Visit the Visitor Center and Museum in Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site

Visit the Visitor Center and Museum in Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site

Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site, located in western North Dakota, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the history of the American West. Established in 1828 as a fur trading post, Fort Union was a hub of activity for nearly 40 years, serving as a central location for traders, trappers, and Native American tribes. Today, visitors can explore the site and learn about its history through a variety of activities. Here are some things to do when visiting Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site.

Visit the Visitor Center and Museum

The Visitor Center and Museum at Fort Union Trading Post is a great place to start your visit. Here, you can learn about the history of the site, as well as the people who lived and worked there. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including artifacts from the fur trade era, interactive displays, and a film about the history of the site.

Take a guided tour

One of the best ways to learn about the history of Fort Union is through a guided tour. Park rangers lead tours of the site throughout the day, providing visitors with insight into the daily life of the traders and the Native Americans who lived and worked there. The tour includes stops at the reconstructed trading post, the bastion, and the Indian trade area.

Explore the site

Visitors are free to explore the site on their own, taking in the many historic buildings and structures that still stand today. The reconstructed trading post is the main attraction, but there are also a number of other buildings to explore, including the commissary, blacksmith shop, and the Indian trade area. Signs throughout the site provide information about the history of each building and its role in the fur trade era.

Attend living history demonstrations

Throughout the summer months, Fort Union Trading Post offers a variety of living history demonstrations that give visitors a chance to experience the past in a more immersive way. Demonstrations may include blacksmithing, tanning, beadwork, and other skills that were essential to life on the frontier. Visitors can watch and even participate in some of the demonstrations, getting a hands-on experience of what life was like at Fort Union.

Hike the trails

Fort Union Trading Post has several hiking trails that wind through the surrounding prairie landscape. The trails offer a chance to get out into nature and experience the quiet beauty of the North Dakota plains. Along the way, visitors may spot wildlife like bison, pronghorn, and coyotes. The trails are well-maintained and offer a variety of distances, making them accessible to hikers of all skill levels.

Attend special events

Throughout the year, Fort Union Trading Post hosts a variety of special events that celebrate the history and culture of the American West. Events may include reenactments, festivals, and cultural demonstrations. Check the park’s calendar of events to see what’s happening during your visit.

In conclusion, Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site offers visitors a unique and fascinating glimpse into the history of the American West. From the reconstructed trading post to the living history demonstrations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just looking for a fun and educational day trip, Fort Union Trading Post is a must-see destination.