7 Most Photogenic Towns In South Dakota
South Dakota is one of the most scenic states in the Midwestern United States. Home to plenty of natural landmarks, from Mount Rushmore to the Black Hills, this state features an abode of unique landscapes. The best way to witness these sights and the abundant culture hidden within is through the small towns scattered throughout the state. Whether it is the rustic vibe of Deadwood or hiking trails near Spearfish, each is photogenic in its own respect. This article delves into seven of the most beautiful towns in South Dakota and what makes them special.
Deadwood
Deadwood is a charming town in South Dakota that revels in Old West history. The town’s beauty comes from its rustic landmarks and enthralling tales that transport visitors to the past. The Old Town area bustles in this aspect, lined with vintage shops, saloons, casinos, and eateries. Saloon No. 10 is a popular name, offering delicious steak with slot machines and mining artifacts. A short walk down the road is Adams Museum, which details the stories of this town's past. Or, for a more hands-on experience, visitors can opt for the 1878 Broken Boot Gold Mine, now offering tours with gold panning and more.
While history never ends in Deadwood, there are other ways to have fun in this town. A unique scene unfolds at the Deadwood Model Train on Main Street. This business houses miniature scenes of the town with train tracks down to the finest details, such as grass, windows, and even clouds. To see these sites yourself, head out on the nearby George S. Mickelson Trail, a quaint biking route where greenery abounds.
Custer
Home to Custer State Park, Custer is a dream destination for the outdoors. The state park spans a whopping 71,000 acres and is one of the state’s prime wildlife reserves. Visitors can roam the many trails and witness wildlife such as mule deer, elk, mountain goats, and over 1,500 bison. Furthermore, the park transforms into a colorful wonderland during autumn, with red, yellow, and brown hues all around. After roaming around, visitors can learn about the park at the Peter Norbeck Center, which boasts a wildlife diorama and gold prospecting display. For a more relaxing way to take in the sites, one can drive along the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road instead. The route starts at the visitor center, showcasing sights like Sylvan Lake and the Blue Bell Lodge for a fun time out.
After the outdoor fun, head into town to recharge. Hungry tourists can stop by one of many local eateries, such as the Buglin’ Bull Restaurant and Sports Bar, for some drinking or Pizza Mill for a hearty pizza. As night falls, book a room at Rocket Motel for an affordable stay in downtown Custer.
Spearfish
Similar to Custer, Spearfish is full of adventures in South Dakota’s wilderness. Nestled in the Black Hills region, landmarks such as the Spearfish Canyon, Devil’s Bathtub, and Bridal Veil Falls create endless opportunities. The Spearfish Canyon is best explored via its scenic byway stretching for 19 miles along U.S. Highway 14A. Spearfish Falls, Roughlock Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls are among the places one can stop for some scenic photos. Bridal Veil Falls is one of the most popular, as it cascades down jagged rocks for a whopping 60 feet. There is also an observation platform accessible via a short hike through the nearby forests. For the more adventurous, rock climbing is available on various routes in the surrounding canyon, such as Oliver Twist and The Wall of Oz.
Back on paved streets, the activities don’t stop, and Spearfish has something for everyone. History enthusiasts can stop by the High Plains Western Heritage Center Museum, which portrays the past of Old West Pioneer and Native Americans in the region. Meanwhile, families may opt for the Temesphere Gallery, which has a collection of spherical canvases floating throughout the property. End the day with some drinks at Crow Peak Brewing Company for a fine end to your South Dakota trip.
Hot Springs
As the name suggests, Hot Springs is home to a series of natural hot springs. Tourists from all over come to escape the hustle and bustle of urban cities with the relaxing water of these springs. Moccasin Springs Spa is a great place for a dip, offering a two-hour soak pass in their well-maintained springs for just $29. The spa also offers yoga, relaxation massages, and aromatherapy to ease the mind. For a more rustic experience, Evans Plunge has been around since 1890 with spring-fed pools that naturally stay at 87° F. It has two hot tubs, a sauna, a jet slide, and separate kid's pools so the whole family can have fun.
