When you have been in the car for hours on end, there is nothing better than finding a one-stop-shop of sorts that allows you to stretch your legs, buy souvenirs, and enjoy a great meal. While this sort of establishment may be hard to come by in other states, we South Dakotans are lucky, as we have a few of these places to choose from, including the unique Al’s Oasis:
Located along I-90 near Chamberlain, Al's Oasis is one of the most easy-to-recognize spots in South Dakota, thanks to its one-of-a-kind exterior and can't-miss ambiance.
Originally opened by German immigrants Albert and Dena Mueller in 1919, Al's began as a humble grocery store that morphed into the "Oasis" it is today by the mid-20th Century, with its current building debuting in 1989.
Since opening its 27,000-square-foot storefront, Al's Oasis has earned a reputation for being one of the best rest stops in the Midwest, thanks to its on-site home-style restaurant...
In addition to all of the above, Al's also houses a bank, saloon, warehouse, and rite-of-passage photo op (pictured), so be sure to take the time to walk around and see it all.
While things have dramatically changed since Al's first opened in 1919, there is one thing that has stayed the same: you can still get a cup of coffee for only a nickel!