Bismarck, the capital city of North Dakota, is located in the central part of the state along the eastern bank of the Missouri River. With a population of approximately 73,000 residents, Bismarck is the second-most populous city in North Dakota, after Fargo. The city covers an area of about 32 square miles and serves as a major hub for government, commerce, and culture in the region. Bismarck is renowned for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and rich history, making it a vibrant and dynamic community in the Great Plains region of the United States.
Geography and Location
Located in the northern Great Plains region of the United States, Bismarck is located at approximately 46.8083° N latitude and 100.7837° W longitude. The city lies on the eastern bank of the Missouri River, which meanders through the region, providing scenic beauty and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Bismarck is surrounded by rolling prairies, fertile farmland, and expansive skies, offering a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities and exploration. The city’s central location within North Dakota makes it a strategic hub for transportation and commerce, with major highways and railroads connecting it to other cities and regions in the state.
Affiliation and Major Landmarks
As the capital city of North Dakota, Bismarck is affiliated with state government and serves as the seat of political power for the state. The North Dakota State Capitol, an iconic building with its distinctive Art Deco architecture, is one of the major landmarks in Bismarck. Other notable landmarks include the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum, which showcases the state’s history and culture, and the Dakota Zoo, home to a variety of native and exotic animal species. Bismarck also boasts a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, as well as several parks and green spaces along the Missouri River.
Population and Area
Bismarck has a diverse population of approximately 73,000 residents, representing a mix of cultures, backgrounds, and professions. The city covers an area of about 32 square miles, encompassing residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, and industrial areas. Bismarck’s population has grown steadily over the years, driven by factors such as job opportunities, quality of life, and the city’s reputation as a regional center for education, healthcare, and government services. With its strong sense of community and welcoming atmosphere, Bismarck offers residents a high quality of life and abundant opportunities for recreation, entertainment, and cultural enrichment.
Climate and Weather Overview
Bismarck experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons characterized by cold winters and warm summers. Understanding the climate and weather patterns of Bismarck is essential for residents and visitors to prepare for seasonal changes and plan outdoor activities accordingly.
Monthly Weather Statistics
To provide a comprehensive overview of the weather in Bismarck, let’s examine the average temperature, precipitation, and number of sunny days for each month of the year.
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
| January | 16°F | 0.47 inches | 18 days |
| February | 21°F | 0.51 inches | 18 days |
| March | 32°F | 0.90 inches | 19 days |
| April | 47°F | 1.12 inches | 20 days |
| May | 61°F | 2.26 inches | 22 days |
| June | 70°F | 2.66 inches | 23 days |
| July | 77°F | 2.04 inches | 25 days |
| August | 76°F | 1.66 inches | 25 days |
| September | 64°F | 1.43 inches | 21 days |
| October | 51°F | 1.11 inches | 20 days |
| November | 33°F | 0.76 inches | 17 days |
| December | 20°F | 0.50 inches | 17 days |
Weather by Month
January
January is the coldest month in Bismarck, with temperatures averaging around 16°F. While precipitation levels are relatively low at 0.47 inches, occasional snowfall may occur, covering the city in a blanket of white. Despite the cold temperatures, January offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as ice skating, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing in nearby parks and recreation areas. Visitors can also explore indoor attractions such as museums, art galleries, or theaters, or enjoy cozying up with a warm drink at local cafes and restaurants.
February
February sees similar weather patterns to January, with temperatures averaging around 21°F. While precipitation levels increase slightly to 0.51 inches, snowy conditions may persist, creating scenic winter landscapes throughout the city. February is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy winter sports such as downhill skiing, snowboarding, or snowmobiling in the surrounding area. Visitors can also attend winter festivals, ice fishing tournaments, or cultural events celebrating the season. Indoor activities include visiting historic sites, attending live performances, or indulging in comfort food at local eateries.
March
As winter transitions to spring, March brings milder temperatures to Bismarck, with an average of 32°F. While precipitation levels increase to 0.90 inches, snow begins to melt, and the city awakens to signs of new growth and renewal. March is an excellent time for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, or photography in nearby parks and nature reserves. Visitors can also explore botanical gardens, attend springtime festivals, or take scenic drives to admire the changing landscapes. Indoor activities include visiting art exhibits, attending craft workshops, or learning about local history and culture.
