EXPLORE SOUTH DAKOTA'S URBAN AREAS
Discover incredible attractions in unique urban settings. Whether you’re on a solo journey or traveling with friends or family, South Dakota's cities offer one-of-a-kind experiences.
Sioux Falls
As South Dakota’s largest city, Sioux Falls is packed with cultural attractions, family-friendly activities and history. Falls Park is the top attraction, featuring 123 acres of green space, waterfalls and historic buildings along the Big Sioux River. Explore a vibrant downtown and the hidden gems of this eastern SoDak metropolis.
Rapid City
Conveniently located within an hour’s drive of six national parks, Rapid City is close to outdoor adventure while offering plenty of big-city comforts and attractions. All ages will get a thrill at wildlife attractions such as Bear Country USA and Reptile Gardens. Adventurers can get theirs biking M Hill or hiking the 135-acre Skyline Wilderness Area. Don't miss Art Alley's devotion to ever-changing graffiti art.
Aberdeen
A mid-sized South Dakota city, Aberdeen is a welcoming destination with affordable lodging, more than 80 restaurants, and plenty of smaller attractions perfect for a crowd-free experience. Wylie Park features just about everything, including the wonderful Land of Oz. For history and culture, explore the artifacts and exhibits at the Dacotah Prairie Museum, peruse the art displays at the Aberdeen Recreation & Cultural Center Gallery, and watch a performance at the Johnson Fine Arts Center on the Northern State University campus.
Brookings
With parks, gardens, fishing ponds and trails, Brookings adds to South Dakota’s reputation as an outdoor paradise with in-city amenities. Stroll through an urban arboretum, let little ones learn and play at the Children’s Museum of South Dakota, tee off on a round of golf, or spot the incredible artwork of Urban Canvas.
Watertown
Watertown is plentiful in culture and attractions. For the arts, explore more than 150 oil paintings by wildlife artist Terry Redlin at The Redlin Art Center, and watch live performances at the beautiful Goss Opera House. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover or a water baby, you'll find plenty to love in this small city.
Mitchell
Small-town charm and family fun abound in the town of Mitchell, where local shops, restaurants and attractions line the bustling Main Street. Be sure to visit the town’s top attraction, The World’s Only Corn Palace, a Moorish-style building with famous corn murals and events.
Yankton
Located on the banks of the Missouri River along the South Dakota/Nebraska border, Yankton is abundant in natural beauty and water recreation. In the downtown area, take a guided tour of the 1886 Cramer-Kenyon Heritage Home, see the historic Meridian Bridge, and browse the boutiques, galleries and eateries of the Meridian District.
Pierre
Located in the center of the state, Pierre (pronounced “peer”) is South Dakota’s capital where you can explore the State Capitol building, military history at memorials and museums, and the great outdoors. Just across the Missouri River is Pierre's sister city, Fort Pierre. Together, the two cities offer plenty of history, scenic views, and outdoor recreation — including world class walleye fishing.
Huron
Discover larger-than-life attractions, stop in for the State Fair, or enjoy plenty of livestock and equestrian events when you visit Huron. If you're looking for a thrill, check out car races at the Dakota State Fair Speedway, hunt pheasant or dive into fun at Splash Central Waterpark.
Spearfish
Located at the gateway of Spearfish Canyon, outdoor recreation and spectacular scenery are at your fingertips when you visit Spearfish.
Explore Things To Do
A Great Place is a community or business that has completed the customer service training criteria required by the South Dakota Department of Tourism. This symbol is not a rating nor endorsement, but is a recognition of those entities who are committed to providing quality service.
