Welcome to South Dakota

Gently rolling prairies through shallow fertile valleys mark much of this endlessly attractive state. But head southwest and all hell breaks loose – in the best possible way. The Badlands National Park is the geologic equivalent of fireworks. The Black Hills are like opera: majestic, challenging, intriguing and even frustrating. Mt Rushmore matches the Statue of Liberty for five-star icon status

Top experiences in South Dakota

Recent articles

Adventures in South Dakota: top experiences in the Mount Rushmore State

Adventure has been a way of life in South Dakota for centuries. At one time the horse and wagon trails of warriors, pioneers and homesteaders crisscrossed these vast prairies. An important gateway into the Wild West, the state was home to at least a handful of the country’s most legendary figures – Calamity Jane, Wild Bill Hickok and Sitting Bull all found fame under the wide-open skies of South Dakota.

For some the territory offered the promise of riches, and for others it offered a new life. Nearly always it offered adventure.
Alexander Howard
Lonely Planet Writer

Travel guides

Starting at $15.99

Image for Image for
South Dakota photo credits