Tulare South DakotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Tulare, South Dakota.
1. Bethany Bible Baptist Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
Bethany Bible Baptist Church stands as one of the notable landmarks in the small town of Tulare. The church serves as a religious center for the local community and represents part of the town's cultural heritage. Visitors can appreciate the architecture and historical significance of this religious institution within Tulare's landscape.
2. Tulare United Church
COMMUNITY WORSHIP CENTER
Tulare United Church is recognized as one of the main attractions in this small South Dakota town. The church provides a gathering place for worship and community events for local residents. Its presence contributes to the historical and cultural fabric of Tulare.
3. Tulare Salem Church
NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
Tulare Salem Church is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, marking its significance in the region's history. Located one block south and one block west of the post office, this church represents an important piece of Tulare's heritage. Visitors interested in historical architecture and local history will find this landmark particularly noteworthy.
4. Tulare City Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION SPACE
Tulare City Park offers a welcoming recreational space just a block off US Highway 281. The park features electrical hookups for camping, horseshoe pits, volleyball poles, covered tables, play equipment, and BBQ grills for visitors to enjoy. This versatile outdoor space provides ample room for relaxation, play, and community gatherings.
5. Mount Rushmore National Memorial
ICONIC PRESIDENTIAL MONUMENT
Mount Rushmore National Memorial features the famous faces of four U.S. presidents carved into granite, representing a monumental artistic and engineering achievement. Visitors can learn about the mountain's history, sculptor Gutzon Borglum's vision, and the dedicated workers who made this iconic landmark possible. The site offers the Presidential Trail for up-close views, the Grand Overlook for photography, and the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center with interactive exhibits.
6. Badlands National Park
DRAMATIC ERODED LANDSCAPE
Badlands National Park showcases a dramatically eroded landscape of sharply textured rock formations and mixed-grass prairie. The park protects 244,000 acres where visitors can explore ancient fossil beds and observe wildlife including bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs. Scenic drives, hiking trails, and ranger programs offer various ways to experience this unique geological wonder.
7. Jewel Cave National Monument
VAST UNDERGROUND WONDER
Jewel Cave National Monument protects one of the world's longest cave systems, featuring over 208 miles of mapped passages. The cave earned its name from the glittering calcite crystals that line its walls, creating a jewel-like appearance when illuminated. Visitors can choose from several ranger-guided tours that showcase the cave's unique geological formations, including boxwork, flowstone, and rare hydromagnesite balloons.
8. 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 heritage and development. Exhibits showcase the accomplishments of inductees across various fields including arts, agriculture, business, education, and public service. Visitors can learn about the remarkable South Dakotans who have shaped the state's history and culture through interactive displays and informative presentations.
9. Iron Mountain Road
ENGINEERING MARVEL HIGHWAY
Iron Mountain Road is a masterpiece of scenic engineering designed to showcase the beauty of the Black Hills through strategic viewpoints. The road features unique Pigtail Bridges and three granite tunnels that perfectly frame Mount Rushmore in the distance. Travelers will enjoy views of towering Ponderosa pines, shimmering aspens, and iron-rich rock formations that create a captivating landscape.
10. Crazy Horse Memorial
MONUMENTAL MOUNTAIN CARVING
Crazy Horse Memorial is an ongoing mountain sculpture project that, when completed, will depict the Oglala Lakota warrior Crazy Horse riding a horse and pointing into the distance. The memorial includes the Indian Museum of North America, the Native American Cultural Center, and educational exhibits about Native American history and culture. Visitors can learn about the vision of sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski and witness the continuing work on this massive tribute to Native American heritage.
11. The Purple Cow Ice Cream Parlor
NOSTALGIC SWEET TREATS
The Purple Cow Ice Cream Parlor offers visitors a nostalgic ice cream shop experience near Tulare. This charming establishment serves homemade ice cream in various flavors, along with other sweet treats and comfort food options. The vintage atmosphere and friendly service make it a popular stop for both locals and travelers passing through the region.
12. Mobridge Visitor's Center
REGIONAL TOURISM HUB
Mobridge Visitor's Center provides valuable information about attractions, events, and activities in the surrounding region. The center features exhibits on local history, culture, and natural resources that help visitors plan their exploration of the area. Staff members offer personalized recommendations and insights to enhance the travel experience in this part of South Dakota.
13. Swiftel Center
PREMIER EVENT VENUE
The Swiftel Center serves as a multipurpose facility hosting concerts, sporting events, trade shows, and community gatherings. The venue features modern amenities and flexible spaces that accommodate a wide range of entertainment and business functions throughout the year. Visitors can check the center's calendar for upcoming events that might coincide with their travel plans to the region.
14. Camp Custer Log Cabins
HISTORIC MILITARY LODGING
Camp Custer Log Cabins offer visitors a glimpse into the historic military presence in the Black Hills region. These preserved structures date back to the early frontier days when the U.S. Army established outposts in the territory. Guests can appreciate the rustic architecture and historical significance while learning about the area's military heritage.
15. Andy's Trail
SCENIC OUTDOOR PATHWAY
Andy's Trail provides outdoor enthusiasts with a scenic pathway for walking, jogging, or cycling near Tulare. The trail winds through natural landscapes, offering opportunities to observe local flora and fauna in a peaceful setting. Visitors can enjoy fresh air and exercise while experiencing the rural charm of this South Dakota region.