Name: Double Ditch Indian Village State Historic Site
Address: ND-1804, Bismarck, ND 58503, USA

Discover the rich cultural heritage of the Northern Plains at Double Ditch Indian Village State Historic Site, located along ND-1804 in Bismarck, North Dakota. This fascinating site offers a glimpse into the lives of the Mandan people who inhabited the area from about 1490 until 1785. Visitors can explore the expansive site which features the remains of two concentric earthworks and numerous depressions, once the foundations of earth lodges. These relics tell the story of a flourishing community and their innovative settlement patterns.

Ideal for history enthusiasts and those looking to learn more about indigenous cultures, the site provides educational opportunities through informative signage and occasional interpretative sessions led by knowledgeable guides. The serene setting along the Missouri River also makes it a wonderful spot for nature lovers to enjoy a peaceful walk while contemplating the landscape that supported a vibrant social and economic center centuries ago.

Whether you're a local or a tourist interested in archaeological sites, Double Ditch offers a unique opportunity to connect with an important historical heritage. Embrace the chance to walk among the paths once tread by the Mandan people and immerse yourself in a vital piece of North Dakota’s history. 

Double Ditch Indian Village State Historic Site

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North Dakota might surprise you—and that’s the point. For many, Bismarck-Mandan is a first-time destination, and it delivers far more than just another box to check. Here, you’ll find one-of-a-kind attractions and off-site venues that take events and meetings beyond the fields, courses and four walls and into unforgettable experiences.

Plenty of cities have facilities. What sets us apart? The extra. From history, culture and arts to outdoor adventure, dining and shopping, Bismarck-Mandan has it all—right on the Missouri River and surrounded by rolling hills.

As North Dakota’s capital, we combine professional infrastructure with authentic hospitality and a central location that’s easy to reach by road or air. Add in access to key industry sites, walkable downtowns and built-in pre- and post-conference adventures and you’ve got a destination that works hard—and plays even harder.

Bismarck-Mandan Convention & Visitors Bureau

Frieds Family Restaurant, located at 1010 Boundary Street Northwest in Mandan, ND, offers a warm and inviting culinary experience right in the heart of the community. Known for its comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, Frieds is a perfect dining destination for both locals and visitors seeking hearty, homestyle meals. With a rich menu that caters to a variety of tastes, the restaurant specializes in traditional American cuisine, serving dishes that are prepared with care and attention to detail.

Whether you're stopping by for a satisfying breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or a cozy dinner, Frieds Family Restaurant is committed to delivering quality food and exceptional service. This dining spot prides itself on being family-friendly, making it an ideal choice for gatherings with loved ones of all ages. Guests are often drawn to its friendly staff and the inviting charm that comes with a meal shared among family and friends.

Perfect for those looking to enjoy classic dishes in a relaxed setting, Frieds Family Restaurant continues to be a popular choice for both residents and travelers eager to experience the flavors of American home cooking. Visit Frieds and savor a delightful meal that feels just like a comforting Sunday dinner at home. 

Frieds Family Restaurant

Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee is a beloved Mandan favorite known for its signature waffles, artisan coffee, and warm, community-centered atmosphere. As a family-owned café with deep local roots, Copper Dog brings together high-quality ingredients, friendly service, and a charming, cozy space that feels like a home away from home. Their menu is built around creative sweet and savory waffles made with North Dakota wheat and flour, offering both comfort-food classics and fun, modern twists. Guests can enjoy everything from indulgent treats like s’mores or cinnamon roll waffles to savory options like biscuits and gravy, chicken and waffles, and their popular hashbrown-based creations. Seasonal specials and rotating flavors keep the menu fresh and encourage return visits, while a full lineup of locally roasted coffees, cold brews, and espresso drinks pairs perfectly with every waffle.

The atmosphere at Copper Dog is one of its biggest draws. The café is designed to be warm, inviting, and memorable—ideal for relaxed mornings, coffee dates, or catching up with friends. It’s also a uniquely versatile space, offering a mini gym and party room for events, meetings, or birthday celebrations. For athletes and families, Copper Dog stands out even more with The Cage, its private batting-cage facility available for hourly rentals or training sessions. Throughout the year, the café stays actively involved in the Mandan community, hosting fundraisers, supporting youth sports, offering catering with their mobile waffle trailer, and participating in city events such as the annual Mandan holiday lights celebration.

What truly sets Copper Dog apart is how deeply it is woven into the fabric of Mandan. With its family story, local sourcing, commitment to downtown revitalization, and genuine focus on community connection, Copper Dog is more than a café—it’s a gathering place. Whether you’re stopping in for breakfast, grabbing a latte on the go, hosting an event, or joining in on seasonal activities, Copper Dog offers an experience that feels authentically local and unmistakably special to Mandan.

