All history museums and attractions to visit in South Dakota

South Dakota (United States) is a good place to visit if you are interested in history. Below we list all 46 history museums in South Dakota, to lose yourself in the place's cultural heritage and local history.

Are you a real history buff and are you looking for the best history museums to visit in South Dakota? These are the ones:

  1. Adams Museum1

    Adams Museum

     Deadwood, SD
    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.
  2. Mount Rushmore National Memorial2

    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.
  3. Ben Reifel Visitor Center - Badlands National Park3

    Ben Reifel Visitor Center - Badlands National Park

     Interior, SD
    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.
  4. The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs4

    The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs

     Hot Springs, SD
    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.
  5. Crazy Horse Memorial5

    Crazy Horse Memorial

     Crazy Horse, SD
    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.
  6. Prairie Homestead6

    Prairie Homestead

     Philip, SD
    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.
  7. South Dakota State Capitol7

    South Dakota State Capitol

     Pierre, SD
    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.
  8. 8

    South Dakota State Historical Society Museum

     Pierre, SD
    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.
  9. Minuteman Missile National Historic Site9

    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.
  10. Pettigrew Home & Museum10

    Pettigrew Home & Museum

     Sioux Falls, SD
  11. The Journey Museum11

    The Journey Museum

     Rapid City, SD
    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.
  12. USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial12

    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.
  13. 13

    Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center

     Keystone, SD
  14. National Music Museum14

    National Music Museum

     Vermillion, SD
    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.
  15. Fort Sisseton Historic State Park15

    Fort Sisseton Historic State Park

     Lake City, SD
    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.
  16. The Pyle House Museum16

    The Pyle House Museum

     Huron, SD
    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.
  17. Andrew and Mary Stavig House17

    Andrew and Mary Stavig House

     Sisseton, SD
    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.
  18. Old Courthouse Museum18

    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.
  19. Codington County Heritage Museum19

    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.
  20. Stockyards Ag Experience20

    Stockyards Ag Experience

     Sioux Falls, SD
  21. Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village21

    Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village

     Mitchell, SD
    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.
  22. South Dakota Hall of Fame22

    South Dakota Hall of Fame

     Chamberlain, SD
    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.
  23. W. H. Over Museum23

    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.
  24. Austin-Whittemore House Museum24

    Austin-Whittemore House Museum

     Vermillion, SD
    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.
  25. D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery & Archives25

    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.
  26. Mellete House26

    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.
  27. 1881 Courthouse Museum27

    1881 Courthouse Museum

     Custer, SD
    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.
  28. South Dakota Art Museum28

    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.
  29. Dacotah Prairie Museum Foundation29

    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.
  30. 30

    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.
  31. 31

    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!
  32. 32

    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.
  33. 33

    Civilian Conservation Corps Museum of South Dakota - CCC

     Hill City, SD
  34. 34

    South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center

     Pierre, SD
    The South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center is also home to the State Archives and Museum. These institutions manage the South Dakota Digital Archives, a comprehensive collection of digital resources that document the state's rich history and heritage.
  35. 35

    Days of '76 Museum

     Deadwood, SD
  36. 36

    Prairie Village

     Madison, SD
  37. 37

    Dakota Discovery Museum

     Mitchell, SD
  38. 38

    Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center

     Chamberlain, SD
  39. 39

    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.
  40. 40

    High Plains Western Heritage Center

     Spearfish, SD
  41. 41

    Grant County Historical Society

     Milbank, SD
  42. 42

    Heritage Hall Museum & Archives

     Freeman, SD
  43. 43

    Grand River Museum

     Lemmon, SD
  44. 44

    Fall River Pioneer Museum

     Hot Springs, SD
  45. 45

    Buffalo Museum & One Room Schoolhouse

     Buffalo, SD
  46. 46

    Aurora County Historical Society

     Plankinton, SD