Posted in South Dakota February 04, 2017 by

The Most Criminally Overlooked Town in South Dakota And Why You Need To Visit

In the southeast corner of South Dakota, you’ll find Vermillion, the 11th biggest city in the state that’s absolutely full of historical charm, delightful places to dine, and plenty of things to experience. In fact, Vermillion just might be the most criminally overlooked town in South Dakota and you should definitely plan a visit.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Vermillion is a community of 10,692 people that was incorporated in 1873. It was built on the river banks of the Missouri River near where the Yankton Sioux Indians cultivated the land for generations.
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The name "Vermillion" refers to the Lakota name: wa sa wak pa'la, which means red stream.
Vermillion is home to the University of South Dakota, established in 1862.
Jerry / Flickr
Pictured is the historic Old Main, the university’s oldest building originally built n 1893. It features the spectacular gallery of Oscar Howe.
You’ll find the world-renowned National Music Museum on campus which features more than 10,000 antique instruments that come from all over the world.
National Music Museum (NMM) / Flickr
The Lillibridge Gallery is a permanent exhibit that contains the finest guitars, mandolins and banjos as well as a recreation of the renowned workshops of the American luthiers John D'Angelico and James D'Aquistos.
The Austin Whittemore House is a historic house museum that dates back to 1882. This fine example of Italian Villa style architecture is open to explore Mon – Sat 10-4; Sun 1-4.
cchssd.org
W.H. Over Museum is another fantastic stop to make in Vermillion. Their collection includes rocks, minerals, botanical and biological (natural) specimens, fossils, photographs, works of art, archaeological artifacts, and items representative of the natural history, inhabitants, and the various ethnic groups of South Dakota.
W. H. Over Museum / Facebook
Pictured is the one room school house exhibit.
Vermillion is also home to our state’s oldest wine winery: Valiant Vineyards.
Valiant Vineyards / Flickr
Featuring a bed and breakfast, delicious South Dakota wines, and a tasting room that overlooks the stunning Missouri River, Valiant Vineyards is a must experience.
Looking for a hearty meal of some seriously delicious dessert? Stop by Café Brulé. This family-owned eatery masters breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert!
Café Brulé / Facebook
Their Chocolate Stout Cake is to die for!
Café Brulé / Facebook
If you travel 6 miles north of Vermillion on Hwy 19, you’ll come across Spirit Mound, the area Lewis and Clark visited in 1804. This historic area is home to a prominent hill surrounded by the gorgeous prairie.
Terry Feuerborn / Flickr
The Yankton Sioux believed that small sprits in human form called this area home. So terrified of the “little devils,” the Sioux refused to go near Spirit Mound.

What’s your favorite part about Vermillion? Let us know in the comment section!