34 Best & Fun Things To Do In South Dakota

34 Best & Fun Things To Do In South Dakota

 

You’re probably seeking for things to do in South Dakota if you came across this post.

Some of the most amazing natural beauties may be found in South Dakota, one of the most picturesque midwestern states.

Travelers have countless possibilities to see some of the most breathtaking sights in the nation thanks to the hundreds of wonderful parks.

Among the many natural beauties you will experience in South Dakota are national monuments, landmarks, historical encounters, caverns, waterfalls, parks, gardens, and much more.

South Dakota offers a wealth of culture, excitement, and entertainment in addition to its breathtaking natural surroundings.

Theaters, museums, aquariums, amusement parks, waterparks, and more are available if you need a respite from all of the outdoor activities.

Basically, there are a ton of incredible places to see in South Dakota, whether you’re just traveling through the state or making it a vacation destination.

1. Falls Park

Falls Park in Sioux Falls is one of many awesome things to do in South Dakota.

The falls are beautiful. They cover almost 130 acres and send water about 8,000 gallons per second 100 feet into the Sioux River.

There is no wrong way to see the waterfalls because they can be seen from both viewing areas and an observation tower.

There are also tour groups and other cool ways to see the falls, such as the “Phillips to the Falls” tour, which lets you walk or drive around the falls.

Besides the waterfalls, Sioux Falls has almost 35 hiking trails that wind in and around them.

You can enjoy your exercise against the beautiful backdrop of the falls whether you like to walk, run, hike, or ride a bike.

No question, you should see the waterfalls that give the city its name if you’re in or near Sioux Falls.

Address: 131 E Falls Park Dr, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States

2. Jewel Cave National Monument

There is a beautiful cave system under the Black Hills in South Dakota that leads to beautiful crystal formations.

A walk of the caves is not for the faint of heart and is better for adults and big kids.

Even though cave tours are dark, cold, and have dangerous scenery, they are still a great experience.

Gem Cave National Monument is the third-biggest cave system in the world, and it has more than 200 miles of mapped tunnels.

When you go to Jewel Cave National Monument, you’ll see beautiful but fragile crystal forms.

People can see what’s in parts of the ground that are usually hidden by these interesting, beautiful, and one-of-a-kind formations.

Jewel Cave National Monument, the state’s crown jewel, is a must-see venue because of this.

Address: 11149 US-16 B-12, Custer, SD 57730, United States

3. Dakota Discovery Museum

The arts and cultures of South Dakota come together at the Dakota Discovery Museum to keep past alive and teach people about the present.

The museum tells the story of South Dakota and its people. It is a one-of-a-kind place that is fun for both kids and adults.

The museum has themed galleries, such as the “Dakota History Gallery,” as well as many artist galleries and the “Historic Village,” where people can look at the work of local artists and preserved historical items.

A lot of the time, new displays, special programs, and fun events are also added.

A fun way to learn about South Dakotan art, history, and society is to go to the museum on “family nights.”

When you walk into the museum, you’ll be greeted by one-of-a-kind statues of Lewis and Clark. Once you’re inside, you can expect friendly, knowledgeable tour guides to make your visit memorable and educational.

We think the Dakota Discovery Museum is a great place to spend a few hours in South Dakota.

Address: 1200 W University Ave, Mitchell, SD 57301, United States

4. Evans Plunge

People can jump into warm natural spring water at this really cool indoor water park.

The park is one of a kind because it was built over SD’s sparkling mineral springs.

In the past, Native Americans believed that the springs could fix them.

Before the water slides were added in 2013, the area around Evans Plunge was used as healing baths where people would soak and relax to benefit from the spring’s healing qualities.

When water slides were added to the site in 2013, they made it more fun.

Visitors now come from all over the world to relax and/or have fun.

The park also has useful features like boxes you can rent, a snack stand, and showers.

Get this one-of-a-kind South Dakota attraction on your list of things to do. It’s a great place for kids.

