From granite peaks to wide-open prairies, South Dakota is full of awe-inspiring stops and timeless stories. While exploring South Dakota, I discovered places filled with rugged badlands, historic frontier towns, and sacred peaks—each one offering a striking blend of natural wonder, Wild West lore, and serene prairie charm. "These places in South Dakota highlight the state’s most iconic and underrated destinations for every kind of traveler."
Highlights:
Unique Places to Visit in South Dakota:
1. Sioux Falls
Rating: ★★★★★
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Location:
Sioux Falls, SDHighlights:
Whether you're chasing waterfalls, skiing powder, or soaking in local art, Sioux Falls has something for every kind of traveler. This South Dakota gem mixes outdoor fun, culture, and history into one approachable city getaway.Recommended For:
Families, couples, history buffs, outdoor lovers, and weekend explorers looking for a well-rounded Midwest escape.What I Love: ♥
Peaceful parks, scenic falls in the heart of downtown, year-round recreation options, and rich cultural stops like the Washington Pavilion and the Pettigrew Home.- Visit Falls Park to see the iconic Big Sioux River waterfalls, hike or bike over 19 miles of scenic trails, and snap postcard-worthy views.
- Relax in Terrace Park or hit the slopes in winter at Great Bear Recreational Park.
- Step back in time at the Pettigrew Home and Museum or learn about naval history at the USS South Dakota Battleship Museum.
- Experience culture and the arts at the Washington Pavilion, home to visual art galleries, science exhibits, and performances by the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra.
- Take the kids to the Great Plains Zoo for fun animal encounters and family-friendly entertainment.
2. Badlands National Park
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Location:
Badlands National Park, SDHighlights:
Ready for a landscape straight out of another world? Badlands National Park is a surreal mix of jagged peaks, fossil beds, and wildlife encounters that blend natural wonder with deep-time geology and family-friendly adventure.Recommended For:
Hikers, families, fossil enthusiasts, campers, stargazers, and wildlife lovers eager to explore South Dakota’s most dramatic terrain.What I Love: ♥
The otherworldly rock formations, the chance to see bison and prairie dogs roaming free, and the perfect mix of trails, education, and wild outdoor fun for all ages.- Explore rugged beauty and fossil-rich terrain on foot—hiking is the park’s main activity, with trails for every level.
- Visit the Ben Reifel Visitor Center to grab maps, learn from exhibits, and get the kids involved with fun interactive displays.
- Venture into backcountry trails once roamed by saber-toothed cats—today you’ll spot bison, prairie dogs, and bighorn sheep instead.
- Enroll the kids in the Junior Ranger Program for hands-on learning in conservation and nature.
- Camp under a blanket of stars—campgrounds let families wake up in the heart of the Badlands and enjoy incredible stargazing after dark.
- Smile at the adorable antics of prairie dogs—get a preview in this video from the park.
3. Mount Rushmore National Monument
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Location:
Keystone, SDHighlights:
Few landmarks capture the spirit of America like Mount Rushmore National Monument, where the faces of four U.S. presidents are carved into the granite of the Black Hills. It’s a powerful symbol of national identity—and a must-see for anyone traveling through South Dakota.Recommended For:
History lovers, families, photographers, patriotic travelers, and anyone visiting the Black Hills region.What I Love: ♥
The scale of the sculpture, the stories behind its creation, and the educational experiences available through ranger programs and exhibits at the monument.- See the iconic 60-foot-high granite sculptures of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln—visited by over 3 million people annually.
- Learn about the creation and legacy of the monument at the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center, where you can watch a short film and explore engaging exhibits.
- Visit the Sculptor’s Studio to see original tools and models used during the mountain's carving.
- Walk the Presidential Trail for up-close views and unique photo ops from below the monument.
- Join a ranger-led program to hear stories of the monument, learn about Native American history in the region, and get insider insights you won’t find in guidebooks.
