The Bismarck-Mandan Convention and Visitors Bureau Embraces “No Boundaries” Ahead of Summer Travel

The weather is warming up, and the Bismarck-Mandan Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) is preparing to launch a marketing campaign to attract family vacationers, outdoor enthusiasts, and travelers looking for weekend getaways. More than 25 million tourists choose North Dakota annually, bringing $3.3 billion in visitor spending to the state. The No Boundaries campaign by the CVB will serve as the foundation to showcase everything Bismarck-Mandan has to offer.

“There are no boundaries to what you can experience here,” says Sheri Grossman, CEO and Executive Director at Bismarck-Mandan Convention & Visitors Bureau. “There are no boundaries to the opportunities to have fun and find your community. There are no boundaries between the cities and no boundaries preventing visitors from accessing the rest of the state.”

Both residents and visitors alike can unlock adventure in Bismarck-Mandan. Here are a few ways the CVB is helping tourists Make Their Mark while encouraging everyone to see what these great cities have to offer.  

Experience Passes Showcase Local Businesses 

One of the coolest resources offered by the CVB is Experience Passes, which are free to use whether you are a tourist or a local. The Bismarck-Mandan Art Trail showcases local murals and art installations. The Bismarck-Mandan Savings Pass has discounts to local restaurants, stores, and destinations. You don’t need to download an app to use the passes, and some discounts can be redeemed multiple times.

For example, visitors can try A&B Pizza in South Bismarck and enjoy $2 off any large pizza. Visitors to the Dakota Zoo can enjoy a free child admission with a paying adult.

The CVB can add deals from member businesses, adjust the offers, or remove them as needed. The Experience Passes are easier to maintain than the printed guides that were used before the COVID-19 pandemic. Before the CVB went digital, businesses had to wait for the next edition to come out to update or add offers.  

The CVB adds a QR code to the Experience Passes on the name badges they print ahead of conferences and trade shows. This means more than 60,000 professional travelers per year access the Passes and use them to explore local businesses in the area. 

Visitors Can Discover Events Happening Around Town 

Another focus of the CVB ahead of the summer travel season is promoting the events page on its website. Community groups, producers, and event organizers can share what’s happening in town and get people excited about it. A couple planning a weekend getaway might enjoy visiting the farmer’s market, while a family with small children attends local park events.

These events add value to vacations. Tourists are already planning to visit Bismarck-Mandan, and discovering events while they are here can make their visit even more special.

“Our hope is to get to the point where there’s something extra going on all the time,” says Grossman. “Our community is so active that there’s something going on at any given weekend.”  

The events page is also a way for businesses and organizers to support tourism efforts in the region. By submitting events, you can share what’s going on with locals and visitors alike. 

Increased Tourism is Good for Bismarck-Mandan

There are several reasons why Bismarck-Mandan residents should be excited about tourism growth in the area, even if they don’t work in the hospitality industry. First, tourists contribute to the tax base. The sales tax revenue that they generate can be used by local government to support infrastructure improvements around the communities. Next, their money supports the economy, even your favorite local businesses. The coffee shop you visit daily or the fancy restaurant that’s perfect for date nights will benefit from a tourist customer base.

“Even if you don’t own a restaurant or hotel, all local residents benefit when visitors come to the community through increased spending, job opportunities, and support for local services and infrastructure,” says Grossman.

Finally, visitors to Bismarck-Mandan can fall in love with these communities and move here. Tourism investment supports population growth, meaning companies can hire employees, and entrepreneurs can bring new businesses here.

“Most people are going to be a visitor before they become a resident,” says Grossman. “Visitors and residents want the same thing: safe areas, walkable communities, unique small businesses, and recreational activities. By making Bismarck-Mandan appealing to visitors, we are improving the city for residents.” 

Share Bismarck-Mandan This Summer With Future Residents 

In 2024, the CVB was able to attribute nearly 97,000 location visits to its ad campaign, with visitors stopping at restaurants, museums, local parks, and hotels because of its efforts. It plans to continue marketing Bismarck-Mandan to people within driving distance, especially to residents of South Dakota and Minnesota.

“Bismarck-Mandan has all the amenities of a larger destination without the people,” says Grossman. “It’s not as crowded, you can get where you want, and you will have great attractions, good restaurants, and diverse activities with more open space. You can go at your own pace and enjoy the community.”

Whether you are a business owner or simply a passionate neighbor, share what you love about Bismarck-Mandan. Let the CVB know about events and discover new places with the Experience Passes. You might be surprised by what you find.

Also, don’t forget to share how you Make Your Mark on the region. Your contribution is part of what makes Bismarck-Mandan a vibrant place to live.