Address: 1145 N River St, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States

5. Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame

This amazing museum in South Dakota keeps and shares the history of motorcycles and people who have made important contributions to the business.

The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame honor motorbikes as a sport, a way of life, and a part of American history.

The museum shows a lot of respect for a sport and way of life that isn’t always understood by preserving historical items and holding teaching workshops.

You will hear and see the stories of past and present leaders in the motorcycle business when you visit the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame.

You’ll also be able to connect with interactive displays, watch famous motorcycle movies all day in the visitors’ lounge, and look through a valuable collection of motorcycles and related antiques.

The Sturgis motorbike Museum and Hall of Fame is a great place for motorbike fans to visit in South Dakota.

Address: 999 Main St, Sturgis, SD 57785, United States

6. Big Thunder Gold Mine

The Big Thunder Gold Mine in South Dakota is a fun place for kids to go mining in the Black Hills.

The main thing that tourists can do is mine for real gold.

It’s easy for people of all ages to walk through the gold mine, and pets are welcome.

You can learn how to “pan” for gold and gems in the Black Hills forest on guided walks. The best part is that you can keep any gold you find.

This site also has a mining museum that looks like a gold mill from 1895.

The museum has thousands of items that were saved from three old mines in the Black Hills that were still in use.

There are old things like a stamp mill, blacksmith tools, elevator parts, and more.

When you go to South Dakota, you and your family can all enjoy this full and hands-on gold mine experience.

Address: 604 Blair St, Keystone, SD 57751, United States

7. WaTiki Waterpark

Everyone in the family can have a great time at this indoor water park all year long.

WaTiki Waterpark is a must-see in South Dakota. It has more than 30,000 square feet of water rides and slides.

There are lots of fun things to do at the park, such as a kid’s activity pool, a lazy river, a hot tub, a cool body slide, and more.

There are sights for kids and adults of all ages, so there is something for everyone.

WaTiki Waterpark has a lot of fun things to do in and out of the water. It also has an arcade and some dry activities.

If you get hungry or just want a break from all the fun, there are several places right there.

The park is also close to hotels, shops, and other things to do.

If you want to have fun inside with your kids, this is the place to go.

Address: 1314 N Elk Vale Rd, Rapid City, SD 57703, United States

8. Black Hills Balloons

At Black Hills Balloons, people can ride in a hot air balloon for the first time in their lives.

You will have memories that will last a lifetime as you fly over the beautiful Black Hills.

Going on a hot air balloon ride over the Black Hills is one of the best ways to see the area. You’ll see lakes, mountains, grasslands, and valleys.

You might see wildlife, Mount Rushmore, and some of the Badlands during your hour-long journey.

Your hot air balloon ride, which leaves every day at morning, will be full of thrills and beautiful views.

It’s worth mentioning that your balloon reservation comes with champagne, snacks, and a flying certificate to remember the trip.

Also, your pilot will guide you to see as many of the beautiful sights in SD as time and weather allow.

Kids and adults over the age of 4 are welcome to take part in this unique and fun exercise.

If you’re going to South Dakota, you should try to book a flight with Black Hills Balloons.

Address: Custer, SD, United States

9. The National Presidential Wax Museum

You can get to the National Presidential Wax Museum by taking a short drive from Mount Rushmore. It honors US presidents.

With more than 100 lifelike wax models, including all 50 US presidents, the museum is a work of art in itself.

Each of the political figures takes place at a famous time in history.

On your self-guided walk of the museum, information about the history of each exhibit is read out loud.

In addition to touring the museum, you can also learn about how sculptures are made by going to the theater.

The film shows ten artists at the museum and talks about each one. It also shows how wax sculptures are made.

Finally, The National Presidential Wax Museum is a one-of-a-kind thing to do in South Dakota that you can do with family and friends.

Address: 609 US-16A, Keystone, SD 57751, United States

10. South Dakota Air and Space Museum

The South Dakota Air and Space Museum is a must-see if you’re looking for free activities in South Dakota.

