South Dakota has a wonderful diversity of family-friendly activities that showcase the state’s natural beauty, its storied past, and its unique culture. From legendary landmarks to hands-on museums, the Mount Rushmore State presents families with many opportunities to create lasting memories.
Iconic Landmarks and Natural Wonders
No South Dakota trip is complete without its legendary sites. Mount Rushmore National Memorial is the crown jewel, where families can gawk at the four presidents’ sculpted faces while learning about American history through interactive exhibits and ranger programs. The adjacent Crazy Horse Memorial offers another memorable experience, as a sculpture project in honor of Native American heritage.
Badlands National Park is a dreamlike environment that’s fun for travelers of all ages, where kids and adults can walk up to the breathtaking rock formations, hunt for fossils, and observe wildlife like bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs. There are also educational activities to do on the many walking trails in the park.
Black Hills Adventures
The Black Hills region is South Dakota’s adventure playground. Custer State Park offers good wildlife viewing, particularly during the annual buffalo roundup. Families can take a car ride along the stunning Wildlife Loop Road, stay in historic lodges, and go along guided nature walks.
Wind Cave National Park provides a below-ground odyssey of one of the longest cave systems in the world. The cave tours cater to different ages and fitness levels, so most family members can participate. Above ground, the park has hiking trails over the prairie with plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities.
Educational Entertainment
South Dakota museums and cultural sites educate and entertain. The Journey Museum and Learning Center in Rapid City welcomes the history of the region with interactive exhibits covering dinosaurs up to Native American culture. There are also plenty of things to do in Rapid City when it rains, such as visiting a Jump N Slide adventure park.
The Mammoth Site in Hot Springs allows families to observe an active paleontological excavation where mammoth fossils are excavated on a daily basis. Children may participate in the Junior Paleontologist program and learn about these fossils through hands-on interactions.
Outdoor Recreation and Unusual Experiences
Outdoor recreation in South Dakota is boundless. The Mickelson Trail offers 109 miles of old railroad bed perfect for family walks and bicycle rides. The trail passes through tunnels, trestles, and along quaint towns, with scenic landscapes and convenient stop points.
Other activities include:
- Family fishing in numerous lakes and streams throughout the state
- Horse riding tours in the Black Hills
- Swimming and water sports at popular lakes like Pactola and Sheridan
- Family-friendly rock climbing and bouldering
Cultural Immersion
You can learn more about Native American culture at various powwows and cultural centers throughout the state. A glimpse of Lakota heritage and history can be seen at the Akta Lakota Museum and Cultural Center, which features artifacts, artwork, and storytelling.
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, while famous for bikers, also has family-friendly activities such as live music acts, food stands, and motorcycle exhibitions that interest adults and children alike.
South Dakota actually has something special for every family member, combining nature’s marvels, education, and outdoor adventure in one unforgettable vacation spot.
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