The Small Town in South Dakota That Comes Alive During the Winter Season

Winter in South Dakota can be incredibly brutal, but that doesn't mean it can't also be beautiful and fun! If you crave a little more charm and beauty during these chilly and drab months, we invite you to take a look at this small town in South Dakota that comes to life even more in winter:

Welcome to the small and aptly named town of Hot Springs!

Originally home to the Sioux and Cheyenne, who frequented the area because of its warm springs, Hot Springs was later incorporated in 1890 and is now a favorite spot for South Dakota natives and tourists alike.

(As its name suggests, Hot Springs is also home to warm and therapeutic hot mineral pools that have been bubbling up and healing sore and achy muscles since 1881.)

When you visit Hot Springs, you will find something for every age and interest, beginning with the world-famous Mammoth Site (home to the world's most extensive collection of Colombian mammoths), Evans Plunge Mineral Springs, Moccasin Springs Natural Mineral Spa, and the fascinating Pioneer Museum.

What's a small town without unique shopping and dining opportunities? Hot Springs has all of that, too!

Temperatures may be - err, balmy - but that doesn't mean that SoDak's most iconic landmarks aren't open and easy to visit thanks to their close proximity to Hot Springs.

To learn more about all there is to see and do around exciting Hot Springs, please visit the Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce website. If you want to turn your day trip into a weekend getaway, there are plenty of places to stay in Hot Springs, South Dakota. One of our favorite places is this cabin in Hot Springs. You’ll be staying on a working quarter-horse ranch right in the heart of the Southern Black Hills. It’s technically four miles south of Hot Springs, which is close enough in our book! It's central to all of the attractions mentioned in this article, and a phenomenal view of the night sky for stargazing.

Do you have a favorite attraction, event, or restaurant that you would like to see featured here on Only in South Dakota? Remember to nominate it! For even more to see and do around here, check out the best hikes in the Black Hills.

Of course, Hot Springs isn't the only charming small town in South Dakota. Check out some of our favorite small towns in South Dakota we love to spend a weekend exploring.