5 Star Places To Visit in South Dakota, United States (50)

1. 5.0 Custer State Park (6.139 reviews)
   - Beautiful state park with lots of wildlife
   Spent < 1 hour State Parks
   
   
   One of South Dakota’s most iconic landmarks, this park stands out for its granite peaks, rolling grasslands, and clear mountain waters. Stretching over 71,000 acres, Custer is home to abundant wildlife like bison, prairie dogs, bighorn sheep, and more. Drive down Wildlife Loop Road to spot the begging burros (they approach vehicles for food), hike the Little Devils Tower Trail for a bird’s eye view of the area, and go swimming or boating in one of its five lakes. With warm days and cool nights, summer is an ideal time to visit Custer. Don't miss out on exploring the rest of the Black Hills, including Mount Rushmore. – Tripadvisor See more..
   
2. 5.0 Sylvan Lake (1.985 reviews)
   - beautiful lake
   Spent 1-2 hours Bodies of Water
   
   
   This lake, situated within the rolling green hills of Custer State Park, is a great spot for a fun day out. The cool waters of the lake are perfect for kayaking, paddle boating, and swimming, and if you're looking for an adventure, you can go on a hike or climb the rocks surrounding the lake. The best time to visit is from late spring to early fall when the weather is warm, and the park is in full swing. The lake is typically a stop on a tour of Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park. – Tripadvisor See more..
   
3. 5.0 Loop Road (1.978 reviews)
   - So beautiful I drove through on my way back, too
   Scenic Drives
   
   
   Main route through Badlands National Park. See more..
   
4. 5.0 Needles Eye (1.731 reviews)
   - Omg A Must See Scenic Drive on the way to Sylvan Lake!
   Geologic Formations
   
   
   A geological formation located in Custer State Park. See more..
   
5. 5.0 Iron Mountain Road (1.716 reviews)
   - Fun Drive with Great Views of Rushmore
   Scenic Drives
   
   
   Whether you are driving or simply riding, this is a fun drive with awesome views and fun, unique road features like corkscrew pigtails and one lane tunnels. Our group really enjoyed this as we made our way from Lake Sylvan to Mount Rushmore. It starts with a Meadow as you drive towards Keystone where you get your first glimpse of Rushmore. You then wind up to the top of Iron Mountain where there is a parking lot and observation area. You then start to descend passing a series of tunnels in the granite outcroppings with line up perfectly with the carvings on Rushmore. The final descent is accomplished by a couple of corkscrew bridges that allow you to drop elevation in a small space. It is a beautiful drive through the Black Hills that has some of the best views of Rushmore. You have to somehow reach Rushmore so be sure to take this route. See more..
   
6. 5.0 Badlands Wall (1.316 reviews)
   - Wow!!!
   Geologic Formations
   
   
   A ridge that goes through the park, and is the site of incredible rock formations, which are being eroded, and therefore slowly change over time. See more..
   
7. 5.0 Badlands National Park (1.045 reviews)
   - Incredible views!
   Spent More than 3 hours National Parks
   
   
   I was a little surprised to find that it was $25 to drive a motorcycle through the loop road, but it was worth every dollar. The views are incredible. The Badlands is such a unique place and worth the time. If driving I-90 take the extra time to go through. See more..
   
8. 5.0 Black Hills Helicopters (954 reviews)
   - Friendly staff, beautiful waiting area, impressive tour!
   Saturday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Helicopter Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Private Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Air Tours
   
   
   This place was amazing! First of all, we had to be re-booked due to a thunderstorm during our initial booking time and the woman on the phone was very accommodating and kind about it. When we arrived the following morning for our tour we were impressed with the inside of the building. It was all very chic-western and had a small cafe where you could order coffee or snacks. All the staff we interacted with were beyond kind and friendly. One of the pilots even gave our two small children each their own little helicopter toy which they loved. While we waited our turn for a helicopter we could go outside to the balcony to see the other helicopters land and take off. The pilot during our flight was also very friendly and explained everything we were seeing out the window. We would highly recommend this is place to anyone looking to take a helicopter tour of the Black Hills! See more..
   
