Bismarck in July

July weather, activities, events & insider tips

July Weather in Bismarck

29°C (84°F) High Temp

11°C (52°F) Low Temp

38 mm (1.5 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is July Right for You?

Advantages

Prime outdoor weather with 29°C (84°F) highs perfect for Missouri River activities and hiking without oppressive heat
Long daylight hours - sunrise at 5:50am, sunset at 9:15pm gives you nearly 15.5 hours of daylight for sightseeing
Peak festival season including United Tribes International Powwow preparation activities and Lewis & Clark interpretive programs
Lowest tourism crowds of the year despite perfect weather - hotel rates 30-40% lower than Midwest peak summer destinations

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms can develop quickly, typically 2-4pm, requiring flexible outdoor plans and indoor backup activities
Cool mornings at 11°C (52°F) mean layered clothing essential - many visitors underestimate the temperature swing
Peak mosquito and tick season along Missouri River trails requires insect protection and long pants for hiking

Best Activities in July

Missouri River Paddling and Fishing Tours

July offers ideal conditions with stable water levels and 29°C (84°F) afternoon temperatures perfect for river activities. Morning mist creates dramatic photography opportunities while afternoon warmth makes water activities comfortable. Walleye and northern pike fishing peak in July's warm waters.

Booking Tip: Reserve 7-10 days ahead through licensed outfitters. Full-day trips typically cost $180-250 USD including equipment. Morning launches (7-8am) avoid afternoon storms. Look for operators with weather contingency policies.

Prairie Wildlife and Badlands Photography Tours

July's long daylight hours and active wildlife make this ideal for photography. Bison herds are most active in cooler morning temperatures 11°C (52°F), while prairie flowers bloom peak July-August. Clear skies provide excellent Badlands landscape opportunities.

Booking Tip: Book sunrise tours 5-7 days ahead, typically $120-180 USD for half-day guided tours. Early morning departures (5:30am) maximize wildlife viewing. Choose operators with 4WD vehicles for prairie access.

Lewis and Clark Trail Historical Tours

Perfect July weather allows comfortable walking of historical sites along the Missouri River. Fort Mandan reconstructed site offers living history programs specifically expanded for summer months. Moderate temperatures ideal for 3-5 km (2-3 mile) walking tours.

Booking Tip: Historical tours typically $45-75 USD, book 3-5 days ahead during peak interpretive season. Afternoon tours start after 2pm to avoid morning mist. Look for certified historical interpreters and weather-appropriate indoor components.

German-Russian Heritage Village Tours

July's stable weather perfect for outdoor heritage demonstrations including traditional farming and craft displays. Many cultural sites expand programming for summer visitors. Comfortable walking temperatures for village exploration and outdoor cultural activities.

Booking Tip: Cultural tours range $35-60 USD, typically available without advance booking except weekends. Allow 3-4 hours for full heritage experience. Some sites offer traditional meal experiences requiring 24-hour notice.

Capitol Grounds and Downtown Architecture Walking Tours

July's extended daylight and moderate temperatures ideal for exploring Art Deco state capitol building and historic downtown district. 19-story capitol offers panoramic views best enjoyed in July's clear conditions. Comfortable walking weather for 2-3 km (1.2-1.9 mile) routes.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours free, guided options $25-40 USD. Capitol building tours available weekdays without reservation. Downtown tours typically 90 minutes, best scheduled for morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat.

Prairie Rose Meadery and Local Brewery Tours

July harvest season offers fresh local ingredients at peak flavor. Outdoor beer garden weather perfect for sampling local craft beverages. Many facilities expand outdoor seating and live music programming for summer months.

Booking Tip: Brewery tours typically $15-25 USD including tastings, most accept walk-ins except Saturdays. Meadery tours $20-35 USD, call day-ahead for availability. Plan 2-3 hours per location, designated driver required.

July Events & Festivals

Mid July

Folkfest International Music and Cultural Festival

Three-day celebration of regional immigrant heritage featuring traditional music, dance, and authentic foods. Outdoor stages take advantage of July's perfect evening temperatures. One of Midwest's most authentic cultural celebrations.

Late July

Lewis and Clark Festival Living History Weekend

Historical reenactors demonstrate early 1800s frontier life along the Missouri River. Traditional craft demonstrations, period music, and authentic camping displays. July weather allows full outdoor programming.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layered clothing system - mornings start at 11°C (52°F) but afternoons reach 29°C (84°F), pack light fleece and t-shirts

Waterproof rain jacket and quick-dry pants for sudden afternoon thunderstorms lasting 30-45 minutes

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 with minimal natural shade on prairie trails

Insect repellent with 20-30% DEET for Missouri River activities and prairie hiking during peak mosquito season

Sturdy walking shoes with ankle support for uneven prairie terrain and river bank trails

Portable phone charger - long daylight hours mean extended photo sessions drain batteries quickly

Light scarf or bandana for prairie wind protection during outdoor activities

Reusable water bottle - dry prairie air increases dehydration risk despite moderate temperatures

Long pants and long sleeves for tick protection during any grassland or wooded area hiking

Compact umbrella for sudden afternoon storms when exploring downtown or capitol grounds

Insider Knowledge

Visit Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park early morning (7-8am) when bison and deer are most active and before tour groups arrive from larger cities

Local restaurants serve traditional German-Russian dishes like kuchen and fleischkuekle - ask servers about daily hausgemacht specials not listed on regular menus

Downtown parking meters are free after 5pm and all day Sunday, significant savings during summer festival season when paid lots charge $10-15 daily

Missouri River access points change seasonally - check current conditions at North Dakota Game and Fish website before planning water activities, some boat ramps unusable after heavy rains

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating morning cold - many visitors pack only for 29°C (84°F) afternoon temperatures and are unprepared for 11°C (52°F) sunrise activities

Assuming small city means no traffic - downtown Bismarck experiences congestion 7:30-8:30am and 4:30-5:30pm during state government shift changes

Skipping insect protection for 'just a quick walk' along Missouri River trails where mosquitoes and ticks are concentrated July through August