The museum, which is situated at Ellsworth Air Force Base, provides guests with an entirely immersive experience.

This is one of the best locations to see in South Dakota, with a lot of interior displays and an outdoor airpark.

You will explore the museum’s halls of aviation history, which feature antique military aircraft, military missiles, and aerospace displays that highlight various facets of aviation.

During your tour to the South Dakota Air and Space Museum, you will learn about engineering, history, innovation, and science, among other distinct facets of aviation.

Additionally, a number of displays feature avian artifacts related to historical events like as the Cold War, aviation pioneers, and the history of Ellsworth Air Force Base.

This historically significant site is one of South Dakota’s top tourist destinations.

Address: 2890 Davis Dr, Ellsworth AFB, SD 57706, United States

11. Storybook Island

You should definitely check out Storybook Island if you’re searching for free activities or attractions in South Dakota.

Storybook Island is essentially an amusement park that makes our favorite childhood tales come to life.

The park, which has been in Rapid City for more than 60 years, lets guests take on the roles of characters from their favorite tales.

Notably, Storybook Island brings Dr. Seuss’s fables like “The Cat in the Hat” and fairy tales like Humpty Dumpty to life.

The park features attractions like a carousel, a train ride through the park, and a bounce house in addition to the realistic fairytale attractions.

You can get a keepsake from the park’s caricature artist for an extra delight.

Lastly, there is a gift shop, a food kiosk, and live theater performances in the park.

There is plenty to do at Storybook Island, a well-known destination in South Dakota.

The best part is that entrance is free.

Address: 1301 Sheridan Lake Rd, Rapid City, SD 57702, United States

12. Lewis & Clark Lake

Go no farther if you’re searching for exciting destinations in South Dakota.

Lewis & Clark Lake is a recreation facility that offers a variety of free activities in one convenient location.

Three distinct campgrounds with contemporary resort amenities are available here if you’re looking for South Dakota vacation alternatives.

Showers, restrooms, a swimming pool, a marina, dining options, and boat rentals are among the campground’s amenities.

Any travel guide to South Dakota will tell you that this is the best area to go camping and having an outdoor experience.

In addition to the facilities and campers, guests can enjoy a range of activities at Lewis and Clark Lake.

Among these are archery, playgrounds, lakeside swimming beaches, biking and hiking routes, fishing piers, horse trails, and more.

You might stay at Lewis and Clark Lake for a weekend or longer because there is so much to do in one convenient location.

Address: 43349 SD-52, Yankton, SD 57078, United States

13. The Corn Palace

Don’t forget to include The Corn Palace on your list of South Dakota’s most intriguing and distinctive tourist destinations.

Made entirely of maize and other colorful grains, The maize Palace is one of South Dakota’s top tourist destinations.

There are harvest festivals, proms, expos, and other major events held there every year.

But, if you’re going to Mount Rushmore State, you may also schedule a tour of The Corn Palace.

Daily year-round tours of The Corn Palace are one of the numerous free activities available in South Dakota.

Corn and grains are used to re-decorate the palace’s walls throughout the year to represent different themes.

The Corn Palace is a unique piece of art, so you will still be able to enjoy it even if you are not present for the festivals.

A variety of unusual corn concessions are available for purchase at the snack bar, which you may visit throughout your tour.

You should include a visit to the Corn Palace on your agenda since it is a very iconic tourist experience.

Address: 604 N Main St, Mitchell, SD 57301, United States

14. Strawbale Winery

The straw bales used to construct the property’s buildings are the source of the name of this eco-friendly vineyard.

Yes, straw bales are used to build the entire winery!

The winery, which began as a pet project for one couple, now has a farm setting that transports guests back to a more carefree era.

Notably, the vineyard employs straw bales’ inherent insulation to save energy when harvesting and producing its wine varieties.

You will get the chance to explore the cellars, vineyards, and distinctive features of the buildings’ architecture when you visit Strawbale Winery.

