Top 50 best museums in South Dakota

The Adams Museum, located in Deadwood, holds the distinction of being the oldest history museum in the Black Hills. It was established in 1930 by W.E. Adams, a businessman and former mayor of Deadwood. The museum is a testament to the rich history of the region and offers a unique insight into the past.

The Mount Rushmore National Memorial, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, is a significant monument in the United States. It features giant sculptures of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. These sculptures, each measuring between 18-20 meters in height, can be seen from a great distance.

Badlands National Park is a treasure trove for paleontologists and history enthusiasts alike. The park boasts a wealth of fossil sites, including those of prehistoric horses, sheep, rhinos, and pigs. Moreover, findings from human civilizations dating back 11,000 years have been discovered within the park.

Wind Cave National Park is situated in the state of South Dakota, United States. It is conveniently located near the cities of Rapid City and Hot Springs, making it easily accessible for tourists. The park covers an area of 114.5 square kilometers and is managed by the U.S. National Park Service.

The Mammoth Site, located near Hot Springs, South Dakota, in the Black Hills, is a museum and active paleontological excavation site. Research and excavations are ongoing, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to witness paleontological work in progress.

The Crazy Horse Memorial, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, USA, is a monument project that has been ongoing since 1948. The monument is being built in honor of the famous Lakota leader, Crazy Horse. Despite not being completed yet, the monument is a testament to the art of sculpture and fine craftsmanship. Once completed, the Crazy Horse Memorial will stand as the world's largest monument.

The Prairie Homestead is a unique sod house located at 21070 South Dakota Highway 240, north of Interior, South Dakota. This historic site offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the lifestyle of the early settlers in the region. It's a great place to learn about the history and culture of South Dakota.

The South Dakota Air and Space Museum is situated in Box Elder, South Dakota, just outside the main gate of Ellsworth Air Force Base. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of the United States Air Force, the base, and aerospace in South Dakota. It provides a comprehensive look into the evolution of aviation and space exploration, making it an interesting destination for those interested in these fields.

The South Dakota State Capitol, located at 500 East Capitol Avenue in Pierre, is the official state capitol building of South Dakota. It is home to the South Dakota State Legislature and the offices of various state officials, including the Governor of South Dakota. The building, which was constructed between 1905 and 1910, is a significant landmark in the state and a key point of interest for visitors.

The South Dakota State Historical Society is the official state historical society of South Dakota. It operates across the state but has its headquarters in Pierre, South Dakota, located at 900 Governors Drive. This location serves as the central hub for the society's operations and activities.

The Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, established in 1999 near Wall, South Dakota, serves to illustrate the history and significance of the Cold War, the arms race, and intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) development. This site is a testament to a significant period in American history, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about the Cold War and the arms race.

The Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum of Natural History is a significant attraction in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Spanning 45 acres, the zoo offers a diverse range of exhibits and animal species for visitors to explore. It is a partnership between the City of Sioux Falls and the Zoological Society, with the city owning the infrastructure, land, and all assets associated with the Zoo and Museum.

The Mammoth Site, located near Hot Springs, South Dakota, in the Black Hills, is a museum and active paleontological excavation site. Research and excavations are ongoing, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to witness paleontological work in progress.

The Black Hills Institute of Geological Research, located in Hill City, South Dakota, is a corporation that specializes in the excavation and preparation of fossils. They also engage in the sale of original or replica fossils to museums. This makes it a unique destination for tourists interested in paleontology and the history of life on Earth.

The Journey Museum and Learning Center, located in Rapid City, South Dakota, is a unique museum that spans across 7 acres of gardens. The museum is designed to take visitors on a journey through the history of the Black Hills, starting with Native American creation stories and ending with the pioneers who traveled west. The museum's expansive gardens are maintained by local volunteers and feature indigenous plant life from the Black Hills area and other plants native to the Western Hemisphere.

The Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science, which opened its doors in 1999, is a multifaceted cultural institution located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. It houses an art gallery, a concert hall, a large-format theater, and a science museum, offering a diverse range of experiences for visitors. Whether you're interested in visual arts, performing arts, or scientific exploration, the Pavilion has something to cater to your interests.

Decent little museum with propeller and a nice memorial to those that served in WWII. It is a great experience also for kids. Plus it's free.

McCrory Gardens and South Dakota State Arboretum are botanical gardens and an arboretum situated on the South Dakota State University campus in Brookings, South Dakota. These gardens are a part of the university and serve as a living tribute to Professor S. A. McCrory, who was the head of the university's horticulture department from 1947 until his death in 1964. The gardens are a place of beauty and learning, featuring a wide variety of flowers, trees, shrubs, and grasses.

The National Music Museum (NMM) is a unique institution located in Vermillion, South Dakota. Established in 1973, the museum is situated on the campus of the University of South Dakota. It is dedicated to the preservation, study, and exhibition of historical musical instruments from around the world.

Fort Sisseton, located near Britton, South Dakota, has a rich history dating back to 1864. It was officially designated as a State Historical Park in 1959, marking it as a significant location for historical preservation and education. Visitors to the park can explore the grounds and learn about the fort's past, providing a unique insight into the region's history.

