Road Trips in South Dakota

When the sun goes down on a South Dakota road trip, the show begins. SoDak’s dark, vast and open skies flood with stars after sunset. Across the plains and to the hills, these are starry nights like you’ve never seen. Pull over, look up and let the Milky Way do the rest.

Take a bite out of authentic South Dakota. While crossing through the Midwest, stop by and step onto the land that feeds the nation. Enjoy sunflower farms, cattle ranches or make it a weekend with farm stays and harvest festivals. Here, agritourism connects you to the stories behind the state that no museum can.

The best road trips are about more than the destination; they’re about the unique things you stumble across along the way. South Dakota’s highways are littered with legendary roadside attractions, from bigger-than-life sculptures like Dignity: of Earth & Sky and Porter Sculpture Park to quirky landmarks like Wall Drug Store and The World's Only Corn Palace.

South Dakota is home to landmarks that have earned their place on every best family road-trip bucket list and then some. Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial ®, the Badlands and Custer State Park stand out as some of the most iconic American road-trip destinations.

If you’re looking for solitude and open roads, South Dakota’s state parks and nature areas are calling. From Palisades State Park on the east side of the state to Bear Butte State Park on the edge of the Black Hills, South Dakota’s outdoors go beyond the famous national parks.

Spotting a bison herd jamming traffic across the road isn't an inconvenience; it’s a highlight on South Dakota road trips. South Dakota's prairies, grasslands and parks are home to an incredible range of wildlife, and Midwest road trips don't get much more memorable than getting up close. Keep your eyes and your camera ready.

South Dakota is a four-season destination, each one bringing its own kind of spectacular. Knowing what the weather can throw at you makes all the difference. Spring snowstorms, summer heat on the plains, and icy winter highways are all real considerations when you're mapping out your route. The most predictable weather occurs during late spring to early fall, but it’s also the busiest season. Find fewer crowds during early spring and fall before the freeze.

Road conditions can change fast, especially in winter or during spring storms. Before you hit the road, check current road conditions so your trip stays on track. The best detour is one you planned for, not the one the weather plans for you. Check the roads and weather before you leave.

Headed here from out of state? Make sure you know the laws. It's a small step that keeps your road trip focused on the good stuff, like watching the scenery instead of the rearview mirror.

South Dakota's epic adventures, from the road to the trails, are meant for everyone. Our accessible trails and facilities at most iconic landmarks and resources help you plan. We're committed to making sure your road trip is as welcoming as the landscape itself.