9. 5.0 Black Hills National Forest (909 reviews)
   - Black Elk Peak
   National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Forests
   
   
   This empty expanse where Native Americans once roamed is now a national forest. See more..
   
10. 5.0 Badlands National Park (908 reviews)
    - The Badlands
    Spent 1-2 hours National Parks
    
    
    We drove from Rapid City on hwy 90 and started from the west from a town named Wall. We stopped at the Ranger entrance and the cost was $30 or you can buy a one year pass for senior citizens for all parks for $20. The loop 240 road trip was wonderful. We stopped on all view sites. We enjoyed going there. See more..
    
11. 5.0 Spearfish Canyon (818 reviews)
    - Truly Breathtakingly Beautiful Scenery
    Canyons
    
    
    This scenic 19-mile drive in the Black Hills that passes cliffs, waterfalls and the Spearfish Creek gives one the feeling they are in the rainforest. See more..
    
12. 5.0 Akta Lakota Museum (445 reviews)
    - Great Museum For Those Interested In Native American Culure/History
    Saturday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour History Museums
    
    
    Visit the Akta Lakota Museum to experience a living lesson on the Native American way of life, past and present. Each year we receive thousands of visitors from all over the globe that want to deepen their appreciation of Lakota culture. As an outreach program of St. Joseph's Indian School we pride ourselves on not just providing that experience but creating an atmosphere conducive to learning and healing into the hearts of our students as well as our visitors. What makes our museum such a wonderful experience is our focus. We have an outstanding collection of cultural, historical and artistic works that relate specifically to the Northern Plains Indian Tribes, the ancestry of the students served at St. Joseph's. Our historical collection honors the past while our contemporary collection represents the creative spirit of today's world. We work closely with Indian artist and artisans to present contemporary artwork that builds on cultural traditions while expressing itself in new ways. What you take away from your visit is the understanding that Lakota culture is not just a thing of the past. It's alive and thriving today. See more..
    
13. 5.0 Ingalls Homestead - Laura's Living Prairie (423 reviews)
    - Got kids? Go to this place! Kid at heart? Ditto
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks
    
    
    Do this! It’s FABULOUS! We went on a Sunday in mid-September. The weather was perfect, and this place will easily transport you to the times of the days when Charles and Caroline lived on their 1/4 section here. Laura lived here from age 13-18, she and Manly courted on this prairie, under the cottonwood trees, and were married in the town of DeSmet 2.5 miles away. Love sustained them as the models were Charles and Caroline. Laura lived 90 years, Manly lived 92. The gift shop has many great items. I collect bells and they had them. All the books Laura wrote are available to buy. The ride in the covered wagon pulled by two beautiful draft horses was unique. Pony rides (on pony cart or in a saddle) are but one of many “living history” activities. See more..
    
14. 5.0 The Stables at Palmer Gulch (371 reviews)
    - Chuckwagon Dinner
    Saturday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Horseback Riding Tours
    
    
    Guided Horseback Riding on Trails in the Black Hills National Forest Chuck Wagon Supper Show/ Entertainment/Horse Drawn wagons/Steak Dinner/Dutch Oven Sides See more..
    
15. 5.0 Sylvan Rocks Climbing School And Guide Service (360 reviews)
    - Highly Recommended
    Saturday: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Climbing Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Day Trips
    
    
    I did two days with Sylvan Rocks, a 6-hour day and an 8-hour day, both with Doug. I'm a relatively experienced climber, so we didn't have to spend any time on equipment orientation, climbing basics, etc. Doug made it a point to do a thorough safety check of the gear I brought, and continued to focus on safety throughout the day, never a careless moment. The anchors he built were bomber, as was his leading and belaying. It was a blast, even if I was climbing well below my ability. Doug knew all the great climbs, chances for summits and excellent views, along with climbs on rocks with spectacular formations. It was clear he was most interested in me having a safe, fun time; he offered suggestions for the itinerary but always left it up to me, and checked in if it seemed like the climbs were frustrating, always ready to alter for something better. We never had to; the two days were full of good climbing. Highly recommended! See more..
    
