Bro Brgr Bar

Bro Brgr Bar, Yankton

Located in downtown Yankton in the Meridian District, Bro Brgr Bar opened in February 2021. We offer 17 different specialty hamburgers as well as a selection of appetizers, hot dogs, salads, milkshakes and more. We also offer a wide selection of your favorite beers, including local brews. Our hours

Blue Tin Ranch

Blue Tin Ranch, Burbank

Blue Tin Ranch is a family-owned hunting lodge located in the beautiful Missouri River Valley of southeastern South Dakota. Open year-round for hunting of all types, we are also just two miles from the Missouri River, making fishing trips as easy as can be. Come for the hunting and great outdoors of

Harvester Kitchen by Bryan

Harvester Kitchen by Bryan, Sioux Falls

Harvester Kitchen by Bryan is located in downtown Sioux Falls with sunset views of the iconic Old Courthouse clock tower. The windowed loft-style space is in the 115-year-old historic Harvester Building, one of the city’s first farm implement dealerships. We offer innovative American cooking in our

Fall in South Dakota

Spearfish Canyon in the fall
Spearfish Canyon in the fall

Fall in South Dakota

Spearfish Canyon

South Dakota is naturally painted in rich colors year-round, but autumn illuminates the landscape with fiery foliage. Discover the magic of fall in The Mount Rushmore State, from refreshing wilderness walks to scenic road trips along meandering byways.

From the serene woodlands along the Big Sioux River to the forested hills of Sica Hollow State Park, splashes of color melt through the green landscape. As fall transforms South Dakota's mountains and prairies, the sumac-laced bluffs along the mighty Missouri River and the brilliant, aspen-dotted Spearfish Canyon are among the many special places enchanting those with eyes open to the highlights. If you and your bird dog eagerly await hunting season each year, South Dakota offers some of the best pheasant hunting in the U.S., with public hunting opportunities across the state.

What kind of weather can you expect for your fall adventure? With average daytime highs just below 60° F (15° C) and lows in the mid-40s (7° C), a light jacket will usually do. However, while most days tend to be sunny and mild, precipitation — even frost and snow — can intermingle with crisp fall weather.

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Seeing SoDak: What It's Like to Experience South Dakota

They came. They saw. They were amazed by the majesty of Mount Rushmore National Memorial, the expansive views of Badlands National Park, the discovery of 1880 Town and the magic of a South Dakota road trip.

Things to Do This Fall

Discover fun fall activities and experiences around the state.

Hiking Spearfish Canyon couple
Black Hills & Badlands Region

The quieter fall months are the perfect time to enjoy legendary overlooks and outdoor experiences at Custer State Park. At Sylvan Lake, hike the Black Elk Peak summit trail for a panoramic view of fall foliage. Cool down with a drive along Needles Highway and snap a photo at the iconic Needles Eye rock formation. Or explore Spearfish Canyon State & National Scenic Byway near the town of Spearfish, where crimson vines and the shimmering golden leaves of aspen and birch trees highlight the gorge’s limestone cliffs and foamy waterfalls. Keep an eye out for local color reports to time your trip.

Sica Hollow State Park
Glacial Lakes & Prairies Region

More leaf-peeping awaits on a hike through Sica Hollow State Park in Sisseton. Follow the Trail of the Spirits for Native lore and pops of color — jewelweed and bittersweet in vibrant shades of orange and red against the overstory of yellow leaves. This region also offers some of the nation's best pheasant hunting. Come October, Aberdeen is a good base for lodges, guided hunts and tips for DIY trips. For indoor exploration, visit the Redlin Art Center in Watertown. American artist Terry Redlin’s paintings depicting autumn scenes will keep you inspired.

Country Apple Orchard
Southeast Region

With more than 180 species of trees and shrubs, Union Grove State Park near Beresford is a picturesque setting for fall camping. But with much of the region falling under a major flyway, the birdwatching can be just as exhilarating as the leaf-peeping. Randall Creek Recreation Area in Pickstown is a good bet for spotting gulls and bald eagles. And almost anywhere in the region, you can count on seasonal celebrations, including harvest festivals at regional wineries and farms.

