Currencies

Travel Guide to South Dakota

Discover South Dakota: From the iconic Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial to the stunning Badlands and charming small towns, it's a land of history and natural beauty.

A question is required
  • Home
  • Travel Guide to South Dakota

South Dakota: The Heart of American Heritage and Natural Wonders

South Dakota is a land of breathtaking beauty and rich history. Nestled in the Midwest, this state offers a diverse array of attractions that draw tourists from around the world. From the iconic Mount Rushmore to the awe-inspiring Badlands National Park, South Dakota is a treasure trove of natural and cultural wonders. One of the most famous landmarks is Mount Rushmore, where the faces of four U.S. presidents are carved into the granite mountainside. This monumental sculpture is a must-see for any visitor and offers a glimpse into America's storied past. Nearby, you'll find the Crazy Horse Memorial, an ongoing project dedicated to the Lakota leader, which celebrates Native American culture and history. For nature lovers, the Badlands National Park and Custer State Park provide stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. The Badlands are known for their rugged terrain and striking rock formations, while Custer State Park is home to a large herd of bison and offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and crystal-clear lakes. In addition to its natural beauty, South Dakota boasts charming small towns like Deadwood, famous for its Wild West history, and the vibrant city of Sioux Falls, which offers modern amenities and cultural attractions. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors, delve into history, or enjoy some local culture, South Dakota has something for everyone.

Local Tips

  • Visit in late spring or early fall to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy milder weather.
  • Rent a car for the best experience, as many attractions are spread out across the state.
  • Don't miss the Scenic Byways, especially the Needles Highway and Iron Mountain Road, for breathtaking views.
  • Take time to learn about the Native American history and culture, especially at sites like the Crazy Horse Memorial.
  • Pack layers of clothing, as weather can change quickly, especially in the Badlands.
widget icon
Free Images : landscape, rock, wilderness, prairie, valley, mountain range, formation, cliff, usa, terrain, national park, united states, geology, plateau, wadi, north america, badlands national park, south dakota, landform, geographical feature ...
P8071002a | Badlands National Park, South Dakota, June 2011 … | Flickr
Free Images : landscape, rock, valley, monument, formation, usa, national park, united states, geology, plateau, ecosystem, wadi, butte, north america, badlands national park, south dakota, historic site, ancient history, natural environment, lakota,
Free Images : landscape, rock, valley, mountain range, formation, cliff, usa, canyon, terrain, national park, united states, geology, plateau, butte, north america, badlands national park, south dakota, landform, ancient history, geographical feature,
Free Images : landscape, rock, mountain, prairie, valley, formation, cliff, arch, usa, terrain, national park, united states, geology, plateau, wadi, butte, north america, badlands national park, south dakota, landform, natural environment, geographical
Beautiful Downtown Gettysburg, South Dakota | Gettysburg is … | Flickr
Free Images : landscape, sand, rock, mountain, desert, valley, monument, formation, usa, soil, national park, material, united states, geology, plateau, wadi, butte, north america, badlands national park, south dakota, landform, ancient history,
Free Images : landscape, nature, rock, mountain, snow, winter, cloud, black and white, ice, usa, national park, united states, clouds, mountains, badlands, sw, north america, south dakota, carol m highsmith, monochrome photography
Free Images : landscape, sand, prairie, formation, usa, landmark, national park, united states, geology, temple, ruins, wadi, north america, badlands national park, south dakota, archaeological site, unesco world heritage site, historic site,
Moonrise over the Badlands | At Badlands National Park in So… | Flickr

Top Attractions in South Dakota

  • Mount Rushmore National Memorial

    Explore the Faces of American History at Mount Rushmore National Memorial

  • Badlands National Park

    Discover the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Badlands National Park in South Dakota

  • Custer State Park

    Explore the natural wonders of Custer State Park in South Dakota

  • The World's Only Corn Palace

    Discover the colorful corn murals at the World's Only Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota.

  • Wind Cave National Park

    Discover the natural wonders of Wind Cave National Park in South Dakota

  • Crazy Horse Memorial

    Discover the monumental tribute to Native American culture at the Crazy Horse Memorial in South Dakota.

  • The Mammoth Site

    Explore the wonders of the Ice Age at The Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, South Dakota

  • Dignity of Earth and Sky

    Experience the beauty and symbolism of the Dignity of Earth and Sky in Chamberlain, South Dakota

Popular Cities in South Dakota

  • File:Mount Rushmore National Memorial ... Mount Rushmore

    Experience the grandeur of Mount Rushmore, a symbol of American heritage, set amidst the stunning landscapes of South Dakota's Black Hills.