4. Rapid City
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Location:
Rapid City, SDHighlights:
Known as the Gateway to the Black Hills, Rapid City is the perfect base for exploring iconic South Dakota landmarks like Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park. But don’t rush out too quickly—the city itself is packed with art, history, and family-friendly fun.Recommended For:
Families, culture lovers, road-trippers, and anyone looking for a charming, activity-filled city nestled near world-famous natural attractions.What I Love: ♥
The mix of public art, presidential history, kid-friendly parks, and creative cultural centers—plus how easy it is to explore both downtown and the nearby national treasures.- Start your visit with the narrated City View Trolley Tour for a fun overview of town highlights and history.
- Stroll through downtown’s City of Presidents, where life-size bronze statues of U.S. presidents line the sidewalks near Main Street Square.
- Discover a rich local art scene at the Dahl Arts Center, APEX Gallery, and the ever-changing graffiti-covered Art Alley.
- Bring the kids to Storybook Island, splash pads, water parks, and Dinosaur Park—or learn together at the interactive Journey Museum.
- Explore the Black Hills and beyond—Rapid City makes the perfect hub for visiting South Dakota’s most iconic national parks and monuments.
Romantic Places to Visit in South Dakota:
5. Aberdeen
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Location:
Aberdeen, SDHighlights:
Looking for small-town charm with big family fun? Aberdeen combines Midwestern hospitality with whimsical parks, historic sites, and nature-filled escapes—making it a surprisingly delightful destination in northeastern South Dakota.Recommended For:
Families, history buffs, nature lovers, and travelers exploring South Dakota beyond the usual routes.What I Love: ♥
Storybook Land magic, unique historical gems like the WWII Pheasant Canteen, and miles of outdoor trails that make this charming town both entertaining and enriching.- Play at Wylie Park, home to Storybook Land and the Land of Oz, where classic children’s tales come to life.
- Cool off at the Aberdeen Aquatic Center with thrilling slides, splash zones, and pools for all ages.
- Step back in time in the Hagerty and Lloyd Historic District and Highlands Historic District, or explore fascinating exhibits at the Dacotah Prairie Museum.
- Visit the Red Cross Pheasant Canteen, a one-of-a-kind World War II landmark honoring Aberdeen’s wartime hospitality.
- Wander through the Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge or hike and bike over 20 miles of scenic trails around town.
6. Pierre
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Location:
Pierre, SDHighlights:
As the state capital born from the 1880s gold rush, Pierre offers a mix of frontier history, riverside outdoor adventure, and family-friendly attractions. It’s one of the smallest U.S. capitals by population, but big on charm and legacy.Recommended For:
History enthusiasts, families, nature lovers, and travelers tracing the story of South Dakota.What I Love: ♥
The classic State Capitol building, engaging museums, scenic riverfront parks, and a peaceful, uncrowded vibe perfect for relaxed exploration.- Visit the South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center to discover how Pierre’s gold rush roots led to its status as the state capital.
- Tour the elegant State Capitol and nearby Upper Pierre Historic District for a glimpse into South Dakota’s political and architectural past.
- Honor the state’s heroes at the Flaming Fountain Memorial and the National Guard Museum.
- Explore LaFramboise Island or fish and picnic at Oahe Dam, where you’ll find miles of serene trails and waterfront beauty.
- Take the kids to the South Dakota Discovery Center and Aquarium for hands-on science fun, animal encounters, and aquatic exhibits.
7. Mitchell
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Location:
Mitchell, SDHighlights:
If you're looking for something truly one-of-a-kind, make your way to The Corn Palace in Mitchell—a uniquely American tribute to agriculture, art, and community spirit. This colorful attraction is only the beginning of what this small South Dakota city has to offer.Recommended For:
Families, roadside attraction fans, history lovers, and anyone with a taste for the quirky and offbeat.What I Love: ♥
The ever-changing corn murals at the Corn Palace, fascinating museums, and a downtown full of small-town charm—plus outdoor spots to unwind after a day of exploring.- Marvel at the world’s only Corn Palace, a working arena and cultural icon decorated with new corn-themed art each year to honor local farmers and artists.
- Explore the region’s history at the Dakota Discovery Museum, McGovern Legacy Museum, and the Prehistoric Indian Village—a site showing corn cultivation dating back 1,100 years.