You can sample and taste the more than 20 types of wines made from grapes and other fruits that are produced on the property after your tour of the winery.

There are weekly events at the winery to look forward to in addition to wine tasting.

Every week, Sangria Sunday and Summer Porch bring together wine and the arts.

At Strawbale Winery, food trucks, musicians, and craftspeople all combine to create an amazing experience.

The top draw for wine enthusiasts traveling to South Dakota is this immersive wine experience.

Address: 47215 257th St, Renner, SD 57055, United States

15. Crazy Horse Memorial

The Crazy Horse Memorial is among the most amazing places to see in South Dakota.

Crazy Horse Memorial is a magnificent stone sculpture set into the mountainside of the stunning Black Hills, much like Mount Rushmore.

Polish sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski died in the 1980s while working on this gigantic monument, which was intended as a tribute to Native Americans in North America.

Despite being incomplete, Crazy Horse’s face is the hill’s most noticeable feature and a fantastic place to see.

The memorial has three museums in addition to the beautiful sculpture on the hillside.

An orientation film that summarizes Native American history and culture is shown to guests while they tour the museums.

The memorial also features a stunning laser light show at night and engaging cultural programming.

The breathtaking Crazy Horse Memorial is one of the most unusual places to visit in South Dakota.

Address: Crazy Horse, SD 57730, United States

16. Custer State Park

Custer State Park, which spans more than 70,000 acres of South Dakota’s Black Hills, is a must-see destination.

When visiting South Dakota, Custer State Park has everything you could possibly want for an enjoyable outdoor experience.

There are countless outdoor activities available, surrounded by the granite peaks of the hill and beckoning, crystal-clear mountain rivers.

The park’s bike routes, birdwatching, fishing, boating, hiking, horseback riding, swimming, and many other activities are noteworthy.

All of these activities take place against a magnificent and gorgeous setting.

You can also reserve a campsite at Custer State Park if you’re searching for destinations in South Dakota to stay for a long time.

Showers, drinking water, picnic pavilions, wi-fi, and flushable toilets are all features of camping.

Tent sites and chalets are available for renting.

A comfortable camping environment is also provided with playgrounds, swimmable beaches, electrical campsites, and a concession shop.

Make sure to include Custer State Park on your schedule; it’s just one of South Dakota’s many stunning destinations.

Address: 13438 US Highway 16A, Custer, SD 57730, United States

17. Badlands National Park

There are many outdoor attractions and natural wonders in South Dakota.

Another of South Dakota’s many stunning and picturesque destinations is Badlands National Park.

Both locals and tourists are drawn to this park because of its untamed yet lovely surroundings.

Given the park’s nearly 250,000 acres of prairie, abundant fossil beds, and abundant wildlife, it’s no surprise that the views never grow old.

Wild bison, prairie dogs, and bighorn sheep are frequently encountered in the park.

Badlands National Park, one of the many picturesque locations in the Mount Rushmore State, is another of the many free activities available in South Dakota.

Interestingly, the park is open to visitors all year round, so you may go whenever you’re in South Dakota.

The best part is that everyone can find something to do, whether they are traveling alone or with friends or family.

For example, there are drivable dirt roads, hiking trails for all skill levels, animal observation, a unique Fossil Exhibit Trail, a Junior Ranch program for kids, horseback riding, campsites, biking, and much more.

Badlands National Park, one of South Dakota’s many attractions, is unquestionably worth the trip.

Address: South Dakota, United States

18. Butterfly House & Aquarium

It’s great to visit this unusual South Dakota landmark.

Butterfly House & Aquarium, one of the few year-round butterfly houses and the only saltwater aquarium in the entire state, is a wonderful place to visit at any time.

This unusual combination, which started off as a butterfly house in 2002 and added an aquarium in 2010, attracts tourists from around the nation.

The opportunity to catch glimpses of marine life in the center of the nation is one of the aquarium’s main attractions.