Copper Dog Cafe

Free Any Size Coffee With Waffle Purchase

Discover the artistic allure of Lacey's Custom Jewelry, located in the heart of Bismarck, North Dakota, at 4521 Ottawa Street. This bespoke jewelry store specializes in crafting unique, hand-made pieces that reflect the individuality and style of each customer. Whether you're searching for a one-of-a-kind engagement ring, an intricately designed necklace, or simply wish to reinvent a beloved heirloom, Lacey's Custom Jewelry offers personalized services to meet your specific needs.

Lacey's is renowned for their detailed craftsmanship and use of high-quality materials, ensuring each item is not just a piece of jewelry, but a lasting treasure. The store caters to those who appreciate fine artistry and the personal touch of custom design, making it ideal for individuals looking to invest in meaningful and personalized jewelry gifts.

The warm and inviting atmosphere of Lacey's Custom Jewelry complements their professional expertise, creating a welcoming space for both seasoned jewelry enthusiasts and newcomers seeking guidance in custom design. With a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and a passion for unique design, Lacey's Custom Jewelry is a must-visit destination in Bismarck for those looking to capture their personal stories in exquisite metal and gem. 

Lacey's Custom Jewelry

Free Clean And Check Of All Jewelry Items, 10% Off One In-stock Item, and 50% Off All Appraisals

Once Upon A Child in Bismarck, North Dakota, offers an exceptional shopping experience tailored for families seeking quality children's items at affordable prices. Located at 1401 Skyline Blvd, this retail store specializes in buying and selling gently used clothing, toys, and equipment for infants, toddlers, and young children. It's the perfect destination for parents looking to refresh their child's wardrobe or find budget-friendly options for essential children's gear. 

Once Upon A Child stands out due to its commitment to sustainability and community engagement. By offering a variety of second-hand items, the store not only provides financially savvy purchasing options but also promotes environmentally friendly shopping habits. Customers can expect a welcoming atmosphere where service is attentive and focused on helping families find exactly what they need. 

The store is particularly attractive to cost-conscious parents, grandparents, and caregivers who appreciate both the economic and ecological benefits of buying used items. Once Upon A Child is ideal for those who wish to contribute to a sustainable lifestyle while ensuring their children have everything they need. 

Whether you're a local in search of everyday necessities or a visitor exploring Bismarck with your family, Once Upon A Child provides a convenient and worthwhile shopping experience for all your children's needs. 

Once Upon A Child

North Dakota’s Gateway to Science is the state’s premier hands-on science center and a regional leader in STEM education, offering immersive exhibits, interactive learning, and innovative programming designed to inspire curiosity at every age. As a cornerstone for discovery, the center brings science to life through tactile, inquiry-based experiences that encourage visitors to experiment, build, explore, and ask questions.

The museum features a wide range of permanent and rotating exhibits focused on themes central to North Dakota and the world: energy, water, weather, motion, health, and space. Galleries like Science First, Forces in Motion, Water Play, and Sun, Earth, Universe invite children and adults to engage directly with scientific principles through play, problem-solving, and hands-on challenges that support school learning while remaining fun and accessible.

A highlight of the center is its state-of-the-art planetarium dome, which offers immersive shows, live astronomy presentations, and captivating visual experiences that bring the cosmos closer than ever. The dome anchors a growing lineup of public programs, from family star shows to adult science nights.

Gateway to Science is also home to the Touchstone Energy Cooperative Innovation Space, a flexible environment designed for workshops, maker activities, community events, robotics challenges, and special programs that connect STEM learning to real industries—energy, engineering, agriculture, and beyond. This space supports large group engagement and provides opportunities for collaborative learning and creativity.

Education extends well beyond the museum walls through summer camps, after-school clubs, preschool programs, and teacher development opportunities. The Gateway to Science on the Go outreach program brings portable STEM experiences directly to schools and communities across the state, ensuring hands-on science remains accessible to rural and urban learners alike.

Located at 1600 Canary Avenue in Bismarck, the center offers memberships, field trip and group reservations, birthday parties, special events, and facility rentals. Overlooking the Missouri River, it also includes indoor and outdoor areas ideal for educational gatherings and community activities.

Why visit? Gateway to Science blends museum-quality exhibits with real-world science, offering a dynamic destination for families, teachers, youth groups, tourists, and lifelong learners. With its interactive galleries, immersive planetarium, dedicated maker spaces, and statewide outreach, it stands as North Dakota’s essential hub for exploration, discovery, and STEM education.