16. 5.0 Dignity (360 reviews)
    - AMAZING WORK OF ART
    Saturday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues
    
    
    I was traveling east on Interstate 90 and decided to make a quick stop at the South Dakota Rest Area on the east side of the Missouri River near Chamberlain, South Dakota. In addition to having all the typical rest stop amenities, like clear rest rooms, picnic area and vending machines. In addition to having a small museum dedicated to the Lewis and Clark Exposition, the center piece of this rest area is the amazing Dignity Statue. While the statue is visible from Interstate 90, I highly recommend that you take time to stop and view this amazing work of art close up. In talking to a member of the rest area staff, I found out that this impressive work of art is relatively new having been dedicated in 2016. It stands 50 feet tall and is 32 feet wide. Be sure to visit the small museum inside the rest area and take time to enjoy the views of the Missouri River. This is a great place to stop and stretch your legs. See more..
    
17. 5.0 St. Joseph Cathedral (342 reviews)
    - G-O-R-G-E-O-U-S
    Saturday: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM Churches & Cathedrals
    
    
    Stunning! The marble columns, pink and gold details, beautiful carvings, stunning altar, stained glass windows and the 3D stations of the cross were just a few of the awe-inspiring details. Regardless of your religious affiliation, this place is a masterpiece to behold. We arrived just as they opened on a Tuesday morning in June 2021, and entered through the primary front doors. After viewing the inside, there is a small peaceful prayer garden on the south side (facing the church, it’s on your left), and a large statue of Jesus just behind the church (up the hill from the garden area). Be sure to check their website for their schedule, if you’re wanting to just visit for the beauty and not take part in Mass. See more..
    
18. 5.0 Black Hills Outdoor Fun (280 reviews)
    - Chuck, you Rock!
    Saturday: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Private Tours
    
    
    Went here on a Monday morning and it has so far, been the highlight of our SD trip. We were a party of 6 and we were outfitted with a Yamaha Viking 6 seater and a Polaris ATV (wanted to switch it up during the trip). My family had the greatest time. Chuck was our guide and was a professional from start to finish. He is a lover of the land and it showed when he took time to explain details of Edelwise Mountain and kept us safe on the ride. Couple of pointers: 1) Book with Chuck! 2) bring a bandana to keep dust off 3) Bring goggles if you are on an ATV (sunglasses ok if UTV) 4) Bring dirty clothes I highly recommend!! See more..
    
19. 5.0 Black Hills Aerial Adventures (268 reviews)
    - Top notch outfit.
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Helicopter Tours • Sightseeing Tours
    
    
    Was driving through the Black Hills area when I saw this heliport alongside the highway. Being a pilot myself, I had to go check it out. Did the Mt Rushmore with Crazy Horse tour solo in a piston powered Lycoming gear driven engined flat 6. Probably 410 to 44 cubic inches. Process was simple as a walk in. Pay for service, get weighed ( for CG and weights and balances in any aircraft) and within minutes it was a one on one pilot and myself taking a 20 minute ride. Pilot was extremely knowledgable and very courteous. I'm a frugal guy, but the $220 fee, to me, was an absolute bargain. I highly suggest you try to do this as early in the morning as possible, the air is smoother, and the lighting more dramatic if you're going to take videos or pictures. This is a must do if it's a once in a lifetime trip to the area, the aerial perspective is simply fantastic. Great oufit, would highly recommend them. See more..
    
20. 5.0 Black Hills Balloons (260 reviews)
    - One less item on my bucket list
    Saturday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Balloon Rides
    
    
    My husband surprised me with this balloon ride. I was nervous and excited, not knowing what to expect. We arrived a few minutes before 5 am and were greeted by very nice, you could even say comical staff members. We were loaded in vans and taken to the flight field, where we watched the staff unload and set up the balloons. Our pilot, Mike informed all passengers of do's and don'ts before allowing us to enter the balloon. We had an amazing flight with unimaginable views. Mike had a wonderful sense of humor and was willing to answer questions from everyone in the balloon. We landed in a field with tall wet grass and the staff came out to retrieve/push the balloon to a better unloading site a short distance away. The poor staff were wet from the waist down but were very happy to do it for us. I can't say enough about this group of people and the experience. I highly recommend everyone to use this group to mark a hot air balloon ride off your bucket list. See more..
    
