Central City South DakotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Central City, South Dakota.
1. Mount Rushmore National Memorial
PRESIDENTIAL MOUNTAIN SCULPTURE
Mount Rushmore National Memorial features the carved faces of four U.S. presidents in granite and stands as an iconic American landmark. Visitors can explore the breathtaking sculpture along with the informative visitor center that provides historical context. The memorial offers both sightseeing opportunities and easy hiking trails that take approximately 90 minutes to complete.
2. Badlands National Park
DRAMATIC LANDSCAPE FORMATIONS
Badlands National Park showcases dramatic landscapes of layered rock formations, steep canyons, towering spires, and mixed grass prairies. The Ben Reifel Visitor Center offers educational displays about the plants, animals, fossils, and early history of the Badlands. Visitors can drive the 30-mile loop road with several stops at scenic overlooks and boardwalks for spectacular views and photography opportunities.
3. Wall Drug Store
ICONIC WESTERN ATTRACTION
Wall Drug Store is a famous attraction known for its free ice water, 5-cent coffee, homemade ice cream, and cake donuts. The establishment features a huge Western art display, 25,000 South Dakota ranch brands burned onto the dining room walls, and a silver dollar collection dating back to 1878. Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, and exploring the many historic photos and displays throughout this legendary South Dakota landmark.
4. South Dakota State Capitol
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
The South Dakota State Capitol is an impressive historic building that houses the state's government offices and legislative chambers. Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the building's Neoclassical design, stunning rotunda, and various murals depicting South Dakota history. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the state's political history and view the beautiful grounds surrounding the capitol.
5. Dignity: Of Earth & Sky
MONUMENTAL NATIVE SCULPTURE
Dignity: Of Earth & Sky is a magnificent 50-foot stainless steel statue honoring the Indigenous cultures of the region. The statue depicts a Native American woman in Plains-style dress receiving a star quilt, representing honor and respect in Native American culture. Standing high above the Missouri River, this powerful sculpture offers visitors both a cultural experience and spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
6. Dinosaur Park
PREHISTORIC OVERLOOK PARK
Dinosaur Park features seven prehistoric beasts overlooking the city and has been delighting visitors since 1936. Recent enhancements have created accessible pathways throughout the park, making it enjoyable for all visitors. From this vantage point, guests can enjoy a 100-mile panoramic view including the sprawling Badlands to the east and the awe-inspiring Black Hills to the west.
7. Lake Oahe
PREMIER FISHING DESTINATION
Lake Oahe is one of South Dakota's premier fishing destinations, created when the Missouri River was dammed in the late 1940s. Anglers flock to the lake for trophy walleye fishing, while recreational boaters enjoy its vast waters for sailing and water sports. The lake offers numerous access points, marinas, and camping facilities along its extensive shoreline.
8. Jewel Cave National Monument
SPECTACULAR UNDERGROUND EXPLORATION
Jewel Cave National Monument contains one of the world's longest cave systems, featuring spectacular crystal formations throughout its labyrinthine passages. Visitors can choose from various guided tour options that showcase the cave's unique geological features and underground ecosystem. The monument also includes above-ground hiking trails through ponderosa pine forest where wildlife viewing opportunities abound.
9. South Dakota Hall of Fame
CELEBRATING STATE ACHIEVERS
The South Dakota Hall of Fame honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the state's history and culture. Exhibits showcase the achievements of inducted members across various fields including arts, sciences, business, and public service. Visitors gain insight into the diverse accomplishments that have shaped South Dakota's development and heritage.
10. Casey Tibbs South Dakota Rodeo Center
RODEO HERITAGE MUSEUM
The Casey Tibbs South Dakota Rodeo Center celebrates the state's rich rodeo history and its legendary figures. Exhibits feature memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts highlighting the career of Casey Tibbs, a nine-time world champion cowboy, along with other rodeo greats. The center provides visitors with an immersive look into this important aspect of South Dakota's western heritage and cultural identity.
11. Farm Island Recreation Area
RIVERSIDE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Farm Island Recreation Area offers scenic hiking trails along the Missouri River with abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, swimming, and fishing in this natural setting just minutes from the state capital. The area's varied terrain provides habitat for numerous bird species, making it a favorite destination for birdwatchers and nature photographers.
12. Native American National & State Scenic Byway
CULTURAL HERITAGE ROUTE
The Native American National & State Scenic Byway traverses central South Dakota, connecting important Indigenous cultural and historical sites. Travelers along this route can experience breathtaking river views while learning about the rich Native American heritage of the region. The byway provides access to numerous interpretive centers, monuments, and tribal lands that tell the story of South Dakota's first inhabitants.
13. Minuteman II Missile Museum
COLD WAR HISTORY
The Minuteman II Missile Museum preserves the history of the nuclear missiles that were stationed in South Dakota for three decades during the Cold War. Visitors can view educational displays and watch informative videos about the Minuteman Missile program and its significance in American military history. The museum offers a unique glimpse into the tension and technology of the Cold War era that shaped both local and global politics.
14. Prairie Homestead Sod House
PIONEER SETTLER EXPERIENCE
The Prairie Homestead Sod House Historical Site preserves an authentic sod house from the homesteading era, offering visitors a glimpse into pioneer life on the Great Plains. Visitors can explore the original structures and learn how early settlers adapted to life on the prairie with limited resources. The site includes period furnishings and interpretive displays that bring to life the challenges and triumphs of South Dakota's homesteading families.
15. West Whitlock Recreation Area
KAYAKING AND BIRDWATCHING PARADISE
West Whitlock Recreation Area provides excellent opportunities for kayaking and birdwatching along the serene waters of Lake Oahe. The area features camping facilities, boat ramps, and shoreline access for fishing enthusiasts seeking walleye and other game fish. Nature lovers appreciate the diverse habitats that support numerous bird species and other wildlife throughout the changing seasons.