For your road-tripping pleasure, I’ve included this second installment of “Free Things to do in South Dakota.” I’ve also included some that have pretty minimal cost, and will be easy on your wallet.
Southeastern South Dakota:
- Take a tour of the World’s Only Corn Palace in Mitchell. There is no admission charge, and you can have your picture taken with the newly unveiled sculpture of “Cornelius” just across the street.
- The Oyate Trail runs the southern length of South Dakota, beginning in North Sioux City. You’ll see a variety of cultural and historical sites along the trail, some of which are free and others that are very affordable.
- For more information on this region, visit www.southeastsouthdakota.com.
Eastern/Northeast South Dakota:
- Climb to the top of Nicollet Tower for a breathtaking three-state view. The tower honors Joseph N. Nicollet, who explored the area in the 1830s. Located near Sisseton, S.D., on SD Hwy 10.
- In Watertown, view more than 150 original oil paintings by one of America’s favorite outdoor artists, Terry Redlin. Admission to the three-story gallery is free. Visitors may also wander the grounds of the center, which include a gazebo, walking trails and pond.
- For more information about this region, visit www.sdglaciallakes.com.
Central South Dakota:
- Learn about South Dakota’s Native American culture at the Akta Lakota Museum in Chamberlain, and the Buffalo Interpretive Center near Fort Pierre. View original art, learn about the Native American history of the area, and view some bison if they decide to make an appearance! Both offer a unique educational experience at no cost.
- Explore the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre for under $5. The center’s museum tells the story of the region from its very beginning to present day. Visitors can walk through a replica of a sod house, view genuine Native American artifacts, and even milk a mechanical cow!
- For more information on this region, visit www.sdgreatlakes.org.
Western/Black Hills:
- Deadwood’s Adams Museum is considered the Black Hills’ oldest history museum. Artifacts reflect Deadwood’s legendary past, from its colorful characters such as Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Hickock, to the natural history of the area. Admission is free, but a $5 per person donation is appreciated.
- Perched on a hilltop overlooking Rapid City visitors will find a free attraction that has been drawing visitors since the 1930s. Dinosaur park features giant sculptures of dinos that I can remember visiting when I was a kid. In fact, I even have a photo of a pig-tailed me hugging the leg of the brontosaurus.
- For more information on this region, visit www.blackhillsbadlands.com.
Check out www.TravelSD.com for more affordable family vacation ideas, and don’t forget about the various free events throughout the state year-round. If you have a favorite attraction or event, please let us know by posting a comment…we’d love to hear from you.
Happy Travels!
