Something beautiful happens when July starts to transition to August in South Dakota. Some fields turn to a striking yellow as they explode with blooming sunflowers!
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. It 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 & St. Lawrence.
2. HydeOut Bed & Breakfast (Highmore)
This historic 1909 building features four guest bedrooms, a sitting room, and a dining room where homemade breakfast is served every day.
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 this rural oasis.
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 3 miles west of Hayes.
8. Stroppel Hotel and Mineral Baths (Midland)
Many swear by the curative properties of the Stroppel’s mineral baths, and the massages are pretty relaxing too.
9. Badlands Observatory (Quinn)
Hidden in this tiny town is a fascinating research facility that offers day and night tours, the latter of which includes a night sky laser program.
10. Badlands National Park
A 39-mile loop takes you through 244,000 acres of Mars-like topography that’s home to hiking trails, wildlife (including buffalo and bighorn sheep), and open landscape ready for exploration.
11. Wall Drug (Wall)
With signs from I-90 to Antarctica, you’ll dig the kitsch, food, and fun-for-all experiences of this legendary attraction.
Along Highway 83
1. The Bunkhouse (Agar)
Since the 1960s, The Bunkhouse 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 this museum’s hidden gems, including the 40-ton Medicine Rock that’s imbedded with human footprints.
3. Bob’s Resort (Gettysburg)
Settle in for dinner and a view of Lake Oahe at a place 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 church for miles, but getting up close pays off. Small town, big beauty.
5. Pioneer Auto Show (Murdo)
More than 275 classic cars and 16 historic buildings make up this quintessential American attraction that’s been featured on shows like “American Pickers.”