Dawson Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions, accommodations, and tips for safety and health when traveling to Dawson, North Dakota.


Introduction to Dawson

Located in the heart of North Dakota, Dawson is a small town with a big personality. Nestled in the Great Plains region of the United States of America, it’s a perfect destination for travelers who are looking for a unique blend of outdoor adventure, history, and local culture. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for some small-town charm, Dawson has something to offer everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Dawson

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Dawson County Museum: A must-visit spot for history lovers, the Dawson County Museum features 16,000 square feet of exhibits showcasing the town’s rich history. From Native American artifacts to pioneer-era memorabilia, there’s plenty to see and learn at this museum.
  • Frontier Village: This outdoor museum complex features several historic buildings, including a schoolhouse, church, and blacksmith’s shop. It’s a great place to experience life on the frontier and learn more about Dawson’s early history.

Natural Attractions of Dawson: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Enchanted Highway: If you’re looking for a scenic drive, be sure to check out the Enchanted Highway. This 32-mile stretch of highway features more than a dozen giant metal sculptures, including a 110-foot-tall statue of a cowboy that’s considered the world’s largest metal sculpture.
  • Laketown Park: This 11-acre park is a popular spot for picnicking, hiking, and fishing. With its beautiful lake views and serene setting, it’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dawson

  • The Maah Daah Hey Trail: This 144-mile trail runs through the Badlands region of North Dakota, offering hikers and bikers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a challenging but rewarding experience, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting and photography.
  • The Dakota Prairie Grasslands: If you prefer a more leisurely hike, the Dakota Prairie Grasslands offer several easy-to-moderate trails that wind through the region’s rolling hills and grasslands.

Best Things to Do in Dawson: Activities and Tours

  • Horseback Riding: For an authentic western experience, be sure to take a horseback riding tour of the region. Several local ranches offer guided tours that allow you to explore the area’s natural beauty while enjoying the company of friendly horses.
  • Bird Watching: With its diverse range of habitats, Dawson is a great destination for bird watchers. The local chapter of the Audubon Society offers guided bird watching tours throughout the year.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dawson

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Dawson County Museum and learn about the town’s history.
Day 2 Take a scenic drive on the Enchanted Highway and admire the giant metal sculptures.
Day 3 Explore Frontier Village and see what life was like on the frontier.
Day 4 Hike the Maah Daah Hey Trail and take in the stunning views.
Day 5 Go horseback riding at a local ranch and experience the region’s western heritage.
Day 6 Visit Laketown Park and enjoy a picnic by the lake.
Day 7 Take a bird watching tour and spot local wildlife.

Food and Drink Scene of Dawson

Must-Try Dishes

  • Walleye: A freshwater fish that’s popular in the Midwest, walleye is a local favorite in Dawson. Try it grilled, fried, or baked for a delicious taste of North Dakota.
  • Knoephla Soup: This creamy soup is a traditional German dish that’s popular in North Dakota. Made with potatoes, dumplings, and ham, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal.

Local Beverages

  • North Dakota Beer: With several craft breweries in the region, North Dakota beer is a must-try for beer lovers. Be sure to try a local favorite like Fargo Brewing Company or Laughing Sun Brewing.
  • Chokecherry Wine: Made from the fruit of the chokecherry tree, this sweet wine is a regional specialty that’s worth trying while in Dawson.

Where to Stay in Dawson: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Boardwalk Lodge: With its rustic charm and prime location near Laketown Park, the Boardwalk Lodge is a great option for travelers looking for a cozy retreat.
  • Harmony Guesthouse: This historic guesthouse features four guest rooms and is located in the heart of downtown Dawson. With its antique furnishings and cozy atmosphere, it’s a great option for travelers who want to experience the town’s local culture.

What to Buy in Dawson: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Native American Artifacts: With several museums and historical sites in the region, Dawson is a great place to find authentic Native American artifacts such as pottery, jewelry, and artwork.
  • North Dakota Honey: With its rolling hills and fields of wildflowers, North Dakota is known for its delicious honey. Be sure to pick up a jar as a tasty souvenir of your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Dawson

Dawson is a friendly and welcoming town, and visitors can expect to encounter traditional Midwest values such as politeness, hospitality, and respect for others. Local attire typically includes western-style clothing, and it’s not uncommon to see cowboy hats and boots on the streets.

Best Time to Visit Dawson

The best time to visit Dawson is during the summer months, when temperatures are mild and outdoor activities are in full swing. June, July, and August tend to be the busiest months, so be sure to book your accommodations and activities in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dawson

Do:

  • Do take a horseback riding tour to experience the region’s western heritage.
  • Do try local specialties like walleye and chokecherry wine.
  • Do be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t underestimate the power of the sun – be sure to pack sunscreen and a hat, even on cloudy days.
  • Don’t litter or damage natural habitats.
  • Don’t trespass on private property.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dawson

Dawson is a relatively safe destination, with a low crime rate and a friendly and welcoming community. However, travelers should still take basic safety precautions such as locking car doors and securing valuables.

Health in Dawson

North Dakota is generally a healthy destination, and there are no major health risks to be aware of. However, travelers should still take basic precautions such as staying hydrated and protecting against insect bites.

Getting to Dawson: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Dawson

  • Bismarck Airport: Located about two hours from Dawson, Bismarck Airport is the closest commercial airport to the town.
  • Dickinson Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport: Located about three hours from Dawson, Dickinson Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport offers limited commercial service.

Bus Stations Near Dawson

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: The nearest Greyhound station to Dawson is located in Dickinson, which is about three hours away by car.

Other Options

Travelers can also reach Dawson by car, either by driving themselves or by hiring a rental car.

How to Get Around in Dawson

With its compact size and walkable downtown area, Dawson is easy to navigate on foot. However, travelers without a car may want to consider renting a bike or hiring a taxi service for longer journeys.

Where to Go Next from Dawson: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Medora: Located about two hours from Dawson, Medora is a charming western town that’s known for its outdoor theater and scenic drives through the Badlands.
  • Bismarck: North Dakota’s capital city is located about two hours from Dawson and offers a wide range of cultural attractions and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Dawson may be a small town, but it’s big on charm and character. With its combination of outdoor adventure, history, and local culture, it’s a destination that’s sure to appeal to travelers of all types. Whether you’re interested in hiking, bird watching, or simply soaking up the small-town atmosphere, Dawson is a hidden gem that’s worth discovering.