South Dakota Holidays

Things to do in South Dakota

South Dakota offers a wealth of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy recreational areas, golf courses, and scenic drives, as well as engaging in historical tours and horseback riding. With its picturesque landscapes and interesting stops along the way, South Dakota promises an unforgettable adventure for all who explore its diverse offerings.

Shopping

In South Dakota, the Empire Mall offers a vibrant shopping experience with a mix of business and entertainment. Alternatively, the Watertown Mall caters to families, providing a diverse selection of shops. For outdoor enthusiasts, Granite Sports is a fantastic store to explore local gear and apparel.

Recreation

Experience the Southern Hills Golf Course, where you can enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning landscapes and fresh air. For family fun, Putz n Glo offers an exciting black light mini golf adventure, perfect for all ages. Lastly, visit the Sanford Pentagon for thrilling sports events.

Adventure

Embark on the George S. Mickelson Trail for a scenic hike through the stunning landscapes of South Dakota, perfect for adventure enthusiasts. Alternatively, enjoy thrilling water slides and family fun at Watiki Water Park, or hit the slopes at Terry Peak Ski Area for an exhilarating skiing experience.

Nightlife

South Dakota's nightlife offers a unique blend of fun. In Rapid City, visit the popular Cheers Sports Bar for a lively atmosphere, or enjoy live music at the Historic Elks Theatre. For a more relaxed evening, the Spearfish Brewing Company provides a cosy setting to unwind with craft beers.

Find the best attractions in South Dakota

South Dakota offers a splendid array of outdoor and scenic adventures perfect for travellers seeking family-friendly and cultural experiences. Notable attractions include urban parks, lakes, and national state parks, each providing unique opportunities for exploration. Make sure to include the top attractions in your itinerary to fully enjoy the natural beauty and recreational activities that the region has to offer.

• Mount Rushmore: This iconic landmark features the colossal sculptures of four U.S. presidents, offering a profound glimpse into American history and culture. Visitors can enjoy scenic viewpoints and learn about the artistry behind this monumental achievement.
• Mount Rushmore National Memorial: A continuation of the Mount Rushmore experience, this memorial provides deeper insights into the significance of the site. With educational exhibits and stunning views, it’s a perfect blend of culture and history.
• Custer State Park: Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife, Custer State Park offers a plethora of outdoor adventures. Explore winding trails, pristine lakes, and the chance to see bison in their natural habitat.

Best time to go to South Dakota

The best time to visit South Dakota can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in South Dakota falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in South Dakota falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	13.3°F (-10.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	20.7°F (-6.300000000000001°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	35.6°F (2.0°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
May	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	73.9°F (23.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	72.1°F (22.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	64.2°F (17.900000000000002°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	36.0°F (2.2°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	19.9°F (-6.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to South Dakota

• Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
• Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically April and December to January) for more affordable package holidays to South Dakota.
• Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
• Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.