Baltic South DakotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Baltic, South Dakota.
1. River Park
SERENE OUTDOOR HAVEN
River Park is a picturesque haven nestled in the heart of Baltic, offering a blend of relaxation and outdoor adventure. The expansive park features lush landscapes, winding walking trails, and serene river views that invite visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area. Families will find this park to be an ideal destination, with ample space for picnics, play areas for children, and opportunities for wildlife watching.
2. Dell Rapids Museum
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
Dell Rapids Museum preserves the rich history of the local area through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can explore collections that highlight the cultural heritage, pioneering spirit, and development of Dell Rapids and surrounding communities. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past with its well-curated displays and knowledgeable staff.
3. Strawbale Winery
RUSTIC WINE EXPERIENCE
Strawbale Winery offers visitors a charming rural wine-tasting experience in a picturesque country setting. The winery is known for its handcrafted wines made from locally grown fruits and its unique tasting room built with straw bale construction. Throughout the summer, Strawbale hosts popular Thursday evening Twilight events featuring live music, food vendors, and wine tastings in their beautiful outdoor space.
4. Pettigrew Home and Museum
VICTORIAN HISTORICAL TREASURE
Pettigrew Home and Museum is a beautifully preserved Victorian mansion built in 1889 that showcases the life and times of Senator Richard F. Pettigrew. The site features original furnishings and an impressive collection of artifacts that tell the story of early South Dakota history. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of this state historic site and explore the lovely gardens surrounding the property.
5. Palisades State Park
STUNNING ROCK FORMATIONS
Palisades State Park features dramatic quartzite rock formations that rise up to 50 feet above Split Rock Creek, creating one of South Dakota's most unique landscapes. The park offers exceptional opportunities for rock climbing, hiking, picnicking, and photography among the striking pink-hued cliffs and scenic waterways. Visitors can also enjoy camping, fishing, and canoeing while exploring this natural wonder just a short drive from Baltic.
6. Falls Park
MAJESTIC URBAN WATERFALL
Falls Park is the natural crown jewel of Sioux Falls, where the Big Sioux River cascades over a series of pink quartzite formations. Spanning 123 acres, the park offers viewing platforms, walking trails, historic buildings, and a five-story observation tower providing panoramic views of the falls and city skyline. Visitors can enjoy the on-site Falls Overlook Café, explore the remains of the Queen Bee Mill, or browse the Visitor Information Center with its gift shop and interactive displays.
7. Great Plains Zoo & Delbridge Museum
WILDLIFE AND EXHIBITS
The Great Plains Zoo & Delbridge Museum offers an immersive experience with over 1,000 animals from around the world across its 45-acre campus. Highlights include the Asian Cat exhibit, African Savannah, and rare Amur tigers, as well as the Delbridge Museum's impressive collection of mounted animals representing the world's vanishing species. Families can enjoy interactive exhibits, a children's zoo, and seasonal events like ZooBoo and Zoo Lights.
8. Devil's Gulch Park
LEGENDARY OUTLAW HISTORY
Devil's Gulch Park is famous for its narrow chasm where outlaw Jesse James supposedly made a daring 18-foot leap on horseback to escape capture after the Northfield, Minnesota bank robbery. The park features a footbridge spanning the gulch, hiking trails along Split Rock Creek, and stunning views of the quartzite canyon walls. Visitors can explore the natural beauty while contemplating the legendary outlaw history that makes this site a popular attraction.
9. Corn Palace
ICONIC AGRICULTURAL LANDMARK
The Corn Palace is a one-of-a-kind attraction featuring spectacular murals made entirely of naturally colored corn and other grains that are redesigned annually with new themes. As the world's only corn palace, this Mitchell landmark has been celebrating agriculture and attracting visitors since 1892, serving as both a tourist destination and a venue for concerts, sports events, and festivals. Inside, visitors can learn about the palace's history through exhibits, shop for unique souvenirs, and marvel at the intricate corn art that decorates both the exterior and interior of the building.
10. Old Courthouse Museum
HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL GEM
The Old Courthouse Museum is housed in a restored 1800s quartzite building featuring stunning German Renaissance architecture with 16 large murals and exquisite stained glass windows. The museum showcases the region's history through three floors of exhibits displaying artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays about Sioux Falls and the surrounding area. Visitors can explore diverse exhibits ranging from Native American culture to pioneer life while admiring the building's grand courtroom and impressive clock tower.
11. Phillips Avenue Diner
RETRO DOWNTOWN EATERY
Phillips Avenue Diner is a beloved retro-style restaurant in downtown Sioux Falls offering classic American comfort food with a modern twist. The authentic 50s diner atmosphere features chrome accents, vinyl booths, and nostalgic decor that creates a fun dining experience for visitors of all ages. Menu favorites include their famous malts and shakes, gourmet burgers, all-day breakfast, and homemade desserts—all served with a side of nostalgic charm.
12. SculptureWalk
OUTDOOR ART GALLERY
SculptureWalk is an annually rotating outdoor exhibit featuring over 60 sculptures displayed along the streets and parks of downtown Sioux Falls. Each year, new sculptures created by artists from around the world transform the downtown area into an accessible public art gallery that's free to explore. Visitors can vote for their favorite pieces, with the People's Choice winner becoming a permanent addition to the city's growing collection of public art.
13. CH Patisserie
WORLD-CLASS DESSERT DESTINATION
CH Patisserie brings world-class French pastries to downtown Sioux Falls, created by Top Chef: Just Desserts winner Chris Hanmer. The elegant boutique bakery offers an array of exquisite desserts including macarons, petit gateaux, and artisanal chocolates made with the finest ingredients and impeccable technique. Visitors can enjoy these delectable creations in the stylish café setting or take them to go as a memorable sweet souvenir.
14. Empire Mall
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
The Empire Mall is South Dakota's largest shopping center, featuring over 140 specialty stores, restaurants, and major department stores like Macy's and JCPenney. This premier retail destination offers everything from fashion and electronics to home goods and specialty items, making it a popular spot for visitors looking to shop during their stay in the area. The mall regularly hosts special events and provides amenities like comfortable seating areas, family restrooms, and a children's play area.
15. Wall Drug
ICONIC ROADSIDE ATTRACTION
Wall Drug is a legendary roadside attraction that began as a small pharmacy in 1931 and grew into a 76,000-square-foot wonderland of shops, restaurants, and quirky attractions after offering free ice water to weary travelers. Visitors can explore dozens of specialty shops selling everything from Western wear to Native American crafts, enjoy homemade donuts and 5-cent coffee, and pose with numerous photo opportunities including the giant jackalope and animated T-Rex. This iconic South Dakota destination welcomes approximately two million visitors annually with its unique blend of shopping, dining, and Americana oddities.