- Stroll along Historic Main Street for boutique shopping, galleries, and casual dining with friendly, local vibes.
- Relax outdoors at Hitchcock Park, where you can swim, picnic, or take a peaceful walk through the greenery.
Address:
Mitchell, South Dakota8. Deadwood
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Location:
Deadwood, SDHighlights:
Step into the saloon-swinging, gold-rush glory days of the Wild West in Deadwood, where history, legend, and entertainment collide. This former lawless mining town is now a treasure trove of reenactments, gold panning, and outdoor fun that’s anything but “dead.”Recommended For:
History buffs, families, gamblers, and anyone fascinated by the rough-and-tumble stories of the American West.What I Love: ♥
The immersive historic experiences, the chance to try your hand at gold panning, vibrant casino action, and trail-filled hills for year-round outdoor fun.- Travel back to the 1870s as you wander restored buildings and watch live Shoot Outs on Main Street with characters like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane.
- Pan for gold at the Broken Boot Gold Mine and feel the thrill of prospecting just like the early settlers.
- Try your luck at authentic Wild West casinos—Deadwood is one of the few places in South Dakota where gaming is legal and part of the experience.
- Get outdoors on trails for hiking, biking, and in winter, snowshoeing and snowmobiling through the Black Hills’ dramatic terrain.
- Soak up the local lore with museums, walking tours, and ghost stories that bring the town’s colorful past to life.
Family-friendly Places to Visit in South Dakota:
9. Yankton
© Yankton
Location:
Yankton, SDHighlights:
Set along the scenic banks of the Missouri River, Yankton blends rich history with outdoor adventure and small-town hospitality. Whether you’re strolling downtown, paddling the river, or touring historic sites, Yankton offers a relaxing and culturally vibrant getaway.Recommended For:
History lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, couples on weekend getaways, and anyone looking for an authentic riverfront South Dakota experience.What I Love: ♥
The charm of the historic downtown, riverside recreation, wine tastings, and the blend of old and new that makes this small town feel full of life.- Wander through Historic Downtown Yankton for a mix of restored architecture, galleries, boutiques, and modern restaurants with a local twist.
- Tour historic homes on a self-guided walking or driving tour—maps are available at the Visitor’s Center for easy exploration.
- Walk or bike across the Meridian Bridge, a 1924 double-deck drawbridge with views of the Missouri River.
- Visit the Dakota Territorial Museum, sip at local wineries, or enjoy a concert under the stars at the Riverpark Amphitheatre.
- Paddle the Missouri River by kayak, canoe, or sailboat—or explore miles of hiking and biking trails that wrap around the city and waterfront.
Address:
Yankton, South Dakota10. Custer State Park
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Location:
Custer, SDHighlights:
Covering 71,000 acres in the heart of the Black Hills, Custer State Park is South Dakota’s crown jewel for outdoor adventure, wildlife viewing, and rugged Western beauty. With bison herds, scenic drives, and trails in every direction, it’s a dream destination for nature lovers of all ages.Recommended For:
Campers, hikers, wildlife watchers, families, photographers, and anyone planning a Black Hills road trip.What I Love: ♥
The bison herds roaming freely, the mix of rugged landscapes and serene lakes, and the endless outdoor activities that keep you exploring from sunup to sundown.- Explore 71,000 acres of stunning South Dakota wilderness with granite peaks, prairie valleys, pine forests, and lakes.
- Visit the Peter Norbeck Visitor’s Center to learn about the park’s history and plan your perfect day.
- Walk along French Creek, where gold was first discovered in 1874, kicking off the Black Hills Gold Rush.
- Drive the Wildlife Loop Road for a chance to see the famous 1,300-strong bison herd, as well as pronghorn antelope, elk, and burros.
- Get active with miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding—plus trout fishing on clear alpine lakes.
- Camp under the stars at one of the park’s scenic campgrounds, ideal for families, couples, or solo adventurers.
Address:
Custer State Park, South DakotaPlan Your Trip