A wealth of history and culture, encompassing Native American heritage and the antics of the Wild West.
Mesmerising natural vistas, including the Black Hills, Badlands, and the mighty Missouri River.
A bounty of outdoor pursuits, such as hiking, camping, and fishing fit for any adventurer.
National and state parks aplenty, including the Badlands National Park and the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
Geological marvels galore, such as the Crazy Horse Memorial and the Wind Cave – the latter of which is quite a breath of fresh air!
The Wind Cave National Park is a treasure trove for caving enthusiasts, located in the picturesque Black Hills of South Dakota near Hot Springs and Custer. Established in 1903 to safeguard the extensive and intricate Wind Cave system, it boasts rare and breathtaking formations, such as box work, which resembles a delicate honeycomb, and frostwork, delicate needle-like crystals that resemble frost.
South Dakota is also home to world-class museums, including the South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center and the Journey Museum.
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is a much-anticipated annual gathering, attracting motorbike enthusiasts from far and wide.
And finally, the Buffalo Roundup – an annual shindig where thousands of buffalo are rounded up and herded through the magnificent Custer State Park. It’s a sight to behold!
For winter sports enthusiasts, the state offers a number of options for skiing and snowboarding, including the Terry Peak Ski Area and the Great Bear Recreation Park.
A truly unique attraction, the Corn Palace, boasts magnificent murals crafted entirely from corn, providing a colorful and fascinating spectacle.
Meanwhile, the Black Hills Passion Play is an outdoor theatrical production that brings to life the story of the life of Jesus Christ, making for a moving and spiritual experience.
The Dakota Dome, a magnificent indoor arena, plays host to a variety of events, including concerts, sporting fixtures, and performances.
The South Dakota State Fair is a yearly highlight, attracting crowds with its musical performances, rodeo shows, and agricultural competitions.
For those looking to explore the state with ease, the Rapid City Regional Airport provides a convenient gateway to South Dakota’s key tourist destinations.
For those seeking a world-class education, the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, a highly-regarded public university, is not to be missed.
The South Dakota Science and Technology Park is a research hub that is home to a number of cutting-edge tech companies and start-ups.
Last but not least, the South Dakota Art Museum is a treasure trove of works by regional and national artists, showcasing the creative talents of the region.
The South Dakota Symphony Orchestra provides melodious classical musical experiences year-round, so you can serenade your ears and soothe your soul.
The South Dakota Shakespeare Festival is a theatrical delight that presents the works of the bard in an al fresco setting, so you can enjoy a bit of culture in the great outdoors.
The South Dakota Festival of Books is an annual gathering that brings together authors and readers from far and wide, giving bibliophiles the chance to indulge in their passion.
The South Dakota Film Festival is a showcase of the finest independent films from across the globe, so you can indulge in a bit of celluloid magic.
The South Dakota Humanities Council is a bastion of cultural excellence, supporting programs and events that bring the arts to life.
The South Dakota Archaeological Research Center delves into the state’s prehistoric past, unearthing fascinating insights into cultures long gone.
The South Dakota Governor’s Residence is a historic mansion that’s open to the public for tours, so you can step back in time and soak up the state’s rich heritage.
The South Dakota Historical Society is the guardian of the state’s history, preserving and interpreting its rich heritage for future generations.
The South Dakota Discovery Center is a science museum with a difference, featuring interactive exhibits that bring the wonders of science to life in a fun and engaging way.
The South Dakota Hall of Fame pays homage to the state’s notable and illustrious figures from history.
The South Dakota Heritage Center presents an illuminating account of the state’s rich past through its fascinating exhibitions and educational programs.
The Badlands Loop Road offers a breathtaking drive through the spectacular Badlands.
The Black Hills Playhouse provides scintillating live theater performances throughout the summer season.
The Badlands Pinnacles are an adventure-seekers’ paradise, perfect for scaling to new heights during rock climbing expeditions.
Deadwood, an historic town located in the majestic Black Hills of South Dakota, is famous for its rich gold-mining heritage and infamous past as a lawless frontier town in the late 19th century.
The Minuteman Missile National Historic Site provides a fascinating glimpse into the era of the Cold War.
The Black Hills Caverns are a must-visit for those seeking underground adventure, offering the opportunity to explore magnificent caves.
