For the best travel experience in South Dakota, check out our curated list of things to do in South Dakota and the best places to visit in South Dakota below. We at Wondrous Drifter, a Web 3.0 travel startup, have big plans to shake things up in the travel business.
The ultimate South Dakota vacation does not have to break the bank, if you are after world-famous landmarks and two of the world’s longest caverns, or history first-hand, or lasting family experiences.
South Dakota runs a lot if you have the time, the Mount Rushmore National Memorial among it.
The Missouri River divides the region, which sits in the Midwest.
To the west, the rocky peaks and varied landscapes stand in sharp contrast to the boundless prairies and plains to the east.
While the Black Hills and Badlands hold some of the world’s strangest natural wonders, the quaint communities of Deadwood and Wall and Sioux Falls and Rapid City are all worth working.
Native American history, heritage and culture can be worked here, as the state is named after the Lakota and Dakota Sioux.
South Dakota is a strong destination, with attractions running from museums and monuments to canyons and caverns.
Even if you have never been to South Dakota, these lists of attractions open up a whole new world and help you plan an exciting trip.
Anne Hathaway Cottage (Wessington Springs)
South Dakota is a driving state out there and the distances between all of these places run long. The Badlands hiking paths are manageable out there and the backcountry is where the effort actually starts as well. Jewel Cave is a guided walk with the crawlspaces out there, so the fitness matters underground as well. Terry Peak wants the winter gear right out there. Drive.
Visit William Shakespeare’s wife’s cottage and gardens from before they married.
Go to William Shakespeare’s wife’s gorgeous villa and gardens with the family.
Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Gardens, a thatched farmhouse, is surrounded by lush gardens filled with aromatic blooms and traditional shrubs. You may experience the magnificent grounds as Shakespeare could have.
There are many hidden treasures in the beautiful grounds for you to discover. Make your way to the cottage gardens to find fresh willow sculptures and be captivated by the Greenwood-Singing tree in spring.
Enjoy Shakespeare-inspired music on the Music Trail and stroll through a newly formed conservation border to see what kinds of butterflies live there on the Butterfly path.
The property houses Anne Hathaway’s Cottage Cafe, where you may enjoy a cream tea in a beautiful garden setting. There is also a small gift shop near the main entrance and a seasonal cafe called the Pea Shed.
Be sure to pay a visit, and you’ll surely be relaxed.
Address: 501 Alene Ave N, Wessington Springs, SD 57382, United States
Badlands National Park
Natural wonders abound in South Dakota, as are outdoor activities.
Badlands National Park is yet another of South Dakota’s stunning natural wonders.
The United States’ Badlands National Park is one of the least known in the country. One of the most picturesque landscapes in the country is built from the colorful buttes, spires and pinnacles.
It is the largest mixed-grass prairie in the United States, and bison and bighorn sheep roam it freely.
The sunrises and sunsets hold up, the hiking paths are manageable, and for those after more privacy, the backcountry runs options. What to do in Badlands National Park is listed here.
Another reason to go in the spring or fall is the migratory birds.
These creatures turn up with their young in the spring, and the fall colors of turning leaves lie strewn across canyons and ravines at that time of year.
Wind sweeps over the mostly treeless plain in the winter months. So there is no reason not to visit Badlands National Park.
Address: South Dakota, United States
As you look for travel ideas in South Dakota for your vacation, check out other cool travel destinations in the rest of the USA. Check out the top places to go in the USA in each state.
Crazy Horse Memorial
Though it might seem flashy and well-known, the world’s largest statue isn’t really that. As it turns out, Crazy Horse, a legendary and beloved Native American, has yet to have his sculpture seen by the world.
In addition to a bus tour to the base of the sculpture and an up-close view of the statue’s face from the top of the mountain, the Crazy Horse Memorial offers various other options for visitors.
If you’re going to see the sculpture from the visitor center, plan on spending a couple of hours there to examine the museum’s displays and wonder at the artwork.