21. 5.0 Cathedral Spires Hiking Trail (234 reviews)
    - Breathtaking views, steep hike
    Hiking Trails
    
    
    Without a doubt, this is a shorter "must do" hike if you are in the area. The drive up to the trailhead is an adventure as you pass thru LOW and NARROW tunnels along the Needles highway. You must pay $20 at a staffed checkpoint to access the highway and then drive to the trailhead. Please note: this trail is NOT a beginner trail, and it requires some level of fitness to go 1.2 miles (one-way) from the trailhead UP ~500 feet to the Cathedral Spires. There is no scrambling required, but there are areas of steep climb. There is NO infrastructure (well pumps, toilets, etc); so bring your own water. See more..
    
22. 5.0 Big Badlands Overlook (231 reviews)
    - Sunrise spot
    Spent < 1 hour Geologic Formations
    
    
    this is the best overlook in the park. From the overlook, you gaze out at an enormous section of zebra-striped hills. The view is jaw-dropping and this is a magical place at sunrise. We planned to see the sunrise but our bad luck, it was a foggy morning and we did nothing but sit and watch the foggy sunrise. but what I found out is, from the Big Badlands Overlook, you can either watch the sunrise from the viewing platform (a short walk from the parking lot) or you can hike out into the hills. It’s worth the short walk since you can get closer to the striped rock formations and colorful pinnacles. See more..
    
23. 5.0 Rockin R Rides (230 reviews)
    - Great Time and memorable experience
    Horseback Riding Tours
    
    
    Peggy and her team were great. Coming from Florida we set up the trip well in advance towards the end of the season. The weather turned bad and we were a bit concerned. Peggy worked it so we could come in on another day and even though it was cold for us Floridians (48 degrees with wind), they made sure we were comfortable. The first few minutes out to the Black Hills was a little windy/cold, but our leader Randy took us on trails were the wind subsided and the view was amazing. We even saw some wild life while on the trail. It was really an experience for us city slickers from Tampa. Thanks for the memories and we will be back if we are back in SD! See more..
    
24. 5.0 Storybook Land and Land of Oz (227 reviews)
    - East River’s Hidden Gem
    Temporarily closed - Closed until Apr 15, 2023 Playgrounds
    
    
    Storybook Land and the Land of Oz are located in Aberdeen, SD. Storybook Land and the Land of Oz are open seasonally April 15-October 15 for walk through (weather permitting). Rides, Concessions and Gift Shop are available Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend. Admission is Free! Ride Tickets are available for the Storybook Land Express Train, Humpty Dumpty Rollercoaster, Tea Cup Ride, Rio Grande Train, Land of Oz Carousel and Wizard's Balloon Ride. $2.25 per ticket, or a 10 Ride Punch Card for $17.50. See more..
    
25. 5.0 GeoFunTrek Tours (217 reviews)
    - Outstanding Tour Service Company
    Sightseeing Tours • Private Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours
    
    
    Six adults traveled to Rapid City and hired John as our tour guide for three full days. What a great experience it was. From the time of our first telephone call to John until he dropped us off for the final time at the hotel, John was amazing, thorough and available. John was with us and toured us on their three most popular tours. We were absolutely please with the professionalism John showed us each day. He was always on time and was a mountain of information. He is extremely knowledgeable about the history, geological nature of the area and full of facts and stories about this area. It was noticeable how safe of a driver John was throughout the three days. We would HIGHLY recommend John and his company for any touring in this area. You will be very pleased. See more..
    
26. 5.0 Black Hills Tour Company (208 reviews)
    - High-quality, well-maintained bikes
    Bike Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Private Tours
    
    
    Rented 2 gravel bikes to ride the Mickelson Trail + elsewhere around the Black Hills. The bikes were high quality and well maintained. We didn't encounter any mechanical issues over a week of riding and the bikes performed perfectly. Would definitely recommend to anybody seeking to rent bikes for a self-guided tour. See more..
    
27. 5.0 Yellow Mounds Overlook (208 reviews)
    - Highlight of the Park
    Spent < 1 hour National Parks • Lookouts • Geologic Formations
    
    
    The Yellow Mounds are stunning. This area of the park is the most beautiful and the place to be as the landscape begins to change and wildlife begins to want to hang out more. Be sure to make a special trip to be around the Mounds in the evening to get some fantastic sunset pics and see the wildlife coming out and about. Great area! See more..
    
