The rigid beauty of South Dakota’s Badlands has brought visitors to the area for decades
If you’re looking for a historical and culturally diverse opportunity, South Dakota offers a range of breathtaking sights sure to leave a lasting impression. Three memorable attractions really make the state of South Dakota an iconic location for tourists. Discover what this state has to offer as you explore these locations and experience the historical, cultural and unique adventure you can go on your visit to South Dakota.
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NATIONAL MEMORIAL
Filled with history and community, the 1,278 acres of Mount Rushmore National Memorial showcase South Dakota’s greatest attractions. Located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, you can find the famous mountain carving of four of our U.S presidents, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt. The idea of creating a monumental sculpture in the Black Hills was brought up by South Dakota historian, Doane Robinson, to create likenesses of famous Indigenous and American Old West personalities on a rock formation in Custer State Park.
CRAZY HORSE MEMORIAL
The Crazy Horse Memorial is a monumental sculpture located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Even though the wildlife in the area is a bonus, its main attraction is the large carving dedicated to the Oglala Lakota warrior Crazy Horse. Carved from Thunderhead Mountain, it will be the largest mountain carving in the world when completed—and visitors can witness history in the making as this massive work continues to take shape. Its main goal is to honor the legacy of Crazy Horse as a leader and a symbol of Indigenous resistance. Visitors can also experience cultural activities, such as storytelling sessions and art shows, and educational programs, featuring the Indian Museum of North America.
WALL DRUG WITH BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK
Wall Drug is a famous roadside attraction located in Wall, South Dakota. It started as a small-town pharmacy but quickly became a symbol of the American West and a fascinating tourist attraction with its unique merchandise. Visitors can enjoy a variety of shops, dining options, and photo opportunities, making this a popular and fun location that won the hearts of multiple tourists. Nearby, Badlands National Park is known for its beautiful landscape, making it a perfect location for hiking and scenic drives.
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TRAVEL SOUTH DAKOTA
- Cole Irwin – Global Travel & Trade Senior Director
- Cole.Irwin@TravelSouthDakota.com
- 605-773-3301
- TravelSouthDakota.com
