Roosevelt's log cabin
1 / 10

Maltese Cross Cabin

4.8
·38 reviews·Medora, United States

A historic log cabin where President Theodore Roosevelt lived as a cowboy, offering a glimpse into his frontier life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Anytime during visitor center hours

Easy access, no crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Roosevelt's log cabin

Maltese Cross Cabin

Best Time

Anytime during visitor center hours

Easy access, no crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic log cabin where President Theodore Roosevelt lived as a cowboy, offering a glimpse into his frontier life.

4.8
(38 reviews)

"A cool piece of history offering an accurate depiction of how things were back in the olden days."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Plexiglass Views

Plexiglass protects the cabin, but can make photos tricky. Try different angles to minimize glare.

⏱️ Quick History Stop

Perfect for a brief, impactful history lesson. Great for kids who might have short attention spans.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.8 · 38 reviews

Type

Museum

👶 Good for kids🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Theodore Roosevelt's Cowboy Life

Theodore Roosevelt's Cowboy Life

Behind TRNP Visitor Center, Medora

Step back in time to see how President Theodore Roosevelt lived as a cowboy in this furnished log cabin.

Historical Significance

Historical Significance

Behind TRNP Visitor Center, Medora

A tangible piece of history, offering insight into Roosevelt's early life and conservationist roots.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Cabin's Journey & Location

The Maltese Cross Cabin has been moved multiple times and is now located behind the TRNP Visitor Center in Medora. While not its original site, it offers a tangible connection to Theodore Roosevelt's cowboy days.

Quick Visit, Big Impact

This historic cabin is a compact but significant stop. Plan for a brief visit, perhaps 5-10 minutes, to appreciate its historical context and furnishings.

Best Times

When
Anytime during visitor center hours
Why
Easy access, no crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Quick trip to Medora, North Dokata. 📍Chateau de Morès State Historic Site 📍Maltese Cross Cabin #filipinoteacherinusa #medora #northdakota
@jcpagawisan
11 likes • 342 views

📸 Plexiglass Views

Plexiglass protects the cabin, but can make photos tricky. Try different angles to minimize glare. Reddit

⏱️ Quick History Stop

Perfect for a brief, impactful history lesson. Great for kids who might have short attention spans. Reddit

One of my favorite parts of the museum was the replica of Theodore Roosevelt’s Maltese Cross cabin. Teddy was ahead of his time in many ways, especially in recognizing the importance of conservation and it was fun imaging his life when he visited his cabin. We have visited Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota and it was fun to compare the replica at the museum to the “original”. Tedd...
suitcaseandamap
185 likes • 479 views
reddit.com

Those who don't like Medora, where in ND would you rather go?

I like medora but always wished I had made it to the original location of Theodore Roosevelt's ranch cabin in between the north and south unit. That being said I have heard that it is remote and difficult to access so you need to be prepared. I would recommend the north unit and…

📍 Visitor Center Location

Find the cabin behind the TRNP Visitor Center in Medora. Easy to combine with other park activities. Reddit

reddit.com

How did AI do for planning this road trip through the Dakotas? What would you change?

My prompt was to plan a road trip for about 2 weeks from Chicago to the Dakotas for a family of four with 2 adventurous boys (7/10) hitting as many National and State Parks as possible. This is what it gave me: **Week 1: South Dakota - Badlands & Black Hills…

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Plexiglass Views

Plexiglass protects the cabin, but can make photos tricky. Try different angles to minimize glare. Reddit

⏱️ Quick History Stop

Perfect for a brief, impactful history lesson. Great for kids who might have short attention spans. Reddit

📍 Visitor Center Location

Find the cabin behind the TRNP Visitor Center in Medora. Easy to combine with other park activities. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(38 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Maltese Cross Cabin a worthwhile and quick stop, offering a tangible glimpse into Theodore Roosevelt's cowboy days. While its moved location and protective plexiglass can be minor drawbacks, its historical significance and furnished interior are consistently praised.

"The Maltese Cabin is located behind the TRNP Visitor Center in Medora. The cabin has been moved many times and is not in its original location. However, it is fun to see the small cabin where Roosevelt lived for a short time."

Dawn J

"Did you know that Roosevelt considered himself a cowboy? You can see how he lived this lifestyle by visiting his cabin. This cabin is located behind the visitors center and gives you an accurate depiction of how things were back in the olden days as it is fully furnished. It has an interesting history and is totally worth the 5 minutes it would take you to explore it."

Joss

"The Maltese Cross Cabin is one of the things you have to see at the park. I is a well done presentation and informative. Visiting can really bring the Roosevelt story to life. I stop every time I am here."

Charles Bennett

What People Like

Insight into cowboy life
Historical significance
Furnished interior

What People Dislike

Moved location
Plexiglass glare

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Maltese Cross Cabin is conveniently located behind the Theodore Roosevelt National Park Visitor Center in Medora, North Dakota. It's easily accessible by car and a short walk from the visitor center parking area. Reddit

Yes, the Maltese Cross Cabin is a significant historical site within Theodore Roosevelt National Park, offering a glimpse into the former president's life. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, no separate ticket is required to view the Maltese Cross Cabin, as it's part of the national park grounds. Standard park entrance fees may apply for Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Reddit

The cabin is typically accessible during the operating hours of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park Visitor Center. It's best to check the official park website for the most current hours. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The cabin is fully furnished, providing an authentic look at how Theodore Roosevelt lived during his time as a rancher. You can see his living quarters and imagine his daily life. Reddit

Ranger talks or guided tours may be available, especially during peak season. It's advisable to inquire at the Visitor Center upon arrival for the schedule. Reddit

Photography is usually permitted, but the cabin is protected by plexiglass, which can make capturing clear photos challenging due to glare. Reddit

A visit to the Maltese Cross Cabin is typically brief, often taking around 5-10 minutes to explore and appreciate its historical significance. Reddit

You may also like

Maltese Cross Cabin (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide