City life isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. In fact, these small towns are so friendly and adorable that you might just need a road trip. The best small towns in South Dakota are proof that bigger isn’t always better. You’ll love the charming places on this list!

1. Deadwood
Main Street Deadwood - Charming Small Towns SD
Deadwood, SD 57732, USA
Hilton Lieberum / Flickr
Deadwood is one of the most charming small towns in South Dakota, and it is filled to the brim with history. Deadwood is known as the home of the Gold Rush of 1876 and frontier town of the Dakota Territory. If you visit Historic Old Town in the summer, you may be lucky enough to catch reenactments of historical moments. Read more about Deadwood.
2. Gary
Charming Small Towns - Gary,SD
Gary, SD 57237, USA
Rural Learning Center / Flickr
On the eastern edge of South Dakota, Gary is among the smallest of small towns. With a population right around 250 people, you won’t find a better town for a restful getaway. It’s not uncommon to see cattle drives happening right down Main Street in this adorable small town. Learn more about Gary, South Dakota.
3. Keystone
giuliaduepuntozero / Flickr
Keystone SD Charming small towns
Keystone, SD 57751, USA
Dave Thomas / Flickr
Keystone is home to Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Presidential Trail, this small town can not be beat. Perhaps the most charming entertainment option Keystone has to offer is rides on the 1880s train (shown above). In the summer, the train provides rides around the beautiful forests and hills of the area. In the winter, train rides are offered to the "North Pole" for all-around family enjoyment. This is one of the best small towns in South Dakota year round! Check out more about Keystone.
4. Hill City
Hill City Charming Small Towns SD
Hill City, SD 57745, USA
Dave Thomas / Flickr
Also known as ‘The Heart of the Hills,’ Hill City is an open door to the landscape of the area. Surrounded by mountains, caves, and forests, there is no lack of things to see or do near this charming small town. Log cabin coffee houses and the Silver Dollar Saloon are just a few of the places that make this town even more lovable. Find out more about Hill City.

Related Stories

18 Best Hikes In South Dakota: The Top-Rated Hiking Trails To Visit In 2024

18 Best Hikes In South Dakota: The Top-Rated Hiking Trails To Visit In 2024

 This Speakeasy Hidden Underground In South Dakota Is Perfect For A Date Night

This Speakeasy Hidden Underground In South Dakota Is Perfect For A Date Night

 Take A Drive To The Country To Dine At This Exceptional Rural Restaurant In South Dakota

Take A Drive To The Country To Dine At This Exceptional Rural Restaurant In South Dakota
5. Dell Rapids
Dell Rapids - Charming Small Towns SD
Dell Rapids, SD 57022, USA
Andy Perkins / Flickr
Located just north of South Dakota’s largest city, Dell Rapids is the perfect break from the bustle of the big city. Dell Rapids boasts a quilt store, renovated movie theatre, as well as a downtown perfect for a morning stroll. See more about Dell Rapids.
6. De Smet
De Smet Charming small towns sd
De Smet, SD 57231, USA
Ingalls Homestead / Facebook
Home of the Ingalls Homestead, this town is full of historical character. De Smet is truly the little town on the prairie. They pride themselves on being friendly, hospitable, and always maintaining their integrity. Read more about De Smet.
7. Custer
Custer - Charming Small Towns SD
Custer, SD 57730, USA
Neal Wellons / Flickr
Located on the western edge of South Dakota, Custer is home to a quilt shop, the Purple Pie Place, and the 1881 Bank Coffee House. The coffee house has its own unique charm as it exists in a renovated bank building. Learn more about Custer.
8. Wall
Wall Charming Small Towns SD
Wall, SD 57790, USA
James Wallace / Flickr
Home of the infamous Wall Drug, Wall is known for its free ice water and being the home of America’s favorite roadside attraction. Wall is truly one of the best towns to visit in South Dakota. Check out more about Wall Drug.
9. Parker
Parker Charming Small Towns SD
Parker, SD 57053, USA
Turner County Fair / Facebook
Boasting a population of right around 1,000 people, Parker is home of the essential small-town feel. Every year they host the Turner County Fair, which comprises of 4H competitions and rodeos galore. On Friday nights, everyone in the entire town shows up to high school football games. See more about Parker, South Dakota.
10. Lake Poinsett
Lake Poinsett Charming Small Towns SD
Lake Poinsett, South Dakota, USA
Lake Poinsett / Facebook
Lake Poinsett is the only charming small town on the list that isn’t an actual town. The community that gathers around Lake Poinsett every summer is what makes this area feel like a really cool town in South Dakota. Not to mention the beyond perfect views! Read more about Lake Poinsett.

The state of South Dakota is full of endless charm that shows up in the most unexpected places. Where else have you uncovered unexpected charm in SD?

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Best Small Towns in South Dakota

Danielle Schwartz | June 17, 2022

What are the most beautiful hikes in South Dakota?

Our state is known for its stunning natural beauty, and the hikes are no exception! Check out some of the most beautiful hikes in South Dakota while the weather is warm. You’ll be glad you did! One of our favorites is Roughneck Falls Nature Area, which is a great family-friendly hike as well as being one of the most gorgeous in the state. It’s not too difficult, so it’s good for kids and beginner hikers who just want to explore the peaceful surroundings here. On a particularly hot day, we recommend going to Devil’s Bathtub to walk in the water, which tends to be chilly! The waterfall is one of the best parts of this hike. 

What is the smallest town in South Dakota?

When you’re looking for a truly unique getaway that will make you feel worlds away from the cities, check out one of the smallest towns in South Dakota – Bonesteel. With just 271 residents, this town will truly show you what a “small town” feels like. It might be tiny, but you will experience some jaw-dropping views of the Missouri River. It’s worth the trip to see that alone! Bonesteel is the ideal trip for those looking to really get away and relax.

What are the most unique historical sites in South Dakota?

If you’re looking to learn about the history of our lovely state, you will definitely enjoy going to these historical sites in South Dakota. While you can read about history, there’s nothing quite like experiencing it for yourself. Check out Deadwood Historic District to learn about the gold rush days and admire the beautifully preserved buildings that date back to the 1800s. Interested in war history? Head to Minuteman Missile National Historic Site to learn all about the Cold War and the Minuteman Missiles.

Related Articles