All person & artist museums to visit in South Dakota

Explore the lives and works of notable individuals at 12 museums in South Dakota dedicated to specific persons and artists. These museums offer a deep dive into their contributions and legacy.

Are you curious about the lives of remarkable individuals? Here are the top person and artist museums in South Dakota:

  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. Crazy Horse Memorial3

    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.
  4. South Dakota State Capitol4

    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.
  5. Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science5

    Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science

     Sioux Falls, SD
    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.
  6. National Music Museum6

    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.
  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. South Dakota Hall of Fame8

    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.
  9. Mellete House9

    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.
  10. 1881 Courthouse Museum10

    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.
  11. South Dakota Art Museum11

    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.
  12. 12

    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.