You may expect to see hundreds of different kinds of coral and marine life, an interactive stingray habitat, a tidal pool full of slow-moving animals, and much more when you visit this beautiful South Dakota destination.

You will see vibrant, tropical butterfly species from throughout the globe while you are in the butterfly house.

Butterfly House & Aquarium also runs educational initiatives and special events all year long.

Among the many attractions in South Dakota, this one is among the greatest!

Address: 4320 S Oxbow Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57106, United States

19. Historic Deadwood

One of the few places in South Dakota that will transport you to the Old West is Historic Deadwood.

Exploring this gold rush town, which is now a National Historic Landmark, will be a lot of fun.

The enjoyment you’ll have in Historic Deadwood is endless, with museums, free reenactments, and entertainment wherever you look.

This SD town is packed with attractions, including a historic gold mine, a mining museum, an 1880 train, an 1876 mystery supper, and more.

Shopping malls, casinos, spas, breweries and wineries, and entertaining citywide events may all be found in Historic Deadwood.

The fascinating and rich history of this city serves as the foundation for endless tourist interaction.

Discover more about Deadwood icons including Poker Alice Tubbs, Wild Bill Hickok, and Calamity Jane.

Learn about the history of Cheyenne Crossing, gold mining, and prostitution.

When you visit Historic Deadwood, you won’t be confused about what to see or do.

Address: 480-484 Lower Main St, Deadwood, SD 57732, United States

20. Spearfish Falls

There are many of free outdoor attractions in South Dakota, so finding one is not difficult.

Spearfish Falls offers a beautiful setting for a ton of outdoor enjoyment.

A walking path leads to the splendor of Spearfish Falls, which is a little off the usual route.

At the trail’s finish, you will reach the canyon’s base and get up close and personal with the thundering waterfalls.

All skill levels can hike this trek, though care should be used because of the falls’ mist, which makes it slick.

You may also enjoy the splendor of Spearfish Falls from a picturesque vantage point at the nearby eatery Latchstring Inn if you would rather not hike there.

Regardless of the season, Spearfish Falls is a popular tourist destination for both residents and tourists.

Spearfish Falls is a stunning location for photos.

This stunning natural attraction is the perfect response to your query about what to do in South Dakota.

Address: 14A in Savoy Behind Latchkey Restaurant, Savoy, SD 57754, United States

21. Good Earth State Park

With South Dakota’s tourist attractions like Good Earth State Park, you’ll never run out of things to do.

The park serves as both a historical and cultural landmark and is a well-liked meeting spot for both locals and tourists.

The park is traversed by the Big Sioux River, which makes water sports like swimming, kayaking, and fishing accessible.

In addition, the park has a wealth of fauna, flood plains, and catlinite, a red clay that is considered sacred.

Hiking, birdwatching, and snowshoeing are seasonal activities that make Good Earth State Park a popular vacation spot.

Additionally, campgrounds with facilities like drinking water, restrooms, and showers are available if you would rather remain for a few days.

In addition, the park holds year-round cultural activities like open-air concerts.

With so much to see in one place, it’s no surprise that tourists adore this incredibly entertaining park in South Dakota.

Address: 26924 480th Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57108, United States

22. Porter Sculpture Park

The vibrant art scene in South Dakota is sometimes overlooked.

However, one of the best places to visit in SD is Porter Sculpture Park, which blends art and nature.

The park is home to sculptor Wayne Porter’s creations, which are a vibrant and varied collection.

It’s true that Porter is an inexperienced artist who astonishingly uses his intuition rather than engineering, arithmetic, and sketching talents.

Notably, Porter is completely self-taught, with the exception of a few blacksmithing techniques he learnt from his father.

More than fifty life-size sculptures are on display for visitors to this South Dakota treasure.

Each item is interactive, allowing visitors to freely touch, engage with, and take pictures of it.

Pets are welcome on park tours, making this roadside attraction ideal for the whole family.

For those who are unable to walk the expansive grounds, golf carts are also offered.

