If you're looking to find a place to settle down that will take you away from any urban hustle and bustle and all that entails, then consider a small town out in South Dakota! These charming little places in The Mount Rushmore State offer the opportunity to slow down and just experience life at its own pace, all while enjoying the luxury of being in a quiet, calm, and picturesque place. Here are our picks for the best peaceful small towns in South Dakota:
1. Tulare
Tulare is part of Spink County, South Dakota, and has a population of just over 200 people. Talk about tiny! It was originally founded in 1883, and hasn't ever had a population very much over 300 people. It's always been a pleasant small town with a very quiet setting, perfect for an easy family life.
2. Tripp
If you're looking for a postcard-perfect small town with a great sense of community, Tripp would be perfect for you. Only 647 people live there, so you can skip the irritation of crowded places; they don't exist much here. Tripp isn't about that life. It's been around since 1886 and will be around for quite a while longer, moving at its own always-leisurely pace.
3. Bonesteel
Among the farmlands of Gregory County, South Dakota, lies the peaceful town of Bonesteel. Don't let the name turn you away - it was actually named after a freight company owner in 1902. If you decide to pass through here, make sure to have dinner at the Bonesteel Supper Club - a very highly-rated little spot with excellent service. You'll feel like you're home.
Address: 300 Mellette Street, Bonesteel, South Dakota, 57317
4. Presho
Out in the beautiful countryside lies Presho, South Dakota, in Lyman County. The population rests just under 500 residents, so maybe it's a little bit larger than other entries on this list - but not by much. Space is plentiful here and so is the natural beauty of the land - and the town itself, of course.
5. White Lake
This little town in Aurora County passes by day to day at a pace of its very own, free from the rustle and bustle found in a lot of cities. If you're hungry for breakfast, look no further than Tara's Diner on the town's main street, which serves mouth-wateringly good breakfast all day long.
Address: 112 South Main, White Lake, South Dakota, 57383
6. Selby
Like many early towns in South Dakota, Selby sprang up when the railroad came through at the turn of the century. Settle down here with only around 642 other residents, and you'll be able to live your life without any nuisances that pop up commonly in city life. The historic buildings in Selby create a fascinating, picturesque town, and include a classic drive-in restaurant known as Mr. Bob's that you can snack at whenever you'd like.
Address: 500 Walworth Street, Selby, South Dakota, 57472
7. Alexandria
This is one of South Dakota's earlier-founded cities, going up in 1879 under the name of Clarksville. When it was officially incorporated in 1885, it received the name of Alexandria. 615 people live here today and are able to enjoy the quiet, day-to-day life that it offers.
Small town life may not be for everyone, but even a planned visit over the weekend can be just as refreshing sometimes. South Dakota has some even tinier towns that will help you get you away from it all, too, if you're searching for more!
What is your favorite tiny town in South Dakota? Tell us about it!
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