28. 5.0 Redlin Art Center (205 reviews)
    - Not to miss
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 AM Spent 1-2 hours Art Galleries
    
    
    The Redlin Art Center is a gift from artist Terry Redlin to his hometown of Watertown, South Dakota. Filled with over 160 of Redlin's original oil paintings, the Art Center is self guided and admission is free of charge. Guests are also invited to shop 3 gift shops, enjoy complimentary video presentations about the artist and stroll the 30-acre conservation park. See more..
    
29. 5.0 Dakota Tours (204 reviews)
    - Mount rushmore
    Saturday: Sightseeing Tours • Day Trips
    
    
    We went to Mount Rushmore on our holiday aroung the west coast of America. We came accross from Yellowstone and it was a good drive a few things to see as well... but Mount Rushmore is very worth it you need to spend a day there as well and you could go back a second day but if you are stretched for time then you can see it in a day. they have a night show as well which is worth it See more..
    
30. 5.0 Black Hills Adventure Tours (186 reviews)
    - Incredible Experience
    4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours • Bike Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Private Tours • Kayaking & Canoeing
    
    
    My mother and I used Black Hills Adventure Tours for our South Dakota adventure and we cannot speak more highly of this company and our tour guide, Mark. Over the span of 3 days, we did the Private Custer State Park Jeep Safari and Hiking Tour, the Private Badlands Package, and the Horseback Riding and Black Hills Hiking. There is no way we would have been able to see all that we saw without Mark. He really made exploring (and the logistics of getting into parks and stopping for lunch) 10000x easier. Mark really knew all of the good spots to check out, and personalized our packages to our own wants. He was extremely knowledgeable about all things South Dakota: the history, the landscape, the wildlife, rocks and fossils, and more... If we had a question, Mark had the answer! We felt so blessed to have gotten Mark as a tour guide and he will hold a special place in our heart when looking back on this trip. We cannot thank Black Hills Adventure Tours and Mark enough! See more..
    
31. 5.0 Black Hills Above and Beyond Tours (176 reviews)
    - Best day ever
    Saturday: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Historical & Heritage Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours
    
    
    Rj is amazing,besides the unreal knowladge he has of the area he was just a great guy!this full day tour went way beyond what we hoped for and rj made us laugh and feel like family from the minute he met us at the door( what an absolute value rj is to this tour)we met another couple(dee& jay) who after 1 day have made a great long lasting connection,thank you rj for being a real person who loves life & laughing.we would 200% recommend this tour to anyone ! Great tour/great guide/great day...thanks guys we will remember this day for ever ,glenn and lisa mitchell from new zealand See more..
    
32. 5.0 Sioux Falls Bike Trails (158 reviews)
    - Worth an extra day
    Hiking Trails
    
    
    We spent an extra day in Sioux Falls so we could ride on the Greenway Trail System. We parked at the trail head at Falls park and went around the whole city starting southbound. Beautiful scenery despite a detour in downtown. Otherwise never had to cross a city street. There are plenty of restrooms. If you have little time, park at the falls and go south. There are fewer trees when you approach the airport in the northwest side. See more..
    
33. 5.0 Pinnacles Overlook (135 reviews)
    - The eroded cliffs seem whiter
    Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lookouts
    
    
    This is one of the most visited overlooks in the park and absolutely worth the visit, at least one time during the day. it changes dramatically depending on the time of the day it is. There are several overlooks here as well as the chance to walk a short trail out to another viewpoint. The eroded cliffs seem whiter, and there’s a lot more plant life here as well. Those trees are Junipers, which provide an important refuge for the park’s bird population. See more..
    
34. 5.0 Roughlock Falls State Nature Area (126 reviews)
    - Beautiful area
    Spent 2-3 hours State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Forests • Valleys
    
    
    Hiked along the path of the beautiful falls. Met lots of locals. Always friendly, saying welcome to the Black Hills! (Loves that!). Nice place to spend a little, or a lot of time! See more..
    
