Whether you crave big-city excitement or small-town charm, you'll find unforgettable sights and experiences wherever you go in South Dakota.
You may have heard about South Dakota’s rugged Black Hills, mysterious Badlands and peaceful waving prairies, but how familiar are you with our vibrant cities and towns? Here’s a look at some of the popular places in each region; from east to west, north to south, these welcoming communities offer plenty of reasons to pack your bags and visit!
Western South Dakota Cities & Towns
Rapid City
Nestled in the Black Hills, Rapid City is the gateway to iconic attractions like Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Badlands National Park. With a walkable downtown, rich Indigenous culture and stunning scenery at every turn, this city of 79,000 is a must-visit destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Spearfish
Spearfish is a charming Western town set in a natural wonderland that stuns in every season. Explore Spearfish Canyon’s breathtaking waterfalls, hike scenic trails, cast a fly-fishing line and enjoy the city’s lively arts and dining scenes.
Deadwood
There’s no other place quite like Historic Deadwood, the most infamous town in the West. Walk in the footsteps of famed outlaws, lawmen and gold prospectors on bustling Main Street, try your luck at a casino or witness live reenactments that bring the town’s colorful history to life.
Sturgis
Though best known for the legendary Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, this Black Hills town offers year-round adventure. Ride scenic highways, wander Bear Butte State Park and experience the biker culture that made Sturgis famous.
More Places in Western South Dakota:
Belle Fourche | Custer | Hill City | Hot Springs | Lead
Central South Dakota Cities & Towns
Pierre
South Dakota’s state capital — the second-smallest capital in the United States by population — blends history, outdoor recreation and small-town charm. Situated along the Missouri River, Pierre (pronounced "peer") is a hub for fishing, boating and learning about South Dakota’s heritage at the State Capitol and other historical sites.
Fort Pierre
A stone’s throw across the Missouri River from Pierre, Fort Pierre is steeped in frontier history. From the Verendrye Monument to the Casey Tibbs South Dakota Rodeo Center to world-class fishing, get a taste of authentic Western culture in Fort Pierre.
Chamberlain/Oacoma
With the Missouri River running between them, Chamberlain and Oacoma offer stunning views and cultural landmarks like Dignity: Of Earth & Sky and the Aktá Lakota Museum & Cultural Center. This area makes a perfect stop along Interstate 90 and is an entry point for the Native American National & State Scenic Byway.
More Places in Central South Dakota:
Gettysburg | Mobridge | Platte | Wagner | Winner
Northeast South Dakota Cities & Towns
Brookings
Brookings is home to South Dakota State University and renowned cultural institutions like the Children's Museum of South Dakota and South Dakota Art Museum. With great dining, lively arts and scenic outdoor spaces, it’s a dynamic destination for all ages.
Aberdeen
Step into a fairy tale at Storybook Land and the Land of Oz, a magical (and free!) attraction that brings to life characters from classic nursery rhymes and “The Wizard of Oz.” Aberdeen is also famous for its ski show team, the Aberdeen Aqua Addicts, along with a growing craft beer scene.
Huron
Home to the South Dakota State Fair and the World’s Largest Pheasant, Huron is a small town that does things big. Enjoy outdoor recreation, top-notch pheasant hunting, local history and a welcoming community rich in Midwestern charm.
Watertown
Home to the stunning Terry Redlin Art Center, Watertown is a destination for art lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Explore Lake Kampeska, shop in historic downtown or experience local history at the Codington County Heritage Museum.
More Places in Northeast South Dakota:
Clear Lake | De Smet | Milbank | Redfield | Sisseton | Webster
Southeast South Dakota Cities & Towns
Sioux Falls
South Dakota’s largest city is a vibrant mix of urban energy and natural beauty, featuring the stunning Falls Park in the heart of downtown. Visitors can partake in a thriving culinary and craft brewing scene, public art, cultural attractions and year-round events.
Yankton
The former capital of Dakota Territory, Yankton has stories to tell. Get out on the water at Lewis and Clark Recreation Area, whose centerpiece is glistening Lewis and Clark Lake. More interested in city pursuits? Head to downtown Yankton to walk the double-decker Meridian Bridge, stroll the Meridian District and enjoy water views in Riverside Park.
Mitchell
It may be most famous for The World’s Only Corn Palace, but there’s more to Mitchell than corn! Delve into the region’s Indigenous heritage at the Prehistoric Indian Village, spend summer days on the water at Lake Mitchell or attend one of the town’s unique annual events.
Vermillion
Vermillion is home to the University of South Dakota and a thriving arts and culture scene. Marvel at the incredible collection of rare instruments at the National Music Museum, explore the historic downtown and take in free performances at the South Dakota Shakespeare Festival.
More Places in Southeast South Dakota:
Brandon | Canton | Dakota Dunes | Dell Rapids | Elk Point | Freeman | Hartford | Madison | Parkston | Springfield
