South Dakota Travel Guide: Explore the Top Tourist Spots in the State

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South Dakota Tourist Spots
Photo by OG Productionz / South Dakota Tourist Spots

South Dakota may not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a vacation, but this Midwestern state has plenty of attractions that make it worth a visit. From the famous Mount Rushmore National Memorial to the unique Corn Palace, South Dakota offers something for everyone. The state’s natural beauty, from the striking rock formations of Badlands National Park to the scenic Spearfish Canyon, is also a draw for visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, South Dakota tourist spots that are sure to impress.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Sculptor Gutzon Borglum designed Mount Rushmore National Memorial, featuring four large sculptures of U.S. presidents carved into a granite mountainside. Completed in 1941, it has become one of the most famous tourist spots in South Dakota. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour around the base of the mountain, where they can learn about the history of the memorial and the presidents depicted on it.

They can also watch a short film about the making of the monument and explore the museum and gift shop. The surrounding Black Hills National Forest has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the memorial and the surrounding landscape.

Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park is a unique and striking landscape located in southwestern South Dakota. Bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs call the rugged canyons, towering rock formations, and grassy plains home. Visitors to the park can drive the scenic Badlands Loop Road, which offers breathtaking views of the park’s many geological formations.

Exploring the park’s hiking trails is another popular activity, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks. Ranger-led programs and educational exhibits teach visitors about the park’s geology, ecology, and history. Camping and picnicking are also popular activities in the park, with several campgrounds and picnic areas available for visitors to use. Overall, Badlands National Park is a must-see destination and one of the best tourist spots in South Dakota.

Custer State Park

Custer State Park is a scenic and diverse park located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The park features several lakes, towering granite peaks, and a large herd of free-roaming bison. Visitors can enjoy several activities such as fishing, swimming, boating, and hiking.

The park’s many hiking trails range from easy nature walks to strenuous treks up the granite peaks. Wildlife watching is also a popular activity, with opportunities to spot bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and elk. Visitors can also take a scenic drive along the park’s Wildlife Loop Road, which provides a chance to see the park’s diverse wildlife up close. In addition, the park has several campgrounds and picnic areas available for visitors to use. Custer State Park is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of South Dakota.

Crazy Horse Memorial

The Crazy Horse Memorial is a massive sculpture located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. It depicts the Oglala Lakota warrior Crazy Horse riding a horse and pointing into the distance. The sculpture, which is still under construction, is intended to honor the Native American peoples of North America.

Visitors to the memorial can learn about the history and culture of the Lakota people at the on-site Indian Museum of North America. They can also attend a Native American cultural performance, take a guided tour of the sculpture, and explore the many hiking trails in the surrounding Black Hills.

Wind Cave National Park

Wind Cave National Park is a unique underground park located in southwestern South Dakota. It features over 140 miles of explored cave passages, making it one of the longest caves in the world. Visitors to the park can take a guided tour of the cave, where they can see intricate formations such as boxwork, popcorn, and frostwork.

Above ground, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, pronghorn, and coyotes. Visitors can explore the park’s many hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding prairies and hills. In addition, the park has several campgrounds and picnic areas available for visitors to use.

The Corn Palace

The Corn Palace is a unique attraction located in Mitchell, South Dakota. It is a large building covered in murals made entirely of corn and other grains. The murals are designed and installed every year by local artists and farmers, depicting different themes and subjects.

Visitors to the Corn Palace can take a guided tour of the building and learn about the history and culture of South Dakota’s farming community. They can also attend concerts and other events that take place at the Corn Palace throughout the year.

Spearfish Canyon

Spearfish Canyon is a scenic canyon located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. It features towering cliffs, rushing waterfalls, and lush forests. Visitors to the canyon can explore the many hiking trails, which range from easy nature walks to challenging treks up the canyon walls.

In addition, the canyon is a popular spot for rock climbing, fishing, and camping. The nearby town of Spearfish offers several restaurants, shops, and accommodations for visitors to enjoy. Spearfish Canyon is a beautiful destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of South Dakota.

Jewel Cave National Monument

Jewel Cave National Monument is another stunning underground park located in southwestern South Dakota. It features over 200 miles of explored cave passages, making it the third-longest cave in the world.

Visitors to the park can take a guided tour of the cave, where they can see intricate formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, and helictites. Above ground, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, elk, and coyotes. Visitors can explore the park’s many hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding Black Hills. In addition, the park has several campgrounds and picnic areas available for visitors to use.

Wall Drug Store

Wall Drug Store is a unique attraction located in the town of Wall, South Dakota. It began as a small pharmacy in 1931, but quickly grew into a sprawling tourist destination with over 76,000 square feet of shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Visitors to Wall Drug Store can explore the many gift shops, art galleries, and museums, as well as enjoy homemade ice cream and a hot cup of coffee. They can also take a ride on the store’s famous Jackalope or pose for a photo with a life-size T-Rex.

Missouri River

The Missouri River is the longest river in North America and flows through several states, including South Dakota. It offers visitors a chance to explore the region’s natural beauty and history. Visitors can take a scenic boat tour of the river, where they can learn about the Lewis and Clark expedition and the region’s Native American history. They can also go fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, or hike along the river’s many trails. The Missouri River is a great destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and history of South Dakota.

Tourist spots in South Dakota offer a diverse range of attractions that showcase the state’s rich history and natural beauty. From the awe-inspiring Mount Rushmore National Memorial to the unique underground world of Wind Cave National Park, visitors are sure to be impressed by what South Dakota has to offer. The state’s many hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and cultural attractions make it a great destination for anyone looking for a unique vacation experience. Whether you’re planning a family trip or a solo adventure, South Dakota is a destination that should not be missed.

READ MORE HERE: 12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in South Dakota