Porter Sculpture Park is one of the most distinctive South Dakota sites that should be on your itinerary.

Address: 45160 257th St, Montrose, SD 57048, United States

23. Termesphere Gallery

Look no further if you want to find fun things to do in South Dakota.

The Termesphere Gallery is one of a kind in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

People can look at spherical art inside this geodesic dome. The painted finished products create magical optical illusions that make people scratch their domes (no pun meant).

These weird drawings, which are named after the artist Dick Termes, are really cool to look at.

The Termesphere Gallery not only lets people tour the land, but it also has fun-filled educational programs and workshops.

The gallery also has a gift shop where you can buy many of the spheres as well as other collectibles and souvenirs.

The Termesphere Gallery is a great place to see in South Dakota.

Address: 1920 Christensen Dr, Spearfish, SD 57783, United States

24. Rushmore Tramway Adventures

What should you do with the thrill-seekers in your group? This South Dakota site is sure to please.

People who go to Rushmore Tramway Adventures can fly through the Black Hills and get a great view of Mount Rushmore.

If you don’t like ziplining, you might want to try the 2000-foot Alpine slide instead.

This attraction is not for people who are easily scared.

Basically, riders go down tracks on wheeled sleds at top speeds while taking in stunning views.

There is also an epic sky-high amusement park at Rushmore Tramway Adventures.

Over the 2-acre park, people can climb up more than 100 treetop platforms and go through different routes.

Rushmore Tramway Adventures has a tubing hill, a beautiful chairlift, and even a jump tower if all of this exciting fun isn’t enough for you.

And then for lunch, go to the Mountaintop Grill. That’s it! You’ll have a great day.

Attractions in South Dakota like Rushmore Tramway Adventures are fun for the whole family and will get your heart racing.

Address: 203 Cemetery Rd, Keystone, SD 57751, United States

25. Bear Country USA

There are so many fun things to do in South Dakota that it might seem hard to choose just one.

But Bear Country USA is a one-of-a-kind wildlife drive-through.

People can see both full-grown and cub black bears through the thin glass of their car window in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

In this one-of-a-kind black bear encounter, tourists can see nature at its most beautiful.

Bear Country USA is home to more than 20 different kinds of mammals, as well as the beautiful bears.

During your walk of the park, you can see arctic wolves, badgers, beavers, sheep, and more.

For something different, there’s also a Wildlife Walk where people can meet with friendly animals.

Last but not least, don’t miss the great gift shop where you can buy black bear souvenirs and fun things to do.

Address: 13820 US-16, Rapid City, SD 57702, United States

26. Sylvan Lake

Sylvan Lake is one of the most beautiful things to see in South Dakota.

“Picturesque” is too little of a word.

Sylvan Lake is a must-see spot in South Dakota. It’s a favorite spot for tourists, locals, photographers, and artists.

This place has so many things to do and amenities that it’s impossible to list them all. Your trip group will love it.

If you want to stay at the lake for a few days, it has campsites, a general shop, and other nice spots.

You can stay at Sylvan Lake or just visit for the day. There are lots of fun and/or relaxing things to do there.

Paddleboarding, hiking walks, and renting boats are some of the more exciting things to do.

You can swim, have a lunch, watch birds, and more if you’d like to take it easy during your stay.

No matter what you like, just seeing the beautiful Sylvan Lake is reason enough to go.

Address: SD, United States

27. Mount Rushmore National Monument

Pictures of these magnificent stone sculptures are probably familiar to you, but they are nothing compared to the real thing.

Mount Rushmore is made up of four stone carvings that were created in South Dakota’s Black Hills, as you probably remember from your history classes.

The monument features pictures of Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, George Washington, and Thomas Jefferson.

Notably, every picture depicts our nation’s history from its inception to its expansion, advancement, and conservation.

Mount Rushmore National Monument, one of South Dakota’s most well-known locations, allows tourists to experience our rich past up close.

The monument is open every day of the year, weather permitting.

