7 Perfect Destinations for a Long Weekend in South Dakota
Still trying to figure out where to take that extra-long weekend for a well-earned break? A safe bet with the best overnight options has to be the Mount Rushmore State. South Dakota has no shortage of destination hotspots that will have you coming back for more. Before it became known for its celebrated sites, this landlocked state was home to Paleo-Indian hunter-gatherers and many other cultures, like the so-called Mound Builders, before European contact. Today, land draws many visitors, whether they are looking to visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial, explore Badlands National Park, or experience Custer State Park, South Dakota has it all. Choose one of these seven perfect destinations for a long weekend in South Dakota, and book your stay now, because there is much to experience!
Custer
An excellent go-to, Custer is a small town with a big name. Home to Custer State Park, it is not uncommon for people to drive through the famous Wildlife Loop Road and encounter bison. Start your day at the State Game Lodge, once the Summer White House for President Calvin Coolidge. From there, you can visit landmarks like the in-progress Crazy Horse Memorial. Custer is quite close to a number of Black Hills landmarks. Jewel Cave National Monument is another must-see in the area and is currently the fifth-longest cave system in the world.
Spearfish
For those who enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities, Spearfish is known for more than its fish preservation efforts at the D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery & Archives. Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway should be among your first stops if you really wish to take in the limestone cliffs and enjoy waterfalls like Bridal Veil Falls. It is also home to the Matthews Opera House & Arts Center a historic 1906 theater that hosts performances and some exhibits. There are many fine places to stay in Spearfish, like The Inn at Spearfish Creek, but there are also camping grounds for the more adventurous sorts. A local hotspot to try while you are in the neighborhood would be Crow Peak Brewing Company, which serves snacks and some highly rated craft beer.
Deadwood
A rather lively small town, contrary to what the name suggests, Deadwood is famous for its Western history and entertainment. It preserves the spirit of the Gold Rush era at the National Historic Landmark District. The Historic Downtown Deadwood is right next to the Deadwood Welcome Center. Start your journey at The Lodge at Deadwood; it has all modern amenities and a convenient location near all the local attractions. The final resting place of some famous historical figures is here. Be sure to visit Mount Moriah Cemetery, where Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane are buried. During the summer, you can also enjoy daily Old West shootout reenactments on Main Street.
Hill City
Looking for an immersive small-town base for railroads and natural history? At Hill City, you can ride the 1880 Train for a view of the Black Hills on this old steam-powered locomotive. The South Dakota State Railroad Museum gives you a clearer idea of the state’s history with railroads. Of course, you should start from the boutique Alpine Inn, a converted 1880s building, for a place to rest, but also its famous European cuisine. From there, consider stopping by Prairie Berry Winery for wine tastings and locally inspired food! Finish your stay with a visit to the Black Hills Institute of Geological Research, housing a replica of “Stan,” one of the best T. rex skeletons ever found.
Hot Springs
The aptly named Hot Springs is a town worth more than a weekend visit. Its Evans Plunge Mineral Springs offers visitors incredible, naturally warm pools fed by spring water. It is also famous for the Mammoth Site, a working paleontological dig with fossils of over 60 mammoths discovered. Once you have settled in the nostalgic Red Rock River Resort and Motel. You can head on up to Wind Cave National Park, one of the world's longest caves, just minutes away. And if that is not enough, the historic sandstone architecture district is sure to tickle one’s fancy with its distinctive 19th-century sandstone buildings.
Vermillion
A great college town (home of the University of South Dakota) with the advantage of being close to the Missouri River. There you can paddle or fish and have ease of access to boat ramps and some quiet waters. Stay at the Prairie Inn, close to all the local attractions. You can fill up at Pro’s Bar & Grill with hearty meals and their own special brews before heading out. If you enjoy a blend of history and music, then you would love to know that Vermillion is home to the National Music Museum: America's Shrine to Music & Center for Study of the History of Musical Instruments. It's on the USD campus and holds 15,000 historical instruments on display from around the world. You can also catch performances or films at the historic Coyote Twin Theatre.
De Smet
This small town is known as the “Little Town on the Prairie” and is famous for its historic sites, specifically, those that have to do with Laura Ingalls Wilder, such as her childhood home. There is an annual Laura Ingalls Wilder Pageant that recreates scenes from her famous Little House books (every summer, usually in July). You can also visit the Ingalls Homestead, where guests can camp in covered wagons. On that note, you should find a place to rest like the Prairie House Manor Bed & Breakfast, a cozy place with a Victorian-era twist. Conclude your visit with a trip to the historic Kingsbury County Courthouse, built in 1898.
Final Thoughts
South Dakota has more spots to visit than any visitor could bargain for. A trip there could cure a weary traveler of all ailments, and its restful inns are the perfect sanctuary for rejuvenation before exploring its charming little towns — so homey that one might never want to leave. If you ever have a three- or four-day weekend, it is worth getting on that road — even going up in the air — to see what Mount Rushmore State has to offer. Starting with one of these seven perfect destinations for a long weekend in South Dakota is a great idea.