An orientation film about Native American history and culture is shown to guests visiting the museums.
The memorial features a fantastic laser light show and engaging cultural programming in the evenings.
Crazy Horse Memorial is a must-see in South Dakota and is one of the state’s most unusual attractions.
Address: Crazy Horse, SD 57730, United States
Planning for a road trip to South Dakota? Do not miss out on Rapid City and Pierre. Get cool travel ideas from these 2 places at the best things to do in Rapid City and the best things to do in Pierre.
Dinosaur Park (Rapid City)
There are many free things to do in San Diego, and one of the strongest is Dinosaur Park. Since 1936, one of the first Black Hills tourist attractions has run free family entertainment.
Black Hills Dino Park sits on sandstone that rings the park.
Rapid City’s Dinosaur Park is one of the most popular attractions for children visiting the city with their families.
These life-like dinosaurs are scattered through the park and they never fail to hold children and adults alike.
An excellent way to start the trip in Rapid City. The park suits some strong family fun.
The lights illuminate everything well at night.
Plan the vacation and find the fun activities at Rapid City’s Dinosaur Park.
Address: 940 Skyline Dr, Rapid City, SD 57701, United States
Evans Plunge (Hot Spring)
Winters in South Dakota can turn harsh, so you need some inventive ways of keeping warm.
Staying in is always an option, and sometimes you want out of the house, which is when the Evans Plunge Hot Springs in South Dakota comes in handy.
Thanks to its intriguing on-site features, the Evan Plunge hot spring in the aptly named town of Hot Springs is one of the most distinctive in the United States.
But here is the thing. Despite Evans Plunge being a popular tourist site, South Dakota’s original occupants relied on the spring, which they called wiwila kata, for the water supply that sustained their communities. It means warm waters.
At Evans Plunge you find both restful and thrilling surprises, starting with pools that reach a pleasant 87 degrees.
Thrill-seekers among the group? Evans Plunge runs more than swimming pools, because the facility holds four distinct slides of differing lengths and speeds.
Address: 1145 N River St, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
When you travel to South Dakota for your vacation, remember to check out the top tourist destinations in Aberdeen and Watertown. Hop over to the best things to do in Aberdeen and the best things to do in Watertown.
Falls Park (Sioux Falls)
If you have only a short stop in Sioux Falls, Falls Park, the city’s namesake, should be the only one.
The five-story observation tower is one of the many viewing platforms available at Niagara Falls.
Some of Sioux Falls’ oldest structures stand in Falls Park.
Falls Park is known for its steady flow of water and the ruins of the ancient Queen Bee Mill, with a visitor center and a five-story observation tower next to it.
The Overlook Cafe in Falls Park runs brunch, dinner and live music on Friday nights for anybody needing refueling.
And the 19-mile Big Sioux River and Recreation Greenway runs in both directions from Falls Park, which lets this namesake site work as a pit stop on a full day in Sioux Falls.
Along with the conventional park features like playgrounds, seats and water fountains, the park holds many sculptures and historical exhibitions.
Visitors to Falls Park can also look forward to a busy farmers market every Saturday from May through October.
One of the strongest reasons to go to Falls Park is simply walking about and taking the changing scenery.
Address: 131 E Falls Park Dr, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States
Good Earth State Park (Sioux Falls)
With sites like Good Earth State Park, the things to do in South Dakota never run short.
Good Earth at Blood Run, South Dakota’s newest state park, has been designated a National Historic Landmark by the National Park Service.
Blood Run sits on the Iowa and South Dakota border, a short way south of Sioux Falls along the Big Sioux River, as a natural island in the middle of a sea of residential and commercial development.
Good Earth State Park holds a network of well-maintained hiking trails with picturesque vistas.
Nature at its best only comes from being outside and watching wildlife, a river and gorgeous scenery.
No wonder so many people take this park in South Dakota, because there is so much to see in one convenient spot.
