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Hidden Gems

We all know about Mount Rushmore and Wall Drug and even the World’s Only Corn Palace. They’re much-loved favorites. But what about the lesser-known destinations? The ones that still surprise, even if you’ve lived here your whole life. We’re talking about state parks, historic sites and food joints you won’t find in your average travel guide. Here are just a few.

STATE PARKS YOU NEED TO VISIT
Bear Butte State Park
Bear Butte State Park – Sturgis
Farm Island State Park
Farm Island – Pierre
Good Earth State Park
Good Earth State Park – Sioux Falls
Sica Hollow State Park
Sica Hollow State Park – Sisseton
Hiking Badlands National Park
More National & State Parks
HISTORIC STOPS
Fort Sisseton Historic State Park – Lake City
Fort Sisseton Historic State Park – Lake City
Meeker Ranch
Meeker Ranch – Custer
Old Courthouse Museum  - Sioux Falls
Old Courthouse Museum – Sioux Falls
South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center – Pierre
South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center – Pierre
More Historic Sites
Great Eats
Ben's Brewing
Ben’s Brewing Co. – Yankton
Nick’s Hamburgers – Brookings
Nick’s Hamburgers – Brookings
Skogen Kitchen – Custer
Skogen Kitchen – Custer
Dempsey’s Brewery, Pub & Restaurant – Watertown
Dempsey’s Brewery, Pub & Restaurant – Watertown
Jerry's Cakes and Donuts
More Great Eats
A Little Bit of Everything
Moccasin Springs – Hot Springs
Moccasin Springs – Hot Springs
Twist Cone – Aberdeen
Twist Cone – Aberdeen
Faulkton Elevator Mural
Faulkton Elevator Mural – Faulkton
Meridian Bridge Trail – Yankton
Meridian Bridge Trail – Yankton
Hikers look out over Stratobowl
More Things to Do
Your Guide to

In-state Travel

Track down hidden treasures, seek out South Dakota’s best-kept secrets and start planning your adventure with the South Dakota Vacation Guide, our comprehensive guide book to in-state travel throughout each of the state’s four regions.

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Illustrated image of three bison grazing in Custer State Park. The Needles rock formation is visible in the background.
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