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North Dakota

Our last and final state, North Dakota! This time, our rising 8th grader wrote a report about our trip and some concluding thoughts:


In 1883, Theodore Roosevelt stepped foot in what was in the future known as Theodore Roosevelt Park. He felt himself drawn again and again to the park —and for good reason that is. Flying to North Dakota as our last state in this too long journey did not disappoint. From the food to huge blocks of sedimentary rocks and bison, I know everyone was pleasantly surprised by the beauty of North Dakota. This stay in North Dakota with the national park along with other attractions really did grab our attention.

Chelita Restaurant

As soon as we landed and got the rental car, my family knew we had one goal and one goal only in North Dakota—visit the national park we all know TR raved on and on about. However, our hunger and thirst got to the better of us. We ended up stopping at a local El Salvadorian restaurant off the side of the road. The family business's food was authentic and so good! The jalapeños and cheese pupusas were such a perfect blend of spicy yet rich with the gooey, melted cheese. The tacos were just dripping with flavor and meat, and the tamales were wrapped in this wonderful corn wrapper and really did just melt in your mouth! At last, our family set off for the park with full bellies and high spirits. 




Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Unit Visitor Center)

After the long hour drive and lots of complaining we arrived at the state-wide treasure! With its wildlife and scenic view, the park lived up to its name in all ways possible. At one point, we were face to face with a herd of bison! One of my personal favorites was the “River Bend Overlook.” It was high in altitude, making it easy to see the vast landscape of the park. Though we were only in the Northern section of the park, it was amazing nonetheless.






Wild West Water Park

After what felt like 100 degree weather nearly killed us at the national park, our family decided to cool off at a water park nearby. However, we were thirsty so we stopped at a supermarket for some drinks and my favorite pretzels (Dots) beforehand! The water park was great and had 2 big water slides that were so fun to be on. Due to the fact it was so hot, the cool waters felt extra good!




Conclusion

Our travels to all 50 states of America have been some of the most amazing experiences of my life. From staying in an RV to being in hotels with an upstairs floor, catching crabs, to eating them at local restaurants, these trips will forever shape my perspective on how big and how beautiful the USA really is.

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