Address: 26924 480th Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57108, United States
When in South Dakota, you have to visit Sioux Falls. Check out fun travel ideas and places to go at the best things to do in Sioux Falls.
Historic Deadwood
Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane and Seth Bullock are a handful of the Old West legends whose footsteps you can follow working the towns of Deadwood.
National Historic Landmark status was given to this 1870s gold rush community in 1961.
Concerts, casinos, museums, historic sites, spas and parades are a handful of the many Black Hills attractions here today.
Work this gold rush town, now a National Historic Landmark, and you will have a blast.
Deadwood is not like any other historic town you have visited.
Our museums and re-enactments suit the whole family, and we also run free re-enactments for anybody who cannot make it in person.
Adults do well here too. So for many interesting things to do, Deadwood is the place.
Address: 480-484 Lower Main St, Deadwood, SD 57732, United States
Ingalls Homestead (De Smet)
Ingalls Homestead in South Dakota is a strong choice for a day trip with the kids, because it is historically exciting and educational.
There are things to do here on top of all the sights.
There is plenty to keep you going, from building a jump rope and a corn cob doll to pumping water or riding a pony.
Covered wagon rides to the schoolhouse are also available for visitors.
Fans of the Little House books should not miss the chance to walk on the same soil as the Ingalls family.
And even if you have not read the books, the Ingalls Homestead is a journey back in time to see how pioneers lived during westward expansion.
Activities for children as young as two run plenty, as do outdoor areas for running and playing.
This suits all ages, because older children and adults take to the site’s history.
An excellent field trip for road schooling.
Come to Ingalls Homestead with the whole family and take the day together.
Address: 20812 Homestead Rd, De Smet, SD 57231, United States
Jewel Cave National Monument (Custer)
Want to come face to face with some of the most pristine crystal formations?
Jewel Cave, a subterranean environment worth the trip, lies beneath the Black Hills of South Dakota.
The world’s longest cave, Jewel Cave, runs more than 202 miles of excavated corridors.
Brothers passing through Hell Canyon found the cave at the turn of the century.
Even the most inquisitive of humans finds something in this underground habitat.
Color and delicate rocks show an environment you will not find elsewhere.
Visitors to the third-longest cave in the world find plenty in its natural splendor.
The park also holds a wide diversity of plants and animals and a long history of wildfires.
The National Park Service has something rare with this resource.
This exquisite cave system can be worked on a guided tour.
Jewel Cave is filled with glittering calcite crystals and delicate strands of gypsum. There are vast chambers scattered with stones, tense crawlspaces and mysterious fractures to be found here.
Address: 11149 US-16 B-12, Custer, SD 57730, United States
People think Mount Rushmore is the whole of it out there, and it is not. Jewel Cave runs more than 202 miles of corridor under the Black Hills out there instead. A thatched English cottage sits out at Wessington Springs for no obvious reason at all. And a ghost town at Okaton keeps on improving with the years.
LaFramboise Island Nature Area (Pierre)
Want to avoid the summer crowds and see something different?
Then you are in luck. South Dakota never runs short of new locations and unusual activities, the unjustly underappreciated and underrated LaFramboise Island Nature Area among them.
You will not want to miss this natural wonderland just southwest of Pierre.
You’ll find a natural outdoor paradise on this South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks-managed island, including fishing, boating, and birdwatching.
Do you enjoy going for a walk in the woods?
The picturesque La Framboise Island Loop, a 4-mile loop track suiting hikers of all ages and abilities, runs in LaFramboise Island Nature Area.
One of the paranormals? While LaFramboise Island Nature Area is undeniably beautiful, it is also rumored to be a hotspot for ghosts, which makes it a popular destination for paranormal enthusiasts.
It is time to learn more about this underappreciated location and its attractions.
Address, : LaFramboise Island Trail, Pierre, SD 57501, USA
Mount Rushmore National Monument (Keystone)
Many people visit Mount Rushmore for the massive carved portraits of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln.