North Dakota's Gateway to Science

Show this bar code when you purchase one adult admission and get a child admission free!

We offer engaging, hands-on STEM learning experiences for all ages in our gallery and exhibits

Start your adventure in the heart of North Dakota at the Bismarck-Mandan Visitor Information Center & Gift Shop! Our friendly team is ready to help you make the most of your visit with maps, travel guides, and personalized recommendations on local attractions, dining, and events throughout the Bismarck-Mandan area.

While you’re here, explore our charming Gift Shop, featuring unique North Dakota-made products, regional souvenirs, and locally inspired apparel — perfect for taking home a piece of your trip or finding a thoughtful gift.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to rediscover the area, the Bismarck-Mandan Visitor Information Center is your go-to stop for inspiration, information, and a warm North Dakota welcome.

Bismarck-Mandan Visitor Information Center

StoneHome Brewing Co. is a warm, community‑centered brewpub blending American pub fare with craft beer in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Their menu features stone‑oven pizzas (like a spicy pineapple jalapeño pie), hearty strombolis, tacos (such as Korean chicken or pork belly), salads, pastas, rotisserie-style entrees, jalapeño‑egg rolls, and beer‑drenched shrimp.

The space is casual yet lively, with a bar pouring their house-brewed small‑batch beers and a full tap list that invites both beer novices and aficionados to sip and stay awhile. Their decor and layout make it a great spot for friends, family, or co‑workers to hang out, celebrate, or unwind.

What makes StoneHome unique is its dedication to both craft beer and scratch-made food — a true microbrewery feel combined with a full kitchen. The business is deeply rooted in its North Dakota heritage, offering approachable brews while inviting guests to relax “like hanging your hat at home.” Their outdoor patio is dog-friendly, making it a perfect place to bring your furry friend when the weather’s nice.

For special occasions, StoneHome features a rooftop space ideal for private events, parties, and gatherings. With scenic views, fresh air, and a casual, festive atmosphere, it’s a standout location for birthdays, corporate events, or any celebration.

Whether you're stopping by for a cold pint, a wood-fired pizza, or a casual dinner, StoneHome Brewing Co. delivers a warm, locally focused experience that’s as inviting as it is delicious.

Stonehome Brewing Company

Discover a hub of wellness and activity at the Capital Racquet & Fitness Center, located at 3200 N 10th St in Bismarck, ND. This premier fitness destination offers a variety of facilities and programs designed to suit fitness enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're looking to improve your tennis game, partake in a group fitness class, or enjoy a solid workout session, the center caters to your needs with its state-of-the-art resources.

Capital Racquet & Fitness Center features indoor and outdoor tennis courts, providing year-round opportunities for players to hone their skills. Additionally, a well-equipped fitness area includes cardio and strength-training equipment, ensuring comprehensive workouts for all members. Group exercise classes offer a community vibe and structured routines, led by experienced instructors who keep you motivated and engaged.

Ideal for families and individuals alike, the center fosters a welcoming environment where members of the community can come together in pursuit of health and fitness. Exceptionally attentive to creating a positive experience for visitors, Capital Racquet & Fitness Center stands out as a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just beginning your fitness journey, this is the perfect place to start or continue your pursuit of a healthier lifestyle. 

Capital Racquet & Fitness Center

Papa's Pumpkin Patch, located at 5001 Fernwood Dr in Bismarck, ND, offers an enchanting autumn experience for visitors of all ages. Known for its vibrant display of pumpkins and harvest fun, this beloved local attraction provides a delightful escape into the heart of fall festivities. Perfect for families, friends, and groups, Papa's Pumpkin Patch offers a mix of traditional and innovative activities that capture the essence of the season.

At the heart of the experience, guests can wander through fields filled with pumpkins of various shapes and sizes, ideal for picking the perfect one to take home. The patch boasts a range of family-friendly activities including hayrides, corn mazes, and an exciting playground area that entertains kids and brings out the inner child in everyone who visits.

Photogenic backdrops abound, making it a favorite spot among tourists and locals alike looking to capture memorable moments. Papa's Pumpkin Patch emphasizes a warm, welcoming atmosphere, ensuring each visit feels like a special celebration of autumn.

Whether you’re seeking a leisurely day in the patch, an adventure through a corn maze, or a perfect photo opportunity, Papa's Pumpkin Patch is a charming destination that embodies the seasonal spirit of fun and community. Come experience the joy of fall traditions in this picturesque North Dakota haven. 

