Explore the Sunflower Corridors of South Dakota

Fluctuations in weather and crop rotation might mean there’s no exact place to send folks looking to bask in sunflower glow, but Pierre is the best starting point. Going west on Highway 14 or south on Highway 83 leads to an almost certain discovery of sunflower fields that make for great photo ops and scenery to cruise along. Hit those roads for sunflower magic, and don’t miss these unique stops along the way.

Along Highway 14

1. Midway Drive-In (Miller)

The smallest drive-in theater in South Dakota was one of the first to convert to digital. Midway Drive-In also features one of the friendliest staffs in the state as well as an option to buy a season pass each summer. The 160-car theater shows movies Friday-Monday from May until September, between the communities of Miller and St. Lawrence.

2. HydeOut Bed & Breakfast (Highmore)

This historic 1909 HydeOut B&B features four guest bedrooms, a sitting room, and a dining room where a homemade breakfast is served daily.

3. Explore History (Pierre)

From the historic Capitol building to veterans' memorials and the South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center, experience history you can engage with.

4. Savor the Flavor (Pierre)

Home to some of the best steak in the country, Pierre also offers surprising flavor offerings at places like La Minestra, Richie Z's Brickhouse BBQ & Grill and Gallo’s Mexican Grille & Taqueria.

5. Make a Splash (Pierre)

The Missouri River gives South Dakota more miles of shoreline than Florida. Get your feet wet at beloved spots like LaFramboise Island Area, fish for walleye, and more!

6. Prairie Paradise Farms (Fort Pierre)

Interact with farm animals, spot wildlife, and enjoy a prairie sunset at the rural oasis of Prairie Paradise Farms.

7. Little Brown Church on the Prairie (rural Hayes)

Many rural churches have fallen by the wayside, but not this beloved and historical place of worship, located three miles west of Hayes.

8. Stroppel Hotel and Mineral Baths (Midland)

Many swear by the curative properties of Stroppel Hotel’s mineral baths, and the massages are pretty relaxing too.

9. Badlands National Park (Interior or Wall)

The Badlands National Park headquarters and one of the main entrances are located in Interior, while the Pinnacles Entrance to the park is located near Wall. A 39-mile loop takes you through 244,000 acres of Mars-like topography, home to hiking trails, wildlife (including buffalo and bighorn sheep), and open landscape ready for exploration.

10. Wall Drug Store (Wall)

With signs from I-90 to Antarctica, you’ll dig the kitsch, food, and fun-for-all experiences of Wall Drug's legendary attractions.

Along Highway 83

1. The Bunkhouse (Agar)

Since the 1960s, The Bunkhouse restaurant has been slinging drinks, frying chislic, and serving as a place of fellowship & fun in the tiny town of Agar.

2. Dakota Sunset Museum (Gettysburg)

Discover Dakota Sunset Museum’s hidden gems, including the 40-ton Medicine Rock that’s embedded with human footprints.

3. Bob’s Resort (Gettysburg)

Settle in for dinner and a view of Lake Oahe at Bob's Resort, where the motto is “If you can’t have fun, stay home!” Anglers also swear by the fishing.

4. Cathedral on the Prairie (Hoven)

At night, visitors can see the hallowed Cathedral on the Prairie church for miles, but getting up close pays off. This is the epitome of small-town, big beauty.

5. Pioneer Auto Show (Murdo)

More than 300 classic cars and 16 historic buildings make up the quintessential American attraction of Pioneer Auto Show, that’s been featured on shows like “American Pickers.”