Fishing boat and bridge Pierre

Pierre: Outdoor Fun in the State Capital

Pierre, South Dakota’s state capital, has no shortage of outdoor recreation. From state parks to recreation areas, Pierre offers first-rate outdoor recreation year-round. Located on the Missouri River, LaFramboise Island Nature Area features hiking, boat ramps, fishing docks and picnic areas. This island is also historically significant for its mention in the Lewis and Clark journals from their 1804 journey. Go camping at the Oahe Downstream State Recreation area. The state park’s three campgrounds feature hiking, boating, disc golf and birdwatching. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles while visiting.

Farm Island State Recreation Area is one of Pierre’s busiest attractions. This recreation area features beaches, canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, eight miles of trails, campgrounds, fishing and more. Fish the Missouri River off the docks at Steamboat Park. The park also offers an 18-hole disc golf course, a picnic shelter and a playground. Along with these excellent outdoor amenities, Pierre offers must-see attractions. The South Dakota National Guard Museum gives visitors a glimpse of South Dakota's military history. Follow the Trail of Governors to see life-sized bronze statues of former state leaders. Families will love the South Dakota Discovery Center's fun, interactive science exhibits.

Foggy LaFramboise Island with trees and road

LaFramboise Island Nature Area

This unique island along the Missouri River is easily accessible, offering visitors the chance to take in trees, meadows and a variety of wildlife and bird species. Explore hiking & biking trails and enjoy the fishing dock, boat ramp and picnic shelter.

Explore LaFramboise Island

Cultural Heritage Center

Learn about South Dakota's rich heritage with a variety of award-winning rotating exhibits that engage every age, especially with hands-on activities that make learning fun.

Discover the Cultural Heritage Center

The State Capitol

Tour the South Dakota State Capitol and learn about the history of the state and its Capitol building. Guided tours must be scheduled 48 hours prior to your visit. Self-guided tours and activity books are also available.

Visit the State Capitol

South Dakota National Guard Museum

Discover the state's military history at the South Dakota National Guard Museum. Guests will find artifacts dating from the late 1800s to modern day, displaying the heritage and evolution of the Dakota Militia and South Dakota Army.

Visit the South Dakota National Guard Museum

Plan Your Visit to Pierre

Pierre’s location on the Missouri River makes it a premier destination for outdoor recreation. Explore the city’s parks and recreation areas to discover your next adventure.

800 W. Dakota Ave.
Pierre, SD 57501

Where to Stay

South Dakota’s capital has plenty of options for travelers of every type, from well-appointed B&Bs to off-the-beaten-path lodges to full-serve hotels and resorts.

Nearby Lodging

Where to Eat & Drink

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to fuel your outdoor adventures or a hearty dining experience after a day of exploring, here’s where to eat in Pierre.

Nearby Restaurants

What to See & Do Nearby

Immerse yourself in South Dakota (and American) history in Pierre. See the State Capitol, head to the South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center and explore relics at Fort Pierre.

Nearby Attractions

PLAN YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE IN THE STATE CAPITAL.

Check Out These Pierre Businesses

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Hilger's Gulch

Hilger's Gulch in Pierre includes a 1.1 mile lighted walking trail along with attractive flower gardens and a scenic view of the South Dakota State Capitol. During holidays and special events, the park is decorated with a United States flag display. Governor's Grove is located on the west slope of the gulch and contains hundreds of trees and 28 monuments dedicated to former governors of South Dakota including the Gates of the Counties, which are constructed of stones native to each county in South Dakota. During the winter months, Hilger's Gulch is a popular spot for sledders. For more information, contact the Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce.

Pierre Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

When South Dakota achieved statehood in 1889, Pierre, situated at nearly the geographic center of the state became its capital. We are a small, Midwestern city of about 14,000 that is the seat of Hughes County as well as the state capital. Ours is a friendly community whose tree-lined streets, historic downtown and lush green parks give way to rolling hills and steep Missouri River bluffs. With numerous parks and endless outdoor recreation opportunities, Pierre is your adventure on the river.

Mi Ranchito Mexican Restaurant

Check out Mi Ranchito Mexican Restaurant in downtown Pierre. We are a family-owned restaurant that offers an authentic, unique taste, and traditional cooking methods. We are open for lunch and supper and offer dine-in, takeout and delivery. Our hours are 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday; and 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday and Saturday. (Closed Tuesday)

Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center

The Ramkota Hotel in South Dakota's capital city, Pierre, is more than just a place to stay. We are a full-service hotel where you will arrive as a guest and leave as a friend. Our location on the banks of the beautiful Missouri River is the perfect location for business or pleasure. We hope to see you soon!

Zesto

Zesto is a locally-owned ice cream shop and a Pierre area favorite. In addition to soft serve ice cream and sherbet, we offer tasty food items, including pizza burgers, barbeque sandwiches, chicken fillet sandwiches, fish and chips, hot dogs, fries, tater tots, onion rings, and more. See our Facebook page for featured sherbet flavors and other specials. We are open March through October. Outdoor seating is available. Our hours are 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday and Friday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday; and 12-8 p.m., Sunday.

Days Inn Pierre

Get the best value under the sun at our Days Inn Pierre hotel in South Dakota's capital city. After a refreshing sleep on your pillow-top mattress, rise and shine to free Daybreak continental breakfast. Free Wi-Fi Internet access keeps you connected to home or office, while free access to the YMCA Aquatic Center gives you a fun place to splash around for an afternoon. Our pet-friendly hotel offers 24-hour front desk service, guest laundry service and an on-site fish and game cleaning station.

Baymont Inn & Suites

The Baymont Inn & Suites in Pierre is located just blocks from the South Dakota Capitol building and five miles from the Oahe Dam, the second-largest earth-rolled dam in the world. We are one block from the Missouri River (one of the closest hotels to the river) and have boat parking and plug-ins available for your fishing and outdoor excursions on Lake Sharpe and Lake Oahe. We are pet-friendly, and offer a free River Rise Hot Breakfast in the morning and fresh-baked cookies in the afternoon.

Tinker Kennels and Trail Rides

Join us at Tinker Kennels near Pierre for a scenic trail ride. Step back in time and experience the history of the Old West as seen by the eyes of the early pioneers and settlers. We offer multiple options for scenery, terrain and length of ride. Reservations are required and we allow for a maximum of four riders. Children 8 and older must be able to ride alone and meet minimum safety requirements. (You must be at the departing destination 30 minutes prior to complete the required paperwork.)

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson

The Country Inn & Suites by Radisson in Pierre is located just steps from all that downtown Pierre has to offer. Our charming city has plenty to keep you busy, from the South Dakota State Capitol, just a 10-minute walk from the hotel, to LaFramboise Island Nature Area, Steamboat Park and the Missouri River. Wake up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee at our free, hot breakfast, served seven days a week. We help you save time and money with convenient on-site amenities like a fitness center, truck parking, and free Wi-Fi. We even welcome pets for a small fee. (Formerly the Econo Lodge.)

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