Jesus we come into a new life; even after our life on earth ends, a new kind of life continues in Heaven.
May this Easter weekend fill you with hope, and may spring inspire positivity. May the resilience of nature instill awe at life’s capacity to rejuvenate, refresh, and flourish anew.
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Looking for the perfect way to get out of the house this Valentine’s Day? My latest resource is a free PDF guide, “15 Minot Date Ideas.” It’s an easy to read and easy to access list that will get your wheels turning when it comes to breaking out of the standard dinner-and-a-movie-rut. Even in the chilly winter weather, these date ideas promise fun, adventure, and plenty of opportunities to cozy up in our charming town.
Solving the Date Night Dilemma
I get it–coming up with good date ideas can be a challenge, especially when during winter when it can be hard to leave the house. We’ve been trying to prioritize a monthly date day/night–and I thought I’d share some our favorite dates over the last 18 months. Hopefully this will take some stress off of you so you can get straight to having fun.
The 15 Minot Date Ideas list focuses on small-businesses, local gems, cheap dates, and activities instead of eating (although there are some food options, too!) Get the PDF from the button below, or for more ideas, read this post I wrote a while back.
But wait, there’s more! In addition to the “15 Minot Date Ideas” PDF, don’t forget to check out the printable Minot Bucketlist, featuring 26 ideas for year-round fun in the Magic City. From outdoor activities and cultural events to delicious dining options and unique attractions, our bucket list has everything you need to make the most of your time in Minot. I made it with newcomers in mind, but it’s great for anyone looking for a little more intentional fun.
Join the conversation for more
Helping people settle in and enjoy their time in Minot is only a small piece of what I do. For more on Minot, join the conversation at Hey Minot. Join me on Instagram and Facebook for daily inspiration and strategies for crafting a life of calm, peace, and contentment.
I lived in the Dakotas nearly a decade before making a pan of scotcheroos for myself. Looking back, I guess I was just coasting along on the kindness of others. I’m quite spoiled by a plethora of from-around-here friends. It should also be noted that I never miss a church potluck–and there are always scotcheroos at a church potluck.
Recently, however, that changed. In a perfect storm of events, I found Rice Krispies on sale at the commissary the same week a new family moved into our church from California. I wanted to give them a real Hotdish Land welcome, so we invited them to join us for dinner and immediately put Tater Tot Hotdish and Scotcheroos on the menu.
I looked up the recipe, got out the bowls, then stood at my counter–a little apprehensive. This is a North Dakotan’s favorite dessert. This is an integral part of Hotdish culture. I’m not even from around here. Who am I to attempt such a culinary feat? What if I mess it up and the Californians are scarred against life in Minot forever?
To curb my nerves, I took to the friendly streets of Instagram. I put a quick post on my stories about my first scotcheroo attempt. Soon, notifications started pinging. There were locals spurring me on, and offering tips. Then there were transplants like myself–some wanting to know the recipe. Many simply asking, “What’s a scotcheroo?”
I guess I just thought North Dakotans were constantly identifying newcomers and saying something like, “Hi. Welcome. Here, have a scotcheroo.”
Well, the questions pouring in after posting about my baking attempt proved otherwise. So it’s time to explain. As your resident Minot guru, I’ll explain in “not-from-around-here” terms what exactly we’re talking about.
A scotcheroo is kind of like a Rice Krispy treat, but with peanut butter, and topped with chocolate. It’s also the official state dessert of North Dakota (okay, I made that part up.) But seriously, Hotdishers can’t get enough of these. Just ask a local to tell you about scotcheroos, even mention you’ve never eaten one and watch the floodgates open. It’s the perfect icebreaker.
So What Makes the Best Scotcheroo?
For very passive people, NoDaks are nothing, if not passionate about their scotcheroos.
There are strong opinions surrounding what makes the best scotcheroo. Some will tell you it’s best to make them with Special K instead of Rice Krispies. Others will tell you that doing so means you’ve made “Special K Bars,” which is a completely different dessert. One local will swear by making the whole thing in the microwave, while another insists stovetop always turns out best.
Let’s put the politics aside. Since that first effort, I’ve made two more batches. They’ve all turned out great. Nothing to be nervous about. I even had a chance to offer one to an Estonian exchange student, who promptly asked me to write down the name of the dessert so she could make them for her family back home.
That’s the magic of bars. Am I right?
Here’s the recipe I used. It’s ridiculously easy, and simple to commit to memory. Now you, too, can make your own–and dazzle your far-away friends and family with this North Dakotan delicacy.