Papa's Pumpkin Patch

Discover a delightful dining experience at Cloverdale Food, nestled in the heart of Mandan, North Dakota. Conveniently located at 3017 34th St NW, this welcoming establishment offers a unique blend of high-quality meals and friendly service, making it a favored stop for both locals and visitors alike.

Cloverdale Food is renowned for its commitment to using premium ingredients, ensuring that every dish served is bursting with freshness and flavor. With a menu designed to cater to a diverse clientele, this eatery promises a satisfying experience for every palate. Whether you're a local resident seeking a cozy meal close to home or a traveler exploring the charms of Mandan, Cloverdale Food provides a welcoming atmosphere that ensures you’ll feel right at ease.

While specifics about menu items and dietary accommodations like vegan or gluten-sensitive options are not detailed, guests can expect an attentive service geared towards offering a pleasant dining experience for various preferences and needs. Ideal for casual lunches, friendly gatherings, or leisurely dinners, Cloverdale Food’s casual yet inviting environment makes it a delightful destination for anyone seeking a memorable meal in Mandan.

Visit Cloverdale Food to enjoy a hint of local charm, excellent service, and a dining experience that leaves a lasting impression. 

Cloverdale Food

Balancing Goat Coffee Co. is a specialty coffee shop and roastery that brings heart and intentional balance to the Mandan community. They roast their own single-origin beans on-site, offering a rotating selection of coffees brewed with care — from espresso and lattes to cold brew and nitro.

But they’re not just about the beans. Their menu features made‑to‑order breakfast and lunch items including wraps, salads, sandwiches, and hearty favorites like avocado toast, oatmeal bowls, and protein-packed quinoa bowls. For a sweet treat, you’ll also find freshly baked pastries, cookies, muffins, and yogurt parfaits. Their drink lineup includes more than coffee, too — think fruit smoothies, matcha, chai, tea, Italian sodas, and even coffee floats.

The atmosphere at Balancing Goat is warm and welcoming, making it a go-to for anyone who wants to relax, catch up with friends, or get some work done. Their mission is built around balance — fueling your body and soul in a space that feels like a second home.

What really makes Balancing Goat special is how deeply they care about community. They partner with local farms for produce and honey, support fellow small businesses, and source ingredients locally whenever possible. Whether you’re grabbing a quick drive-through cup or settling in for a slow morning with a smoothie bowl, you’ll feel the thoughtful intentionality behind every drink and dish.

Balancing Goat Coffee Co.

Mark your calendars for **September 29 and 30, 2026**, and make plans to join us at **Bismarck State College**.

As we continue to navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape, CyberCon remains dedicated to fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing to address the most pressing challenges in cybersecurity.

We invite you to be part of this important conversation—engage in meaningful discussions, attend thought-provoking sessions, and share your unique perspective with the cybersecurity community.

Thank you for being part of this journey. We look forward to seeing you at CyberCon 2026 for a memorable and impactful conference!

\- Bismarck State College

2026 CyberCon 

**Two days. Top collegiate rodeo athletes. One action-packed weekend.** Get ready for the **BSC Mystic Stampede**, October 2–3 at Dale Pahlke Arena in Mandan!

Hosted by Bismarck State College, the Mystic Stampede brings talented cowboys and cowgirls from across the Great Plains Region to compete for valuable **National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) regional points**. From the first ride to the final short go, you’ll see collegiate athletes put their skills, speed and determination to the test in bareback riding, steer wrestling, tie-down roping, team roping, barrel racing, breakaway roping and more.

The BSC Mystics are coming off a strong 2025–26 season, finishing **second in the Great Plains Region men's team standings and seventh nationally**. After sweeping the men's and women's team titles at the 2025 Mystic Stampede, they’ll be back in their home arena looking to do it again!

**Come cheer on the Mystics and experience the speed, skill and excitement of collegiate rodeo!**

### Friday

* **10 a.m.–1 p.m.** — Rodeo Slack
* **5–7 p.m.** — Rodeo Performance

### Saturday

* **9 a.m.–1 p.m.** — Rodeo Slack
* **3 p.m.** — Tailgating
* **3:30–4 p.m.** — Mutton Busting
* **5–7 p.m.** — Rodeo Short Go Championship Performance

### **Make it a full weekend of Western action!**

#### **Make it a full weekend of Western action!** The excitement continues with the combined [**Hooves, Horsepower & Hops** event](https://www.playeasy.com/events/01a06dbd-da4b-77c8-89d6-fb966a70b3c8), featuring Dacotah Speedway's [Octoberfest Race nights](https://dacotahspeedway.com/) and the [Autumns Up Brew Down](https://www.playeasy.com/events/01a06dbd-da4b-77c8-89d6-fb966a70b3c8) tasting event. Catch the action at the track, then raise a glass and enjoy an evening of craft beverages and fun.&#x20;

