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If you’re planning a road trip through the United States, South Dakota should definitely be on your list of places to visit. South Dakota is home to some of the most unique and interesting roadside attractions in the country. Whether you’re interested in kitschy Americana, natural wonders, or historical landmarks, South Dakota has something for everyone.
One of the most famous roadside attractions in South Dakota is Wall Drug. This quirky destination has been a must-see stop for travelers since 1931. Located in the small town of Wall, the drug store turned tourist trap offers everything from free ice water to cowboy boots.
Other popular roadside attractions in South Dakota include the World’s Only Corn Palace in Mitchell, the Petrified Wood Park in Lemmon, and the Cosmos Mystery Area in Rapid City.
No matter where you travel in South Dakota, you’re sure to come across something interesting and unique. From giant prairie dogs to presidential monuments, this state is full of surprises. So why not hit the open road and explore all that South Dakota has to offer?
Historical Overview of South Dakota’s Roadside Attractions
South Dakota’s roadside attractions have been a draw for tourists for many years. The state is home to some of the most iconic and unique roadside attractions in the country, including Wall Drug, the Corn Palace, and the World’s Only Corn Palace. These attractions have become symbols of South Dakota and have helped to put the state on the map as a destination for travelers.
Many of South Dakota’s roadside attractions were established in the early 20th century as a way to attract travelers to the state. At the time, the state was largely rural and lacked the infrastructure needed to support a thriving tourism industry. Roadside attractions provided a way for travelers to break up long drives and experience something unique and memorable.
Over the years, South Dakota’s roadside attractions have evolved and adapted to changing times. Some have closed down or fallen into disrepair, while others have been renovated and updated to appeal to modern travelers. Today, South Dakota’s roadside attractions continue to draw visitors from all over the world, and they remain an important part of the state’s tourism industry.
If you’re planning a trip to South Dakota, be sure to include some of the state’s iconic roadside attractions on your itinerary. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or just want to experience something unique and memorable, South Dakota’s roadside attractions have something to offer everyone.
Mount Rushmore
History
Mount Rushmore is a National Memorial located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The memorial features the faces of four great American Presidents – George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. The idea of carving the faces of these presidents into the granite cliffs of the Black Hills was conceived by South Dakota historian Doane Robinson in the early 1920s. The sculptor Gutzon Borglum was hired to bring the project to life.
The construction of Mount Rushmore began in 1927 and took 14 years to complete. The faces of the four presidents were carved into the granite cliffs using dynamite, jackhammers, and chisels. The memorial was finally completed in 1941, and it has since become one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States.
Visitor Information
Mount Rushmore is open year-round, and admission to the memorial is free. However, there is a parking fee of $10 per vehicle. The memorial is open daily from 5:00 am to 11:00 pm. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late evening when the crowds are smaller.
There are several things to do at Mount Rushmore, including a visit to the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center, which features exhibits about the history of the memorial and the sculptor Gutzon Borglum. You can also take a guided tour of the memorial or hike one of the many trails in the area.
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Mount Rushmore, you can attend the Evening Lighting Ceremony, which takes place every night from May through September. During the ceremony, the faces of the four presidents are illuminated against the night sky, and a park ranger provides a history of the memorial.
Crazy Horse Memorial
History
Crazy Horse Memorial is a mountain monument located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, USA. It is a tribute to the Lakota leader Crazy Horse, who was a prominent figure in the Native American resistance against the US government. The monument depicts an 87-foot-tall face of Crazy Horse, which is the largest mountain carving in the world.
The idea of creating the monument was first proposed by Lakota Chief Henry Standing Bear in 1939. Sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski was chosen to create the monument, and he began work on it in 1948. The project is still ongoing and is being carried on by his family after his death in 1982.
The monument is a non-profit project and is funded entirely by private donations. No government funding has been used in its construction. The monument is still under construction and is expected to take several more decades to complete.
Visitor Information
The Crazy Horse Memorial is open year-round, and visitors can access the site via a shuttle bus service from the parking lot. The admission fee includes a visit to the Indian Museum of North America, which houses a large collection of Native American artifacts.
There are several events held at the monument throughout the year, including a laser light show during the summer months. Visitors can also take part in guided tours of the monument and the surrounding area.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 12151 Avenue of the Chiefs, Crazy Horse, SD 57730 |
| Admission fee | $12 per adult, $6 per child (ages 6-12) |
| Shuttle bus service | Available from the parking lot |
| Hours | Open daily from 7 am to 9 pm during the summer months, and 8 am to 5 pm during the winter months |
| Guided tours | Available for an additional fee |
| Events | Laser light show during the summer months |
If you’re planning a trip to South Dakota, the Crazy Horse Memorial is definitely worth a visit. It’s a unique and impressive monument that offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the Native American people.
Wall Drug Store
If you’re taking a road trip through South Dakota, you won’t want to miss Wall Drug Store. This iconic roadside attraction has been drawing visitors since the 1930s, when it first started offering free ice water to travelers passing through the small town of Wall. Today, Wall Drug is a sprawling complex of shops, restaurants, and attractions that covers an entire city block.