35. 5.0 National Music Museum (123 reviews)
    - Parking tip for NMM
    Speciality Museums
    
    
    NOTE: The National Music Museum, Vermillion, South Dakota, is preparing for extensive architectural expansion and renovation and is now CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC. Reopening is slated for 2021. Stay tuned! "One of the largest and most important collections of historic instruments in the world." -- New York Times See more..
    
36. 5.0 George S. Mickelson Trail (122 reviews)
    - Epic 100 miles of scenic rail-to-trail
    Hiking Trails
    
    
    112-mile rails-to-trails project which goes through the Black Hills. See more..
    
37. 5.0 Sunday Gulch Trail (119 reviews)
    - Start counter-clockwise!
    Spent 2-3 hours Scenic Walking Areas
    
    
    We hiked this trail going counter-clockwise, that way you do the hard part at the beginning when your legs are still strong, and go down in the hard areas. When we did it, it was wet and there was some ice in the trail, so be extra careful. The trail in itself is great, not your typical trail, lots of rock scrambling, and at the end great views of the canyon. We are in our 60s and were able to do it this way. See more..
    
38. 5.0 Cultural Heritage Center (115 reviews)
    - A walk through history
    Historic Sites • History Museums
    
    
    Not your typical museum structure, this one is built into the side of hill, and much of it is underground. A contemporary version of a traditional Native American dwelling, this beautiful building features Native American (mostly the Sioux tribes) and pioneer exhibits, with many rare artifacts tracing the history of South Dakota. See more..
    
39. 5.0 My XO Adventures (105 reviews)
    - XO Adventures is the best!!
    Saturday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Cultural Tours • Historical & Heritage Tours • Taxis & Shuttles • Private Tours • Day Trips
    
    
    Had a fabulous time with Daniel and XO Adventures. A fun filled day with our group of 8. With Daniel doing all of the driving we ALL got to experience the beauty of the area. Daniel’s knowledge of Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse and Custer State Park added to our experience. Saw buffalo, donkeys, prairie dogs, prong-horned antelope. Loved the Iron Mountain drive. Those incredible tunnels framing Mt Rushmore were spectacular. Daniel set up a tasty lunch including brownies and ice cream. A day we’ll always remember. Thank you Daniel. See more..
    
40. 5.0 Adventure Rentals (103 reviews)
    - Best rental ever and NO NEED to wash the ATV-only place in town who won’t make you wash them after your long day.
    Saturday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Gear Rentals
    
    
    Adventure Rentals is a family owned business. We are located Downtown Custer, SD. We are excited to give people the opportunity to go sight seeing in the Black Hills like never before --- on a UTV!!!!!! UTV's are street and highway legal, park passes and trail permits included. We also have bicycles, scooters, kayaks and paddleboards available to rent. The fun starts here!!!!! See more..
    
41. 5.0 Brule (95 reviews)
    - Brule'
    Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks
    
    
    My wife and I have seen Brule' four times, Hill City, Indianapolis, Mesa, Arizona, New Buffalo, Michigan. Always put on an excellent show. The native dancers are amazing. The energy they display is inspiring. The colors and designs of the costumes are wonderful to see. We will go again! Thanks you so much for such excellent entertainment. My personal favorite number is Nicole's "Neon Sun". A must see! See more..
    
42. 5.0 Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway (80 reviews)
    - Engineering marvel of a road
    Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Scenic Drives • Geologic Formations
    
    
    This scenic drive along 16A is a marvel of early 20th century engineering. A very winding road, it provides vistas and numerous areas to pull over and enjoy the scenery. The LOW and NARROW tunnels are quite the treat. Forget going to see Mount Rushmore at the park. This route includes an overlook that provides a FREE, commanding view from across the valley of the monument. The winding drive up to this overlook is its own adventure (especially the LOW and NARROW tunnels). Once at the overlook, the info placards and trails and rock scrambling and free parking are added bonuses that make this location a great opportunity. See more..
    
