Introduction
When I first decided to visit Vermillion, South Dakota, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. Nestled atop the bluffs above the Missouri River, the town has a charming small-town feel with a smart twist—thanks to the presence of the University of South Dakota and a surprisingly rich cultural and outdoor scene. I left pleasantly surprised by how much there was to see, do, and enjoy. Whether you’re into history, nature, art, or just finding a fun way to spend the day, Vermillion won’t disappoint. Below is my curated list of 12 of the best and fun things to do in Vermillion, with a mix of indoor, outdoor, quirky, and relaxing options.
12 Best & Fun Things To Do In Vermillion, SD (2026)
1. Visit the National Music Museum
One of the first stops I made was the National Music Museum, located on the USD campus. This is no ordinary local museum—it houses an extensive collection of musical instruments from around the world and across centuries.
Wandering through the galleries was both fun and surprising: I found myself drawn in by rare stringed instruments, ancient woodwinds, and a display showing the evolution of musical technology. If you like music, history, or simply want a unique museum experience, this is a must-visit in Vermillion.
Tip: Check the museum’s hours ahead of time, and allow at least an hour to explore.
See Also: 12 Best & Fun Things To Do In Big Bear Lake, CA
2. Hike the Spirit Mound Historic Prairie
If you’re craving time in nature, the Spirit Mound Historic Prairie is a gem. Just north of town, it offers a scenic hike with big views of prairie grass and sky. It’s also historically significant — the site is known to have been visited by the Lewis & Clark expedition in 1804.
As I steadily climbed the trail, I was struck by the quiet openness of the land and the feeling of stepping into a landscape that has been much the same for generations. For best results, go on a clear day and take a bottle of water and good shoes.
Tip: Bring sunglasses and sunscreen — the prairie sun is no joke.
3. Explore the W.H. Over Museum
For a deeper dive into local history and natural heritage, the W. H. Over Museum is the oldest museum in South Dakota and well worth a stop. It features collections of artifacts, fossils, cultural and archaeological items related to the region.
I enjoyed wandering through its exhibits of pioneer life, Native American heritage, and natural history — it gave a fuller sense of Vermillion’s roots.
Tip: Ask the museum staff about any special programs or guided tours; you can often learn something unique.
4. Relax at Prentis Park & Water Park
When the weather allows, I found that spending some time at Prentis Park is a smart move. This large city park sits in Vermillion and offers multiple recreational options—including a water park (Prentis Plunge) with a lazy river, slides, a splash pad, and a disc golf course.
It’s a great way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing, especially if you’re travelling with family or want something low-stress.
Tip: If you’re visiting in summer, bring swimwear; the water park facilities are a solid option for cooling off.
5. Tasting at Valiant Vineyards Winery & Distillery
For adults looking for a relaxed, indulgent experience, the Valiant Vineyards Winery & Distillery is a superb choice. Located at 1500 W Main Street in Vermillion, it’s noted as the first commercial winery in South Dakota.
During my visit I sampled their small-batch wines and spirits, and enjoyed the warm ambiance of the tasting room. There’s also a bed & breakfast on site if you want to make it an overnight stay.
Tip: If you’re making the drive, check the hours for tastings (they may vary by day) and consider booking ahead if you’d like the B&B option.
6. Play a Round or Walk at The Bluffs Golf Course
For golfers or those who appreciate scenic walks, the The Bluffs Golf Course is a highlight. This 18-hole championship course is set on the bluffs above the Missouri River, giving striking views and a quality challenge.
While I’m not a pro, I appreciated simply strolling some of the grounds and soaking in the vistas. Whether you grab a tee time or just walk the trail portion, it adds a different flavor to your visit.
Tip: Even if you’re not golfing, ask about the walking trail (some parts are open to the public) to enjoy the bluff views without playing a full round.
7. Disc Golf, Canoeing, Hiking & More Outdoor Recreation
If you’re looking for an active outing, Vermillion offers plenty of options. There are disc golf courses at Prentis Park and Barstow Park, trails along the Vermillion River, and access to the Missouri National Recreational River for canoeing or kayaking.
I especially enjoyed the idea of combining a nature trail with a light adventure on the water — it’s a refreshing contrast to the indoor museum stops.
Tip: Check current conditions for water access and equipment rentals if needed. For disc golf, bring your own discs if you’re serious.
8. Stroll Downtown and Discover Local Shops & Art
One of my favourite low-key moments was simply walking through downtown Vermillion. The downtown area around Main Street and the campus of USD has local shops, cafés, public art, and that laid-back college town charm.
You can browse, grab a coffee, sit and people-watch, or check out a sculpture walk. It makes for a nice contrast to the bigger attractions.
Tip: Aim to spend some time in the afternoon when local shops are open, and be sure to stop for a snack or ice cream.
9. Attend a Seasonal Event or Festival
Timing your visit can add another layer of fun—Vermillion hosts a number of events and festivals throughout the year. From local music nights (“Thursdays On The Platz”) to Oktoberfest celebrations and fireworks on July 4, there’s often something happening.
I stumbled into a live-music set during my visit, which turned into an unexpected highlight.
Tip: Check the local events calendar before you go, so you can align your trip with something fun happening.
10. Visit Cotton Park & the Suspension Bridge
For something a little quieter and scenic, wander down to Cotton Park in Vermillion. There’s a suspension bridge, river views, and walking trails that feel a little off-beat in the best way.
In the early evening, I found the park to be peaceful, with nice light for photos and a sense of being tucked away from the busier main spots.
Tip: Bring your camera or phone for sunset shots along the river. It’s less crowded and often overlooked.
11. Check Out the University of South Dakota Campus
Because the University of South Dakota is in town, there’s a lively, youthful energy, and the campus offers its own attractions — architecture, galleries, sculpture walks, and more. Walking through the campus gave me a sense of the town’s broader cultural depth.
Whether or not you’re a college-town person, I’d recommend at least a stroll through the campus grounds.
Tip: Visit the library or art gallery on campus if they’re open—these spots often have free exhibits.
12. Discover Local Food & Drink Scene
Finally, all that exploring is bound to make you hungry—and Vermillion has some quality local dining and drink spots. A few Reddit users and locals mention favourites in town:
“Downtown Vermillion has several locally owned food options for evening.”
Whether you’re after a casual meal, gourmet dinner, or craft brew, take the time to find a place that’s off the highway chain.
Tip: Ask locals for “the hidden gem” of the day—small towns often have standout eateries tucked away.
Final Thoughts
Vermillion, South Dakota, may not be on every tourist radar, but that’s exactly part of its charm. There’s a mix of culture, history, outdoor fun, and relaxed small-town atmosphere that makes for a memorable visit.
Personally, my favorite moments were the unexpected ones: a quiet walk at Cotton Park at dusk, a wine tasting at Valiant Vineyards, and discovering the story behind the museum exhibits. That said, I also loved having a structured list of stops—like the National Music Museum and Spirit Mound—to anchor the trip.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway, passing through on a road trip, or looking for something different away from the “usual” tourist spots, Vermillion delivers. If you go, bring your sense of curiosity—and maybe some good walking shoes and a willingness to explore nooks that don’t always make the major guidebooks.