Pierre
Missouri River Region

Bordering South Dakota’s Glacial Lakes & Prairies region, the Missouri River region shares the distinction of offering excellent hunting, from pheasant to big game. Add to the mix the region’s four glistening lakes — Oahe, Sharpe, Francis Case and Lewis & Clark — and you have the ideal “blast and cast” conditions. Scan local hunting and fishing reports or sign up with area charters to land walleye, salmon and more. For a bite of local history, tour the State Capitol in Pierre or the Aktá Lakota Museum & Cultural Center in Chamberlain.

Leaves change color along the road in Sica Hollow State Park.
Sica Hollow State Park
Mount Rushmore in Fall
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Old wagon
Central South Dakota

Can't-Miss Fall Festivals & Events

The Buffalo Roundup at Custer State Park is truly a sight to behold. Look on as local cowboys and cowgirls drive a herd of 1,300 buffalo. Then, head over to the Buffalo Roundup Arts Festival to shop more than 150 local vendors. If you’re a movie lover, you won’t want to miss the South Dakota Film Festival. Held at the Capitol Theatre in Aberdeen, this weekend fest showcases works filmed in the Great Plains region and filmmakers from the area. Celebrate Indigenous culture at the Black Hills Powwow in Rapid City, where thousands of dancers, singers and spectators gather for three days of art shows, storytelling and performances. And get into the spirit of spooky season at Deadweird in Historic Deadwood, a town that’s said to be haunted by a few Wild West legends.

Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup
Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup
South Dakota Film Festival
South Dakota Film Festival
Black Hills Powwow
Black Hills Powwow
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Discover South Dakota in every season

Experience South Dakota's Fall Magic
START PLANNING YOUR NEXT TRIP TO SOUTH DAKOTA
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From the serene woodlands along the Big Sioux River to the forested hills of Sica...

Summer in South Dakota

Couple kayaking at Palisades State Park.
Couple kayaking at Palisades State Park.

Summer in South Dakota

When the days grow long, each one kissed by sunshine, South Dakota is in its full summer swing. Seasonal businesses reopen, event calendars in cities and towns across the state fill with fun, and outdoor recreation calls to the kid in all of us. From lake and river adventures to fairs, festivals and epic road trips, discover some of the best things to do this summer in South Dakota.

You may be surprised to learn that South Dakota is home to hundreds of lakes, as well as multiple rivers that invite activities ranging from boating and fishing to swimming and kayaking. In fact, South Dakota boasts more shoreline than the state of Florida. Really!

Prepare to get outside and enjoy the South Dakota summer weather by packing a bathing suit and plenty of sun protection. Keep in mind that while average highs can reach 90°F (32°C) during the day, nights can dip into the 60s (16°C). Light, breathable clothing will keep you cool, while a light jacket (and/or rain jacket) will keep you warm when the sun goes down or a summer shower pops up.

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Great Faces, Great Places

Welcome to South Dakota - the land of Great Faces and Great Places. From our six national park units like Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Badlands National Park to beautiful state parks, unique roadside attractions, and legendary history & culture, South Dakota is sure to surprise you at every mile marker.

Things to Do in Summer

Discover fun activities and experiences around the state.

Family of four hiking on a summer day at Custer State Park.
BLACK HILLS & BADLANDS REGION

Western South Dakota's iconic landmarks and epic road trips make it a classic summer vacation destination. Choose your own adventure at Custer State Park, from lazing on the swimming beach at Sylvan Lake to exploring wildflower-speckled trails. Not far away, enjoy ice cream from Carvers’ Cafe, which comes with a view of Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Get off the beaten path with a drive to Hot Springs and chill out — literally — at Wind Cave National Park, featuring the world’s most intricate collection of boxwork formations and a year-round temperature of 49°F (9°C). Or head for the northern hills, where you can witness a Main Street Shootout in Historic Deadwood and experience the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

Family on a pier looking at the Fourth of July fireworks display over Mina Lake State Recreation Area.
Glacial Lakes & Prairies Region

