Fort Mandan offers visitors a unique chance to step back to a bygone era during their visit to the reconstructed fort. From 1804 to 1805, Fort Mandan was the Lewis and Clark Expedition's winter home. The fully-furnished rooms bring history to life as guests explore what life was like for Corps of Discovery's brave men more than two hundred years ago during the North Dakota winter.

  • What is Fort Mandan?
    • Fort Mandan is a reconstructed fort located along the Missouri River in a riparian forest.
    • The fort allows visitors to step into the past and experience the smells, sounds, and sights of the early 19th century.
  • What can visitors see at Fort Mandan?
    • The fort is historically furnished with accurate reproductions to reflect the living conditions of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
    • Notable items include:
      • Field desk used by Meriwether Lewis
      • Map-making tools used by William Clark
      • Field equipment used during the Expedition
      • Bunks, clothes, and a blacksmith forge used by the crew
  • Are guided tours available at Fort Mandan?
    • Yes, interpreters provide tours and programs from April to October.
    • Tours focus on the winter home (1804-1805) of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
  • What is there to do near Fort Mandan?
    • Visitors can explore the natural environment of the Missouri River.
    • Interpretive walking trails under a cottonwood canopy connect the fort to Fahlgren Memorial Park.
    • Fahlgren Park offers picnic shelters and a children’s play area.
  • What historical significance does Fort Mandan have?
    • During the winter of 1804-1805, members of the nearby Mandan-Hidatsa villages helped Lewis and Clark plot maps and prepare for their expedition to the Pacific Ocean.
    • It was at Fort Mandan that the Expedition met Sacagawea, the young Native American woman who would aid their journey.
  • What is the Fort Mandan Visitor Center?
    • The Visitor Center is designed based on a Mandan earthlodge.
    • It features a classroom space, a museum store, and modern restroom facilities.
  • Are there educational programs for students?
    • Yes, Fort Mandan and the nearby Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center provide interactive learning experiences for students.
    • Programs include immersive exhibits, replica fort tours, art displays, and trained interpretive staff.
  • Are group or bus tours available?
    • Yes, Fort Mandan welcomes bus and group tours.
    • Special rates are offered through the Lewis and Clark Fort Mandan Foundation for groups that schedule in advance.
    • Highly trained staff can customize programming to meet the needs of any group.
  • Who manages Fort Mandan?
    • The fort is managed by the Lewis and Clark Fort Mandan Foundation, a nonprofit organization.
    • The foundation is supported by individuals, corporations, and other foundations throughout the state and worldwide.
    • Its mission is to celebrate history, culture, and art.
  • What is the contact information for Fort Mandan?
    • 2576 8th Street SW, Washburn, North Dakota, Phone: 877-462-8535

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