Let's Chat About...Medora
Last weekend we took a family vacation to Medora, ND. This place has special meaning to me because it's where Randy and I were married on 8/8/08! I never get tired of visiting Medora, and there is something new to experience each time we come!
Medora was founded in 1883 by French Nobleman Antoine de Vallombrosa (the Marquis de Mores) and he named the settlement after his wife, the former Medora von Hoffman.
He built many of the town's establishments such as a Beef Packing Plant, Stagecoach Line, Railway Freight Company, hotels, stores and his large home Chateau de Mores, overlooking the town.
In September of 1883, Theodore Roosevelt visited as a young politician on a buffalo hunt expedition. He fell in love with the land and purchased 2 large cattle ranches, the Maltese Cross and the Elkhorn, both located near Medora.
In 1901 Theodore Roosevelt became the youngest president in US history and referred to the Badlands of North Dakota as "The Romance of My Life". He held his office as president until 1909 and he often credited his Dakota experiences with enabling him to become president.
In 1898 the Rough Riders Cavalry was formed by Colonel Theodore Roosevelt. This was a volunteer regiment designed to assist in the battle during the Spanish-American War. Roosevelt was credited with the victory of the "Battle of San Juan Hill".
The Rough Riders Hotel in Medora, ND pays tribute to Roosevelt and his actions with the Rough Riders Army.
Theodore Roosevelt was a conversationalist that loved the land in this region and wanted to protect it. In 1947 the Theodore Roosevelt National Park was established in his honor to commemorate his interest in the American West. He often retreated to the Badlands of North Dakota for peace and solace and the park was dedicated to honor his legacy. It was given National Park Status in 1978.
For Christmas, Randy & I received an Annual National Park pass from our son and his family. We were excited to use it when we toured the park this year!
Now days Medora has become a popular tourist attraction. Although thousands of people pass through during the summer season, only 163 are actual residents year-round. The Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation was formed in 1986 to preserve its history and also educate while entertaining tourists. This is a public non-profit organization that was formed by a multi-million-dollar donation from Harold Schafer and his family. Schafer is also known for creating the Gold Seal Company, Mr. Bubble and Glass Wax.
Since this is a non-profit group, donations are welcome to keep everything up and running. For more information or to make a contribution, please click on the link above.
There are so many things to see & do in Medora and there is something for all ages! Whether it's a tour through the park, taking in the historical sites, hiking, horseback riding, golfing at the legendary Bully Pulpit course, shopping downtown or enjoying the new Point to Point Park! This attraction is targeted towards children and families and provides a lazy river waterpark, a miniature golf course and a zip line. This was one of my families' favorite activities during our vacation.
The best resource to find things to do and places to see in Medora is to visit the website @ Medora.com
There are also many places to stay in Medora. Some of these include:
Roughriders Hotel
Badlands Motel
Elkhorn Quarters
Hyde House
AmericInn
Medora Campground
Red Trail Campground
On this trip Randy, the boys and I took the Motorhome and we stayed at the Medora Campground which is nestled conveniently along the Little Missouri River. It provides a beautiful view of the bluffs, a playground, swimming pool, walking / biking trails and much more! The rest of our family stayed at the Elkhorn Quarters which also has very nice amenities.
No matter what you choose to experience in Medora, the Musical is a must see!! This is the core of the foundation, and it provides one-of-a-kind family friendly history along with entertainment.
This beloved outdoor performance began in 1965 (celebrating 60 years next season), making it one of America's longest running outdoor productions.
The Burning Hills Amphitheater is carved into a hillside of the Badlands making for great visibility from every seat along with a beautiful background setting.
And if you plan to attend the Musical, you should also take in the Pitchfork Fondue meal! This is a unique experience where they put 12 oz New York Strip steaks onto a pitchfork and dunk them into a barrel of oil and deep fry to perfection. This barbeque style buffet also includes a baked potato, coleslaw, fruit, vegetables, dessert and lemonade. New this year, they added a hotdog meal for kids, FREE all season long!
Seating is on the Tjaden Terrace where you are able to enjoy background music and take in the breathtaking Badlands view while you dine. This is definitely a must do!!
So, if you haven't already, I highly recommend putting the Medora experience on your bucket list! It's a great way to create memories with family and friends that will last a lifetime!!
If you are planning a trip to Medora or have memories to share, please comment below.
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