  • Deadwood, South Dakota at Night ... Deadwood

    Experience the Wild West in Deadwood, South Dakota: a historic gold rush town with lively casinos, rich history, and outdoor adventures in the scenic Black Hills.

  • File:Sioux falls sd lg.JPG - Wikimedia ... Sioux Falls

    Discover Sioux Falls: A vibrant city where stunning waterfalls, rich history, and modern amenities come together in the heart of South Dakota.

  • Custer State Park South Dakota | Custer ... Custer

    Discover Custer, South Dakota – a historic city in the Black Hills offering charming downtown streets, awe-inspiring natural beauty, and exciting outdoor adventures.

  • File:Rapid City Skyline (2022).jpg ... Rapid City

    Discover Rapid City, the vibrant gateway to the Black Hills, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge in South Dakota's must-visit destination.

  • File:Mitchell, SD 57301, USA ... Mitchell

    Discover Mitchell, South Dakota: Home to the world-famous Corn Palace, rich history, outdoor adventures, and vibrant community events.

  • File:Pierre SD.JPG - Wikimedia Commons Pierre

    Discover Pierre, South Dakota: A blend of rich history, natural beauty, and small-town charm nestled along the Missouri River.

  • File:Watertown Commercial HD4 NRHP ... Watertown

    Discover Watertown, South Dakota: A blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, perfect for adventure and relaxation.

When is the best time to go to South Dakota?

Temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)

Top Destinations in South Dakota

  • Mount Rushmore National Memorial – Greg ... Mount Rushmore National Memorial

    Explore Mount Rushmore National Memorial: A timeless tribute to America's founding fathers, set amidst the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota.

  • Badlands National Park: 10 tips for ... Badlands National Park

    Explore the dramatic landscapes and rich heritage of Badlands National Park, a unique destination with breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and fascinating history in South Dakota.

  • in Custer State Park ... Custer State Park

    Explore the untamed beauty and rich history of Custer State Park in South Dakota, a premier destination for wildlife viewing, scenic drives, and outdoor adventures.

  • Devils Tower National Monument Tours ... Devils Tower National Monument

    Discover the awe-inspiring Devils Tower National Monument, a geological and cultural landmark in South Dakota, where nature, history, and adventure converge.

  • Wind Cave National Park | Black Hills ... Wind Cave National Park

    Discover the underground wonders and above-ground beauty of Wind Cave National Park, a unique blend of geological marvels and prairie wildlife in South Dakota.

  • Vanishing memorials and otherworldly ... Crazy Horse Memorial

    Explore the awe-inspiring Crazy Horse Memorial in South Dakota, a testament to Native American heritage and the largest mountain carving in progress.

  • Jewel Cave National Monument - Enjoy ... Jewel Cave National Monument

    Discover the subterranean wonders and natural beauty of Jewel Cave National Monument, the third longest cave in the world, nestled in South Dakota's Black Hills.

  • Palisades State Park is in South Dakota ... Palisades State Park

    Discover the rugged beauty and rich history of Palisades State Park in South Dakota, where dramatic quartzite formations and scenic trails await your exploration.

Landmarks we love in South Dakota

  • Link cloud icon Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South-dakota
  • Link cloud icon Custer State Park, South-dakota
  • Link cloud icon Bear Country USA, South-dakota
  • Link cloud icon Reptile Gardens, South-dakota
  • Link cloud icon Crazy Horse Memorial, South-dakota
  • Link cloud icon Cosmos Mystery Area, South-dakota
  • Link cloud icon Jewel Cave National Monument, South-dakota
  • Link cloud icon 1880 Train - Keystone Depot, South-dakota
  • Link cloud icon Rush Mountain Adventure Park, South-dakota
  • Link cloud icon Big Thunder Gold Mine, South-dakota
  • Link cloud icon Rushmore Tramway Adventures, South-dakota
  • Link cloud icon Norbeck Overlook, South-dakota
  • Link cloud icon Needles Eye Tunnel, South-dakota
  • Link cloud icon Rushmore Cave, South-dakota
  • Link cloud icon The National Presidential Wax Museum, South-dakota

Neighbourhoods we love in South Dakota

  • Link cloud icon Things To Do in Downtown Sioux Falls
  • Link cloud icon Things To Do in Falls Park
  • Link cloud icon Things To Do in East Bank
  • Link cloud icon Things To Do in Historic District