Once you are outside of the water, a new set of natural attractions awaits exploration. Those with a penchant for the mysterious can head ten miles north to Wind Cave National Park. This park is home to the densest cave system in the world, spanning 150+ miles. There are various tour options here, such as the one-hour Garden of Eden Tour, which showcases the cave formations, and the challenging Candlelight Tour, where up to ten people traverse the cave’s passages with just candlelight. On the other hand, if you aren’t one for enclosed spaces, hop over to The Mammoth Site instead. This area near Hot Springs is home to the remains of over 60 mammoths, which visitors can see and learn about in the site’s museum.
Pierre
As the capital of South Dakota, Pierre is bound to be a photogenic destination. Founded in 1880, the community exudes culture, which is palpable in the many attractions throughout the Pierre Street Historic District. The State Capitol building is one of the most famous landmarks in the region, showcasing the Renaissance Revival architecture from the early 1900s. Its marble staircase, tiled flooring, and 96-foot-high dome create an ambiance rarely found elsewhere. Further on the capitol grounds, history enthusiasts can follow the Trail of Governors, a short walking path lined with life-size bronze statues of South Dakota’s former governors.
For a more informative experience with the town’s past, many museums welcome visitors with open arms. The South Dakota National Guard Museum is ideal for military memorabilia, while the South Dakota State Historical Society Museum offers a birds-eye view into the region’s history. That said, if you are here for a natural experience, don’t fret, as La Framboise Island is here for you. Located on the Missouri River, this island offers riverside views with plenty of space for boating, biking, birdwatching, and canoeing. Before ending the day, grab a drink at Dakota Spirits Distillery, known for its friendly vibe and delicious ale.
Keystone
When most people think of South Dakota, Mount Rushmore comes to mind. If you agree, Keystone should be on your travel itinerary. Located in Pennington County, this town is nicknamed the “Home of Mount Rushmore,” providing tourists with a base to visit the landmark. The Mount Rushmore National Memorial was built in 1941 and features 60-foot-tall heads of four U.S. Presidents carved into a granite mountain face. With over two million visitors a year, the site has a visitor and information center where one can learn about the faces, their construction, and related facts. Nearby, the Presidential Trail is a 0.6-mile walking loop showcasing the monument from different angles with beautiful scenery.
Those here for some memorable photos should make the Rushmore Tramway Adventure their next stop. This adrenaline-filled locale is full of fun ways to take in the views. Its most popular attractions are the Alpine Slide, Pinnacle Zipline Tour, and Scenic Chairlift, each offering a unique experience near Mount Rushmore. For some more activities, the Rush Mountain Adventure Park is ideal, especially if you are with the family. Here, one can enjoy a roller coaster, an educational cave tour, and aerial rope programs you will surely remember. On the other hand, history lovers are also spoiled for choice with sites like the National Presidential Wax Museum and the Keystone Historical Museum.
Wall
An hour east of Keystone, Wall is a quaint community often overlooked by South Dakota visitors. The town’s name comes from the natural wall-like rock formations present in the nearby Badlands National Park. When it comes to photogenic places, this park is a perfect place to consider, with nearly 250,000 acres of rocky buttes and pinnacles. There are many ways to spend a day here, from driving the Badlands Loop Road to checking out exhibits on Lakota heritage at the White River Visitor Center. As night falls, tourists can camp at the Cedar Pass RV and campground to view the clear night sky, a rare sight in today’s urban world.
Another popular place to visit near Wall is the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site. This landmark was established in 1999 and displays the history and importance of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race. The site offers guided tours of the visitor center, launch control center, and missile silo, so it feels like a trip into the past. Continuing the rustic vibe, Wall Drug Store is a tourist stop that has been around since the mid-1900s. This store is a collection of smaller businesses, including restaurants, a drug store, a gift shop, and even an art gallery. The highlight is probably the 80-foot-tall brontosaurus sculpture, a great place to grab an iconic photo in South Dakota.
South Dakota's small towns offer a delightful mix of history, natural beauty, and unique attractions, making them perfect for travelers seeking photogenic destinations. From the Old West charm of Deadwood to the serene hot springs in Hot Springs and the iconic Mount Rushmore in Keystone, each town has its own appeal. Whether exploring scenic trails, admiring waterfalls, or immersing yourself in the state’s rich history, these seven towns showcase the best of South Dakota's charm and diversity. Plan your visit and capture unforgettable memories in these picturesque locales.
