North Dakota readies for presidential library grand opening, America’s 250th celebration
Photo by NDAREC/Kennedy DeLap
This summer promises to be one for the North Dakota history books.
As communities across the nation prepare for America’s 250th celebration, commemorating the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, North Dakota also eyes the July 4 grand opening of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora.
“I really feel like it's a once-in-a-generation attraction that will really propel North Dakota in terms of awareness and get people interested in coming,” says Sara Otte Coleman, state tourism and marketing division director. “It's the segue to tell that broader story of how we still follow TR’s principles, and that's kind of what's built the state.”
While the library opens in July, staff is preparing for a yearslong experience. They expect thousands of visitors through 2026 and beyond.
“We know this is going to have a long tail,” Coleman says.
Capturing the attention of those traveling to see the library, then keeping them longer to explore the rest of North Dakota is the challenge for the state’s travel and tourism partners.
“We know that’s a challenge for us,” Coleman says. “We don’t want someone flying in and flying out to see the library. We want people to come in and see and learn more about North Dakota. We’re really trying to use this the best we can to entice those longer stays and get the most exposure.”
Coleman says her division is encouraging communities and tourism partners to work together to build itineraries and find their TR hook.
“It can be something as simple as naming an ice cream after him or serving his favorite cookie or tying a little bit of history of how he’s connected,” she says. “As we build out itineraries, what kind of TR thread do you have?”
For example, local breweries are developing a “Teddy brew,” while a coffeeshop is working on the caffeinated version, says Kim Schmidt, communications manager for state tourism.
Schmidt’s creative team also developed a “Teddy Trail” campaign (visit ndtourism.com/teddytrail) to immerse visitors in the Theodore Roosevelt experience across the state, not just in western North Dakota. From his campaign stops in Fargo to the places he helped conserve, TR’s legacy reaches across the state.
Coleman also encourages communities to submit their calendar of events to N.D. Tourism, which manages a comprehensive statewide events calendar plus the ND250 calendar.
“Thinking about 250 years ago, what was here? Our Native American populations. Tribal tourism opportunities are going to tie in really well, too,” Coleman says.
Many eyes are on North Dakota. It even made National Geographic’s list of top 25 places in the world to visit in 2026!
“We’re thrilled to see our North Dakota Badlands recognized by National Geographic as one of the Best of the World destinations for 2026,” Coleman says. “This global spotlight affirms what we’ve always known – our North Dakota Badlands are bold, breathtaking and unforgettable. With the upcoming Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library adding even more depth to the experience, there’s never been a better time to explore this iconic landscape.”
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Cally Peterson is signing off as editor of North Dakota Living. Thank you for reading!
PLAN YOUR VISIT TO THE THEODORE ROOSEVELT PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY
Tickets are available now for the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library experience. It’s not a traditional museum experience, but an immersive journey into Roosevelt’s life and legacy.
Inside, guests move through narrative galleries telling the president’s story. Adventure galleries provide hands-on, interactive experiences, then visitors are pushed outside to savor the Badlands landscape. A one-mile boardwalk and roof vistas are part of the outdoor experience.
According to the library, most visitors will spend about two hours exploring the exhibition and boardwalk.
July 4 marks the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library grand opening, but visitors are expected throughout 2026 and beyond.
Advanced ticket reservations are recommended.
TICKETS
Discounts are available for seniors, active duty and military veterans, college students and groups of 15 or more.
• Adults (13+): $26
• Youth (3-12): $16
• Children (under 3): Free
HOURS AND ADMISSION
The library is open year-round with varied seasonal hours. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 4-Sept. 13. Additional hours can be found at trlibrary.com/visit/hours.
Plan your visit at trlibrary.com/visit.
