Is it just me, or does every state besides South Dakota seem to have a toss-up of winners and losers in terms of small towns? While this is the norm in most places, SoDak is blessed in that all of our towns both big and small are downright charming and unique, including the community of Dell Rapids:
Located just north of Sioux Falls is Dell Rapids: a small town of approximately 4,000 that is billed as being "one of the most distinctive and colorful communities on the Dakota Plains."
Named for the Dells of the Wisconsin River, Dell Rapids is a historic railroad town that once housed the Chicago, Milwaukee, and Saint Paul Railroad, bringing in hundreds of workers and their families.
When you visit today, you will notice many distinct buildings that are crafted with quartz and other unique materials. The reason for this is a devastating fire in the 1880s that burned down the town and all of its wood buildings, resulting in this easy-to-recognize downtown architecture.
In addition to the historically significant structures, Dell Rapids is home to many local shops and restaurants, as well as museums and a historic walking tour.
If you love the great outdoors, there is no better place to be than Dell Rapids, which is also home to recreational opportunities such as camping, hiking, boating, swimming, and more.
As if you needed another reason to visit (and love) Dell Rapids, the town also hosts several special events and festivals throughout the year, including their annual Cootie Days in June and Quarry Days in July.