THINGS TO DO IN SOUTH DAKOTA

Discover Events, Entertainment, and Stay Options in South Dakota

South Dakota is a state known for its iconic landmarks, rich Native American heritage, and stunning natural landscapes. From the majestic Black Hills to the open prairies of the Great Plains, South Dakota offers a mix of historical attractions, outdoor adventures, and unique cultural experiences. Whether you’re visiting Mount Rushmore, exploring the Badlands, or attending the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, this page highlights the best things to do throughout South Dakota.

Find the Best Places to Eat and Drink

South Dakota’s food scene is rooted in hearty Midwestern flavors, Native American influences, and ranch-style dining. The state is known for buffalo burgers, chislic (seasoned cubed meat), and fry bread. Sioux Falls and Rapid City feature steakhouses, farm-to-table restaurants, and craft breweries offering locally sourced ingredients. Visitors can also explore prairie-style diners, casual barbecue joints, and historic saloons in towns like Deadwood and Custer. South Dakota’s wineries and distilleries, especially in the Black Hills region, provide a unique taste of locally crafted spirits and wines.

Hotels, Resorts, and Unique Stays

South Dakota offers a variety of modern hotels, rustic lodges, and unique vacation rentals. Sioux Falls and Rapid City provide boutique hotels and contemporary accommodations near shopping and nightlife. The Black Hills and Badlands region offers cabin rentals, cozy bed-and-breakfasts, and scenic lodges with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Visitors looking for a Western experience can stay at dude ranches, historic inns, or campgrounds near state parks for a true South Dakota adventure.

Social and Cultural Hotspots

South Dakota has a vibrant arts, music, and Western culture scene. Deadwood, a historic gold rush town, is filled with casinos, saloons, and Old West reenactments. Rapid City’s Art Alley and downtown districts showcase local art, live music, and cultural festivals. The state is also home to Native American powwows, rodeos, and Western-style celebrations, including the Black Hills Powwow and the Days of ’76 Rodeo in Deadwood.

Historical and Local Landmarks

South Dakota is rich in Native American and frontier history. The state’s most famous landmark, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, features the carved faces of four U.S. presidents. Crazy Horse Memorial, a tribute to Native American leader Crazy Horse, is one of the largest ongoing sculptures in the world. Badlands National Park offers dramatic rock formations and fossil beds dating back millions of years. Visitors can also explore the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, which provides insight into the Cold War era, and the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, detailing the famous expedition through the region.

Things to Do in South Dakota

South Dakota offers scenic outdoor adventures, historic tours, and exciting annual events. Visitors can hike through Custer State Park, drive along the Needles Highway, or go wildlife spotting for bison and prairie dogs. The state hosts major events like the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, the South Dakota State Fair, and the Buffalo Roundup in Custer State Park. Adventure seekers can explore Jewel Cave National Monument, one of the longest cave systems in the world, or take a scenic boat tour through the Missouri River bluffs. Whether you’re looking for history, outdoor adventure, or cultural experiences, this page provides everything you need to explore South Dakota.