South Dakota is full of unique activities, natural wonders
and unbelievable beauty. You can go any direction in the state and
find new experiences that lead to long-lasting memories. From the
towering pines and granite peaks of the Black Hills to the rolling
bluffs and majestic rivers of our prairies,
this is truly the land of Great Places.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
At least once in your lifetime you should stand at the foot of
Mount
Rushmore National Memorial. This granite mountain masterpiece is our
nation’s Shrine of Democracy and a testament to the American dream.
Stare America’s history in the face when you visit the four famous faces of Mount Rushmore.
Crazy Horse Memorial
Crazy Horse Memorial is a monument in the making and the world’s
largest mountain carving in progress. Blasting, on the memorial to
the great Lakota leader Crazy Horse, started in 1948 and continues
today. Visitors can see the progress and learn its story.
Black
Hills National Forest
Towering pines, granite peaks and 1.2 million acres of unbelievable
scenery make up the
Black Hills National Forest. The area has a
truly unique ecosystem of plants, granite peaks and rock
outcroppings that provide novel outdoor recreational activities and
breathtaking scenic drives.
Badlands National Park
Tucked beneath the jagged spires and colorful buttes of
Badlands
National Park lay thousands of years of history. This unique,
lunar-like landscape reveals rich fossil beds that offer visitors
outdoor adventures and stunning scenery.
National Caves
One of the largest cave systems in the world is found under the
surface of the Black Hills. Visitors can discover this vast
underground wilderness at places like
Jewel Cave National Monument and
Wind Cave National Park.
Minuteman Missile National Historic Site
During the Cold War, top secret weapons were buried beneath the prairie grasses of South Dakota. Today, these deactivated sites preserve much of the original mechanical equipment and furnishings to help tell the story of this tense time in world history.
State Parks and recreation areas showcase South Dakota's scenery, history and recreational variety. Custer State Park is home to a herd of 1,500 free-roaming bison. Each October, Western adventure reigns at Custer State Park as they gather the entire bison herd in the annual Buffalo Roundup. The event makes for a great camping adventure.
While there are many roads to travel in South Dakota, a few hold special significance for their beauty. These Scenic Byways will delight the senses and rejuvenate the most weary traveler.
From historic downtowns to unique art galleries to relaxing family resorts, there's plenty to see and do in the state of Great Faces and Great Places. Visit one of our many Travel Partners to learn more.
South Dakota's land of infinite variety is showcased in each of its four regions.
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