Take the road less traveled through a landscape shaped by time. This 39-mile stretch winds through the rugged beauty of Badlands National Park, revealing layered rock formations, towering spires, and expansive prairies. Along the way, stop at scenic overlooks to spot bighorn sheep and capture views that defy description. At sunrise, sunset or any moment in between, the Badlands will leave you speechless. 

Step into a land where time stands still so nature can tell its story in stone. Badlands National Park showcases dramatic rock formations, deep canyons, and fossil-rich terrain that has been 75 million years in the making. Hike the trails, witness roaming bison, and experience the wild, untamed spirit of South Dakota. This is a place where adventure and solitude coexist. 

Rising 7,242 feet above sea level, Black Elk Peak is the highest point in the U.S. east of the Rockies. The journey to the summit offers breathtaking views of the Black Hills, granite spires, and pristine forests. Named after the Lakota spiritual leader Black Elk, this hike is more than a climb—it’s an experience of connection, reflection, and boundless discovery. 

A sanctuary of towering pines, hidden canyons, and endless adventure, the Black Hills National Forest covers more than 1.2 million acres of pure wilderness. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or driving scenic byways, you’ll find yourself immersed in the timeless beauty of South Dakota’s most legendary landscapes. Step into this untamed world and let curiosity guide you. 

Feel the ground shake as 1,300 bison thunder across the prairie during the annual Buffalo Roundup in Custer State Park. Every fall, visitors gather to witness this spectacular event, where real-life cowboys and cowgirls drive the herd into corrals for health checks and management. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime Wild West experience set against the stunning backdrop of the Black Hills. 

Days of '76 Rodeo and Festival is a historic annual event held in Deadwood, South Dakota, celebrating the town’s Old West heritage. First established in 1923, the event includes a professional PRCA rodeo featuring top-ranked cowboys and cowgirls competing in events like bull riding, barrel racing, and steer wrestling. The festival also features a parade, Old West reenactments, and historical tributes honoring the pioneers and prospectors of 1876. Held every July, it’s a longstanding tradition that draws visitors from across the country to experience the spirit and excitement of the Wild West.

Standing tall above the Missouri River, the Dignity: of Earth and Sky statue is a breathtaking tribute to the strength and wisdom of the Lakota and Dakota people. This 50-foot-tall sculpture, adorned with a star-quilt design, honors the Indigenous cultures of South Dakota while welcoming travelers with grace and beauty. Pause here, take in the view, and feel the spirit of the land. 

Step back in time at Fort Sisseton Historic State Park, where well-preserved 1860s frontier buildings bring South Dakota’s military history to life. Originally built as a frontier army outpost, this fort now serves as a historical treasure where visitors can explore officer quarters, barracks, and blockhouses. Experience living-history events, scenic hiking trails, and a fascinating glimpse into the past. 

Be sure to check out the Travel South Dakota Stories Podcast, featuring an episode on Fort Sisseton Historic State Park: https://www.travelsouthdakota.com/podcast.

History comes alive in Deadwood, where the spirit of the Wild West lingers in every street and saloon. Walk in the footsteps of legends like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane, explore historic gaming halls, and watch re-enactments of famous shootouts. Whether you’re a history buff or a thrill-seeker, Deadwood is where the past and present collide in unforgettable ways. 

Step into the pioneer life of Laura Ingalls Wilder at Ingalls Homestead in De Smet. Experience life on the prairie by riding a covered wagon, washing clothes the old-fashioned way, or attending a lesson in a one-room schoolhouse. This hands-on experience brings the “Little House on the Prairie” stories to life in an unforgettable way. 

Discover the stories that make South Dakota extraordinary! Tune into the Travel South Dakota Stories Podcast featuring Little Town on the Prairie at travelsouthdakota.com/podcast.

Beneath the Black Hills lies one of the longest cave systems in the world—Jewel Cave. With more than 200 miles of mapped passageways, this underground wonder is adorned with dazzling calcite crystals, intricate formations, and hidden chambers. Take a guided tour and uncover a world of mystery, adventure, and natural beauty beneath the surface of South Dakota. 

Nestled along the Missouri River, the Lewis and Clark Recreation Area offers miles of shoreline, hiking trails, and endless water adventures. From boating and fishing to camping under the stars, this destination invites travelers to embrace the great outdoors. Follow in the footsteps of early explorers and create your own adventure along this historic waterway. 

Follow the path of America’s most legendary explorers along the Lewis and Clark Trail in South Dakota. Winding along the Missouri River, this route reveals stunning landscapes, rich history, and opportunities for adventure. Whether kayaking the waters they once navigated or exploring historic sites along the way, this journey is one of discovery and inspiration. 

Flowing wild and free, the Missouri National Recreational River preserves one of the last untamed stretches of the Missouri. With its scenic bluffs, rippling waters, and abundant wildlife, this area is perfect for paddling, fishing, and exploring. Whether you seek adventure or tranquility, the Missouri River offers a timeless escape into nature. 

Few places capture the American spirit like Mount Rushmore. The 60-foot faces of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln gaze out over the Black Hills, reminding us of the ideals that shaped a nation. Witness the monument’s grandeur by day or experience the moving evening lighting ceremony—either way, this will be a moment you won’t forget. 

Standing 75 feet tall, the Nicollet Tower offers panoramic views of South Dakota’s rolling prairies and Minnesota’s river valleys. Named after 19th-century explorer Joseph Nicollet, the tower and interpretive center provide insight into his groundbreaking maps and the Indigenous history of the region. Climb to the top and see the multi-state landscape through an explorer’s eyes. 

See where history stands at attention! The Old Fort Meade Museum takes you back to the frontier days of the U.S. Cavalry. Established in 1878, this historic fort once housed soldiers who helped keep order in the Black Hills. Explore artifacts, military history, and stories of the past in this tribute to America’s western expansion. 

Winding through the Black Hills, the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway is a 68-mile masterpiece of tunnels, switchbacks, and jaw-dropping views. From the granite spires of Needles Highway to the wildlife-filled landscapes of Iron Mountain Road, every turn reveals something spectacular. This is a drive that turns into a journey—one you’ll want to take again and again

A symbol of history and leadership, the South Dakota State Capitol in Pierre welcomes visitors to explore its grand architecture, stunning murals, and rich political heritage. Stroll the memorial grounds, honoring those who shaped the state’s history, and experience the heart of South Dakota’s government. This is a place where past, present, and future come together. 

Step aboard history at the USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial in Sioux Falls. Known as "Battleship X," this legendary World War II vessel was one of the most decorated battleships of the war. While the ship itself isn’t here, the outline, artifacts, and exhibits bring its powerful story to life. Discover the bravery and resilience that defined the greatest generation. 

What started as a small-town drugstore has become a legend of the open road. Famous for its free ice water, jackalopes, and quirky charm, Wall Drug is part shopping destination, part roadside attraction, and 100% South Dakota. Snap a photo with the giant dinosaur, grab a fresh-baked donut, and experience the charm of this one-of-a-kind stop on the edge of the Badlands. 

Adventure above and below ground at Wind Cave National Park. Home to one of the world’s most complex cave systems, the park’s unique honeycomb-like formations and twisting passageways create an underground wonderland. Above, rolling prairies and pine forests provide a stunning backdrop for bison, elk, and prairie dogs. This is a place where mystery meets majesty.