Pierre South DakotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Pierre, South Dakota.
1. State Capitol
HEART OF SOUTH DAKOTA
The State Capitol in Pierre is an architectural masterpiece that serves as the seat of South Dakota's government. Visitors can explore the beautifully designed building featuring marble staircases, stained glass, and impressive murals. The Capitol grounds also include statues and memorials that commemorate the state's history.
2. South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center
JOURNEY THROUGH STATE HISTORY
The South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center is nestled into a bluff north of the State Capitol, recreating the cultural history of South Dakota in three permanent galleries. The museum begins with the story of Native American tribes that inhabited South Dakota before statehood and follows the state's history through the 21st century. Visitors shouldn't miss the gift shop filled with great South Dakota-made items for souvenirs.
3. South Dakota National Guard Museum
MILITARY HISTORY PRESERVED
The South Dakota National Guard Museum chronicles the state's military history dating back to 1862, when Governor Janyne petitioned the War Department for authority to raise two companies of soldiers for territorial defense. The museum houses artifacts, photographs, and educational displays honoring the service of South Dakotans. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing South Dakota's military contributions through various conflicts.
4. Oahe Dam
ENGINEERING MARVEL
Oahe Dam is an impressive engineering achievement that controls the Missouri River and creates Lake Oahe. The dam and power plant provide hydroelectric power to the region while offering recreational opportunities. Visitors can tour the facility and learn about its construction and importance to the area.
5. Flaming Fountain
MEMORIAL WATER FEATURE
The Flaming Fountain is a unique water feature located on the shores of Capitol Lake in Pierre. The fountain serves as a memorial to South Dakota veterans while providing a scenic spot for reflection. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk along the lake shore while also viewing the nearby State Capitol.
6. La Framboise Island
NATURE IN THE CITY
La Framboise Island offers a natural retreat within the city limits of Pierre. The island features hiking and biking trails through wooded areas with opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors can access this outdoor haven via a causeway from the mainland for a day of recreation.
7. South Dakota Discovery Center
HANDS-ON SCIENCE LEARNING
The South Dakota Discovery Center is a hands-on science center featuring over 60 interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages. In Discovery Town, kids enjoy roleplaying while learning science and math concepts in an engaging environment. The center serves as South Dakota's premier location for science learning and fun.
8. South Dakota State Historical Society Museum
STATE'S HISTORICAL TREASURES
The South Dakota State Historical Society Museum houses significant artifacts including the Verendrye Plate, considered one of the most important historical finds in the state. The plate, buried in 1743 by French explorers and discovered in 1913 by high school students, provides tangible evidence of early European exploration. The museum's collections document South Dakota's diverse heritage through carefully curated exhibits.
9. Trail of Governors
LEADERSHIP IN BRONZE
The Trail of Governors features life-sized bronze statues of South Dakota's past governors placed throughout downtown Pierre. Each statue is created by South Dakota artists and depicts the governor in a pose reflecting their personality or accomplishments. The trail provides a unique way to explore the city while learning about the state's political history.
10. Pierre Historic Homes
ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE TOUR
Pierre Historic Homes showcase the architectural heritage and development of South Dakota's capital city. These well-preserved structures represent various periods and styles from the city's evolution since becoming the state capital. Visitors can take self-guided tours to appreciate these historic residences and their significance to Pierre's development.
11. Casey Tibbs South Dakota Rodeo Center
RODEO LEGEND'S LEGACY
The Casey Tibbs South Dakota Rodeo Center celebrates the life and achievements of Casey Tibbs, a world-renowned rodeo star. The museum displays an extensive collection of Tibbs' memorabilia and honors South Dakota's rich rodeo heritage. Perched atop a hill in Fort Pierre, the center also offers one of the best panoramic views in the area.
12. Verendrye Museum
REGIONAL PIONEER HERITAGE
The Verendrye Museum is named after Louis and Chevalier Verendrye, two French brothers who explored the upper reaches of the Missouri River. The museum houses a collection of South Dakota and regional artifacts that document the early history of the area. Visitors can gain insight into pioneer life and the development of the Fort Pierre region.
13. Verendrye Monument
HISTORIC EXPLORATION MARKER
The Verendrye Monument marks the spot where French explorers buried a lead plate in 1743, cementing European claims to the region. Located on a windy hilltop overlooking the Missouri River, the site provides historical context and spectacular views. This significant location commemorates one of the earliest documented European expeditions into what would eventually become South Dakota.
14. Fort Pierre Chouteau
FUR TRADING HISTORY
Fort Pierre Chouteau was a trading fort on the high Missouri River plain that played a crucial role in the fur trade era. The fort served as an important commercial and cultural crossroads where Native Americans and European traders conducted business. Today, the historic site offers visitors a glimpse into the early frontier days that shaped the region's development.
15. Pierre and Fort Pierre Bike Trails
RIVERSIDE RECREATION ROUTES
The Pierre and Fort Pierre Bike Trails offer scenic routes alongside the Missouri River connecting the sister cities. These well-maintained paths provide opportunities for cycling, walking, and running with beautiful river views and wildlife sightings. The interconnected trail system allows visitors and locals to enjoy outdoor recreation while experiencing the natural beauty of the capital region.