Things to Do in South Dakota

South Dakota is known for its dramatic landscapes, national parks, and iconic American road trip destinations. From the rugged beauty of Badlands National Park to the forests of the Black Hills, there are countless things to do in South Dakota for outdoor lovers, families, and anyone looking for a unique travel experience.

Whether you're planning a scenic drive, exploring national parks, or visiting famous landmarks like Mount Rushmore, South Dakota offers a mix of adventure, history, and unforgettable views.

Take a Self-Guided Tour of Badlands National Park

One of the best things to do in South Dakota is explore Badlands National Park—and the best way to experience it is by driving the Badlands Loop Road with a self-guided tour.

The Badlands Loop Road is the main scenic drive through the park, stretching about 30–40 miles with over a dozen incredible overlooks, hiking access points, and wildlife viewing areas.

Our self-guided driving tour takes this experience to the next level. As you drive, stories automatically play based on your GPS location, so you learn about the geology, wildlife, and history without needing to look at your phone.

You’ll see:

• Dramatic rock formations and layered cliffs

• Scenic overlooks like Pinnacles and Big Badlands

• Wildlife including bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs

• Hidden details most visitors completely miss

The drive itself takes about an hour without stopping—but realistically, you’ll want 2–3 hours to enjoy the viewpoints and short walks along the way.

👉 Check out the Badlands National Park self-guided driving tour here

Free Things to Do in South Dakota

There are many free things to do in South Dakota, especially if you enjoy the outdoors.

• Badlands Scenic Overlooks – Incredible views at nearly every pullout

• Wall Drug – A famous roadside stop with quirky attractions

• Spearfish Canyon Scenic Drive – One of the most beautiful drives in the state

• Black Hills National Forest – Great for hiking and exploring

• Rapid City Art Alley – A colorful and creative urban space

Best Things to See in South Dakota (Paid & Free)

These are some of the best things to see in South Dakota and must-visit destinations.

• Badlands National Park – Known for its otherworldly landscapes and fossil-rich terrain

• Mount Rushmore – One of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.

• Custer State Park – Famous for scenic drives and bison herds

• Wind Cave National Park – One of the longest cave systems in the world

• Crazy Horse Memorial – A massive and ongoing mountain carving

• Needles Highway (Black Hills) – A scenic drive with tunnels and rock formations

Family Things to Do in South Dakota

South Dakota is a great destination for families, especially with its mix of outdoor and interactive attractions.

• Badlands Easy Trails – Short hikes like Door Trail are great for kids

• Reptile Gardens (Rapid City) – A fun and educational stop

• Bear Country USA – A drive-through wildlife park

• Mount Rushmore Evening Lighting Ceremony – A memorable family experience

• Keystone Attractions – Mini trains, shops, and kid-friendly stops

Things to Do in South Dakota at Night

While South Dakota is more about nature than nightlife, there are still great evening experiences.

• Stargazing in Badlands National Park – Some of the darkest skies in the country

• Campfires & Camping – A classic outdoor experience

• Mount Rushmore Night Lighting Ceremony – A unique and patriotic event

• Sunset Scenic Drives – The Badlands glow at sunset

Other Things to Do in the Black Hills, SD

The Black Hills region is packed with additional attractions and scenic experiences.

• Deadwood – A historic Wild West town

• Sylvan Lake – One of the most photographed spots in the Black Hills

• Jewel Cave National Monument – Another impressive cave system

• Wildlife Loop Road (Custer State Park) – Great for seeing bison

• Hiking & Scenic Drives – Some of the best in the Midwest

Plan Your Trip to South Dakota

Planning a trip to South Dakota? With attractions spread across the state, it helps to plan ahead.

In our full South Dakota travel guide, you’ll find:

• Where to stay, from campgrounds to hotels

• How much time you’ll need, including easy itineraries

• The best time to visit for weather and crowds

• Tips for getting around and maximizing your trip

👉 Check out our full South Dakota travel guide to plan your visit.

If you want the easiest and most engaging way to explore Badlands National Park, don’t miss the self-guided driving tour—it’s one of the best ways to experience the landscape while actually understanding what you’re seeing.