Watford City Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Watford City with this comprehensive travel guide featuring must-visit places, activities and tours, hiking routes, local culture, safety tips, transportation options, and nearby attractions.


Introduction to Watford City

Located in the heart of the Badlands in North Dakota, Watford City is a small town in the Great Plains region of the United States. The town was originally founded in 1914 as a temporary settlement for oil workers and has since grown to become a hub for outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. With its friendly residents, stunning landscapes, and rich history, Watford City provides a unique and memorable experience for travelers visiting North Dakota.

List of Places to Visit in Watford City

Watford City offers numerous attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the best places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Long X Trading Post - A National Historic Site, the Long X Trading Post was founded in 1864 and played a vital role in the development of the western frontier. Visitors can explore the restored buildings and artifacts, and learn about the history of the fur trade and the settlement of the west.

  • McKenzie County Heritage Park - This outdoor museum features several historic buildings, including a schoolhouse, church, and pioneer home. The site also has a prairie garden and a collection of antique farming equipment.

Natural Attractions of Watford City: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Theodore Roosevelt National Park - Located just 30 miles south of Watford City, this national park is a must-see attraction for any nature lover. Visitors can explore the park’s rugged badlands, scenic drives, hiking trails, and wildlife sightings.

  • Lake Sakakawea - The largest man-made lake in North Dakota, Lake Sakakawea offers fishing, boating, swimming, and camping opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy scenic driving routes and hikes along the lake’s shoreline.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Watford City

Watford City and the surrounding area offer numerous hiking and biking trails for visitors to explore. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Maah Daah Hey Trail - This 144-mile trail passes through the North Dakota Badlands and offers stunning views of the rugged landscape. The trail is open to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders.

  • CCC Trail - Located in the Theodore Roosevelt National Park, the CCC Trail is a 3.5-mile route that offers stunning views of the park’s badlands and wildlife sightings.

Best Things to Do in Watford City: Activities and Tours

Watford City offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors to explore. Here are some of the best:

  • Horseback Riding - Visitors can explore the rugged terrain of the Badlands on horseback with local outfitters.

  • Riverboat Tours - Visitors can take a scenic riverboat tour along the Missouri River and enjoy views of the countryside and wildlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for Watford City

If you’re planning to visit Watford City for a week, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day 1: Visit Long X Trading Post and McKenzie County Heritage Park.

Day 2: Explore Theodore Roosevelt National Park and hike the CCC Trail.

Day 3: go Horseback Riding and explore outdoor wanderings.

Day 4: Visit the museum and historical places of Watford City.

Day 5: Take a riverboat tour of the Missouri River.

Day 6-7: Relax at Lake Sakakawea and enjoy camping, fishing, and boating opportunities.

Food and Drink Scene of Watford City

Watford City offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bison Burger - A North Dakota specialty, the bison burger is a must-try for meat lovers.

  • Frybread Tacos - This Native American specialty features frybread topped with taco ingredients.

Local Beverages

  • Lemon Kuchen - A sweet and refreshing beverage made with lemon juice and soda.

  • Sarsaparilla - A classic soda made with sassafras and other herbs and spices.

Where to Stay in Watford City: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Watford City offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best:

  • Little Missouri Inn & Suites - This affordable hotel offers comfortable rooms, free WiFi, and breakfast.
  • Candlewood Suites Watford City - This modern hotel features spacious rooms with kitchenettes, a fitness center, and an outdoor patio with a grill.
  • Bakken Residence Suites - This serviced apartment complex offers fully equipped suites with kitchenettes, free WiFi, and an on-site gym.

What to Buy in Watford City: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Watford City can bring home a variety of souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best:

  • Bison Jerky - A delicious and unique snack made with North Dakota bison meat.

  • Wildflower Honey - This locally produced honey is a natural and tasty souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Watford City

Watford City is a friendly and welcoming town with a rich cultural heritage. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local customs and traditions, and to engage with the community during their stay.

Best Time to Visit Watford City

The best time to visit Watford City is from May to September, when the weather is mild and the outdoor activities are at their best. The autumn months also offer beautiful foliage and wildlife sightings in the Badlands.

Do’s and Don’ts of Watford City

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Watford City:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Bring comfortable shoes for hiking and outdoor adventures.

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.

  • Ignore safety precautions during outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Watford City is a safe and healthy destination for travelers. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Watford City

  • Be cautious when hiking or exploring the natural environment.

  • Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun during outdoor activities.

  • Keep valuables secure and lock your car when parked.

Health in Watford City

  • Drink bottled water or boiled water to avoid potential health risks.

  • Bring sunscreen and insect repellent to protect against sunburn and bug bites.

Getting to Watford City: Transportation Options and Logistics

Watford City is easily accessible by car or private transportation. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Watford City

  • Sloulin Field International Airport - Located in Williston, about 45 miles east of Watford City.

Bus Stations Near Watford City

  • Greyhound Bus Station - Located in Williston, about 45 miles east of Watford City.

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train - The nearest station is located in Minot, about 100 miles east of Watford City.

How to Get Around in Watford City

Watford City is best explored by car or private transportation. However, visitors can also use local taxi services and public transportation options.

Where to Go Next from Watford City: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider when visiting Watford City:

  • Medora, North Dakota - This historic town is located just south of Theodore Roosevelt National Park and offers outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and local cuisine.

  • Yellowstone National Park - Located just a few hours west of Watford City, Yellowstone National Park is a must-see destination for any nature lover.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or simply a relaxing getaway, Watford City has something for everyone. With its stunning landscapes, friendly residents, and rich history, Watford City provides a unique and unforgettable travel experience in North Dakota.