Williston Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Williston? Check out our comprehensive guide to discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Williston

Located in western North Dakota, in the heart of the Great Plains of the United States of America, Williston is a city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. With its rich history, scenic views, and outdoor adventures, Williston is an ideal destination for travelers looking for a one-of-a-kind experience.

List of Places to Visit in Williston

If you’re planning a trip to Williston, make sure to include these top places on your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site: Located on the Missouri River, this reconstructed 19th-century trading post is a must-visit for history buffs.
  • Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence Interpretive Center: This museum showcases the natural and cultural history of the Missouri River and the surrounding area.
  • James Memorial Art Center: Featuring a range of artistic styles and mediums, this art center is a hub for creativity in the Williston community.

Natural Attractions of Williston: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Maah Daah Hey Trail: This 144-mile trail offers stunning views of the North Dakota Badlands and is a popular spot for hiking and mountain biking.
  • Lewis and Clark State Park: Located along the shores of Lake Sakakawea, this park offers boating, fishing, camping, and hiking opportunities.
  • Theodore Roosevelt National Park: With its rugged terrain and diverse wildlife, this park is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Williston

For those looking for outdoor adventure, Williston has several options for hiking and biking. Some of the best routes include:

  • The Maah Daah Hey Trail
  • The Little Missouri National Grassland
  • The Pioneer Park Trail

Best Things to Do in Williston: Activities and Tours

From historic sites to outdoor adventures, Williston has something for everyone. Some of the best things to do in this city include:

  • Visit the Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site.
  • Take a hike or bike ride along the Maah Daah Hey Trail.
  • Go fishing or boating at Lake Sakakawea.
  • Tour the Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence Interpretive Center.

Week-Long Itinerary for Williston

If you’re planning a week-long visit to Williston, consider the following itinerary:

Day Activities
1 Visit the Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site and the James Memorial Art Center.
2 Take a scenic drive through Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
3 Go fishing or boating at Lake Sakakawea.
4 Take a hike or bike ride along the Maah Daah Hey Trail.
5 Visit the Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence Interpretive Center.
6 Explore the Little Missouri National Grassland.
7 Take a guided tour of the city and sample some of the local cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of Williston

When it comes to food and drink, Williston has a lot to offer. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Buffalo burgers: Made with locally sourced buffalo meat, these burgers are a delicious way to taste the flavor of North Dakota.
  • Walleye: A freshwater fish found in Lake Sakakawea, walleye is a local specialty often served fried or grilled.
  • Knoephla soup: A hearty soup made with dumplings and potatoes, this dish has its roots in German cuisine.

Local Beverages

  • Prairie Rose Meadery: This family-owned meadery produces artisanal honey wines using honey from local beekeepers.
  • Sugarbush Vineyards: Located just outside of Williston, this winery produces a range of delicious wines using grapes from North Dakota and Minnesota.
  • Wild Terra Cider and Brewing: A popular spot for beer and cider lovers, this brewery offers a range of small-batch craft beverages.

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

If you’re looking for places to stay in Williston, there are several options to choose from:

  • The Hampton Inn & Suites Williston: This hotel is located near the Sloulin Field International Airport and offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities.
  • The Mainstay Suites Williston: Ideal for longer stays, this hotel offers fully-equipped kitchens and separate living spaces.
  • The Tioga Lodge at the Rough Rider Hotel: Located in nearby Tioga, this boutique hotel offers luxurious accommodations and a range of amenities.

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

If you’re looking for souvenirs to bring back from your trip to Williston, consider purchasing:

  • Bison-themed gifts: From keychains to t-shirts to shot glasses, there are plenty of bison-themed souvenirs available throughout the city.
  • Celtic Crossings: This local boutique offers a range of jewelry, clothing, and gifts with a Celtic theme.
  • Locally made products: From honey to cheese to handmade crafts, there are plenty of locally made products available in Williston.

Local Culture and Customs of Williston

When visiting Williston, it’s important to be respectful of the local culture and customs. Some things to keep in mind include:

  • North Dakotans are friendly and welcoming, so don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with locals.
  • Firearms are legal in North Dakota, but always observe gun safety rules and regulations.
  • The breadbasket of America, North Dakota is a wheat-growing state, and many residents take pride in their agricultural heritage.

Best Time to Visit Williston

The best time to visit Williston is during the summer months, from June through August. This is when the weather is warm and the outdoor attractions are at their best. However, travelers should keep in mind that temperatures can fluctuate dramatically, especially in the evenings, so it’s important to bring layers.

Do’s and Don’ts of Williston

When visiting Williston, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Take a hike or bike ride along the Maah Daah Hey Trail.
  • Explore the city’s cultural attractions.

Don’t:

  • Smoke indoors.
  • Litter or pollute the natural environment.
  • Flash your headlights at other drivers, as it can be interpreted as a warning of a speed trap ahead.

Safety and Health

Safety in Williston

Overall, Williston is a safe city for travelers. However, travelers should still take basic safety precautions, such as locking car doors and securing valuables. Additionally, the city can experience harsh winter weather conditions, so it’s important to be prepared with appropriate clothing and supplies.

Health in Williston

North Dakota has a good healthcare system, and Williston has several hospitals and medical clinics to choose from. Travelers should be aware that medical services can be expensive in the United States, so it’s important to have adequate health insurance coverage.

Getting to Williston: Transportation Options and Logistics

If you’re traveling to Williston, there are several transportation options to choose from:

Airports Near Williston

  • Sloulin Field International Airport: Located in Williston, this airport offers direct flights to several major cities across the United States.

Bus Stations Near Williston

  • Trailways Bus Station: This bus station offers service to several nearby states, including Montana and Minnesota.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Renting a car is a convenient way to get around Williston and the surrounding areas.
  • Train: Amtrak has limited service to nearby cities like Minot and Rugby.

How to Get Around in Williston

If you’re staying in Williston, there are several transportation options available, including:

  • Taxis and rideshares: Companies like Uber and Lyft operate in Williston.
  • Rental cars: Renting a car is a convenient way to explore the city and the surrounding areas.
  • Biking: Williston has several bike-friendly areas, and many hotels offer bike rentals to guests.

Where to Go Next from Williston: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time in the area or are looking for nearby destinations, consider the following options:

  • Medora: This historic town is located just south of Theodore Roosevelt National Park and is known for its western-style attractions.
  • Bismarck: The capital city of North Dakota, Bismarck offers a range of cultural attractions and outdoor activities.
  • Minot: Located about two hours east of Williston, Minot is known for its Scandinavian heritage and annual state fair.

Conclusion

With its unique history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures, Williston is a top destination for travelers looking to experience something new. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or exploring cultural attractions, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and welcoming city. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-prepared to plan the ultimate trip to Williston.