10 Staggeringly Beautiful Places In South Dakota That Will Always Be Waiting For You

South Dakota is known to be wide open and beautiful, but some places still manage to stand out from others as being the best of the best. Though travel may be at a halt for the time being (a la #stayhomestaysafe), you can rest easy knowing that our most celebrated landmarks and attractions will always be waiting for you, including:

Flickr/Jim & Robin Kunze

You know we couldn't begin this list without mentioning Mount Rushmore, which is not only one of the most beloved landmarks in South Dakota but in the country! No matter the circumstance or weather, Mount Rushmore will forever be a beacon of hope, history, and patriotism in America. 

Flickr/Diana Robinson

Arguably the most beautiful spot in all of SoDak is the Badlands, which was formed by geologic forces of deposition and erosion some 69 million years ago. Whether you hike, drive, or bike, you will never forget your visit(s) to these stunning buttes and pinnacles!

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Flickr/Amanda Scheliga

Billed as being one of the oldest national parks in America, Wind Cave was established by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1903 and spans 33,847 acres. Not only is the Wind Cave historical but it is also the 6th-longest cave in the world (140 miles) and houses 95% of the world's discovered boxwork formations.

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Flickr/rachaelvoorhees

Its been under construction since 1948, but Crazy Horse is still a fantastic sight to see! Spanning 641 feet long and 563 feet high, Crazy Horse is a one-of-a-kind memorial for an Oglala Lakota warrior of the same name who stood up to the government while trying to protect his people and their land. 

Flickr/dconvertini

If you love animals, you already know that there is no better place to be than Bear Country USA, a "unique drive-thru wildlife park in the Black Hills of South Dakota." Opened in 1972, Bear Country USA is a sanctuary for orphaned wildlife and is home to everything from wolves to elk to - you guessed it! - bears.

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Flickr/J. Stephen Conn

Located in De Smet, the Ingalls Homestead is a must-visit for fans of Laura Ingalls Wilder and her iconic Little House on the Prairie books. When you visit, you will discover not only a tranquil oasis on plains but old-time crafts and activities, camping, and covered wagon rides.

Flickr/Jerry and Pat Donaho

For a peaceful afternoon in the big city, there is no beating Falls Park, which is home to not only the tallest waterfall in SoDak but beautiful trails, an observation tower, and places to eat.

Flickr/RTPeat

Located just down the street from Falls Park, the Butterfly House & Aquarium is a favorite for all ages, thanks to its 1,000+ colorful butterflies and 10,000 gallons worth of aquariums. Tip: Do you need a tropical vacation but can't garner the funds? The Butterfly House & Aquarium may just trick you into thinking you have left the Mount Rushmore State for a fabulous Hawaiian vacation! 

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Flickr/Matthew Paulson

It's a gorgeous waterfall! It's a dramatic canyon! It's an unforgettable hike! It's... all of the above and more! Created 30 to 60 million years ago, Spearfish Canyon is a year-round landmark that you will want to visit time and again. 

Flickr/Thad Zajdowicz

Do you want a home where the buffalo roam, and where the deer and the antelope play? Look no further than Custer State Park, a protected 71,000 acres that are home to thousands of buffalo, donkeys, and bighorn sheep, plus trails and other outdoor recreational opportunities.

Which of these spots will you visit first? Let us know in the comments! For even more places you will want to see, click on 15 Unforgettable Things You Must Add To Your South Dakota Summer Bucket List.