And the Black Hills of South Dakota and the history and natural beauty of the region can be worked in many different ways.
The highlights include scenic roads, two distinct national parks and a handful of notable hiking routes.
Visitors can work the Mount Rushmore Audio Tour, Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center & Museum, the Presidential Trail and the Youth Exploration Area, along with the Sculptor’s Studio.
Make plans to visit Mount Rushmore so these attractions and activities do not get missed.
Address: 13000 SD-244, Keystone, SD 57751, United States
Mammoth Site (Hot Springs)
Some museums show their fossil specimens in life-like positions, and not all of them do.
At The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs, South Dakota, visitors are able to see fossils “in situ,” or where they were found, as well as an ongoing excavation site.
An indoor working excavation site and museum, this National Natural Landmark is a world-renowned tourist attraction.
The Mammoth Site sinkhole’s magnificent fossils, including hundreds of bones, attract more than 100,000 tourists each year.
You’ll also pass the gift store on your way out, where the kids may check out the Kids’ Cave and dig for bone replicas in dirt using brushes.
Explore the Nature and Geology walks at the Mammoth Site of Hot Springs to learn about the Ice Age.
Address: 1800 US-18 BYP, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
National Music Museum (Vermillion)
Longing for a day of harmony that works the ears and the mind?
The National Music Museum is one of the world’s most well-known institutions of its sort.
The National Music Museum’s collections rank among the strongest globally, with approximately 15,000 musical instruments in total.
The world’s oldest cello sits in this wonderful old building, along with the oldest harpsichord that can still be played.
One of only two remaining mandolins built by Antonio Stradivari, and one of only five guitars made by him. Violins and violas by Stradivarius and Amati are here.
Adolphe Sax, the instrument’s inventor, built more than a dozen saxophones on display in the museum.
There are trombones with many twisting tubes, and harmonicas so tiny they could sit on a postage stamp, like something out of Dr. Seuss’s books.
So make plans to see the National Music Museum’s OFF-SITE performances and movies and pop-up exhibits and rented exhibits.
Address: 414 E Clark St, Vermillion, SD 57069, United States
Okaton Ghost Town (Murdo)
There are many old and abandoned villages to visit in South Dakota, and ghost towns that improve with age?
It is not an exaggeration, but rather a South Dakota ghost town that only improves with time:
Jones County and the ghost town of Okaton sit in south-central South Dakota.
What sets Okaton apart from the many other abandoned towns? It could be the buildings and local landmarks still standing and well-preserved.
What is better? Okaton is ringed by some of the state’s most tranquil and scenic country.
Visit the ghost town of Okaton for some strong photos of an ancient railroad town that is now much more of a ghost town than it was before.
Address: Hwy. 16, Murdo, South Dakota, United State
Petrified Wood Park & Museum (Lemmon)
Although South Dakota is not known for being a strange state like Colorado or Oregon, it runs its share of oddities.
No, we are not talking about massive faces carved into the rock, though let us face it, that is quite unusual. We mean stores and museums, such as the Petrified Wood Park & Museum in South Dakota.
Lemmon, a community in South Dakota’s high reaches, is rightfully proud of its Petrified Wood Park.
The Petrified Wood Park and Museum span an entire block.
It is advertised as the world’s largest petrified wood park. It runs everything from pile sculptures to a wishing well to fountains.
Along with the park, this Lemmon destination holds an on-site museum with local antiques and relics, running Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Plan the visit and find more about the Petrified Wood Park and Museum and the community around it.
Address: 500 Main Ave, Lemmon, SD 57638, United States
Reptile Gardens (Rapid City)
Many visitors miss the opportunity to interact with animals, see stunning flowers, and learn about the natural world at this nearby destination, which is conveniently located near Mount Rushmore.
If you haven’t already, you need to make a trip to this world-famous animal park as soon as possible.
Reptile Gardens has had a long and eventful history to get to where it is now. Only at this zoo will you be able to go as near as possible to the animals.
