One of the clearest takeaways from the conversation is that Theodore Roosevelt’s story belongs here.
After experiencing profound personal loss, Roosevelt came to the Dakota Badlands and found healing, adventure and a renewed sense of purpose. That chapter of his life helped shape the leader he would become. Robbie makes the case that Medora is not just a scenic setting for this library; it is the most meaningful place to tell this story.
The library is scheduled to open on July 4, 2026, tying into America’s 250th birthday.
Robbie describes the opening as more than a ribbon-cutting. It will be part of a much larger celebration that brings national attention to Medora, the Badlands and Theodore Roosevelt’s legacy. Visitors can expect a major opening season, but the bigger goal is long-term: to make the library a lasting destination that draws people back again and again.
This won’t be a traditional museum experience.
Robbie says the team wants the library to feel immersive, active and memorable, something that sparks curiosity for adults and kids alike.
One example he shared is a dramatic River of Doubt experience that will let visitors step into one of the lesser-known stories from Roosevelt’s life. The larger goal is to create a place where people don’t just read about history; they feel connected to it.
The library’s design is also a big part of the story.
Selected through a national design competition, the building was created by Snøhetta to fit into the Badlands rather than compete with them. Robbie describes it as a structure that is deeply connected to the landscape and worthy of a visit on its own.
A few standout features:
Sustainability is one of the most ambitious elements of the project.
The library is pursuing the Living Building Challenge, with goals of:
Robbie explains that the team wanted to build the kind of presidential library Theodore Roosevelt himself would be proud of, one that reflects conservation not just in its exhibits, but in how the building actually operates.
The conversation also highlights the library’s Native Plant Project, which is focused on restoring indigenous plants across the site and helping improve the surrounding landscape. It’s one more way the project is designed to give something back to the Badlands.
Robbie encourages travelers to think bigger than a single stop.
The library will be a major draw, but he says the best Medora experience includes time for the full area, whether that means exploring Theodore Roosevelt National Park, seeing local attractions, supporting local businesses, or simply getting outside.
His biggest tips:
He also notes that the days immediately surrounding the July 4 opening will be especially busy, so travelers looking for a more relaxed visit may want to plan for later in the season.
Explore more episodes of the Discover Medora Podcast for local stories, travel inspiration and expert insight for Medora and the surrounding Badlands.