In South Dakota, you will find vibrant nations of Indigenous people with a deep connection to their culture and land. The Oceti Sakowin — home of the Lakota, Nakota and Dakota tribal communities and their relatives — is open to respectful travelers ready to learn about their beautiful culture and rich heritage.
Museums, art galleries and gift shops across South Dakota showcase precious artifacts and artisan-made goods, as well as traditional and contemporary art. Peruse these treasures in addition to informative exhibits at places like the Aktá Lakota Museum & Cultural Center in Chamberlain or the Heritage Center at Maȟpíya Lúta (Red Cloud) in Pine Ridge. Deepen your connection to Native heritage at Crazy Horse Memorial®, the world’s largest mountain carving in progress, and its on-site Indian Museum of North America®. For an extra-special experience, consider attending one of the numerous wacipi (powwow) celebrations throughout the year. Prepare to be mesmerized by the spirited music and dance performances, and taste delicious foods like Indian tacos or fry bread.
You can also hit the open road along the Native American Scenic Byway, which winds through the heart of the Great Sioux Nation and guides travelers to diverse landscapes, historic sites and the stunning Dignity: Of Earth & Sky sculpture — one of many artistic tributes to Native heritage across South Dakota. The Native American Attraction Trail can also provide inspiration for planning an unforgettable trip. Just remember that when you visit an Indigenous site or travel to tribal lands in South Dakota, it’s important to observe visitor etiquette.
Located in the Paha Sapa (Black Hills), Crazy Horse Memorial® is the world’s largest in-progress mountain carving. Along with the mountain sculpture, visitors can also experience The Native American Educational and Cultural Center® and The Indian Museum of North America®, featuring collections from over 300 Native nations.
Bear Butte State Park holds significant meaning to Indigenous people nationwide. Known in Lakota as “Mato Paha” or “Bear Mountain,” this geological wonder in the Black Hills is a sacred place of worship and the site of many religious ceremonies. You may see prayer cloths and small pouches tied to trees. These are considered prayer offerings, and visitors are asked to be respectful and leave them untouched.
Perched on a Missouri River bluff, Dignity: Of Earth & Sky pays tribute to the tribal nations living in South Dakota. You’ll find this awe-inspiring 50-foot, stainless steel sculpture next to Interstate 90 Welcome Center near Chamberlain.
The view from the summit of the 7,242-foot Black Elk Peak, the highest point east of the Rocky Mountains, can only be described as breathtaking. It was atop this peak that Lakota medicine man Black Elk had his powerful vision of the future for the Indigenous communities. The trail to the summit is considered one of the most challenging and rewarding hikes in the Black Hills.
Sica Hollow State Park, 15 miles northwest of Sisseton, draws adventure-seeking travelers year-round. The Indigenous people named the hollow “bad” because of ancient stories about its dark and damp ravines. Even today, many natural occurrences, like glowing swamp gases and tree stumps, intrigue visitors and further fuel the legends.
Located near Sioux Falls, Good Earth State Park at Blood Run sits on the site of a tribal ceremonial gathering and trading center. It’s believed thousands of Indigenous communities lived and worshipped here, dating back 600 years. Good Earth at Blood Run is considered one of the oldest sites of long-term human habitation in the United States.
In Chamberlain, the Aktá Lakota Museum & Cultural Center offers a living lesson in the Native way of life. See rotating exhibits and interactive displays featuring art and artifacts, watch programs in the mini-theater and reflect during a stroll through the Medicine Wheel Garden. The museum is free and open year-round.
Each summer, The Heritage Center at Maȟpíya Lúta (Red Cloud) on the Pine Ridge reservation hosts the 10-week Red Cloud Art Show, with proceeds supporting both the artists and the center. Year-round, visitors can explore a remarkable collection of nearly 13,000 works of art by over 300 Native artists.
Located in Interior, in the heart of Badlands National Park, Native West Trading Company is a marketplace for locally made Native arts and crafts, gifts and more.
Handmade musical instruments, art and decorative objects fill the floors and walls of Prairie Edge & Sioux Trading Post in downtown Rapid City. More than a shop, it’s an immersion into Native traditions.
More Ways to Explore
The Travel South Dakota Stories
Episode 11: The Powwow Spirit
Hear the rousing sounds and stories that bridge generations and cultures at the annual Black Hills Powwow, the biggest powwow in the United States.
Hear Our Stories
Through the Eyes of Visitors
Tribal Nations Passport
So much South Dakota history, so little time. Use our Tribal Nations Passport to discover locations where you can see and feel the heritage of those who came before us.
Explore More
Start Planning Your Trip to South Dakota
Guide to Tribal Nations
Order your FREE guide today and also get the 2026 South Dakota Vacation Guide and a state map to aid in your travel planning.
Expand Your Horizons
Discover more about the Oceti Sakowin Oyate (People of Seven Council Fires) with the Tribal Nations Passport.
Sign Up for the E-Newsletter
Receive monthly inspiration about places to see, activities to try and upcoming events.