7 Old-World Towns To Visit In South Dakota

From the moment visitors step into South Dakota’s small towns, they will feel as though time rewinds, transporting them to an era of pioneer explorations, western saloons, and gold rushes. While Mount Rushmore often steals the spotlight, the hidden gems in these towns offer an experience just as rich in history. Looking to escape the modern world and immerse yourself in another time? These seven towns will transport visitors so completely that they might just forget which century they are in.

Deadwood

Although centuries have passed since the Wild West era, Deadwood continues to preserve its stories through saloons, Wild West reenactments, and a historic 1880s railway. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy Wild West reenactments for free, including shootouts, historic stagecoach tours, and the Trial of Jack McCall, a stage play reenacting the trial following the murder of Wild Bill.

Set in the Black Hills, the best way to explore the surrounding area's beauty is aboard the 1880 Train, a historic railway that dates back to South Dakota’s mining and pioneer days. The round-trip journey lasts approximately two hours. The town also offers a variety of unique historical tours that stand apart from the typical experience. The Candlelight Tours at the Broken Boot Gold Mine, running seasonally, is the perfect example, immersing visitors in the dark undergrounds of one of the region’s most historic mines. The tour also includes a gold panning lesson!

Spearfish

Spearfish preserves a lot of its history through art, with murals, architecture, and museums. A number of colorful murals are scattered throughout town, with the “Layers of Spearfish”, “The American Dipper” and the “Shaping the World” mural being just a few to keep an eye out for. The Matthew Opera House & Arts Center, first opened in 1906, showcases beautiful architecture from the period while also allowing guests to watch a play, film, or live music performance.

The Passion Play Museum, showcasing 70 years of Black Hills Fine Arts, and the Termesphere Gallery, featuring intricately painted spheres by artist Dick Termes, are both fascinating stops for art and history enthusiasts alike.

Vermillion

Vermillion’s historic district is unique. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features over 90 spots to explore, including art galleries, theaters, fine dining, pubs, and more. Annual festivals typically take place in the historic district as well, including the Valiant Winery & Distillery Winter Holiday Bazaar on November 23rd and the W. H. Over Museum Annual Christmas Festival on December 8.

Visitors also must stop by the Austin-Whittemore House, constructed in 1881 following a disastrous flood in Vermillion, today filled with Victorian-era furniture. The W.H. Over Museum is a must-visit for those interested in viewing a Lewis & Clark display, as well as artifacts, photographs, clothing, and firearms from Vermillion’s early days and pre-reservation period.

Keystone

Although Keystone is most commonly known for its proximity to Mount Rushmore, there is a lot more to the town to explore. The Crazy Horse Memorial is just a half-hour drive from town, a monument that has been under construction since 1948, made of pegmatite granite and showcasing the region’s Native American culture. After visiting Crazy Horse, visitors can stroll along Keystone’s boardwalk, learning about the town’s past as a mining town and appreciating the historic storefronts and buildings.

Following a day of walking and exploring, hungry visitors can head to Fort Hays Chuckwagon for a chuckwagon-style dinner, complete with a Branson-style show, storytelling, and cowboy entertainment—all set in a historic supply depot.

Pierre

Pierre was selected as South Dakota’s state capital in 1889, the same year it achieved statehood. Despite it being the state capital, it remains a rather small town, with just under 14,000 residents. Despite the small population, the city is filled with historic and cultural landmarks in an attempt to preserve the region’s history, the South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center being one example, where visitors can appreciate exhibits that encapsulate South Dakota’s past. The Verendrye Museum is also worth a visit, showcasing pioneer relics, including a lead tablet once used to claim French territory that would later become part of the Louisiana Purchase.

Well-preserved historic landmarks in Pierre include the Oahe Chapel, which dates back to 1877, and the Fort Pierre Chouteau, which was the largest trading post along the northern Mississippi River during the 19th century.

Madison

While Madison is best known for its state parks—Lake Herman, Lake Madison, and the Gerry Maloney Nature Area—it also boasts several historical highlights that are true hidden gems. Prairie Village is a prime example, as a living history museum consisting of forty historic and restored buildings, agricultural displays, a sawmill, steam tractors, and an operating railroad. The train runs for special events, so keep an eye on Prairie Village’s calendar! There is also a campsite on the grounds for those who want to extend their visit and fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.

The Smith-Zimmermann Museum is another way to feel immersed in the past. It features four-period rooms, including an 18th-century bedroom, a parlor with Victorian furnishings, a dining room setting, and a 1920s-style kitchen. To catch a play or live performance, the Dakota Prairie Playhouse and Conference Center, located on the Dakota State University campus, hosts periodic performances.

Watertown

60 buildings in Watertown’s historic district are listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, some of the highlights including the M.L. St. Railroad Depot and Codington County Courthouse. The Codington County Heritage Museum is another site, housed in the former Carnegie Library Building, showcasing various exhibits that dive into the county’s past.

To explore Watertown’s artistic heritage, visitors can admire works by local artist Sandy Ellyson at the Century Gallery, featuring a range of art from watercolor and floral to abstract paintings. Dempsey's Brewery Pub & Restaurant is the perfect way to end the day, unwinding with a craft beer at the state’s second-oldest brewery. They also offer scratch-made traditional cream soda and root beer!

Final Thoughts

Although South Dakota was one of the later states to join the Union, its history—both before and after statehood—is rich and captivating, filled with stories of pioneering and expansion. Much of this history is preserved in the state’s small towns, where historic buildings, museums, and art bring the past to life. If you are looking for a way to experience the American West’s enduring legacy, these towns offer a glimpse into the past like no other.