In North Dakota’s capital city of Bismarck, there is a park that takes a normal stroll to a whole new level. This path will take you along beautiful, scenic views, but also through history and works of art. It is perfect on a sunny summer day, so now is the time to visit!
Keelboat Park is located on the banks of the Missouri River in Bismarck, North Dakota. The path meanders by the water.
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The name of the park comes from this keelboat - a replica of the same kind of boat Lewis and Clark used on their travels. This boat is one of the unique parts of this park, and you are encouraged to walk onto the boat yourself and see what it’s like.
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Along with the boat, the park also has unusual and interesting sculptures that depict everything from the famous explorers themselves, to eagles, to mythical beasts.
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One of the most fascinating sculptures is the mythical creature, the Thunderbird. This creature was said to create thunder and lightning by certain Native American tribes.
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Signs along the trail and next to the sculptures give information about each piece as well as the stories behind them, the history of the area, and more. A walk through this park can be so much more than a stroll but also a learning experience!
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Keelboat Park is right next to the scenic railroad bridge across the Missouri River. This is a great spot to take out a camera and snap a picture. It’s always beautiful when it’s reflecting on the water.
Kent Landerholm/Flickr
The Lewis and Clark Riverboat also docks in the park and you may spot it paddling by, or you can even catch a ride!
Erica Hager/Flickr
The Keelboat Park is located at 1700 River Road, Bismarck, ND 58503.
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Kent Landerholm/Flickr
Erica Hager/Flickr
This isn’t the only place in North Dakota with amazing outdoor sculptures and other works of art. You can also check out places like the Enchanted Highway or the Rainbow Garden & Sculpture Walk for more.
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