It's a summer favorite drawing visitors from across the nation.

The musical is over and the park is snow covered.

But even in the dead of winter the historic town still has an attractive glow.

Tonight Reporter Sarah Gustin takes you to Medora.

train The snow covered streets aren't busseling

It's a common sight throughout the town

Closed for the season

outdoor music But not all business falls with the temperatures

walk in door (Doug Ellson / Medora Business Owner) "To be honest, this time of year sometimes we are open on request. We get the lights and music playing so people know we are open." It's North Dakota's most well known summer vacation destination

Medora

Even when the coldest of temperatures hit the historic town still draws a few tourists

Western Edge Books, Artwork and Music is one of only about 10 Medora businesses to keep it's doors open year round

(Doug Ellson / Medora Business Owner) "It's still a misconception that medora claoses in the winter time. Some of the businesses close. But business is still pretty vibrant all year. We still have all of our services. You can get a room, get a meal, shop." Owner Doug Ellison says about 80 percent of their business is done during the busiest part of the tourist season from Memorial Day to Labor Day. (Doug Ellson / Medora Business Owner) "If we see 5 to 10 people a day, that's a good day in the winter time." Ellison says they keep their doors open because some tourists enjoy visiting during the off season

When they can avoid the crowds and enjoy the snow covered badlands. walk out of door car drive by Finding a place to stay isn't a problem. Not many are taken

(Mike Beaudoin / Hospitality Manager Theodore Roosevelt) "Normally there is a little oil activity going on in the area right now, so there is a few rooms, not alot. 5-10 a night." The Rough Riders Hotel is to open soon

The Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation hopes this new attraction will make Medora a year round destination. (Mike Beaudoin / Hospitality Manager Theodore Roosevelt) "We will do mystery theaters and dinner theaters and wine tastings and we will do different winter get aways. Romatic getaways over Valentines Day, we are excited, really there has not been alot going on in the winter throughout the past, so really this is our first step in that direction." The Rough Riders Hotel will be ready for guests during the 2010 tourist season

In Medora for KX News I am Sarah Gustin.

Beaudoin says along with the new hotel being open they hope to have more shops stay open and plan more community events for the 2011 winter season. watch the video | save this article / add to your favorites list