The Largest Cities in South Dakota
The largest cities in South Dakota each bring their own unique personality, history, and culture to the state. They’re among my favorite places to explore in the Great Plains.
As someone who loves exploring underrated destinations, I’ve found South Dakota’s cities full of surprising character, blending small-town warmth with cultural depth, history, and access to some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. After narrowing it down, these were the standout cities I think you should visit.
1. Falls in Sioux Falls, South Dakota and Falls Park
2. Sioux Falls
Standing at Falls Park, watching water tumble over pink quartzite ledges, I thought this was a perfect idea for a quick escape. Sioux Falls, with a population of about 213,000, the largest city in South Dakota covering roughly 80 square miles, felt vibrant and confident.
I flew to Sioux Falls from Austin (round-trip deals often hover between $163 and $250, depending on the airline and stopovers) and we stayed at the 3-star La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Sioux Falls for two nights.
The Big Sioux River curved gracefully through it all, tying the old mill ruins to glass-fronted offices. I left feeling like I’d been in a place that knew how to honor its roots while chasing something new.
- Location: Southeastern South Dakota, near the Minnesota and Iowa borders
- Population size: Around 200,000 residents
- Map & Directions
My personal highlight was walking through Downtown while its streets bustled with murals, coffee shops, and the scent of fresh bread drifting from corner cafés. We had dinner at Ironwood which serves up perfectly done staaks with a view over the city!
3. Rapid City
I thought Rapid City, the second largest city in SD, was absolutely fascinating with its mix of frontier-era architecture, vibrant street art, and the dramatic backdrop of the Black Hills rising just beyond downtown. Walking through the historic core, I found wide avenues lined with restored early 20th-century buildings, bronze presidential statues at every corner, and colorful murals tucked into alleyways that brought the city’s creative side to life.
We drove about 5 hours west from Sioux Falls across the wide-open plains to Rapid City and stayed at the 3-star Hotel Alex Johnson Rapid City for two nights.
The Black Hills rose dark against the horizon before I ever reached the city. Rapid City, home to about 80,000 residents and stretching over 55 square miles, felt like an outpost at the edge of adventure that completely won me over.
I spent the afternoon browsing Native American art and handmade crafts at Prairie Edge Trading Co., enjoying a hearty dinner at Firehouse Brewing Co. (set inside the city’s original firehouse), and gazing at unique outdoor sculptures along Art Alley. While accommodations and dining in the city were generally more affordable than resort towns nearby, I did notice prices edging up around peak summer travel months.
- Location: Western South Dakota, at the edge of the Black Hills
- Population size: Around 78,000 residents
- Map & Directions
What I Loved Most: Sunset from Dinosaur Park, the city’s lights flickering below like grounded stars.
4. Aberdeen
I found Aberdeen to be a surprisingly warm and welcoming prairie city, blending Midwestern charm with creative touches that make it feel unique. One of the largest cities in South Dakota, instead of dramatic mountains or bays, the wide skies and surrounding farmland give it an open, peaceful character. The downtown has a handful of historic brick storefronts, community art pieces, and a friendly, unhurried atmosphere that makes strolling around feel very neighborly.
I drove 2 hours northeast from Pierre to Aberdeen, a friendly prairie town with a strong community vibe.
Aberdeen, with about 28,000 people spread over 16 square miles, felt both playful and serene. For two nights, I stayed at the Dakota Event Center’s connected Hampton Inn, which made a comfortable base with easy access to local attractions.
- Location: Northeastern South Dakota, about 125 miles northeast of Pierre
- Population size: Around 28,000 residents
- Map & Directions
Compared to larger cities, Aberdeen felt refreshingly affordable, with plenty of family-friendly activities.
5. Brookings
Brookings, the fourth largest city in SD, had a vibrant, youthful energy thanks to its status as a college town, yet it still held on to the easygoing warmth of a small Midwestern community. Downtown felt inviting with its historic red-brick buildings, colorful murals, and locally owned shops, all framed by the presence of South Dakota State University just a short walk away. The campus itself, with its tree-lined paths and stately architecture, added an academic charm that set Brookings apart from other prairie towns.
A simple drive up I-29 brought me right into the heart of town, where I spent the afternoon browsing local boutiques, exploring the South Dakota Art Museum, and enjoying fresh comfort food at Nick’s Hamburger Shop—a Brookings institution since 1929. Later, I wandered through the beautifully landscaped McCrory Gardens, soaking up the seasonal flowers and serene walking trails, before turning in for two nights at the Hilton Garden Inn, which provided modern comfort with a relaxed, community feel. Prices here felt very reasonable compared to larger cities, and the mix of culture, history, and youthful energy made it stand out.
- Location: Eastern South Dakota, about 55 miles north of Sioux Falls on I-29
- Population size: Around 24,000 residents
- Map & Directions
My personal highlight was strolling through McCrory Gardens, with its vibrant seasonal displays and peaceful arboretum.
6. Watertown
I found Watertown to be a delightful blend of prairie-town friendliness and surprising cultural richness. Home to about 22,000 people across 25 square miles, the city felt calm and open. Its historic downtown, with early 20th-century brick storefronts and classic Midwest streetscapes, felt welcoming and walkable. What impressed me most, though, was how the city balances small-town charm with attractions that feel big for its size—especially its thriving arts scene and lakeside setting.
A quick drive off I-29 brought me straight into town, where I spent the afternoon exploring the Redlin Art Center, which houses the breathtaking wildlife and landscape paintings of South Dakota native Terry Redlin. Later, I strolled downtown to browse antique shops.
I stayed two nights at AmericInn by Wyndham Watertown, which, while not boutique, was comfortable and had great access to both the lake and downtown. Prices felt modest here, making it an easy and affordable stop with a lot of personality.
- Location: Northeastern South Dakota, about 70 miles north of Brookings on I-29
- Population size: Around 22,000 residents
- Map & Directions
My personal highlight was h a quiet lakeside walk at Lake Kampeska.
Conclusion
From Sioux Falls’ roaring falls to Watertown’s glassy lake, South Dakota’s largest cities each offered a distinct rhythm. The numbers (from 22,000 to over 200,000 residents) told part of the story, but walking their streets, breathing their air, and tasting their flavors filled in the rest. It was a reminder that size matters less than spirit, and here, every city carried plenty of that.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