Sylvan Lake, a breathtaking glacial lake located in the heart of Custer State Park in the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota, is renowned for its crystal-clear blue waters and picturesque surroundings, surrounded by towering granite cliffs and verdant pine forests.
The Needles Highway is a picturesque roadway located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Known for its unusual rock formations, nicknamed “the needles”, these towering and narrow spires of rock rise majestically from the surrounding terrain. The highway, which spans a mere 14 miles between the quaint towns of Custer and Hill City, is part of the charming Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway, which takes visitors on a delightful loop through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Black Hills.
The Mammoth Site is a singular paleontological location in the quaint town of Hot Springs, South Dakota. It all began as an amateur fossil hunt in 1974, where a sinkhole was uncovered and has since been excavated to reveal the remains of over 60 mammoths, as well as other Ice Age creatures such as bison, camels and even giant ground sloths!
Wall Drug is a legendary tourist hot spot located in the small but mighty town of Wall, South Dakota. Starting life as a humble drugstore that opened its doors in 1931, Wall Drug has since grown into a sprawling complex of shops, eateries and attractions, drawing over 2 million visitors every year!
Jewel Cave National Monument is a rather important U.S. National Monument located in the picturesque Black Hills of South Dakota, near the charming town of Custer. Established in 1908 to protect the Jewel Cave, which is one of the world’s longest and most intricate cave systems, this monument is famous for its unique and stunning formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, and helictites. These beautiful formations are created by the mineral-rich water’s gentle dripping.
Spearfish Canyon is a charming canyon in the Black Hills of South Dakota, near the town of Spearfish. With its beautiful and rugged terrain, characterized by towering limestone cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests, it is no wonder the canyon is a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, fishing, and sightseeing.
The George S. Mickelson Trail is a leisurely 109-mile recreational trail located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Named after the former governor of the state, George S. Mickelson, who was instrumental in its creation, the trail is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, and snowmobiling.
Bear Country USA is a drive-through wildlife park in the bustling city of Rapid City, South Dakota. It is the perfect place to observe and learn about North American bears and other delightful creatures. With its resident black bears, grizzly bears, bison, elk, mountain lions, wolves and many more, the park is sure to be a hit with visitors of all ages!
Sioux Falls, located in the state’s southeastern region, is the largest city in South Dakota and is renowned for its gorgeous waterfalls, which give the city its name. It is a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Falls Park is a public park in the lovely city of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, centered around the city’s magnificent waterfall, the Sioux Falls. This park is a popular destination for visitors to the town and offers a plethora of activities and attractions for all ages. The main attraction, of course, is the falls themselves, a series of cascading waterfalls on the Big Sioux River, sure to take your breath away!
The River Greenway is a picturesque path that runs along the Big Sioux River in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, offering visitors a delightful way to immerse themselves in the area’s natural beauty. The trail provides all sorts of recreational opportunities, ensuring there’s something for everyone!
The SculptureWalk is a jolly outdoor exhibit of sculptures located in downtown Sioux Falls, South Dakota. With over 50 sculptures from artists around the world, the exhibit is a feast for the eyes and adds a touch of culture to the bustling city. The sculptures are on display year-round and can be viewed by one and all, completely gratis!
The Arc of Dreams is a public sculpture in downtown Sioux Falls, South Dakota, designed by the talented South Dakota artist, Dale Lamphere. Completed in 2019, the statue is a 400-foot-long steel arch over the Big Sioux River, and is considered one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
The Old Courthouse Museum is a quaint historical museum located in downtown Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Housed in the former Minnehaha County Courthouse, a charming and historic building dating back to 1901, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history of the region, including the history of Sioux Falls and South Dakota.
The Pettigrew Home and Museum is a stately historic house museum located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Built in 1883 for the prominent businessman, politician, and physician, Dr. Richard Pettigrew, the home is a testament to his significant role in developing Sioux Falls and South Dakota.
The Butterfly House & Aquarium is a charming attraction in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, home to a variety of fluttery creatures such as butterflies, birds, fish, reptiles, and amphibians. The main attraction, the Butterfly House, is a tropical greenhouse filled with hundreds of live butterflies from all over the world, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to see different species, colors, and patterns and learn about their life cycles and habitats.