43. 5.0 Sage Meadow Ranch (71 reviews)
    - Amazing place and people
    Ranches • Horseback Riding Tours
    
    
    The views, the horse and Holly were perfect! Holly truly loves what she does and loves to share that joy with others. We took our girls for a ride and they are still talking about what all they learned from Miss. Holly! Holly was so gentle with teaching the girls more about horses and the land. By the end of the ride they were so comfortable around the horses and talking with Holly and taking care of the horses. We will be back again to ride and learn more. See more..
    
44. 5.0 Andy's Trail Rides (70 reviews)
    - Sunset Horseback Ride - 2hrs
    Horseback Riding Tours
    
    
    Andy’s Trail Rides was a great activity on our trip. We did a “sunset horseback ride” for two hours which is more than enough time to see all of the sights and sunset. Our guide was Jasmine and she was absolutely amazing. She was super friendly, had a lot of knowledge of the area, and was checking in with us during the duration of our ride to make sure we felt comfortable. At some points, Jasmine asked if we wanted to did a little more of trotting and running in certain areas and we did what we were comfortable with at those points! We felt it was a very “personal” ride being that it was just us two and the guide which was awesome. I would recommend Andy’s Trail Rides! See more..
    
45. 5.0 The Farmer's Daughter (69 reviews)
    - Giant Sasquatch and other metal things
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops • Antique Shops
    
    
    Our little store has a variety of treasures for you to find...new things, old things, and just maybe a little bit bold things! Our inventory changes every day which makes it refreshing and exciting to visit regularly! Stop in soon! We would love to see you! See more..
    
46. 5.0 Terry Redlin Museum (68 reviews)
    - Let Redlin’s Paintings Tell You His Story
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Art Galleries
    
    
    The Terry Redlin Museum is an incredible gift to Watertown, South Dakota, and this great nation! When driving south on I-29, this massive mansion is easily seen and prominently located just to the west of I-29. Seriously! You can’t miss it! Even the amazing property around the mansion is wonderfully landscaped. Pure joy! Admission is free! Go in and see the original paintings that Terry Redlin has created during his life. Take your time walking through this fantastic place. Let Redlin’s paintings tell you the story about his life. His heart and soul was put into each of his paintings. If you spend time thinking about each painting, and the artist responsible for each painting, you come to know a pretty remarkable person. Merci Beaucoup! (Wed. June 3rd 2020) See more..
    
47. 5.0 Discovery Tours (61 reviews)
    - Excellent tour!
    Sightseeing Tours
    
    
    Watching the large bus come through Needles tunnel was so exciting. We had a wonderful tour. Our guide was Bonnie and she knew her history and facts. She was also an excellent driver around all those sharp turns and switchbacks. We met some really nice people on the tour. It was well worth the money....thanks Bonnie! See more..
    
48. 5.0 Panorama Point Overlook (60 reviews)
    - The WOW factor comes to life here.
    Spent < 1 hour National Parks • Geologic Formations
    
    
    Breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, beyond our wildest imagination! We arrived after a raging thunderstorm that turned the sky purple with huge thunder clouds.The short burst of torrential rain washed the spires and formations to reveal their rich colors in the late afternoon sunshine that followed. The kids (and adults) loved climbing and adventuring in the moonscape-like terrains. What nature and God conspired to create is truly a marvel worth experiencing at least once in your lifetime. See more..
    
49. 5.0 Strawbale Winery (56 reviews)
    - No Snobs Here
    Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Spent 1-2 hours Wineries & Vineyards
    
    
    The South family established Strawbale Winery in 2006. constructed of straw bales, the buildings are insulated for a prairie-style wine cellar, and an atmosphere of country farm living. Treat your self to relaxation and fun. Tucked in a farm setting between a 100-year-old red barn and established shelter belt, the straw buildings, vineyard and animals may remind you of simpler times. See more..
    
50. 5.0 Hurley Butte Horseback Riding (51 reviews)
    - Definitely worth your time!
    Nature & Wildlife Tours
    
    
    Definitely want this on your list of things to do in South Dakota. We flew into Rapid City & drove an hour to ride horseback on this postcard property next to the Badlands with Casey & her wonderful horses. They are calm, easy riding horses. I rode on Ann and I hadn't rode in 25 yrs! I can't say enough about the beauty of the interior. Casey talked with us thru the ride with some history of the land. We put this near the top of our 4-day adventures in SD! See more..