We’ve all heard the saying: you don’t know a place until you hike a mile in someone else’s boots. Or something like that. We gave our staff writer the day off and tapped into real visitor feedback to help you see South Dakota through a new POV.


Reviews have been (very lightly) edited for length.

“A TRUE AMERICAN EXPERIENCE”

“The Mount Rushmore National Memorial evening lighting ceremony was something I won’t forget. Everything from the ranger’s inspiring remarks, to the singing of the national anthem, to the recognition of our military members gave me goosebumps and brought tears to my eyes.”

- Visitor from Ohio

“EXCITING & BEAUTIFUL”

“Wildlife Loop Road was so exciting! My family said ‘Wow, ooh, and aah,’ so, so many times! Bison, pronghorn, views, etc… The scenery is gorgeous! We arrived at Custer State Park’s east entrance at 6 a.m. and had the road to ourselves for miles!”

- Visitor from Nevada

“MAKES YOU DREAM BIG!”

“Just the sheer size of the Arc of Dreams makes you realize, ‘What dreams have you STOPPED dreaming!?!’ Go see this and be inspired!”

- Visitor from North Dakota

“HIDDEN TREASURE”

“Well, not that hidden! Fort Sisseton Historic State Park is a superbly restored prairie fort in a beautiful location amid the eastern South Dakota hills and lakes. In addition to the very accessible history, there is lots of room for kids to run around.”

- Visitor from Wisconsin

“DIGNITY PERSONIFIED”

“You need to stop at a rest stop from time to time, right? Be sure to stop at this one off I-90 near Chamberlain to fully appreciate the 50-foot-tall Dignity statue, which stands in honor of the Lakota and Dakota people. You also get a great view of the Missouri River from the rest stop.”

- Visitor from Virginia

CAN’T-MISS EVENTS