All animal museums to visit in South Dakota

Delve into the diverse world of animals at 11 animal museums in South Dakota. These museums showcase a variety of species, habitats, and the role of animals in our ecosystem.

Are you an animal lover looking to explore the best animal museums in South Dakota? Here are your best options:

  1. Ben Reifel Visitor Center - Badlands National Park1

    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.
  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. The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs3

    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.
  4. Prairie Homestead4

    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.
  5. Great Plains Zoo5

    Great Plains Zoo

     Sioux Falls, SD
    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.
  6. The Mammoth Site6

    The Mammoth Site

     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.
  7. Black Hills Institute of Geological Research7

    Black Hills Institute of Geological Research

     Hill City, SD
    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.
  8. Bramble Park Zoo8

    Bramble Park Zoo

     Watertown, SD
    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.
  9. Reptile Gardens9

    Reptile Gardens

     Colonial Pine Hills, SD
    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.
  10. D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery & Archives10

    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.
  11. 11

    Children's Museum of South Dakota

     Brookings, SD
    The Children's Museum of South Dakota, situated in Brookings, South Dakota, is a unique destination for children and families. Established in 2010, the museum is housed in a renovated elementary school, providing a nostalgic and educational environment for visitors. The museum's location and history add to its charm, making it a noteworthy stop for tourists in the area.