Trip Ideas
Every vacation has a beginning and an end, but what about everything in between? Read Road Journals from real South Dakota visitors, find a scenic route, check out curated itineraries or explore more in our Spotlights below. You'll find all the information and inspiration you'll need to plan your South Dakota adventure.
SCENIC DRIVES
Go where the road takes you for our most famous views.
Some of the most incredible roads anywhere make up the Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway in the Black Hills of western South Dakota. Mix in America’s most patriotic monument and you have a never-to-be-forgotten road trip.
Some describe it as lunar-like, others say desert, but the Native Americans were the first to call it mako sica or "bad lands." We think you’ll come up with your own description for Badlands National Park.
Searching for animals you don’t see in your neighborhood? Custer State Park’s 18-mile Wildlife Loop State Scenic Byway has just what you're looking for!
Towering limestone cliffs and a rushing mountain stream keep you company along the 19-mile stretch of US Highway 14A known as Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway.
Breathtaking views of the Missouri River, diverse landscapes, and tribal history and culture are showcased on the Native American Scenic Byway, running north and south through central South Dakota. The route takes travelers through the lands of the Yankton, Crow Creek, Lower Brule, Cheyenne River and Standing Rock Sioux Tribes.
Photo Essays
Focused points of view that get you up close.
Find our Vacation Guide, state map, and other free publications to aid in your travel planning.
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