What to do in south dakota?
Updated: July 26, 2024South Dakota, a state of vast landscapes and rich history, offers an array of activities and sights for every type of traveler. From the iconic Mount Rushmore to the tranquil prairies, this state has something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or adventure seeker, South Dakota promises unforgettable experiences.
Explore Mount Rushmore National Memorial
No trip to South Dakota is complete without a visit to Mount Rushmore. This iconic monument features the 60-foot faces of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. The memorial is not just a sight to behold but also offers educational exhibits and ranger-led tours.
- Visit the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center for historical exhibits.
- Take a walk on the Presidential Trail for closer views.
- Attend the evening lighting ceremony held during the summer months.
Discover Badlands National Park
Badlands National Park is a dramatic landscape of eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires. The park is a haven for hikers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Hike the Notch Trail for stunning views of the Badlands.
- Drive the Badlands Loop Road to see the park’s main highlights.
- Look for bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs along the way.
Visit Custer State Park
Custer State Park is one of the largest state parks in the United States, offering a variety of outdoor activities and scenic beauty.
- Drive the Wildlife Loop Road to see herds of bison and other wildlife.
- Hike to the top of Black Elk Peak, the highest point east of the Rockies.
- Relax by Sylvan Lake, a picturesque spot for kayaking and swimming.
Experience Deadwood
Deadwood is a historic town that dates back to the Black Hills Gold Rush of the late 19th century. Today, it’s a vibrant destination with a mix of history, entertainment, and outdoor activities.
- Visit the Adams Museum to learn about Deadwood’s colorful past.
- Take a guided tour of the Broken Boot Gold Mine.
- Try your luck at one of Deadwood’s many casinos.
Explore Wind Cave National Park
Wind Cave National Park is home to one of the longest and most complex caves in the world. The park also features beautiful prairies and forests.
- Join a guided cave tour to explore its unique boxwork formations.
- Hike the park’s above-ground trails for a chance to see bison and elk.
- Participate in a ranger-led program to learn more about the cave’s geology.
Tour the Crazy Horse Memorial
The Crazy Horse Memorial is an ongoing project dedicated to the Lakota leader Crazy Horse. When completed, it will be the world’s largest mountain carving.
- Visit the Indian Museum of North America for a collection of Native American artifacts.
- Attend the nightly laser light show during the summer.
- Take a bus ride to the base of the mountain for a closer look.
Learn at the National Museum of Music
Located in Vermillion, the National Music Museum houses one of the world’s finest collections of musical instruments. It’s a must-visit for music lovers.
- Explore exhibits featuring instruments from various cultures and eras.
- Attend a live performance or lecture.
- Participate in hands-on activities designed for all ages.
Relax at the Black Hills
The Black Hills region is a stunning area filled with forests, mountains, and lakes. It’s perfect for those looking to unwind or embark on outdoor adventures.
- Drive the scenic Needles Highway for breathtaking views.
- Camp or stay in a cabin in one of the many state parks.
- Fish, swim, or boat in one of the region’s numerous lakes.
Visit the Corn Palace
Located in Mitchell, the Corn Palace is a unique attraction decorated with murals made entirely of corn. It’s a quirky stop that offers a glimpse into local culture.
- Tour the palace to see the intricate corn murals.
- Attend one of the many events hosted at the Corn Palace throughout the year.
- Learn about the history and significance of the Corn Palace in the region.
Explore the Missouri River
The Missouri River runs through South Dakota and offers a variety of recreational opportunities.
- Canoe or kayak along the river for a peaceful adventure.
- Fish for walleye, catfish, and other species.
- Visit the Lewis and Clark Recreation Area for camping and hiking.
Discover Native American Culture
South Dakota is home to several Native American tribes, each with a rich cultural heritage.
- Visit the Akta Lakota Museum & Cultural Center in Chamberlain.
- Attend a powwow to experience traditional music and dance.
- Learn about the history and culture of the Lakota people at the Journey Museum in Rapid City.
Travel the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway
The Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway offers some of the most beautiful drives in the state, winding through the Black Hills and past several major attractions.
- Drive through tunnels that perfectly frame Mount Rushmore.
- Navigate the hairpin turns and pigtail bridges for an exciting drive.
- Stop at scenic overlooks for panoramic views of the Black Hills.
Explore the Town of Wall and Wall Drug
Wall Drug is a famous roadside attraction that began as a simple drugstore and has grown into a sprawling complex of shops, restaurants, and amusements.
- Enjoy free ice water and 5-cent coffee.
- Browse the eclectic mix of souvenirs and gifts.
- Explore the Western art gallery and the dinosaur exhibit.
Related Questions
South Dakota is perhaps most famously known for the Mount Rushmore National Memorial. This iconic monument features the 60-foot faces of four American presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Carved into the granite face of the Black Hills, Mount Rushmore attracts over two million visitors annually. The memorial was completed between 1927 and 1941 under the direction of sculptor Gutzon Borglum.
Ask HotBot: What is south dakota known for?
South Dakota, one of the fifty states of the United States of America, is situated in the north-central part of the country. It is part of the Midwest region, which is known for its diverse landscapes ranging from rolling plains to lush forests. South Dakota lies between the 42nd and 45th parallels north latitude and between the 96th and 104th meridians west longitude.
Ask HotBot: Where is south dakota?
South Dakota, a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States, is bordered by six other states. To its north lies North Dakota, while Minnesota is situated to the east. Nebraska borders South Dakota to the south, with Iowa in the southeast. On the southwestern and western sides, South Dakota shares borders with Wyoming and Montana, respectively. The state's geographic coordinates are approximately 44.5° N latitude and 100° W longitude.
Ask HotBot: Where is south dakota on the map?
Pierre, the capital city of South Dakota, is a place rich in history and culture. Established in 1880 and named after the fur trader Pierre Chouteau, the city became the state capital in 1889 when South Dakota was admitted to the Union. With a population of approximately 14,000 people, Pierre is one of the smallest state capitals in the United States by population.
Ask HotBot: What is the capital of south dakota?