South Dakota Essential Info

Overview

Come to South Dakota and learn why a place called “The Badlands” is so good. Visitors to South Dakota can also gaze upon some of America’s favorite presidents at the awesome Mount Rushmore memorial, drive the picturesque Needles Highway Scenic Byway, and see the falls for which Sioux Falls was named. Don’t forget to check out the majestic Corn Palace—it’s every bit as corny as it sounds.

Basics

Best Time To Go

Jun-Jul, Sep-Oct

Current Weather

39 °F

Mostly Clear

Fun Facts

1. Mitchell, SD, is the home of the world’s only Corn Palace, made of more than 275,000 ears of corn.
2. The Black Hills are the highest mountains east of the Rockies.
3. The Crazy Horse mountain carving is the world’s largest sculpture at 563 feet high and 641 feet long.
4. Raven Industries in Sioux Falls, SD, created the first modern hot air balloon in the late 1950s.
5. The geographical center of the country is just outside Belle Fourche, SD. In 2008, the town installed a large granite compass to honor the location

Popular Foods

1. Frybread Tacos – Ground beef or bison served on flaky-yet-doughy fried bread
2. Chislic – Half-inch cubes of meat deep-fried or grilled to perfection
3. Kuchen – German, cake-like pastry made with sweet dough and filled with custard or fruit
4. Kolaches – Candied fruit or cream cheese surrounded by a fluffy pillow of dough
5. Pheasant – A bird best prepared with herbs and vegetables (although every South Dakotan has their own recipe)
6. Walleye – A versatile, freshwater white fish with a flaky consistency and sweet, mild flavor