This Mid-Sized Town in South Dakota Is Practically Perfect

South Dakota is simply beautiful with its wide open spaces, breathtaking landscapes, and an abundance of outdoor activities: just a few of the reasons the state draws travelers and new residents. Some of my best memories are of driving through South Dakota, stopping along the way to visit small towns and big cities, meeting friendly locals, and dreaming of living here permanently. One mid-size town in South Dakota has steadily been growing, and it’s easy to see why it makes the perfect place to settle down or visit.

Just under 10 miles from Sioux Falls, the city of Harrisburg has been experiencing an impressive growth spurt. According to the U.S. Census, Harrisburg had a population of 6,732 in 2020 and has grown to 11,160 in 2025, earning it distinction as one of the fastest-growing cities in South Dakota.

One visit to Harrisburg illustrates why it attracts so many new residents, especially those who love the outdoors. The city’s more than half a dozen parks, including Central Park and Hugh Robinson Park, promise plenty to do, from fishing and shooting hoops to picnicking and taking quiet strolls. If you’ve got a pooch, let him run free at Rover Range Park.

Summer’s all about visiting Lake Alvin Recreation Area, only four miles from the city, where you can while away the hottest days lounging on the beach, casting a line in the lake, or exploring in a kayak or canoe. Good Earth State Park is just a 15-minute drive from Harrisburg, too.

The transition from summer to autumn means the return of fall traditions. For more than a quarter of a century, South Dakotans have been escaping from the epic Heartland Country Corn Maze. Country Apple Orchard hosts a fall festival and a holiday light show at Christmastime. You can also pick up your live tree while at the orchard.

Even if you’re not planning to move to one of the best cities in South Dakota, arrange a visit and try to time it for Harrisburg Days. For four days every June, the community comes together to celebrate the city with a jam-packed schedule of events, including a carnival, a parade, a beer garden, and food vendors. The Little Miss Harrisburg Pageant is also held during Harrisburg Days.

Learn more about this up-and-coming city in South Dakota by visiting the official website of the City of Harrisburg. Or, stop by the Facebook page of the City of Harrisburg, South Dakota.

Do you have another favorite mid-size town in South Dakota that’s perfectly sized? Let us know by filling out this nomination form.

A great way to explore is on one of South Dakota's hiking trails. You can find a comprehensive list of trails, including hikers photos and reviews, on AllTrails+.