9 Amazing Places You Can Go On One Tank Of Gas In South Dakota
While we all love road trips, sometimes paying for gas can be a real issue. The good news is that South Dakota is full of plenty of amazing and interesting places that you can visit without breaking the bank on travel expenses. We went ahead and mapped out a road trip that would take you to a handful of South Dakota gems. Starting in Sioux Falls and ending in Rapid City (or vice versa) this 371-mile-long adventure should be achievable in one tank of gas (or just a little over.) Here is our road trip plotted out on Google Maps.
Google Maps
Queen City Bakery / Facebook
Before you begin your journey, stop at what many consider to be the best bakery in South Dakota for a delicious breakfast and a great cup of coffee. I recommend the spinach/bacon quiche or a chocolate almond croissant with The Best Drink Ever. (Yes, that’s really what one of their drinks is called, and yes, it is the best drink ever.)
This nationally acclaimed sculpture park is visited by people from all of the country. The sculptor Wayne Porter has had no formal training and builds massive sculptures free of equations or diagrams. His largest stands at 60 feet tall, weighing 25 tons. Porter Sculpture Walk is only opened seasonally, but with sculptures this huge, you can definitely marvel at them from afar.
Stop at the world’s only Corn Palace and learn all about its rich history and how the murals are created. While you're there, be sure to pick up some awesome souvenirs. You can explore this iconic palace for no admission fee.
This quirky restaurant is known for its rustic décor, gorgeous courtyard, and creative menu. Stop in for your afternoon meal, and get ready to be truly impressed. Check out our article on The Back 40 here.
This non-profit organization was established in 1974 to honor those who are Championing a Culture of Excellence for all of South Dakota. Visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the Needles in the Black Hills as they scan the lists of honorees. Those who want to learn more about any of the 667 inductees can do so by using the touch screen and projection technology offered at the kiosks.
There’s so much to do and see at South Dakota 1880 Town that you’ll probably wish you could spend the whole day here. Step back into the Old West, view props from the Dances with Wolves movie set, rent costumes, stroll through their fabulous gift shops, and enjoy live entertainment.
If you’re looking for a spectacular view of the dramatic landscape of the Badlands National Park, Pinnacle’s Overlook won’t let you down. The contrast of flat plain land, valleys, gorges, and rock formations is downright striking.
Wall Drug is a landmark you simply can’t miss. Browse various shops, enjoy supper at the Western Art Gallery Restaurant, ride the jackalope, and take all the goofy pictures you want. Be sure you grab a 5 cent coffee for the road.
Dinosaur Park, located on a ridge of sandstone where dinosaurs of the Late Jurassic and Early Cretaceous were found, has been overlooking the city since 1936. Featuring bright green dinosaurs with white undersides, this quirky tourist attraction is truly one of its kind. Feel free to climb on the giant dinosaurs and take as many pictures as you’d like.
What do you think of our list? Feel free to tag someone who you would want to take this road trip with!
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