12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in South Dakota
- Mount Rushmore National Monument. Mount Rushmore | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane.
- Badlands National Park. Badlands National Park | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane.
- Custer State Park.
- Crazy Horse Memorial.
- Wind Cave National Park.
- Mammoth Site.
- Deadwood.
- Spearfish Canyon.
What is the most beautiful part of South Dakota?
Lined with thousand-foot canyon walls, Spearfish Canyon in the Black Hills is arguably the most scenic spot in South Dakota. In the Northern Hills, the 22-mile Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway takes in all the beauty with plenty of roadside stops along the way.
Where do you stop on the way to South Dakota?
South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary – The Best Places to Visit
- Custer State Park.
- Wind Cave National Park.
- Jewel Cave National Monument.
- Black Hills National Forest.
- Scenic Drives.
How many days do you need to see South Dakota?
Alternatively, you can also make a round trip from either Sioux Falls or Rapid City. We have given plenty of options to customize your South Dakota itinerary. We recommend at least 4 to 7 days for this road trip to enjoy the many monuments, attractions, scenic drives, and hikes.
Where else might you visit on a trip to South Dakota?
If you only have a day or two, here are the top five things we recommend:
- Mount Rushmore.
- Badlands National Park.
- Custer State Park.
- Wind Cave National Park.
- Devils Tower Day Trip.
What is the number one attraction in South Dakota?
Mount Rushmore National Monument
Mount Rushmore National Monument
This historical monument is South Dakota’s most prominent tourist attraction. Carved majestically into the side of the mountain are the heads of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt.
What is the best month to visit South Dakota?
The best time to visit South Dakota is usually from late spring to autumn, particularly from May to October. Summer is typically the peak tourist season, but late spring and autumn are generally better regarding accommodation and fewer crowds.
Is Mt Rushmore worth the trip?
Is Mount Rushmore worth it? Ultimately, yes it is. History buffs can read all the exhibits and learn about the history of Mount Rushmore and its four presidents. You’ll get to see an American landmark and check it off your travel bucket list.
What is there to see between Mount Rushmore and Sioux Falls?
Located at Exits 110 and 109 on the northwestern rim of Badlands National Park, Wall is a small town of roughly 800 residents. And yet, each year, the town is visited by thousands of visitors from all corners of the globe.
Wall
- Wall Drug Café
- Red Rock Restaurant.
- Cactus Café & Lounge.
- Badlands Saloon & Grille.
Is Sioux Falls worth visiting?
Any visitor to Sioux Falls will quickly recognize that the city has made an enormous effort to preserve its historical sites and maintain a very visitor-friendly environment. Falls Park in the downtown area provides a great glimpse at the city’s history.
How much does it cost to see Mount Rushmore?
There is no entrance fee for Mount Rushmore National Memorial. However, fees are required to park at the memorial. Parking fee is for private passenger vehicles, valid for one year from date of purchase. Parking fee for Seniors, 62 and older, is $5 and Active Duty Military parking is free.
What is the best month to visit Mount Rushmore?
The best month to visit Mount Rushmore is October for peak fall foliage but May & September are also great. Summer in Mount Rushmore brings massive crowds (especially for the 4th of July) and major heat (sometimes over 90 degrees).
Is Mount Rushmore lit up at night?
No ceremony, sculpture is illuminated nightly at sunset. No ceremony, sculpture is illuminated nightly at sunset. All times are mountain time.
Is Deadwood South Dakota worth visiting?
Located on the northern edge of the Black Hills National Forest, the city of Deadwood is defined by both its scenic surroundings and Wild West history. This combination makes for an exciting place to visit and stay awhile.
What is South Dakota best known for?
Home to Mount Rushmore and the Badlands, the state is known for tourism and agriculture.
How far apart are the Badlands and Black Hills?
The road runs about 40 miles — it’s a two-laner — and it’ll take about two hours if you stop at the overlooks (you’ll want to stop at the overlooks).
Is Hot Springs South Dakota worth visiting?
Hot Springs, SD is a great spot to experience some unique things in South Dakota. We definitely think it’s worth a 1 or 2-night stop. Be sure to step back in time with the Mammoth Site or find the magic healing powers in a hot spring.
Are the badlands close to Mt Rushmore?
Driving directly, it might take around 1.5 hours of driving time from Badlands National Park to Mount Rushmore. Although this will depend on where in Badlands National Park you are coming from. Explore the map.
What food is South Dakota known for?
The top 18 South Dakota foods
- Bison.
- Chili and Cinnamon/Caramel Rolls.
- Chislic.
- Cookies ‘n Cream Ice Cream.
- Gabubu Bread.
- Indian Tacos.
- Kolache.
- Kuchen.
Can you see Crazy Horse without paying?
Crazy Horse Memorial is only sustained by admission and private contributions. Your admission dollars support Crazy Horse Memorial’s mission to protect and preserve the culture, tradition, and living heritage of the indigenous people of North America.
What is the best month to visit the Badlands?
Due to the uptick in sightseers, the best time to visit the park is during the shoulder seasons of spring, April through June, and fall, September through November. If you find yourself in the park during the peak season of summer, be sure to hit the trails as early as possible to avoid crowds and the heat.
