All free museums and attractions to visit in South Dakota

South Dakota (United States) has a lot to offer for you culturally, even if you're on a budget, including free museums, free activities and free attractions. 21 museums and attractions in South Dakota can be visited without charge.

Are you looking for free things to do in South Dakota? These are the best places to visit:

  1. Mount Rushmore National Memorial1

    Mount Rushmore National Memorial

     Keystone, SD
    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.
  2. Wind Cave Visitor Center - Wind Cave National Park2

    Wind Cave Visitor Center - Wind Cave National Park

     Hot Springs, SD
    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.
  3. South Dakota Air and Space Museum3

    South Dakota Air and Space Museum

     Box Elder, SD
    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.
  4. Minuteman Missile National Historic Site4

    Minuteman Missile National Historic Site

     Philip, SD
    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.
  5. Pettigrew Home & Museum5

    Pettigrew Home & Museum

     Sioux Falls, SD
  6. USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial6

    USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial

     Sioux Falls, SD
    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.
  7. Redlin Art Center7

    Redlin Art Center

     Watertown, SD
    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.
  8. Old Courthouse Museum8

    Old Courthouse Museum

     Sioux Falls, SD
    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.
  9. Codington County Heritage Museum9

    Codington County Heritage Museum

     Watertown, SD
    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.
  10. Stockyards Ag Experience10

    Stockyards Ag Experience

     Sioux Falls, SD
  11. W. H. Over Museum11

    W. H. Over Museum

     Vermillion, SD
    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.
  12. D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery & Archives12

    D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery & Archives

     Spearfish, SD
    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.
  13. Mellete House13

    Mellete House

     Watertown, SD
    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.
  14. South Dakota Art Museum14

    South Dakota Art Museum

     Brookings, SD
    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.
  15. Dacotah Prairie Museum Foundation15

    Dacotah Prairie Museum Foundation

     Aberdeen, SD
    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.
  16. 16

    Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve

     North Sioux City, SD
    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.
  17. 17

    Center For Western Studies

     Sioux Falls, SD
    Visit this great art museum whose mission is preserving and interpreting the history and cultures of the Northern Plains. Very interesting!
  18. 18

    South Dakota National Guard Museum

     Pierre, SD
    An interesting military museum that houses memorabilia and artifacts from the Dakota Militia of the 1860's up through the present.
  19. 19

    Akta Lakota Museum & Cultural Center

     Chamberlain, SD
    The Aktá Lakota Museum boasts one of the most comprehensive collections of Northern Plains Native American artwork and historical artifacts in South Dakota. Visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits showcasing the rich history and vibrant culture of the Northern Plains Native Americans. The collection includes both historical and contemporary works, providing a broad perspective on the evolution of Native American art and culture.
  20. 20

    Grand River Museum

     Lemmon, SD
  21. 21

    Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center

     Lead, SD