Native Art Events in South Dakota

The Heritage Hall Museum & Archives is a cultural hub that celebrates and shares the history of the larger Freeman community. Our collection tells the story of the Germans-from-Russia immigrants who arrived in southeastern Dakota Territory starting in the 1870s. Our two exhibit halls and four historical buildings include thousands of artifacts that tell the story of the settlers who came from Amish, Hutterite, Lutheran, Reformed and Mennonite faith traditions. Our archives are filled with thousands of photos, documents and books available for research. We are open year-round, with our seasonal hours being 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday through Saturday, in the summer (May-September), and 12-4 p.m., Monday through Friday, in the winter (October-April).

The International Vinegar Museum in Roslyn is the world's first and only museum dedicated to the wonder that is vinegar. Learn how vinegar is made, who makes it and 101 uses for vinegar. The museum is open seasonally (May-early September), 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Thursday, Friday and Saturday. See our Facebook page for any updates and the latest information..

Established in 1992 and located on the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Reservation, Lakota Youth Development (aka Native American Advocacy Program) is a statewide, non-profit, grassroots organization serving persons residing on and off the lands of the tribal nations in South Dakota. Our goal is to re-establish and support a Hocoka (Sacred Circle) for the Oyate (people) to facilitate positive direction in their lives through Lakota Language, culture values and spirituality with our horse nation relatives. In addition to youth programs, Lakota Youth Development offers cultural heritage tourism in the form of lodging (tipis, tent sites and a bunkhouse) and cultural activities (historical tour, traditional Lakota games, dance performances, make and take cultural arts projects, native sports and more).

Located in Yankton's historical riverfront district, the 1886 Cramer-Kenyon Heritage Home has the architectural design of Eastlake Stick Style with an elegant Queen Anne interior. The home is open to the public for guided tours from Memorial Day (late May) through Labor Day (early September), Wednesday through Sunday, 1-4 p.m. During the off season, tours may be scheduled by reservation. Admission is $7 for adults (age 12 and older) and $3 for students (under age 12). See our Facebook page for special events and activities.

Singing Horse Trading Post is located on the Pine Ridge Lakota Reservation and specializes in quality Native craft, including fine arts, quill work, star quilts, leather craft, bone/antler jewelry, beadwork and more. There is also a bed and breakfast, with rooms, cabins and camping, providing an exciting experience for those wishing to visit the reservation. We can arrange tours, horseback adventures and educational opportunities. We are open 12-8 p.m., Monday-Friday, and 12-6 p.m., Saturday.

Built in 1914, the Chicago and NorthWestern Historic Railroad Depot in Redfield features art carved marble floors, virgin golden oak woodwork, and separate waiting rooms for men and women. It is listed on the National Historic Register of Historic Places. The gift shop includes memorabilia, model trains, postcards, puzzles, pheasant-themed products, local books, caps, and shirts. Call ahead for current hours.

Bonnie LeBeaux Quilts creates authentic Native American Star Quilts, with exceptional quality for your special occasion. Located south of Interstate 90, Exit 59, in Rapid City, store hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday.

The Dakota Plains Gallery & Gifts in downtown Chamberlain provides a venue for artists to showcase and market their work. The gallery also features artists who provide gallery talks, cultural classes, storytelling and author signings. The Dakota Indian Foundation is a non-profit organization that created the Dakota Plains Gallery for the purpose of promoting economic development for local tribal artists. Every purchase is a donation toward academic scholarships and grants that preserve Dakota culture. Business hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

The Pickstown & Fort Randall Museum is a collection of objects, artifacts and information relating to the Fort Randall and Pickstown area. They are grouped into four historical periods: 1) the establishment of Fort Randall in 1856, 2) the construction and development of the Fort Randall Dam and the town of Pickstown, beginning in 1946, 3) the life of the Pickstown school (1947-1968), and 4) the evolution of Pickstown to its present state. The museum is located in the Rainbow Room Complex in Pickstown, which includes the last three original town buildings. Museum hours are 12:30-4 p.m. on Saturday, April through October, or by appointment (call ahead).