17 Places in South Dakota You Must See Before You Die

From awe-inspiring views to breathtaking gardens, South Dakota is rich in natural beauty and places to get lost in, as well as many intriguing museums to explore. The following list is our selection of some of the most wonderful places to see in South Dakota.

1. The view from the top of Black Elk Peak - Black Hills

As the highest natural point in South Dakota, Black Elk Peak, formerly known as Harney Peak, offers downright stunning views of the Black Hills National Forrest. This mildly rigorous hike requires no technical climbing skills, making it the perfect adventure for the whole family. Be sure to bring your camera.

2. McCrory Gardens - Brookings

Maintained and operated by South Dakota State University, this beautiful area consists of 25 acres of gorgeous display gardens and 35 acres of arboretum filled with hundreds of different grasses, shrubs, trees, and stunning flowers. It's easily the perfect setting for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.

3. Chapel in the Hills - Rapid City

Found in the Black Hills, this little chapel is built in the traditional Nordic style and receives nearly 24,000 visitors each year. Open to visitors May through September, it's an ideal place to get married or renew your vows.

4. The view of Falls Park from the observation tower - Sioux Falls

If you're in the Sioux Falls area, then you absolutely must visit the lovely Falls Park to see the spectacular waterfalls. A climb up the observation tower will give you a view to remember.

5. Sica Hallow State Park - Sisseton

With plenty of eerie folklore surrounding this beautiful state park, Sica Hallow, meaning "bad" or "evil" in Dakota, is a truly breathtaking place to explore. You can hike the spectacular trails any time of the year.

6. Mount Rushmore - Keystone

This may seem like a no-brainer, but this massive sculpture is an absolute must-see. You can't live in "The Mount Rushmore State" without experiencing the beauty and awe of this national memorial.

7. Storybook Land - Aberdeen

This 210-acre park in Aberdeen is inspired by your favorite nursery rhymes. Featuring a miniature train, a fantastic castle, and many other larger-than-life exhibits, a visit here will make anyone feel like a kid again.

8. World’s Largest Petrified Wood Park - Lemmon

You may have to go way off the beaten path to visit this massive, block-long park, but it's completely worth it. Meander around 100 towers, structures, and various other formations located in the block-long park and marvel at unique, quirky statues that are up to 20 feet tall.

9. South Dakota Air and Space Museum - Ellsworth

Visitors can spend all day peering at current aircraft technology and learning about the fantastic possibilities for aviation. A trip to the South Dakota Air and Space Museum is certainly one you'll always remember.

10. Butterfly House & Aquarium - Sioux Falls

Visit the marine cove to view hundreds of fish and coral species. The cove is home to sea stars, sea urchins, seahorses, clown fish, anemones, stingrays, and even sharks. Visitors can then meander through the 80-degree tropical setting and see hundreds of butterflies.

11. Wind Cave National Park - Custer

Take a guided tour through Wind Cave National Park and explore the intriguing cave system that's one of the largest and most complex in the world.

12. The World’s Only Corn Palace - Mitchell

Close to the hearts of many South Dakotans, the Corn Palace hosts 500,000 tourists each year. View the incredible corn murals made out of 12 different colors of corn that are framed with native straw grasses, and take a tour of the one and only palace.

13. The Mammoth Site - Hot Springs

You can view the remains of mammoths that died over 26,000 years ago at this fantastic exhibit. This active paleontological dig site is home to the largest concentration of mammoth remains in the world.

14. Pinnacles Overlook in the Badlands - Wall

Visit the Badlands National Park, and you'll essentially feel as though you're on another planet. The views are seriously that incredible!

15. The Annual Buffalo Roundup in Custer State Park - Custer

Almost 1,300 bison roam the gigantic Custer State Park. Held every last Friday in September, you can see the cowboys and cowgirls bring in the gigantic herd. This is a Western experience you don't want to miss. Why not make this a weekend adventure and spend a few nights in this charming cabin VRBO rental?

16. Laura Ingalls Homestead - De Smet

You'll find the Ingalls Homestead in the little town of De Smet. See the homestead the family lived on and partake in numerous activities, including washing laundry the old-fashioned way and corn husk doll making.

17. Spearfish Canyon - Spearfish

No matter the season, Spearfish Canyon is absolutely stunning! View the limestone palisades, gorgeous waterfalls, and the beauty of the unique area that looks like a painting brought to life.

Can you think of any other places to see in South Dakota that should be included on this list? If so, please share them with us in the comments below. And if you're looking for more fun hiking trails in South Dakota, take a look at our ultimate guide to the best SoDak trails.