Pierre

Almost square in the center of the state sits Pierre (pronounced “peer”), South Dakota’s capital and the second-smallest capital city in the country. The heart of the central region, Pierre is surrounded by rolling grasslands and shares the gently rushing Missouri River with Fort Pierre, its sister city. Between the two, there’s no shortage of things to do, unique restaurants to try and excellent outdoor recreation.

LaFramboise Island Nature Area is crisscrossed with hiking trails.

Statues stand in salute in front of a lake at the WWII Memorial at the South Dakota State Capitol. Pierre, South Dakota. — Pay your respects to American servicemen and -women at Pierre's WWII Memorial, located at the South Dakota State Capitol.

man biking on Lewis & Clark Trai lPierre — The Lewis & Clark Trail traces the path of the famous explorers, who navigated the Missouri River through South Dakota in 1804.

The South Dakota Discovery Center is a can't-miss attraction for families with kids.

Tibbs and horse statue in front of Casey Tibbs Rodeo Center — Head to the Casey Tibbs South Dakota Rodeo Center to learn about one of the sport's greatest legends.

Hikers at Farm Island Trail — Get back to nature at Farm Island State Recreation Area, an island of the Missouri River that is steeped in history and scenery.

Top Things to Do in Pierre

Pierre is a city that is truly packed with history and culture. Don’t miss the Museum of the South Dakota State Historical Society, which recreates the cultural history of South Dakota beginning with the story of Indigenous tribes through the 21st century. The South Dakota State Capitol — free and open to the public for viewing during designated hours — is a building full of grandeur and mystery. Be sure to ask about the signatures on the tiles!

Families can spend a day exploring the South Dakota Discovery Center, which features hands-on exhibits to inspire scientific learning. Visitors under 2 years old receive free admission. Enjoy the fresh South Dakota air during a hike along the Missouri River at LaFrambroise Island Nature Area, or go bird-watching or fishing at the Farm Island Recreation Area — a place that was once explored by Lewis and Clark on their legendary Corps of Discovery.

Head across the Missouri to the Casey Tibbs South Dakota Rodeo Center to catch a rodeo and explore memorabilia from the sport’s greats. South Dakota also offers some of the best pheasant hunting opportunities in the nation. The season runs mid-October through late-January, and Pierre makes a great home base for hunting trips.

Featured Events

Christmas at the Capitol is a holiday spectacular. Witness the Grand Tree Lighting Ceremony before roaming the halls of the capitol building to see fabulous holiday displays and festive musical performances.
With live entertainment, beer gardens and dozens of local arts and craft vendors, you won’t want to miss the Oahe Days Arts and Music Festival.
BBQ competitions, a cornhole tournament, morning yoga and suncatcher painting are highlights of Fort Pierre Trader Days, a three-day summer festival full of eclectic activities to enjoy.

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Where to Stay & Eat in Pierre

Whether you’re looking for a hotel, inn, hunting lodge or bed-and-breakfast, you’ll find the perfect accommodations for your trip to Pierre. Experience history while staying at The Farr House, or spark your sense of adventure outside the city at the ScatterGun Lodge, which boasts more than 3,000 acres of pheasant-hunting habitat.

Start your day with a homemade cake or raised donut from The Donut Shop, a local favorite breakfast spot. For dinner, several restaurants in Pierre serve up a Wild West flair and hearty portions fit for a cowboy, like Cattleman’s Club Steakhouse or Mad Mary’s Steakhouse & Saloon.