With its mix of cultural capitals and small towns, the Northeast region hosts a variety of can’t-miss summer events. Choose from favorites including the Brookings Summer Arts Festival (July), when scenic Pioneer Park showcases more than 200 artists, live entertainment and food stalls; Aberdeen’s Brown County Fair (August), one of the oldest in the state; and the South Dakota State Fair, which brings five days of excitement to the town of Huron over Labor Day weekend. Of course, the region is also known for its plentiful lakes and fishing. Mina Lake State Recreation Area, Roy Lake State Park and Lake Thompson State Recreation Area are just a few places where you can cool off or drop a line

Dignity Statue
Missouri River Region

You won’t be able to resist the call of the water in Central South Dakota. Rent a paddleboard to navigate the calm beauty of Lake Sharpe or Lake Oahe. Like to fish? Check into local resorts and marinas that cater to anglers in search of walleye, bass, salmon and more. Follow the Missouri River along the Native American National & State Scenic Byway, which connects several sites of historical and cultural significance, including the powerful Dignity: Of Earth & Sky. Around the capital city of Pierre, sunflower fields explode into bright yellow as far as the eye can see. The region is also home to several fun celebrations, from the quirky Potato Days in Clark to the patriotic Fort Pierre 4th of July Parade, Rodeo & Fireworks.

Couple watching the sun set on a sailboat at Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area in Yankton.
Southeast Region

Summer is hopping in the Southeast, so hang with the locals at an event — maybe a home game of the Sioux Falls Canaries (because baseball + beer = summer, right?) or a free Levitt at the Falls concert in beautiful Falls Park, set against views of downtown and the tumbling Big Sioux River. Or, trade the city for a natural immersion. Just north of Vermillion, Spirit Mound State Historic Prairie invites history-filled hikes in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark. Several more state parks in the Southeast offer endless outdoor adventure. Try rock climbing above Split Rock Creek at Palisades State Park, boating and camping at Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area or fantastic birding at Good Earth State Park at Blood Run.

Can’t-Miss Summer Events & Festivals

Celebrate the Fourth of July at the Black Hills Roundup in Belle Fourche. A tradition of more than 100 years, this event is one of the longest-running outdoor rodeos in the nation. Don’t miss all the exciting professional and ranch rodeo events, like mutton bustin’ and steer roping, plus the annual cattle drive, street dance, carnival, fireworks spectacular and parade. Nearby, experience biker heaven at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally — the largest biker rally in the world. More than 500,000 riders converge on the small town of Sturgis each August for concerts, races, contests and dozens of other events.

Get an authentic taste of SoDak at the South Dakota Chislic Festival. The state’s best will compete for bragging rights over who makes the tastiest chislic — a South Dakota specialty of cubed cuts of deep-fried meat. Find more great grub at the South Dakota State Fair in Huron. Full of carnival rides, rodeo events, live music, antique tractor shows and livestock and agricultural demonstrations, this five-day fair is packed with family fun.

Powwows (or “wacipis” in Lakota) are vibrant celebrations of Native culture and community featuring singing, dancing, drumming and an array of colorful regalia. Most of South Dakota's nine tribes hold their wacipis in summer, and spectators are encouraged to attend.

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DISCOVER SOUTH DAKOTA IN EVERY SEASON

So much more south dakota to explore

Another adventure is waiting for you this summer in South Dakota. Get inspired and say #HiFromSD to share your vacation experiences!

START PLANNING YOUR NEXT TRIP TO SOUTH DAKOTA
2025 South Dakota Vacation Guide Cover
Order Your Free Vacation Guide

Find our Travel Guide, state map, and other free publications to aid in your travel planning.

Dignity: of Earth & Sky Statue Chamberlain South Dakota
Sign Up for the E-Newsletter

Receive monthly inspiration about places to see, activities to try and upcoming events.

Newton Hills fall hiking
Discover South Dakota's Great Finds

Earn prizes and discounts as you explore off-the-beaten-path attractions on your next South Dakota adventure.

You may be surprised to learn that South Dakota is home to hundreds of lakes...

Elofson Vintage Boutique

A hot spot off the beaten path. A hidden little gem. A place that you crave. A clothing and accessories shop made to make woman feel confident in their clothing-not because they ''fit in,'' but because they stand out in a crowd. Elofson is constantly evolving, taking shape every week around