Make Your Own Scotcheroos in 20 Quick Minutes
You’ll need:
6 cups of rice cereal
1 cup sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
1 cup peanut butter
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup butterscotch chips
Here’s what you do:
Melt the sugar and corn syrup together. You can do this on the stovetop or in the microwave. Get it hot enough that the sugar begins to dissolve–but if you’re using a stove just be sure to take it off the heat when it looks like it’s going to boil. (If the sugar gets too hot, it’ll get too hard.)
Mix in the peanut butter.
Then gently mix the peanut butter sauce into the cereal. Once it’s evenly distributed, pour the mixture into a 9×13 pan that you’ve sprayed with cooking oil. Press it down a bit.
Now, put the chocolate and butterscotch chips into a bowl and microwave them in 30 second bursts–stirring between each one–until melted and smooth. Pour that on top of the cereal mixture and spread it out.
Next is the hardest part. Let it firm up. This has to happen at room temperature, so it’ll take 2ish hours. Putting it in the fridge can be risky, because it’ll make the caramel in the bars rock hard. The wait is excruciating.
Then you’re done!
Here’s a couple tips:
Spray your 1 cup measuring cup with cooking oil before measuring the corn syrup and peanut butter. It makes for an easier release.
Don’t pack the cereal down too firm. That makes for a hard bar.
Now you can answer the question, “What’s a scotcheroo?”
What about you? Have you had scotcheroos? Have you made them? Do you have scotcheroo secrets we need to know? Definitely let me know if you use this recipe!
Welcome to the Minot Coffee Directory! Here you’ll find all of Minot’s coffee shops and their important details in one place. Big thank you to my friends at BeLOCAL and the local Minot coffee shops for helping get this out. BeLOCAL helps you live like a local here in Minot, by filling you in on upcoming events, ideas and information–so you always know what’s going on in the community.
Below, featured Minot’s coffee shops are listed (in no particular order.) These shops partnered with me to create this directory–but in my opinion, there’s no bad coffee shop in Minot, so you should try them all.
At the bottom is a complete directory, sorted by location. For more on life in Minot, click here.
WITH ROOM COFFEE SHOP
With Room is wildly popular in town and it’s pretty clear why. The atmosphere alone is worth a visit, but the coffee, goodies, and (of course) the plants will keep you coming back. They also offer delivery! Watch their Facebook/Instagram for deals, and grab their app for quicker delivery ordering.
Address: 400 E Central Ave STE 103
Hours: M-F 6:30AM-3:30PM Sat/Sun 7AM-3:30PM
PERKY’S
Perky’s is a quick drive through coffee shop on North Hill. They offer classic coffee drinks as well as white coffee, teas, and drinks for the kids. Be sure to follow their Facebook page, where they share specials drinks and discounts (discounts are offered frequently!)
Address: 2601 N Broadway
Hours: Mon-Fri 6AM-6PM, Sat 7AM-3PM
GINNA’S
Ginna’s is the perfect place to grab a coffee while at the mall. They are located inside SCHEELS and are my go-to when I make a Target run. Ginna’s offers craft roasted coffee and baked goods–some prepared fresh in house. Insider tip: stop in during Happy Hour between 9:30-11am or 3-4pm.
Address: 2400 10th St SW
Hours: Mon-Fri 9:30AM-9PM, Sat 9AM-7PM, Sun 11AM-6PM
COFFEE BARN
Coffee Barn is a drive through coffee shop with a great south side location. They are committed to delivering very high quality coffee and a friendly experience. Service is fast and friendly, and they are clear that family-first company. Check in for specials and monthly features.
Address: 1400 31st Ave SW
Hours: Mon-Fri 7AM-3PM, Sat 9AM-3PM
MINOT’S DAILY BREAD
Minot’s Daily Bread offers a great coffee and delicious eats. Their full menu includes sandwiches, bakery items, crepes and (of course) bread. Come in and sit down to enjoy coffee and a meal, or use their drive through for a quick stop.
Now here’s the whole list. The Minot Coffee Directory has nearly all your coffee options in one place. For ease, this list omits restaurants that offer coffee–unless coffee is one of their specialties. As the weather gets colder this is a perfect time to visit all the shops on this list! Download a PDF here or scroll down to check it out here.
DOWNLOADTHE COFFEE DIRECTORY
sign up and download a PDF version of the coffee directory for easy reference.
All set!
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