History
The story of Wall Drug Store begins in 1931, when Ted Hustead and his wife Dorothy bought a small pharmacy in the town of Wall. Business was slow, and they were struggling to make ends meet. One hot summer day, Dorothy had the idea to put up signs offering free ice water to the many travelers passing through on their way to Mount Rushmore. The signs worked, and soon the pharmacy was busy with tourists stopping in for a drink and a rest.
Over the years, the Husteads continued to add new attractions to their store, including a Western art gallery, a souvenir shop, and a restaurant. They also invested heavily in advertising, putting up billboards on highways across the country. Today, Wall Drug is one of the most famous roadside attractions in the world, with visitors coming from all over to experience its unique blend of kitsch, history, and Americana.
Attractions
There’s no shortage of things to see and do at Wall Drug Store. Here are just a few of the highlights.
Western art: The store’s Western art gallery features paintings, sculptures, and other works by some of the best-known artists of the American West.
Souvenirs: From T-shirts to shot glasses, Wall Drug has a wide selection of souvenirs to help you remember your visit.
Restaurant: The store’s restaurant serves up classic American fare like burgers, fries, and milkshakes.
Play area: Kids will love the store’s one-of-a-kind play area, which includes a giant jackalope and a life-size animatronic T-Rex.
Photo ops: Wall Drug is full of quirky, Instagram-worthy photo ops, from the giant cowboy boots to the iconic Wall Drug sign.
Whether you’re a history buff, a kitsch enthusiast, or just looking for a fun stop on your road trip, Wall Drug Store is sure to delight.
Corn Palace
Located in downtown Mitchell, South Dakota, the Corn Palace is one of the state’s most iconic roadside attractions. This unique building has been attracting visitors for over 120 years and is a must-see for anyone traveling through the area.
History
The Corn Palace was originally built in 1892 as a way to showcase the area’s agricultural heritage. The building was designed to be a place where farmers could display their crops and products, and it quickly became a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Over the years, the Corn Palace has undergone several renovations, with the most recent one taking place in 2015. Today, the building features murals made entirely of corn, showcasing everything from historical events to popular tourist attractions.
Events
In addition to being a popular tourist attraction, the Corn Palace is also a venue for a variety of events throughout the year.
Corn Palace Festival: Held every August, this festival features live music, food vendors, and carnival rides.
Corn Palace Stampede Rodeo: This annual event is held in July and features some of the best cowboys and cowgirls from around the country.
Corn Palace Classic Basketball Tournament: This high school basketball tournament takes place every December and features some of the best teams from South Dakota and neighboring states.
Whether you’re interested in history, agriculture, or just looking for a fun day out, the Corn Palace is definitely worth a visit. So, next time you’re in South Dakota, be sure to add this unique attraction to your list of must-see destinations.
Badlands National Park
If you’re looking for a unique and breathtaking experience, Badlands National Park is a must-visit roadside attraction in South Dakota. This park is home to a stunning landscape of rugged rock formations, deep canyons, and sweeping prairies.
Wildlife
One of the highlights of Badlands National Park is the chance to see a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. Bison, bighorn sheep, pronghorns, prairie dogs, and black-footed ferrets are just a few of the species that call this park home. Keep your eyes peeled as you drive through the park or hike one of the many trails, and you might just spot one of these incredible animals.
Hiking Trails
Badlands National Park is also a hiker’s paradise, with trails ranging from easy nature walks to challenging multi-day hikes. Some of the most popular trails include the Notch Trail, which takes you through a narrow canyon and up a steep ladder to a breathtaking overlook, and the Castle Trail, a 10-mile round trip that offers stunning views of the park’s unique landscape.
No matter which trail you choose, be sure to bring plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes, and be prepared for the weather. The park can be hot and dry in the summer and cold and windy in the winter, so check the forecast before you go and dress accordingly.
Overall, Badlands National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through South Dakota. With its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife, it’s a unique and unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss.
Custer State Park
South Dakota’s Custer State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique and memorable experience. With its rugged hills, grasslands, and stunning natural scenery, this park is a great place to explore the great outdoors. Here are some of the top activities and camping options available in Custer State Park.
Activities
Custer State Park offers a wide variety of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the top things to do in the park.
Scenic Drives: Take a drive along the park’s Wildlife Loop Road, which is famous for its stunning views of bison, pronghorn, mule deer, elk, coyote, and prairie dogs. The Needles Highway is another popular drive that takes you through some of the park’s most beautiful scenery.
Hiking: Custer State Park has a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. The Sunday Gulch Trail is a popular option that takes you through a scenic canyon with waterfalls and pools.
Wildlife Viewing: With nearly 1,300 bison roaming the park’s 71,000 acres, Custer State Park is a great place to see these majestic animals up close. The park is also home to pronghorn antelope, elk, mountain goats, and a band of burros.
Fishing: Custer State Park has several lakes and streams that are stocked with trout and other fish. Fishing licenses are required and can be purchased at the park’s visitor center.
Camping
Custer State Park has several camping options available, from primitive tent sites to full-service RV sites. Here are some of the top camping options in the park:
Sylvan Lake Campground: This campground is located near the park’s iconic Sylvan Lake and offers both tent and RV sites. Amenities include showers, laundry facilities, and a camp store.
