South Dakota offers a variety of fun attractions and activities for families to enjoy. From majestic mountains to winding rivers, this state has something for everyone. Here are some of the top things for families to do in South Dakota:
See the Faces at Mount Rushmore
No trip to South Dakota is complete without a visit to the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial. This national park features the 60-foot granite carvings of U.S. presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. Families can admire the incredible craftsmanship of this world-famous sculpture up-close via a 0.6-mile nature trail. The park also offers interactive exhibits at the Lincoln Borglum Museum that detail the carving process. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, Mount Rushmore has an evening lighting ceremony that makes the presidents’ faces stand out beautifully. There are other fun things to do in Rapid City nearby, too.
Explore Caves at Wind Cave National Park
Wind Cave National Park contains one of the longest cave systems in the world with 147 miles of explored caverns. Guided tours take visitors through the fascinating boxwork and frostwork mineral formations. Above ground, the park has over 30 miles of hiking trails through pine forests where families may spot some wildlife, including bison, elk, and prairie dogs. The park also offers junior ranger programs for kids to learn about the cave ecosystem in fun ways.
See Wildlife on a Safari Drive
For an adventurous wildlife safari experience without leaving the country, Custer State Park offers scenic open-top Jeep rides. Trained guides drive families through the park while pointing out the free-roaming bison, pronghorns, mountain goats, elk, and bighorn sheep along the way. The park is also home to a large herd of friendly begging burros near the Begging Burros Barn that kids can hand-feed.
Raft Down the Cheyenne River
For a relaxing outdoor adventure, families can book a rafting trip down the Cheyenne River. Guided tours last 1-3 hours over calm water ideal for first-time rafters. Along the way, guides share stories about the river ecosystem and local wildlife. Some tours provide opportunities to camp overnight under the stars. Upper segments have a few Class I-III rapids adding some moderate thrills. No prior rafting experience is necessary.
Visit the South Dakota Air & Space Museum
The Air and Space Museum in Rapid City is a must-see for aviation enthusiasts. This museum houses over 30 historical aircrafts from World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Some highlights include a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber, F-16 Fighter Jet, and Huey Helicopter. Visitors can climb aboard some of the aircraft for a hands-on experience. Interactive exhibits let you try out a flight simulator, design your own aircraft, and learn about aerodynamics. The museum also has an observation deck overlooking Rapid City Regional Airport so you can watch planes take off and land.
From exploring underground caves to rafting down rivers, South Dakota offers plenty of fun and varied attractions for families. The state’s beautiful national parks, wildlife safaris, water activities, and more create memorable adventures everyone will cherish.
