Centerville South DakotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Centerville, South Dakota.
1. Gunderson Park
FAMILY RECREATION DESTINATION
Gunderson Park is one of Centerville's three city parks offering a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. The park features open spaces, picnic areas, and playground equipment for families to enjoy. It serves as a popular gathering spot for community events and casual outdoor activities throughout the year.
2. Mushy's Bowling Alley & Bar
BOWLING AND ENTERTAINMENT HUB
Mushy's Bowling Alley & Bar offers a classic small-town entertainment experience in Centerville. Visitors can enjoy bowling, socializing, and refreshments in this local favorite establishment. The venue provides a casual, family-friendly atmosphere while also serving as a social hub for residents and tourists alike.
3. Peder Larsen Park
YEAR-ROUND RECREATIONAL AREA
Peder Larsen Park is located in the northeast section of Centerville, offering family activities throughout all seasons. The park contains a swimming pool, volleyball and tennis courts for active recreation opportunities. Its diverse amenities make it a centerpiece of outdoor enjoyment in the community.
4. Centerville Swimming Pool
COMMUNITY WATER RECREATION
The Centerville Swimming Pool provides a refreshing escape during the warm summer months for residents and visitors. Located within Peder Larsen Park, this public pool offers swimming opportunities for all ages. The facility serves as a central gathering place for community members seeking relief from summer heat.
5. Vermillion River Bike Trail
SCENIC RIVERSIDE CYCLING
The Vermillion River Bike Trail offers cyclists and pedestrians beautiful views along the Vermillion River in Centerville. The trail system provides a peaceful route for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy nature while getting exercise. Users can experience the tranquility of the river landscape while traversing this well-maintained path.
6. Centerville Leader Building
ARTS AND CULTURE HUB
The newly renovated Leader Building in Centerville serves as a collaborative space full of creativity, history, and information. Visitors can enjoy the local library, regional art gallery, and museum all housed within this historic structure. The building represents the heart of arts and culture in this quaint prairie town.
7. Spirit Mound Historic Prairie
HISTORIC NATURAL LANDMARK
Spirit Mound is a significant natural and historical landmark located near Centerville that was visited by Lewis and Clark in 1804. The site offers hiking opportunities with interpretive signage explaining its geological and cultural significance. Visitors can experience panoramic views of the surrounding prairie landscape from this elevation.
8. Centerville Community Garden
LOCAL AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE
The Centerville Community Garden provides a collaborative growing space for residents and visitors to connect with agriculture. Located near the Leader Building, this garden showcases local horticulture and sustainable growing practices. The garden serves as both an educational resource and a source of fresh produce for the community.
9. National Music Museum
WORLD-CLASS INSTRUMENT COLLECTION
The National Music Museum houses one of the world's largest collections of musical instruments with over 15,000 items from around the globe. Located at the University of South Dakota in nearby Vermillion, this renowned museum features rare and historically significant instruments spanning centuries. Visitors can explore the evolution of musical instruments through expertly curated exhibits and occasional live demonstrations.
10. Mount Rushmore National Memorial
AMERICAN PRESIDENTIAL MONUMENT
Mount Rushmore National Memorial features the iconic 60-foot faces of four great American presidents carved into the granite face of the mountain. This world-famous sculpture represents the birth, growth, development, and preservation of the United States. Visitors can explore the Avenue of Flags, Presidential Trail, and Sculptor's Studio while learning about this monumental achievement in American art and history.
11. Crazy Horse Memorial
MONUMENTAL NATIVE AMERICAN TRIBUTE
Crazy Horse Memorial is an ongoing mountain sculpture project honoring the legendary Lakota leader that will be the largest mountain carving in the world when completed. The site includes the Indian Museum of North America and the Native American Educational & Cultural Center, providing rich cultural context. Visitors can learn about Native American history and watch the progress of this massive sculptural undertaking that began in 1948.
12. Centerville Disc Golf Course
RECREATIONAL OUTDOOR SPORT
The Centerville Disc Golf Course offers an engaging outdoor activity for players of all skill levels. The course winds through one of the city parks, providing both challenging play and scenic views. Visitors can enjoy this increasingly popular sport while experiencing the natural beauty of Centerville's landscape.
13. Centerville Historic Downtown
CHARMING SHOPPING DISTRICT
Centerville's Historic Downtown district preserves the town's Victorian-era charm with historic buildings housing various locally-owned shops and businesses. Visitors can browse boutiques, antique stores, and specialty shops offering unique merchandise and home decor. The district showcases the community's small-town character while providing a pleasant shopping experience for both residents and tourists.
14. Authentic Mexican Restaurant
LOCAL CULINARY FAVORITE
Centerville's Authentic Mexican Restaurant serves traditional Mexican cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of South Dakota. The restaurant offers a diverse menu of flavorful dishes prepared with authentic recipes and fresh ingredients. Visitors can experience a taste of Mexico while enjoying the friendly service that reflects Centerville's small-town hospitality.
15. Custer State Park
WILDLIFE AND WILDERNESS PRESERVE
Custer State Park encompasses 71,000 acres of stunning natural landscape where nearly 1,300 bison roam freely alongside other wildlife including pronghorn antelope, elk, and mountain goats. The park offers numerous recreational opportunities including hiking, fishing, camping, and the famous Wildlife Loop Road for animal viewing. Visitors can experience one of America's few remaining truly wild places while enjoying the rugged beauty of the Black Hills region.