Game Lodge Campground: This campground is located near the park’s historic Game Lodge and offers both tent and RV sites. Amenities include showers, laundry facilities, and a camp store.
Stockade Lake North Campground: This campground is located near Stockade Lake and offers both tent and RV sites. Amenities include showers and a camp store.
No matter what your interests are, Custer State Park has something for everyone. So pack your bags and head to South Dakota for an unforgettable adventure in the great outdoors!
Minuteman Missile National Historic Site
The Minuteman Missile National Historic Site is a must-visit attraction in South Dakota. It is a unique destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the Cold War era and the role that the Minuteman II system played in the United States’ nuclear deterrence.
History
The Minuteman Missile National Historic Site is located in western South Dakota and is home to the Delta-01 Launch Control Facility. This facility once controlled ten nuclear missiles of Delta Flight and was an integral part of the Minuteman II system. The Minuteman II system was a nuclear missile system that was developed during the Cold War era to deter the Soviet Union from attacking the United States.
Tours
The Minuteman Missile National Historic Site offers visitors an opportunity to explore the Delta-01 Launch Control Facility and other sites that played a crucial role in the Minuteman II system. Guided tours of the facility are offered daily, and advanced reservations are required. The tours provide visitors with an opportunity to see the control room, the missile silo, and the living quarters of the crew that operated the facility.
In addition to the guided tours, the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site also offers virtual tours for visitors who are unable to visit the site in person. The virtual tours provide a detailed look at the Delta-01 Launch Control Facility and other sites that played a crucial role in the Minuteman II system.
The Minuteman Missile National Historic Site is an excellent destination for anyone who is interested in the history of the Cold War era and the role that the Minuteman II system played in the United States’ nuclear deterrence.
Final Thoughts
South Dakota is a state that is full of unique and interesting roadside attractions that are definitely worth a visit. From the iconic Wall Drug to the world’s only Corn Palace, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a fun and kitschy experience, South Dakota’s roadside attractions are sure to satisfy.
One of the best things about South Dakota’s roadside attractions is that many of them are located along Interstate 90, making it easy to plan a road trip and see multiple attractions in one trip. In addition, many of these attractions are free or have a low admission fee, making them accessible to everyone.
If you are planning a trip to South Dakota, be sure to include some of these roadside attractions in your itinerary. Don’t forget to bring your camera and capture some memories of your unique experiences.
South Dakota’s roadside attractions are a testament to the state’s rich history and culture. They showcase the unique and quirky spirit of the state and offer visitors a glimpse into what makes South Dakota so special. So, hit the road and explore all that South Dakota has to offer!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unique and quirky sights to see in South Dakota?
South Dakota is home to many unique and quirky roadside attractions that are worth a visit. Some of the most popular ones include the World’s Only Corn Palace in Mitchell, Wall Drug Store in Wall, and the giant Jackalope statue in Douglas.
You can also check out the 60-foot-tall Dignity statue overlooking the Missouri River near Chamberlain or visit the Porter Sculpture Park near Montrose, which features over 50 welded metal sculptures.
What are some lesser-known roadside attractions along I-90?
If you’re driving along I-90, there are several lesser-known roadside attractions that are worth a stop. In Mitchell, you can visit the Corn Palace Museum to learn about the history of the Corn Palace and see some of the past murals. Near Wall, you can check out the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, which features a missile silo and launch control facility.
And in Chamberlain, you can visit the South Dakota Hall of Fame, which celebrates the achievements of South Dakotans in various fields.
What are some hidden gems to explore in South Dakota?
South Dakota is full of hidden gems that are off the beaten path. If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider visiting the Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, where you can see the remains of over 60 mammoths. Another hidden gem is the Terry Redlin Art Center in Watertown, which features the work of the late artist Terry Redlin.
And if you’re in the Black Hills, be sure to check out the Black Hills Institute of Geological Research in Hill City, which has an impressive collection of dinosaur fossils.
What are some of the weirdest roadside attractions in South Dakota?
South Dakota is known for its quirky roadside attractions, and some of the weirdest ones include the giant pheasant statue in Huron, the giant fiberglass cow in Newell, and the giant ball of twine in Darwin. You can also visit the Jolly Green Giant statue in Blue Earth, Minnesota, which is just across the border from South Dakota.
What are some popular tourist attractions in South Dakota?
South Dakota is home to several popular tourist attractions, including Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Badlands National Park, and Custer State Park. You can also visit the Crazy Horse Memorial, which is still under construction but already impressive in size. And in Sioux Falls, you can check out Falls Park, which features a beautiful waterfall and walking trails.
What are some family-friendly attractions to visit in South Dakota?
South Dakota has plenty of family-friendly attractions to keep everyone entertained. Kids will love the Reptile Gardens in Rapid City, which features hundreds of reptiles and a bird show. You can also visit Storybook Island in Rapid City, which has over 100 storybook-themed exhibits.
And if you’re in the Black Hills, be sure to check out the Cosmos Mystery Area near Rapid City, which features optical illusions and other mind-bending experiences.
