The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is a place where visitors can learn more about the time the famous explorers spent in North Dakota during their Expedition. Fort Mandan was constructed as the winter post for the Corps of Discovery from 1804 to 1805. During their time at the fort, Lewis and Clark interviewed the people of the Mandan-Hidatsa villages nearby to gain information to plot maps, as well as plan their expedition's new phase towards the Pacific Ocean.

  • What is the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center?
    • The recently remodeled Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center features interactive state-of-the-art exhibits and a fascinating artifact collection. The center also includes new exhibits that honor family farms in North Dakota.
  • What can visitors explore at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center?
    • Visitors can explore the Interpretive Center and Fort Mandan to learn more about the history of Lewis and Clark and the region’s past.
  • What does the Lewis and Clark Gallery feature?
    • The gallery includes interactive displays and sound exhibits that immerse visitors in the adventure of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The center also showcases over 100 items from the John Fisher Collection, including one of just six working air rifles in the world.
  • What is the Fort Clark exhibit?
    • This exhibit highlights the story of Native American culture and the early fur trade in the Upper Missouri River region following the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
  • What is the Prince Maximilian and Karl Bodmer Exhibit?
    • Added in April 2013, this exhibit shares the journey of Swiss artist Karl Bodmer and German Prince Maximilian, who traveled across the American frontier from 1832 to 1834 to document the lives of Native Americans. A rare collection of Bodmer’s aquatints, one of only four in the world, is on display.
    • Visitors can also create their own souvenir aquatints at the interactive art kiosk.
  • How does the Interpretive Center showcase North Dakota’s agricultural history?
    • The center preserves North Dakota’s agrarian heritage through a newly-installed kiosk, featuring an updated database of North Dakota’s Centennial Farms.
  • What can visitors find at the Museum Store?
    • The store offers a selection of North Dakota-made items, books, artwork, clothing, home décor, jewelry, and more.
  • Are there educational opportunities for students and groups?
    • Yes, the Interpretive Center provides learning experiences for students with various learning styles. The Lewis and Clark Fort Mandan Foundation offers special rates for bus and group tours that schedule visits in advance.
    • Highly trained staff can adjust programming to meet the needs and interests of any group.
  • How can I contact the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center?
    • Location: 2576 8th Street SW, Washburn, North Dakota
      Phone: 877-462-8535

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