Travel Tips

It’s the little things that can make or break a trip. Make sure you're perfectly prepared for your South Dakota adventure with everything you need to know about traveling here so yours goes without a hitch!

One of South Dakota’s unique charms? It spans two time zones. The eastern half — including cities like Sioux Falls and the capital, Pierre — follows Central Time, while the western half — home to Rapid City, Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills  —runs on Mountain Time. As you drive across the Missouri River — or transition between "East River" and "West River" — make sure your timepiece has updated. The shift is just another reminder that in South Dakota, every mile brings something new.

From wildlife crossings in Custer State Park to ranger-led experiences at Mount Rushmore or cultural offerings in downtown Sioux Falls, a little planning goes a long way. Pre-book tours when possible, stay informed of seasonal openings, and let serendipity surprise you, too.

This is the place where memories are made. Enjoy your adventure!