Animal Park of South Dakota has flourished despite many challenges.
It’s possible to learn more about these species through various shows, such as snake displays, gator shows, and bird shows.
Reptile Gardens is a great place for the whole family, from thrill-seeking interactions to peaceful walks through the gardens.
Definitely a must-visit place!
Address: 8955 US-16, Rapid City, SD 57702, United States
South Dakota Air and Space Museum (Box Elder)
South Dakota is known for its many museums, monuments, and other historical attractions. But did you know that it also has several lesser-known attractions that are both interesting and free?
Look no further than the South Dakota Air and Space Museum for a really out-of-this-world adventure!
They have a wide variety of hands-on displays, on-site air and spacecraft, and a variety of special events at Ellsworth.
To honor individuals who put their lives and limbs on the line for aviation and space exploration, the museum features various exhibitions, one-of-a-kind objects, and engaging activities.
Visit the South Dakota Air and Space Museum today if you’re ready for a change of space – oops, pace!
Address: 2890 Davis Dr, Ellsworth AFB, SD 57706, United States
Terry Peak Ski Area (Lead)
Skiing down a steep and snowy hill is the strongest way to take a wintertime day.
Mount Rushmore State is not exactly known for vast slopes. Still, you can have a terrific day of skiing or snowboarding in the state thanks to attractions like the Terry Peak Ski Area.
As the top snowsports destination in South Dakota, the Terry Peak Ski Area sits in Lead.
Terry Peak is marketed as the highest chairlift service between the Rockies and the Alps, which makes it a strong spot to ski and snowboard, and an unusual one.
And Terry Peak runs a Terrain Park with a Half Pipe, jumps, rails, and a ski and snowboarding school.
Come to Terry Peak Ski Area for some of the area’s finest Black Hills skiing and snowboarding.
Address: 21120 Stewart Slope Rd, Lead, SD 57754, United States
Vermillion
South Dakota is known for its charming tiny communities. With so much to see and do, some run stronger than others. Visit this little town soon on a day trip.
In the state’s southeast corner, Little Vermillion is a hive of activity.
You’ll never run out of things to do in this city because there are many options.
A significant portion of the population is drawn to it by the presence of the University of South Dakota.
This small town carries a distinct feel because of the students.
The state’s most incredible Asian restaurant is a pleasant surprise.
So do not forget to add it to the South Dakota itinerary.
You haven’t made up your mind to go to South Dakota yet, have you? Hop over to reasons to visit South Dakota at least once in your lifetime here
Address: Vermillion South Dakota 57069, USA
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Frequently asked questions about South Dakota. #Top Attractions
How long exactly is the whole of Jewel Cave actually running under the Black Hills out there, then, really now?
More than 202 miles of excavated corridor out there, and the guided tour is the way in. Calcite crystals and delicate strands of gypsum line the chambers right through it out there. Brothers passing through Hell Canyon found the whole thing at the turn of the century. Deep.
How many of the instruments does the whole of the National Music Museum actually hold out there, then, really now?
Roughly 15,000 musical instruments in that collection out there, which ranks among the strongest globally. The world’s oldest cello sits inside there as well, along with the oldest playable harpsichord. Harmonicas small enough for a postage stamp are in there as well. Rare.
How many of the tourists does the whole of the Mammoth Site of Hot Springs actually pull each year, then?
More than 100,000 of them each year out there, and the excavation is still running. Fossils sit in situ out there, meaning exactly where they were found in the sinkhole. The Kids’ Cave lets children dig for bone replicas with brushes out there instead. Working.
Best cities to visit in South Dakota
- Our Sioux Falls, South Dakota travel guide
- Things to do in Rapid City, South Dakota
- Best of Aberdeen, South Dakota
- Pierre, South Dakota: what to do
- Our Watertown, South Dakota travel guide
- Things to do in Deadwood, South Dakota
- Keystone, South Dakota: what to do
- Best of Custer, South Dakota
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