Thanks to our deep Native American roots PLUS our mining and railroad past, South Dakota is a mecca for the historic, with something to see and do around nearly every corner! When it comes to two of our favorite things – history and small towns – however, there is one place in particular that comes to mind, which is the community of Platte, SD:

Located in southeast SoDak, pre-settled Platte was a stop along the Lewis and Clark expedition and - decades later - the terminus for a Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul railroad branch line from Yankton.
Platte Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook
Home to around 1,300 residents, modern-day Platte is the poster child for charming small towns, thanks to its original downtown area, complete with local businesses and restaurants.
Platte Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook
In addition to the businesses themselves, the buildings in and around town are worth checking out, as many of them are the same ones built around the time of Platte's inception.
Wikimedia Commons/Ammodramus

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What's a stop along the Lewis and Clark expedition without some sort of site to commemorate the event? Platte has that, too, via the fascinating Lewis and Clark Trail. It's certainly one of the best things to do in Platte.
Flickr/Bureau of Land Management
One of the most unique attractions in Platte may be that of the Lyric Theater. This 1925 cinema was built circa 1925 and still shows films and live performances!
Lyric Theatre In Platte Facebook
To get an even more in-depth look at Platte history, plan to visit the Cecil and Phyllis Melcher Museum, which is - you guessed it! - also housed in one of the community's many historic buildings.
Google Street View
To learn more about the small and historic town of Platte, be sure to visit the Platte Area Chamber of Commerce website. Be sure to look at some of the Platte photos on the website to get a better sense of the town as you plan your visit.
Platte Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook
As you've learned, the town of Platte is a historic place. You may be interested in taking a look at this footage of a Platte, South Dakota parade taken in 1930 and posted on YouTube by @fergiespubbarrister:

While you’re visiting Platte, SD, check out The Longest, Most Impressive Bridge In South Dakota Can Be Found In The Town Of Platte.

Read to take a road trip to Platte? I’m certainly ready! Before you hit the road, check out our road trip essentials packing list, and don’t forget the road trip snacks!

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Platte, South Dakota

Melissa M. | November 01, 2023

Where can I spend the night in Platte, South Dakota?

Visiting Platte, SD soon? Spending the night is the perfect way to get to know the town and also to have a nice, relaxing getaway. The following are vacation rentals to consider if you’d like to spend the night in Platte, SD:

  • Green Cedar Lodging: This 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom is a shed house located a mere two blocks from Main Street. It’s pet-friendly so feel free to bring your pooch! 
  • Cherry Creek Lodge: This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom log cabin overlooks the Missouri River and is also dog-friendly.
  • Private Tiny Home: This 2-bedroom 1-bathroom home may be small but it has plenty of amenities like a fire pit, a deck, and a patio. It’s also close to Platte Creek Recreation Area.

 

Are there any good hiking trails in Platte, South Dakota?

Anywhere you go in SoDak, you’re sure to find a hiking trail, and the town of Platte is no exception. Perhaps the best one is the Snake Creek Recreation Area Trail. Here’s what to know about it:

  • This is a 1.6-mile out-and-back trail.
  • It’s relatively flat the entire way, although there’s a slight elevation gain of 160 feet. 
  • Dogs are allowed on the trail.
  • You’ll have views of the Missouri River and access to a beach.

 

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Platte, SD 57369, USA