1. Overview of South Dakota – Discover the must-see attractions in South Dakota, from majestic national parks to the iconic Mount Rushmore.
2. Top Attractions – Explore the highlights of this beautiful state, including Badlands National Park and wildlife in Custer State Park.
3. Unforgettable Experiences – Experience buffalo safaris, scenic drives, and the historic town of Deadwood.
There are many things to do in South Dakota that surprised us! These South Dakota attractions will tempt even the most jaded of travelers. From the Badlands to Mount Rushmore, it’s a well-rounded vacation destination or a great spot for exploring the United States.
If we were blown away by all of the cool things to see in South Dakota, we know you will be too.
What to Do in South Dakota
Did you know that South Dakota is home to one of America’s greatest monuments? Moreover, the landscape offers much more than just prairies and farmland. It’s a shame it doesn’t receive more recognition. We’ve visited more famous destinations that have a lot less to offer.
However, I have a feeling that this is about to change. Once you see all there is to do and explore, I hope you are tempted to visit South Dakota too!
South Dakota Attractions Route
Click for the interactive map here.
Starting from flying into Rapid City, we took a road trip around South Dakota to explore all the historic monuments and amazing landscapes.
1. Mount Rushmore National Historic Site
Have you ever wondered where exactly Mount Rushmore is located? The monument, dedicated to four American presidents, stands as a crown jewel among South Dakota attractions. It is just as impressive in real life as it is in the movies.
The vision was to create a sculpture that would draw tourists to the Black Hills of South Dakota, which was achieved through the likenesses of four pivotal American presidents. Construction began in 1927, and by 1941 it has been captivating millions of visitors annually ever since. Find out more about Mount Rushmore here.
- Plan your visit at Mount Rushmore National Park Service
2. Badlands National Park
Having previously visited Alberta’s badlands, we were mesmerized by its beauty. Therefore, we eagerly anticipated visiting the South Dakota Badlands after hearing that they were outstanding.
Our day began with an early 4:00 am wake-up call to reach the badlands in time for sunrise. This early rising was tremendously rewarding for spectacular photographs. The rest of the day was spent cruising the loop road, experiencing the park from varying perspectives. There are easy pull-offs and hiking spots throughout, so be sure to take your time and explore. Discover more in Badlands National Park Hikes and Things to Do.
- Don’t miss stopping for a bite at Wall Drug – America’s Favorite Roadside Attraction.
- Recommended Badlands stay: Circle View Guest Ranch
3. Buffalo at Custer State Park
At Custer State Park, you can embark on a buffalo safari to witness these magnificent creatures up close. This is truly a sight to behold in South Dakota. As the sun set, we climbed into our safari jeeps, searching for a herd, and within minutes, we were surrounded by majestic buffalo. (For more adventures, read about the Best Things to Do in Custer State Park).
Approximately 1500 free-roaming buffalo (more accurately named bison) inhabit the park. You can navigate the loop on your own, but the safari jeeps provide an off-road experience for a closer look.
- Learn more about the Buffalo State Park Jeep Tour.
4. Needles Highway
The Needles Highway, located within Custer State Park, offers a breathtaking drive. Established in 1922, it was designed to be one of America’s scenic routes, navigating directly through the enormous granite spires. Spanning 14 miles, take your time to stop at each lookout and absorb the stunning mountain vistas and rocky outcrops.
5. Wild Mustangs
Who doesn’t love horses? Personally, I adore witnessing horses roam free. They were born to run, and The Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary offers them just that.
Situated on 11,000 acres, the sanctuary is home to 600 mustangs, alongside other horses living in freedom. Many have been rescued from unfortunate circumstances and now enjoy their lives in peace and happiness. Consider taking a bus tour through the sanctuary, where you can meet the horses face to face.
- Visit the Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary for details on how to visit.
6. Crazy Horse Memorial
Did you know that South Dakota features another famous face carved into its landscapes? Construction on Crazy Horse began in 1947, and it is not expected to finish anytime soon.
The Lakota people sought a monument to honor their heroes, and Crazy Horse was among them. He stood as one of the last leaders to acquiesce to American expansion. Despite having no intention of moving to the reservations, he recognized that his people’s survival depended on their compliance.
Thus, he negotiated a peace treaty, but unfortunately, he was betrayed. The monument’s prolonged completion is in part due to sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski’s promise to the Lakota community that no government funding would be utilized.
Consequently, it has largely relied on public funding for decades, with his children and grandchildren now managing the project. Learn more about the history at the Crazy Horse Memorial.
7. Deadwood
Although it may seem like a kitschy gambling town, visiting Deadwood is undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable activities in South Dakota. Here, you can visit the burial sites of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane, gaining insight into what life was like in the Old West.
This historic town is rich with tales from the gold rush era. It was once truly the Wild West, a lawless area filled with gunslingers, fortune seekers, and gamblers. Wild Bill met his end here while playing poker, and numerous historical reenactments take place in the streets each evening.
8. Spearfish Canyon
If you thought South Dakota was all prairies and farmland, think again. Numerous parks dot the state, with Spearfish Canyon standing out among them. Expect breathtaking waterfalls and towering limestone cliffs, providing a stunning scenic drive.
Make sure to step out of the car and engage in one of the many hiking trails. Our highlight was hiking up to Community Cave, which offered a bird’s-eye view of the park.
9. Wind Cave National Park
Take a guided tour through Wind Cave with a knowledgeable park ranger to discover one of the world’s largest karst cave systems. What sets Wind Cave apart is that it features boxwork formations, which are exceedingly rare globally. Outside the cave, you’ll also encounter bison, elk, and rolling hills.
10. Mammoth Site
While we’ve visited dinosaur provincial parks and seen many dinosaur bones, touring an actual mammoth site is an entirely different experience. Archaeological digs are ongoing, and you can choose either guided or self-guided options through this active dig site.
South Dakota’s offerings surprised and delighted us. Ranging from outdoor adventures to national historic sites, this state is a treasure trove of rugged beauty, striking landscapes, quirky encounters, and abundant wildlife. If you’re planning a trip to America’s west, ensure South Dakota tops your list.
