7 Delightful Towns to Visit in South Dakota
The state of South Dakota has so much more to offer than the infamous Mount Rushmore landmark tourists flock to. It is a place where adventure and tranquility intersect. For visitors who enjoy traveling down the highways less traveled, South Dakota is full of secret spots. These seven delightful towns are more than just seven dots on South Dakota's map; they are places where guests can come and slow down the pace, soaking in the local culture with memories to cherish forever.
Deadwood
Deadwood is an offbeat town where the Old West vibes thrive. It takes guests back to another time, with well-maintained 19th-century architecture and streets that tell their own stories. The Adams Museum dives into the era of the gold rush in Deadwood, while the Days of '76 Museum celebrates the town's pioneering heritage. The historic Franklin Hotel, once graced with the presence of Teddy Roosevelt, gives a view of bygone times. At the same time, the original Deadwood Gulch is now a casino, allowing visitors to try their luck where gold prospectors once stood. A trip to the Mount Moriah Cemetery, where legends such as Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane are buried, should not be missed.
Custer
Custer is a great place to unwind. Nearby Custer State Park ranks among those not to be missed for its beauty, featuring the Wildlife Loop Road with free-roaming bison, elk, and more. In-town, the 1881 Courthouse Museum gives insight into mining history and pioneer life. A monumental tribute to Native American heritage, the Crazy Horse Memorial is located just outside of Custer, housing a museum and cultural center. Guests can get a glimpse of the Jewel Cave National Monument, the world's longest cave filled with intricate formations and guided tours. If you want to take in a little fresh air, then Sylvan Lake offers a great day of outdoor activities!
Spearfish
Spearfish is where natural beauty and cultural richness come together in perfect harmony. Large waterfalls, such as the Bridal Veil Falls and Roughlock Falls, make Spearfish Canyon a perfect place for hikes and photo shooting. D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery is one of the oldest hatcheries in the country, orientated on conservation including feeding of the fish. The High Plains Western Heritage Center brings the American West alive, though, on another note entirely, the Matthews Opera House has a showcase for local art and performance. Downtown Spearfish is alive with eclectic shops, restaurants, and the famous Spearfish Brewing Company for craft beers.
Vermillion
Home to the University of South Dakota, Vermillion is an adorable small town with an intellectual and historic city. The National Music Museum, centered on the campus, holds one of the world's finer collections of musical instruments. The W.H. Over Museum features regional history exhibits ranging from Native American artifacts to pioneer relics. The nearby Spirit Mound Historic Prairie is actually a mound believed to have been visited by Lewis and Clark and plays host to a panoramic, scenic hike. Several quaint shops and local cafes fill downtown Vermillion, as does the Vermillion Area Farmers Market and its local produce and crafts that travelers can take to-go.
Brookings
Brookings is a vibrant town that is proud of its rich cultural heritage and community bonding. South Dakota Art Museum offers regional art in all its variety; the Children's Museum of South Dakota has interactive exhibits for all ages. Downtown Brookings features local shops, cafes, and the historic Brookings County Courthouse. McCrory Gardens is a quiet 25-acre botanical garden with exceptionally pretty grounds. Meanwhile, Dakota Nature Park offers fishing, boating, and hiking. Also, the Brookings Summer Arts Festival brings in visitors with local artists and craftsmen, while the South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum depicts farming history for the state.
Yankton
Yankton is a town with a rich cultural heritage and beauty with respect to nature that travelers will deeply enjoy. It has a historic district that includes the Dakota Territorial Capitol Replica, which shows a glimpse of the early days of the state. Riverside Park, on one side of the Missouri River, is ideal for picnic spots and trails for walking. The historic Meridian Bridge has great views from its pedestrian walkway. Just a drive away, Lewis and Clark Recreation Area is an angler's dream for boating, fishing, and camping. In addition, the Mead Cultural Education Center gives insight into the history of Yankton.
Hill City
Hill City is a small town nestled right at the very heart of the Black Hills and has a really big personality. Tourists can indulge in fossils and minerals that speak to the region's prehistoric past, kept in the Black Hills Institute of Geological Research. The strong spirit of the arts is represented in different galleries such as the Jon Crane Gallery & Custom Framing. The 1880 Train takes scenic rides through the Black Hills, a great opportunity to enjoy the area's natural beauty. Unlimited hiking and biking trails as well as wildlife viewing, can be had directly outside of town in the Black Hills National Forest.
These seven towns all have something different to say about South Dakota's appeal, where history, culture, and natural beauty come together. Be it the wild spirit of Deadwood, the scenic beauty of Spearfish, or the artistic Hill, There's something in these delightfully charming destinations that will suit every taste. South Dakota is more than a place to be seen; it's a place to experience, from the rich history of each town to the memories created on each visit.
