Top 10 Things to Do in South Dakota
Howdy folks, my name is Emily Johnson and today I want to share with you my top 10 things to do in South Dakota. Having traveled extensively throughout the state, I can say with confidence that South Dakota is a hidden gem that deserves more attention. From national parks to iconic landmarks, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful part of the USA.
Curiosities and Interesting Facts
- South Dakota is known as the Mount Rushmore State due to the iconic monument located in the Black Hills.
- The state’s largest city, Sioux Falls, is named after the Sioux tribe and the waterfalls on the Big Sioux River.
- The Badlands National Park is home to the largest protected mixed-grass prairie in the USA.
- The Crazy Horse Memorial, currently under construction, is set to be the largest mountain carving in the world.
- The Corn Palace in Mitchell is decorated annually with murals made from thousands of corn cobs.
1. Visit Mount Rushmore
Of course, no trip to South Dakota would be complete without a visit to the iconic Mount Rushmore. This massive sculpture features the faces of four US presidents – George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln – carved into the granite face of a mountain. The sight of these massive faces is truly awe-inspiring and a must-see for any visitor to the state.
Personally, I prefer visiting Mount Rushmore early in the morning or late in the evening, when the crowds are smaller and the lighting is more dramatic. I also recommend taking the Presidential Trail, which offers a closer view of the monument and some excellent photo opportunities.
2. Explore Badlands National Park
Located in southwestern South Dakota, the Badlands National Park is a stunning landscape of rugged canyons, towering spires, and colorful rock formations. This unique terrain is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bison, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, and coyotes.
I highly recommend taking a scenic drive through the park, which offers stunning views of the Badlands and plenty of opportunities to stop and explore. The park also offers a number of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging backcountry treks.
3. Visit Crazy Horse Memorial
The Crazy Horse Memorial is a massive mountain carving located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The sculpture depicts the Lakota warrior Crazy Horse riding a horse and pointing into the distance. While the monument is not yet completed, it is already an impressive sight and a testament to the skill of the sculptors who have worked on it for decades.
One of my favorite things about the Crazy Horse Memorial is the Native American Cultural Center, which offers a fascinating look at the history and culture of the Lakota people. The center features exhibits on everything from traditional clothing and crafts to contemporary issues facing Native Americans today.
4. Experience the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is an annual event held in Sturgis, South Dakota, that attracts thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts from around the world. The rally features live music, bike shows, vendor exhibits, and plenty of opportunities to ride through the beautiful Black Hills.
I had the pleasure of attending the rally a few years ago and it was an unforgettable experience. The energy and camaraderie among the riders was truly inspiring, and the scenery of the Black Hills made for some of the best riding I’ve ever done.
5. Visit Custer State Park
Custer State Park is a sprawling wilderness area located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bison, pronghorn, elk, and mountain goats. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by car, or on horseback.
One of the highlights of the park is the Needles Highway, a scenic drive that winds through narrow tunnels and past towering rock formations. The highway offers stunning views of the Black Hills and is a must-see for any visitor to the area.
6. See the Corn Palace in Mitchell
The Corn Palace in Mitchell is a unique attraction that celebrates the agricultural heritage of South Dakota. The palace is decorated annually with murals made from thousands of corn cobs, and visitors can tour the building and learn about the history of the palace and the role of corn in the state’s economy.
I visited the Corn Palace last year and was blown away by the intricate designs made from corn. It was fascinating to learn about the process of creating the murals and the cultural significance of corn in South Dakota.
7. Explore Wind Cave National Park
Wind Cave National Park is located in southwestern South Dakota and is home to one of the longest and most complex caves in the world. The cave features unique formations such as boxwork and frostwork, and visitors can take guided tours to explore the underground world.
In addition to the cave, the park offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives. I particularly enjoyed the Elk Mountain Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and plenty of opportunities to spot bison and pronghorn.
8. Visit the Mammoth Site in Hot Springs
The Mammoth Site in Hot Springs is a unique attraction that offers a glimpse into the prehistoric past of South Dakota. The site features the remains of dozens of mammoths that died in a sinkhole over 26,000 years ago.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the site and learn about the life and habits of these ancient animals. The site also features a working paleontology lab, where visitors can watch scientists at work and learn about the process of excavating and studying fossils.
9. See the Falls in Sioux Falls
The city of Sioux Falls is named after the waterfalls on the Big Sioux River, and the falls are a must-see for any visitor to the area. The falls are located in a beautiful park that offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and picnicking.
When I visited the falls, I was struck by the beauty and power of the rushing water. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of South Dakota.
10. Explore the Black Hills
Last but certainly not least, the Black Hills are a must-see destination in South Dakota. This rugged mountain range is home to some of the state’s most iconic attractions, including Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park.
But the Black Hills offer much more than just tourist attractions. The area is home to miles of hiking and biking trails, scenic drives, and plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing. It’s a great place to get off the beaten path and experience the natural beauty of South Dakota.
South Dakota is truly a hidden gem that deserves more attention.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit South Dakota?
The best time to visit South Dakota is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and most of the state’s attractions are open. However, be prepared for crowds and higher prices during this time.
What is the most popular attraction in South Dakota?
The most popular attraction in South Dakota is Mount Rushmore, followed closely by the Badlands National Park and the Crazy Horse Memorial.
What is the weather like in South Dakota?
The weather in South Dakota can be unpredictable, with hot summers and cold winters. Be prepared for all types of weather, especially if you plan to visit during the spring or fall.