South Dakota’s most popular attraction has become part of its state nickname. Make no mistake. The Mount Rushmore State is far more than one popular destination.
It offers beautiful landscapes, outdoor recreation, iconic destinations, and unique attractions. We will outline the best things to do in South Dakota for families so you can plan your memorable vacation.
Although the state is more than one patriotic landmark, Mount Rushmore is a must-see destination. The memorial in Keystone, South Dakota, represents a significant part of our history and is a beautiful piece of art.
While Mount Rushmore has four presidents, your family can see all the former presidents in Rapid City. No wonder it is affectionately called the “City of Presidents.”
Hiding beneath the surface in southwestern South Dakota, Wind Cave National Park has unique honeycomb-shaped calcite formations called boxwork. Your kids can see more boxwork here than in all other caves. Parts of Wind Cave are more than 300 million years old, making it one of the world’s oldest caves.
Do your kids love animals? Custer State Park, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, offers a safari-like experience. Visitors can navigate the park with scenic drives along Needles Highway, Iron Mountain Road, and Wildlife Loop Road.
If you have older kids who enjoy waterfalls and hiking, visit Spearfish Canyon in the Black Hills near the Wyoming border. The Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway leads you through a rugged canyon with soaring limestone cliffs, spruces, birches, and aspens.