Experience history in person at this fascinating site in North Dakota. A unique story is behind this spot, and it hasn’t changed a bit since it was officially closed down decades ago. It’s like a time capsule, and part of it is literally buried under the ground and you can see it for yourself. Check it out before it closes for the season, and you’ll be glad you did.
The Ronald Reagan Minuteman Missile Site is a historic site near Cooperstown, North Dakota that anyone can visit. It is open for regular tours from April 1st to October 31st each year, and by appointment only through the remainder.
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The site is where a missile launch facility, known as Oscar-Zero, operated during the Cold War. The purpose of it was to potentially launch missiles made to destroy incoming enemy missiles and keep the United States safe.
Library of Congress/Wikimedia
The site was decommissioned and left completely intact, except for the removal of the missiles themselves, and you can visit it today.
Library of Congress/Wikimedia
Everything has remained as-is since it closed, and is now preserved as a historic site. You can see the technology of yesteryear and get an up-close and personal look at how the base personnel lived and operated here.
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Along with the top-side command center, the tour will take you on an elevator ride down to the special launch control site deep underground.
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This launch room was made with ginormous blast doors that people are amazed to see in person, and you can, too.
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You’ll be taken to the very room where there may have been an order taken to save the country from an incoming attack. Fortunately, that never happened, but the impressive controls and special red chair are still there to visit and learn about a bit of history in the very presence of it.
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Although it closes for regular visiting on October 31st, you can still call and make an appointment to take a tour off-season. Learn more by visiting its website.
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Library of Congress/Wikimedia
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Joe W/Tripadvisor
Love history and seeing it in person? Discover more fantastic historic sites in North Dakota that would impress any history buff.
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Address: Ronald Reagan Minuteman Missile State Historic Site, 555 113th 1/2 Ave NE, Cooperstown, ND 58425, USA
