South Dakota Vacations & Trips from $591

Things to do in South Dakota

South Dakota offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, making it perfect for adventure vacations. Visitors can enjoy recreational areas, golf courses, and family attractions. Popular activities include horseback riding, exploring hot springs, and taking day tours to immerse yourself in the state's stunning landscapes and rich history.

Shopping

In South Dakota, visit Wall Drug for a unique shopping experience filled with entertainment and local charm. Explore Things That Rock for one-of-a-kind gifts. Don't miss Empire Mall, the largest shopping center in the state, offering diverse shops and family-friendly activities.

Recreation

At the Sanford Pentagon, immerse yourself in a vibrant sports atmosphere, perfect for fitness enthusiasts. For a serene escape, Moccasin Springs Natural Mineral Spa offers rejuvenating treatments amidst a tranquil setting. Lastly, explore Dinosaur Park, where you can enjoy leisurely walks and unwind surrounded by nature and fascinating dinosaur sculptures.

Adventure

At Watiki Water Park, enjoy thrilling water slides and wave pools, perfect for family fun and adventure. Terry Peak Ski Area offers excellent skiing with breathtaking views, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Experience Rushmore Tramway Adventures, where you can zipline and explore the beautiful Black Hills with your loved ones.

Nightlife

In South Dakota, experience vibrant nightlife in Sioux Falls and Rapid City, where downtown areas offer lively bars, breweries, and live music venues. Check out the nightlife along Phillips Avenue in Sioux Falls and Main Street in Rapid City for a mix of entertainment and local flavor.

Find the best attractions in South Dakota

South Dakota is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, offering breathtaking scenery and adventure. Visitors can explore urban parks, picturesque lakes, and stunning national state parks that cater to families and culture seekers alike. Top attractions include the iconic Dakota Dunes, providing a mix of activities for every traveler. Whether you're seeking outdoor thrills or cultural experiences, South Dakota promises a memorable vacation filled with natural beauty and family-friendly fun.

• Mount Rushmore: This iconic landmark features the colossal sculptures of four U.S. presidents carved into granite. Visitors can explore the surrounding area, learn about the history and artistry behind the monument, and enjoy scenic trails that offer stunning views.
• Mount Rushmore National Memorial: A tribute to American democracy, this memorial presents a rich cultural experience. The visitor center provides engaging exhibits and programs that highlight the significance of the sculptures and the vision of sculptor Gutzon Borglum.
• Badlands National Park: Known for its dramatic landscapes, Badlands offers outdoor adventures like hiking and wildlife watching. The striking rock formations and panoramic views create a breathtaking backdrop for exploration and photography.

Best time to go to South Dakota

The best time to visit South Dakota can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in South Dakota falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in South Dakota falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	13.3°F (-10.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	20.7°F (-6.300000000000001°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	35.6°F (2.0°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
May	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	73.9°F (23.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	72.1°F (22.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	64.2°F (17.900000000000002°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	36.0°F (2.2°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	19.9°F (-6.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to South Dakota

• Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
• Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically April and December to January) for more affordable package holidays to South Dakota.
• Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
• Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.