Walkers encouraged to enjoy ‘History Hikes’ at heritage center

Walkers out exercising during the winter months are encouraged to visit the North Dakota Heritage Center in Bismarck and stroll through time as they enjoy the many exhibits — and the warm indoor temperature — provided by the state’s largest museum.

Located on the state capitol grounds, the North Dakota Heritage Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There is no admission charge. It is open year-round, closed only on New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

“We have measurements in place so hikers can keep track of the distance they walk, while also enjoying the museum exhibits,” said Beth Campbell, visitor services coordinator for the State Historical Society of North Dakota. “One-quarter mile and one-half mile route maps are available at the Information Desk.”

The North Dakota Heritage Center is full of temporary and permanent exhibits that preserve and tell the history and prehistory of what is now North Dakota. It is the headquarters of the state’s history agency, the State Historical Society. In a cooperative agreement with the North Dakota Geological Survey, the heritage center also houses the State Fossil Collection.

Open since 1981 and accredited by the American Association of Museums since 1986, the heritage center is one of only two museums accredited in the state by the AAM; the other is the Plains Art Museum in Fargo. The AAM is a national organization, with headquarters in Washington, D.C., that has served the museum profession since 1906.

For more information about the State Historical Society of North Dakota and its exhibits, programs and events, contact the North Dakota Heritage Center in Bismarck, by calling 701-328-1476 or visiting the SHSND website at www.history.nd. gov.

Tags: other events, diversions