2026 Mystic Stampede Rodeo

## **Three fall favorites. One action-packed weekend!**

Get ready for **Hooves, Horsepower & Hops**, October 2–3 in Bismarck-Mandan! Start your weekend with the **Autumns Up Brew Down**, a fall festival beer tasting featuring craft beverages, food and plenty of seasonal fun. Then, choose your adventure with collegiate rodeo action at the [**BSC Mystic Stampede**](https://www.playeasy.com/events/01a039eb-5f63-79f3-baa8-1450cda4ca49) or high-speed racing at the [**Octoberfest Races at Dacotah Speedway**](https://dacotahspeedway.com/).

Grab your friends, make your plans and get ready for a weekend that delivers a little bit of everything—great beer, rodeo action and racing excitement.

### **Weekend Schedule**

**Friday**

* **10 a.m.–1 p.m.** — BSC Mystic Stampede Rodeo Slack
* **2–5 p.m.** — Autumns Up Brew Down
* **5–7 p.m.** — BSC Mystic Stampede Rodeo Performance
* **7 p.m.** — Octoberfest Races

**Saturday**

* **9 a.m.–1 p.m.** — BSC Mystic Stampede Rodeo Slack
* **2–5 p.m.** — Autumns Up Brew Down
* **3 p.m.** — Rodeo Tailgating
* **3:30–4 p.m.** — Mutton Busting
* **5–7 p.m.** — Rodeo Short Go Championship Performance
* **6 p.m.** — Octoberfest Races

**All Access Day passes are $50** and include the Autumns Up Brew Down and Mystic Stampede.&#x20;

* [**Friday Ticket**](https://events.hometownticketing.com/boxoffice/bscmystics/L2VtYmVkL2V2ZW50LzI5NQ%3D%3D)
* [**Saturday Ticket**](https://events.hometownticketing.com/boxoffice/bscmystics/L2VtYmVkL2V2ZW50LzI5Ng%3D%3D)

**You must be 21 or older to purchase the ALL-ACCESS tickets.**

Hooves, Horsepower and Hops

The AlKEMist Gravel Fest caps off the 701 Race Series on October 3, starting and finishing at Graner Park and the Sugarloaf Bottoms. This fall gravel event challenges riders with multiple course options that wind through rugged terrain, rolling countryside, and scenic river-bottom landscapes. Known for its adventurous spirit and late-season energy, AlKEMist offers a rewarding test of endurance while embracing the camaraderie that defines gravel racing. As the final race of the series, it delivers a memorable season finale for riders looking to close out the year on North Dakota’s iconic gravel roads.

The 701 Race Series is a celebration of cycling in all its forms, bringing together an exciting mix of road, gravel, and mountain bike races that showcase the region’s terrain, talent, and tight-knit cycling community. Each event offers its own challenge and atmosphere — from high-speed, spectator-friendly racing to scenic routes that test endurance and grit. Whether you’re a seasoned racer, a first-time participant, or a fan of the sport, the 701 Race Series delivers unforgettable experiences that highlight why Bismarck-Mandan continues to grow as a premier cycling destination.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of the action — register today to secure your spot on the start line. With limited fields and strong participation each year, signing up early ensures you won’t miss out on the excitement, competition, and community that make this series a must-do for riders across the region.

Other races in the series:

[**Capitol City Crit**](https://runsignup.com/Race/ND/Bismarck/CapitolCityCrit)

* Date: May 9, 2026
* Location: North Dakota State Capitol Grounds, Bismarck
* Description: A fast-paced criterium featuring a closed-course, short-lap circuit that emphasizes speed, strategy, and technical cornering in a highly spectator-friendly setting.

[**Otter Creek MTB Race & Trail Run**](https://runsignup.com/Race/ND/Mandan/OtterCreek55)

* Date: June 12-13, 2026
* Location: Harmon Lake
* Description: A mountain bike race with multiple distances and a trail run component; offers cash prizes and varied terrain.

[**Lyons-Heart Gravel Classic**](https://runsignup.com/Race/ND/Mandan/LyonsHeartGravelClassic)

* Date: July 11, 2026
* Location: Dykshoorn Park, Downtown Mandan
* Description: A challenging gravel race featuring scenic routes and a substantial prize purse — ideal for gravel enthusiasts.

Double Ditch Indian Village State Historic Site

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