Bismarck in September

September weather, activities, events & insider tips

September Weather in Bismarck

23°C (73°F) High Temp

8°C (46°F) Low Temp

28 mm (1.1 inches) Rainfall

52% Humidity

Is September Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect autumn weather with daytime temperatures around 20°C (68°F) - ideal for walking tours and outdoor activities without summer heat or winter ice
impressive fall foliage along the Missouri River and throughout Bismarck parks, peaking in mid-September with golden cottonwoods and red maples
Harvest season brings exceptional local farmers markets, wine festivals, and agricultural events showcasing North Dakota's farming heritage
Lower accommodation rates compared to summer peak season - hotel prices drop 25-35% after Labor Day while weather remains excellent

Considerations

Daylight hours decrease rapidly from 13 hours early September to 11.5 hours by month's end, limiting late afternoon outdoor activities
Unpredictable weather swings - temperatures can fluctuate 15°C (27°F) within 24 hours due to changing air masses from Canada
Some seasonal attractions and riverboat tours reduce schedules or close after Labor Day weekend

Best Activities in September

Missouri River Valley Scenic Drives

September offers the most spectacular driving conditions along the Missouri River with peak fall colors and comfortable temperatures for stopping at overlooks. Morning drives (8-11am) provide the best lighting and avoid afternoon temperature swings. The cottonwoods turn brilliant gold while sumac bushes add crimson accents to the prairie landscape.

Booking Tip: No advance booking needed for self-driving. Guided scenic tours typically cost $45-75 per person and should be booked 5-7 days ahead. Look for operators offering heated vehicles for cooler morning departures. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center Experiences

September's moderate temperatures make outdoor portions of Lewis and Clark historical experiences comfortable. The center's river trail walks are perfect when temperatures hover around 18°C (65°F) in the afternoon. September also marks the historical timeline when Lewis and Clark passed through this area in 1804 and 1806.

Booking Tip: Self-guided visits require no booking, but guided historical tours cost $25-40 per person. Educational programs book up for school groups in September, so reserve weekend spots 2 weeks ahead. Programs run 2-3 hours including outdoor walking.

Dakota Zoo Autumn Programs

Animals are most active in September's cooler weather after the summer heat. The zoo's 'Boo at the Zoo' preparation begins in late September, and many animals receive pumpkin enrichment activities. Prairie dogs and bison are particularly active in the comfortable 15-20°C (59-68°F) range.

Booking Tip: Daily admission $12-18, no advance booking required. Special keeper talks and feeding programs cost an additional $5-10. Visit mid-morning (10am-noon) when animals are most active in the cool temperatures.

Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Historical Tours

September provides ideal conditions for exploring Custer's reconstructed fort and Mandan earth lodge villages. The 3.2 km (2-mile) trail system is comfortable to walk in 60% humidity rather than summer's oppressive heat. Prairie grasses are at their most photogenic in September's golden light.

Booking Tip: Park entry $5 per vehicle, guided tours $8-15 per person. Historical reenactments occur select September weekends - book these specialty programs 2-3 weeks ahead as they're limited to 30 participants. Standard tours available daily without reservation.

Missouri River Fishing Charters

September marks prime walleye and northern pike fishing as water temperatures cool to optimal ranges. Fish are actively feeding before winter, and the comfortable air temperatures make 4-6 hour charter trips enjoyable. Sunrise charters (6-10am) offer the best action and avoid afternoon weather changes.

Booking Tip: Half-day charters typically cost $300-450 for 2-3 people, full-day $500-700. Book 10-14 days ahead as September is prime fishing season. Look for licensed captains providing heated cabins and gear. Weather cancellation policies are important due to September's variable conditions.

Mandan Farmers Market and Harvest Festivals

September showcases North Dakota's agricultural bounty with peak harvest vegetables, late-season fruits, and specialty items like sunflower products. The outdoor market experience is comfortable in September's moderate temperatures, unlike the heat of July-August markets. Local wineries often debut new releases at September festivals.

Booking Tip: Farmers markets are free to attend, typically running Thursday and Saturday mornings 8am-1pm. Festival events cost $10-25 for entry. No advance booking needed for markets, but harvest festival dinners and wine tastings should be reserved 1-2 weeks ahead.

September Events & Festivals

Early September

Folkfest

Bismarck's multicultural celebration featuring traditional foods, music, and crafts from various ethnic communities that settled in North Dakota. The outdoor components are comfortable in September weather, and the event showcases the region's diverse agricultural heritage with harvest-themed activities.

Early September

United Tribes International Powwow

One of the largest powwows in North America, featuring traditional Native American dancing, drumming, and cultural activities. September's moderate weather makes the outdoor arena events comfortable for spectators. The event includes traditional foods and authentic craft vendors.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layered clothing system - morning temperatures start around 8°C (46°F) but can reach 23°C (73°F) by afternoon

Waterproof jacket or rain shell - September brings 7 rain days averaging light precipitation, often as brief afternoon showers

Comfortable walking shoes with good tread - fallen leaves can create slippery conditions on trails and sidewalks

Light fleece or warm layer - evenings cool quickly once the sun sets, dropping 10-15°C (18-27°F) from afternoon highs

Sunglasses and SPF 30+ sunscreen - UV index of 5 plus reflection off the Missouri River requires eye and skin protection

Warm hat and light gloves for early morning activities - sunrise fishing charters and dawn photography can feel much colder

Daypack for hiking - many activities involve 1-3 hour outdoor components with weather gear and water needs

Closed-toe shoes - September's dewy mornings and occasional muddy conditions make sandals impractical for most activities

Binoculars - clear September air provides excellent visibility for wildlife viewing and scenic overlooks up to 15 km (9 miles)

Portable phone charger - shorter daylight hours mean more reliance on phone flashlights and GPS during longer outdoor activities

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations near downtown Bismarck rather than Mandan - September construction season means the Grant Marsh Bridge can have delays, and downtown puts you walking distance to restaurants when weather turns

Local grocery stores stock the best selection of North Dakota specialties in September after harvest - sunflower seeds, honey, and regional wines cost 30-40% less than tourist shops

The 30-minute drive to Knife River Indian Villages becomes spectacular in mid-September, but locals avoid weekends due to leaf-peeper traffic - visit Tuesday-Thursday for the same views with minimal crowds

Restaurant patios start closing for the season after mid-September, so prioritize outdoor dining in your first week if you're visiting later in the month

Avoid These Mistakes

Underdressing for morning activities - even when afternoon temperatures reach 23°C (73°F), sunrise tours and early fishing charters start in single-digit Celsius temperatures

Not checking for University of Mary or Bismarck State College events - home football games and family weekends can book up downtown hotels and restaurants unexpectedly

Assuming summer hours for attractions - many outdoor activities reduce schedules or close entirely after Labor Day, particularly riverboat tours and some historical demonstrations