With history, culture and natural splendour galore, there’s plenty to see and do in South Dakota. Whilst you’re here, we highly recommend a trip to the Black Hills region. A rich landscape of mountains, prairies and pine forests, it’s home to the state’s most famous attraction, Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Walk the Presidential Trail and see the magnificent carving of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln.

Whilst you’re in the Black Hills area, a visit to Custer State Park is also worth your while. You can go paddle-boarding in the clear mountain waters of Sylvan Lake, or drive alongside bison herds on the Wildlife Loop Road.
If you want to see one of South Dakota’s cities, the capital, Pierre, is a great starting-point for camping trips and hiking expeditions. Or, you can visit the picturesque Sioux Falls, where you can sample French patisserie and explore the peaceful Sertoma Park.

Discover the state’s ever-present cowboy culture and rich Native-American heritage during your holiday to South Dakota. Just north of the Black Hills Forest, the historic town of Deadwood is a fantastic place to start. Step back in time and soak up the atmosphere of the Wild West as you wander down the iconic main street, watching live shootout enactments from local performers. Or, pay a visit to Adams Museum to browse their diverse collection of artefacts and learn all about the 1874 Gold Rush.

Outside of Deadwood, the Crazy Horse Memorial at Thunderhead Mountain is a must-see. Marvel at the ginormous carving of Oglala Lakota leader and warrior, Tasunke Witco and learn about Native Nations history at the site’s museum. If you’d rather see some fascinating archaeology, The Mammoth Site in the city of Hot Springs is another great option. You can walk around the active dig site and take a look at fossils and animal bones dating back to the Ice Age.

If you’re wanting to discover a diverse natural landscape and see some magnificent sights, South Dakota is the place to go. The west side of the state is home to rolling hills and mountain ranges, as well as Badlands National Park. Sitting on the edge of the Great Plains, this park boasts over 200,000 acres of unforgettable scenery, featuring unique, layered rock formations and ancient fossil beds. You can take your pick from a range of different hikes and walking routes, from the Notch Trail that takes you along the canyon floor, to the Sage Creek Loop that leads you over bison roaming ground

Over to the east of South Dakota, there’s a wealth of expansive grassland to explore and plenty of pristine lakes to visit. Fishing-enthusiasts will enjoy a trip to Oakwood Lakes State Park, where you can spend the day trying to catch some catfish or carp. Or, head to Lake Herman to spot herons and hummingbirds along the Abbott Trail.

With heavy snowfall and frosty weather, winter may not seem like the ideal time to go to South Dakota. But, this season has a unique appeal thanks to the range of exciting outdoor activities that are on offer, particularly skiing and snowboarding. Located in the heart of the Black Hills, Terry Peak is a popular ski spot among locals and tourists alike. You can attack the slopes during the day, before retreating to a cosy log cabin in time for nightfall. 

A spring holiday to South Dakota is a great option if you’re looking to explore the state’s parks and wildlife reserves. See baby bison leaping across an open meadow at Custer State Park, or go wild swimming in the cool waters of Spearfish Canyon at Black Hills National Forest. Alternatively, you can visit South Dakota during the summertime to experience the flamboyant firework displays and festivals that take place over the 4^th July holiday weekend.