Skyline Scenic Drive | Pinedale

The National Buffalo Museum is located in Jamestown, North Dakota, USA. It is dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of the American buffalo.

Visual Characteristics

The museum is housed in a large, circular building constructed primarily of concrete and steel. Its exterior is painted a neutral, earth-toned color. The building's design is intended to evoke the rounded shape of a buffalo's hump. Inside, exhibits are displayed in a chronological and thematic manner, utilizing various display cases, dioramas, and informational panels.

Location & Access Logistics

The museum is situated at 501 West Burdick Expressway, Jamestown, ND 58401. It is approximately 1.5 miles west of the Jamestown city center. Ample free parking is available on-site, including designated spaces for buses and RVs. Jamestown is accessible via US Highway 52 and Interstate 94. The nearest major airport is Bismarck Municipal Airport (BIS), located approximately 95 miles west.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The museum was founded in 1966 by the North Dakota Buffalo Association. Its primary purpose is to educate the public about the historical significance and ecological role of the American buffalo (Bison bison) in North America. The building itself was constructed in the late 1960s. The American buffalo is a keystone species in the North American prairie ecosystem.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can view a taxidermied 2,000-pound buffalo named "Old Tom." The museum features exhibits detailing the buffalo's life cycle, its impact on Native American culture, and its near extinction and subsequent recovery. Interactive displays are available for younger visitors. The museum also houses a gift shop selling related merchandise.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the museum. Limited shaded areas are present around the exterior of the building. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable within the museum and surrounding parking area. No on-site food vendors are present, but several restaurants are located within a 1-mile radius along Burdick Expressway.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is open year-round, Tuesday through Sunday. The best time of day for photography inside the museum is during daylight hours when artificial lighting is supplemented by natural light from windows. For viewing the live buffalo herd located nearby, early morning or late afternoon offers optimal lighting conditions and animal activity.

Facts & Legends

A unique aspect of the museum is its location adjacent to a small herd of live buffalo, maintained by the city. A local legend suggests that the spirit of a great buffalo chief watches over the herd. A specific tip for visitors is to check the museum's schedule for special events or educational programs, which are often held on weekends.

Nearby Landmarks

• 1.5km East: Jamestown Reservoir
• 2km East: Pipestem Dam
• 3km South: Frontier Village
• 4km West: World's Largest Buffalo (Statue)