The Pyle House, also known as The Pyle Home, is a historic site located at 376 Idaho Ave., S.E. in Huron, South Dakota. This late Queen Anne-style house was built in 1894 and has since been preserved as a house museum. It stands as a testament to the architectural style of the late 19th century and offers visitors a glimpse into the past.

The Redlin Art Center, situated in Watertown, South Dakota, is an art gallery that showcases more than 150 original paintings by the artist Terry Redlin. This venue provides an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the artistic world of Terry Redlin, appreciating his unique style and the depth of his work.

The Andrew and Mary Stavig House is a significant landmark in Sisseton, South Dakota. It is conveniently located at 112 First Avenue, West, making it easily accessible for tourists visiting the area. The house's location in the heart of Sisseton makes it a central point of interest for those interested in the region's history and architecture.

The Old Minnehaha County Courthouse, situated at the intersection of Main Avenue and 6th Street in Sioux Falls, is a historic building that once served as the county courthouse for Minnehaha County in South Dakota. This location is easily accessible and is a significant part of the city's history.

Bramble Park Zoo, situated in Watertown, South Dakota, has been welcoming visitors since 1912. This long-standing establishment offers a unique opportunity to explore a diverse range of animal species in a well-maintained environment.

The International Vinegar Museum is situated at 500 Main Street in Roslyn, South Dakota, United States. This location is easily accessible and provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the world of vinegar in a dedicated museum setting.

The Codington County Heritage Museum, previously known as the Kampeska Heritage Museum, is situated at 27 First Avenue Southeast, Watertown, South Dakota. The museum is housed in the historic Carnegie Free Public Library building, which adds to its charm and historical significance.

Great place for kids who like to learn. There are many interactive exhibits where even grown-ups will learn something new. Best family thing in Pierre.

Reptile Gardens is an animal park situated in the southern part of Rapid City, South Dakota. It is conveniently located on the route to the famous Mount Rushmore National Memorial. This makes it an ideal stop for tourists who are on their way to visit the national memorial.

The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame is a non-profit organization located in Sturgis, South Dakota. Its mission is to preserve the history of motorcycling and honor the heritage of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. This museum is a testament to the rich history and culture of motorcycling, making it a worthwhile visit for motorcycle enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

The Mitchell Site, also known as 39DV2, is a significant archaeological location in Mitchell, Davison County, South Dakota. It was recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1964, highlighting its importance in the history and archaeology of the region.

The South Dakota Hall of Fame serves multiple purposes. It is a museum that details 'acts of excellence' and hosts an annual honors ceremony. It also runs a statewide K-12 South Dakota History Program. Additionally, it houses a Visitor and Education Center in Chamberlain, which opened its doors in June 2000.

The W. H. Over Museum, situated in Vermillion, South Dakota, holds the distinction of being the oldest museum in the state. This historical institution offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the rich cultural and historical heritage of South Dakota.

The Austin–Whittemore House, sometimes referred to as the Austin–Whittemore Museum, is a historic building located in Vermillion, South Dakota. This house was originally built in 1884 and has since been transformed into a historic house museum. It also serves as the headquarters of the Clay County Historical Society. This house is a significant part of the local history and offers a glimpse into the past.

The campus of South Dakota Mines is centrally located in Rapid City, situated on the northern slope of the small foothills of the Black Hills. The APEX Gallery, located in Classroom Building 211, hosts a new exhibit every four to six weeks, offering visitors a chance to explore a variety of displays.

The D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery and Archives, located near Spearfish, South Dakota, was established in 1896. Its primary purpose was to introduce and establish populations of trout in the Black Hills of South Dakota and Wyoming. This hatchery is one of the oldest in the United States and plays a significant role in the preservation and propagation of trout species in the region.

The Mellette House, a historic home and museum, is situated at 421 Fifth Avenue Northwest in Watertown, South Dakota. This location is easily accessible and offers a glimpse into the history of the state through the life of one of its prominent figures.

The 1881 Courthouse Museum is a significant historical site located in Custer, South Dakota. This American museum offers a unique glimpse into the past, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about the rich history of the region.

The campus of South Dakota State University is home to the South Dakota State Art Museum. This museum features works by renowned artists such as Harvey Dunn and Oscar Howe, among others. It is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich artistic culture of the region.

The Dacotah Prairie Museum, formerly known as the Western Union Building, is a historic bank building located in Aberdeen, South Dakota. This building has a rich history and has been a significant part of the city's commercial district. It is individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places, making it a notable destination for those interested in history and architecture.

Porter Sculpture Park is conveniently located just off Interstate 90 in Montrose, South Dakota. This makes it easily accessible for tourists traveling from Sioux Falls, which is approximately 25 miles to the east. The park is situated on the eastern edge of McCook County, providing a scenic backdrop for the many sculptures on display.

Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve is a state park located in Union County, South Dakota, United States. It offers a unique opportunity to experience nature and history in a serene setting.

Visit this great art museum whose mission is preserving and interpreting the history and cultures of the Northern Plains. Very interesting!

An interesting military museum that houses memorabilia and artifacts from the Dakota Militia of the 1860's up through the present.