April
April marks the arrival of spring in Bismarck, with temperatures warming up to an average of 47°F. While precipitation levels increase to 1.12 inches, the city experiences longer daylight hours and the emergence of blooming flowers and trees. April is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy cycling, fishing, or picnicking in the city’s parks and green spaces. Visitors can also participate in gardening workshops, birdwatching tours, or Earth Day celebrations promoting environmental awareness. Indoor activities include visiting farmers’ markets, attending live music performances, or exploring interactive science exhibits.
May
May brings warmer temperatures to Bismarck, with an average of 61°F. While precipitation levels increase to 2.26 inches, sunny days become more frequent, providing ideal conditions for outdoor recreation. May is perfect for exploring hiking trails, paddling along the Missouri River, or camping in nearby state parks. Visitors can also attend outdoor concerts, food festivals, or sporting events celebrating the arrival of spring. Indoor activities include visiting art galleries, attending wine tastings, or exploring local history museums.
June
June heralds the arrival of summer in Bismarck, with temperatures reaching an average of 70°F. While precipitation levels increase to 2.66 inches, sunny days still dominate the weather forecast, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. June is perfect for swimming, boating, or fishing in the Missouri River, or enjoying recreational activities such as golfing, tennis, or biking in city parks. Visitors can also attend outdoor festivals, farmers’ markets, or cultural events celebrating the summer season. Indoor activities include visiting air-conditioned malls, attending theater productions, or exploring hands-on exhibits at science centers.
July
July is the warmest month in Bismarck, with temperatures averaging around 77°F. With increased precipitation of 2.04 inches, afternoon thunderstorms are common, providing relief from the summer heat. July is perfect for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, or exploring scenic drives in the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also enjoy water-based activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, or jet skiing on the Missouri River. Indoor activities include visiting museums, attending indoor sports events, or exploring local breweries and wineries.
August
August brings similar temperatures to July, with an average of 76°F. While precipitation levels decrease slightly to 1.66 inches, sunny days still offer opportunities for outdoor recreation. August is perfect for exploring nature trails, birdwatching, or wildlife photography in nearby wildlife refuges and conservation areas. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor concerts, art fairs, or food truck festivals showcasing local talent and cuisine. Indoor activities include visiting art studios, attending cooking classes, or exploring historical sites.
September
As summer transitions to fall, September sees temperatures cooling down to an average of 64°F. With 1.43 inches of precipitation, occasional rain showers may occur, but sunny days are still plentiful. September is perfect for outdoor activities such as apple picking, pumpkin patch visits, or attending fall harvest festivals in the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also explore scenic drives, visit wineries for tastings, or take hot air balloon rides to admire the autumn foliage. Indoor activities include visiting art galleries, attending live music performances, or exploring local history museums.
October
October marks the arrival of fall in Bismarck, with temperatures dropping to an average of 51°F. While precipitation levels decrease to 1.11 inches, colorful foliage and crisp air create a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures. October is perfect for hiking in city parks, exploring corn mazes, or attending haunted attractions and Halloween events. Visitors can also take scenic drives to admire the changing colors of the landscape or enjoy harvest-themed activities such as cider pressing and pumpkin carving. Indoor activities include attending fall craft markets, cooking classes, or wine tastings.
November
November brings cooler temperatures to Bismarck, with an average of 33°F. With 0.76 inches of precipitation, occasional snow showers may occur, signaling the transition to winter. November is an excellent time for outdoor activities such as sledding, ice skating, or cross-country skiing in nearby parks and recreation areas. Visitors can also attend holiday craft fairs, tree lighting ceremonies, or Thanksgiving-themed events and festivals. Indoor activities include visiting art galleries, attending theater performances, or sampling seasonal foods at local eateries.
December
December ushers in the winter season in Bismarck, with temperatures averaging around 20°F. With 0.50 inches of precipitation, occasional snowfall may occur, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the city. December is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy winter sports such as ice fishing, snowshoeing, or sleigh rides in nearby parks and wilderness areas. Visitors can also attend holiday concerts, visit Christmas markets, or take carriage rides through downtown adorned with holiday lights. Indoor activities include visiting museums, attending holiday-themed workshops, or enjoying warm drinks at cozy cafes.