The grounds include a visitor center, cafe, souvenir shop, and information center in addition to the Mount Rushmore National Monument.

One of the most popular tourist destinations in South Dakota is this American landmark.

The state’s official moniker, “The Mount Rushmore State,” is understandable.

Make sure to add it to your South Dakota itinerary.

Address: 13000 SD-244, Keystone, SD 57751, United States

28. Mammoth Site

The Mammoth Site, which was formerly the site of a planned housing development, is now a museum where prehistoric mammoth bones have been discovered.

The property’s owner, who had planned to turn it into a housing development, decided that the finding of mammoth bones made the site more suitable for scientific research and shelved her development plans.

The actual prehistoric teeth, tusks, and bones of mammoths that roamed South Dakota millions of years ago are now on display for visitors to the Mammoth Site.

At the Mammoth Site, you may explore the borders of a sinkhole that is now a veritable gold mine of prehistoric fossils that once held wooly mammoths, wolves, bears, and ancient camels.

Other fascinating displays include newborn mammoth mummies, a mammoth bone home, life-size mammoth reconstructions, and much more.

Check out this engaging and instructive experience if you’re searching for unusual South Dakota attractions.

Address: 1800 US-18 BYP, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States

29. Reptile Gardens

In 1935, Reptile Gardens debuted as a collection of reptiles owned by Earl Brockelsby, a reptile lover.

The collection of reptiles has expanded throughout the years, and in 1965 it was relocated to its larger present site.

The nation’s first skydome with a safari room is located in the present park.

Numerous reptiles, including poisonous and nonvenomous snakes from throughout the globe, crocodiles, tortoises, lizards, frogs, salamanders, and insects, can be found in reptile gardens.

During your visit, you can see and interact with this diverse collection of reptiles.

There are botanical gardens at Reptile Gardens in addition to the many amazing reptiles you will see.

In addition to Tortuga Falls, there is a living wall and a strolling garden.

An all-encompassing reptilian experience can be had by visiting Reptile Gardens.

Reptile Gardens should definitely be on your list of must-see tourist destinations if you’re unsure of what to do in South Dakota.

It won’t let you down.

Address: 8955 US-16, Rapid City, SD 57702, United States

30. Terry Peak Ski Area

Terry Peak Ski Area is South Dakota’s top ski destination, so if you’re going there in the winter, you might want to check it out.

You may ski or snowboard at the family-friendly Terry Peak Ski Area.

Don’t worry if you’ve never done either before; the resort provides tuition for people of all ages in both skiing and snowboarding.

When you’re prepared to hit the slopes, you’ll find a range of terrain, including a terrain park, that is appropriate for both beginners and experts.

One of the most popular holiday destinations for tourists visiting the Mount Rushmore State is Terry Peak Ski Area, which is close to the well-known Deadwood area in the Black Hills.

With so many nearby amenities, Terry Peak Ski Area is a great place for tourists to visit.

You can start ski lessons, rent equipment, shop for retail items, and eat at the restaurant and lounge at the Steward Lodge, the area’s main lodge.

Additionally, the well-known Dark Horse Saloon is located in the Nevada Gulch Lounge.

Terry Peak Ski Area therefore makes it possible to comfortably ski or snowboard or simply sit back and observe.

You should definitely check out this excellent location, which is one of many amazing sites in one of the most gorgeous states.

Address: 21120 Stewart Slope Rd, Lead, SD 57754, United States

31. Dinosaur Park

If you’re interested in free activities to do while visiting SD, make sure to check out Dinosaur Park.

Situated on a slope around the Black Hills, Dinosaur Park pays homage to the dinosaurs of the Jurassic and Early Cretaceous eras.

In the precise spot where the park presently exists, dinosaur remains and footprints were once found.

Now the park is home to 7 true-to-size replicas of dinosaur reconstructions.

The concrete reproductions include a Stegosaurus, a Tyrannosaurus Rex, and an Apatosaurus to mention a few.

As you meander among the dinosaurs atop the Black Hills, you’ll also get breathtaking views of the South Dakota Badlands.

Following your tour of Dinosaur Park, be sure to check out the park’s gift store where you’ll find unusual dino-merchandise.

Dinosaur Park is a nice pit stop to make when visiting South Dakota; it is one of several prominent tourist spots in The Mount Rushmore State.

Address: 940 Skyline Dr, Rapid City, SD 57701, United States

32. The Adams Museum

The Adams Museum was founded in order to conserve and disseminate Deadwood, South Dakota’s distinctive past.

Founded in 1930 by devoted South Dakotan William Emery Adams, the museum was later given to the city of Deadwood, whose owners still run it today.

The museum now consists of five distinct sites that vividly depict Deadwood’s past and character.

A tour of the Historic Adams House, an exhibition on historic transportation, a gallery of legends, and much more are among the various exhibits you can schedule while at the museum.

Each of the displays in the Adams Museum, which was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1960, provides evidence of the last significant gold rush.

One of the many underappreciated vacation destinations is South Dakota, but with its distinctive attractions, such as The Adams Museum, you’ll undoubtedly have the time of your life.

Address: 54 Sherman St, Deadwood, SD 57732, United States

33. National Music Museum

Established in 1973 on the campus of The University of South Dakota, National Music Museum is acclaimed as a “musical Smithsonian.”

The museum is home to musical instruments of all kinds from all over the place.

The instruments on display are representative of different cultures and historical periods.

If you’re traveling with music fans or history aficionados, be sure to check out the National Music Museum.

With over 15,000 instruments running the gamut from rare Italian violins to famous guitars, your visit to the museum will certainly wow you.

The enormous array of instruments comprises percussion, toy, electric, brass, woodwinds, and much more.

Music enthusiasts alike are startled by instruments used by the one and only Elvis Presley, instruments used to produce Sgt. Pepper, and other noteworthy and historical instruments.

The National Music Museum is the epicenter for musical instruments which is why it’s no wonder that tourists come from far and wide to basque in the museum’s majesty.

When visiting South Dakota, make sure to visit the National Music Museum, one of the state’s many important sites.

Address: 414 E Clark St, Vermillion, SD 57069, United States

34. Petrified Wood Park & Museum

One of the numerous must-see destinations in South Dakota is the Petrified Wood Park & Museum, which takes up a whole block in downtown Lemmon.

Interestingly, the entire block is made entirely of fossils, stones, and petrified wood for the artwork.

A castle, a waterfall, and a wishing well are just a few of the numerous art displays.

Interestingly, there are over 100 displays with a maximum height of 20 feet.

There are also two museums in the park that are made completely of petrified wood.

Relics and antiquities from the larger Lemmon area are kept in the museums.

You’ll have amazing photo opportunities and even greater memories because to the unusual displays you’ll see while there.

Those who are interested in architecture and geology will undoubtedly find Petrified Wood Park & Museum interesting.

Make sure to include this location in your itinerary as it is one of the many attractions in South Dakota.

Address: 500 Main Ave, Lemmon, SD 57638, United States

35. McCrory Gardens

South Dakota State University’s campus is home to the stunning McCrory Gardens.

The roughly 50 acres of flower gardens and tree/shrub collections are open to the public for a small admission fee.

Of total, 25 acres are officially designated as garden and arboretum areas on the property.

There are also more than 1.5 miles of handicapped-accessible and pet-friendly walking trails.

Originally created as a research garden in the early 1960s, university students currently look after the site.

A children’s maze, a butterfly garden, a herb garden, a mum garden, a shrub rose collection, and hundreds of other amazing displays can be found at McCrory Gardens, which is named for the professor who is credited with its creation.

You’ll find something fresh and lovely around every corner thanks to the hundreds of varieties.

When traveling South Dakota, you should inevitably schedule a visit to McCrory Gardens because there are so many attractions in one convenient area.

Address: 631 22nd Ave, Brookings, SD 57007, United States