10 Most Charming Cities in South Dakota
South Dakota, whose name in the Native American Sioux language connotes friendliness, a cultural attribute of the American Midwest, holds many charming cities. These urban centers are both vibrant and hold a laid-back charm that lies in the spectacular natural attractions that encircle them, their quaint, walkable downtown streets, and their beautiful architecture. Home to the enormous sculpted faces of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, and Theodore Roosevelt, arguably the most outstanding political leaders in American history, South Dakota is choke-full of several other enticing must-sees in and around its small cities. Visitors may love the fact that South Dakota’s cities are not large and the residents are friendly. Only Sioux Falls boasts a population of more than 100,000, an element that makes the cities in South Dakota ideal for a more intimate and charming experience.
Rapid City
Rapid City is the second-largest city in South Dakota. Home to about 75,000 residents, Rapid City combines a big-city appeal and the much sought-after small-town allure, elements that earn it a spot among the most charming cities in the 40th state. Rapid City’s location is its number one draw, with tourism as the basis of its economy. Nestled on the eastern side of the Black Hills, a vast natural paradise that stretches over 1.2 million acres, the region affords visitors many opportunities to explore the unique environment. Home to isolated mountains and forested hills, Black Hills is home to two national monuments: Mount Rushmore and the little-known Crazy Horse Memorial. That means one can have a quiet meeting with four presidents at a location just 30 minutes from town, and check off an item that appears on many travel bucket lists. Besides, art lovers aggrieved by the soulless empty walls that line many American cities will find something to smile about at Rapid City’s Art Alley.
Sioux Falls
Boasting a population of about 190,000, Sioux Falls is South Dakota’s largest city by far. While it cannot hold a candle to Rapid City when it comes to outdoor attractions, Sioux Falls will still awe many first-time visitors, including outdoor lovers. While this is the largest city in South Dakota, complete with the glitter and glitz of cities its size, it has evidently remembered to tend to its small-town charm. For instance, many first-time visitors appreciate the town’s incredibly picturesque downtown area, particularly in winter when it snows. And with the Big Sioux River meandering through the "Queen City of the West," as South Dakota’s largest city is affectionately called, the Sioux Falls Downtown River Greenway, with its picturesque trails, will detain a first-time visitor for many hours. No one comes to Sioux Falls without a stop at the 123-acre Falls Park, to get a glimpse of the famed cascades as they crash over stones hued in pinkish-red.
Spearfish
A city that has "fish" as part of its name is going to pique the interest of any angler. Spearfish, the 11th largest city in South Dakota by population, is home to the Spearfish Canyon Area, an area considered among the best fly-fishing spots in the 40th state. Yet those who are not anglers should still find an excuse to visit the Spearfish Canyon Area if to marvel at the spectacular multi-tiered Roughlock Falls, gasp at the roaring waters of Spearfish Falls, or be awestruck at the approximately 60-foot Bridal Veil Falls. The latter is one of the most majestic waterfalls in the whole state. And that is not to mention the amazing views and the numerous outdoor activities that will be on the menu. Art lovers, however, will want to spend more time at the Termesphere Gallery, which the New York Times describes as "one of the nation’s more unusual art spaces."
Brookings
Nestled in east-central South Dakota, minutes from the Minnesota border, Brookings is home to about 23,000 residents. Many might agree that a city can hardly be "charming" if the presence of trees is nothing to write home about. Fortunately, trees are a common nature theme in Brookings. From the city’s tree-lined streets to its shaded neighborhoods and parks, the sylvan, tree-themed charm of Brookings is hard to miss. Those young at heart, however, may appreciate that Brookings is home to South Dakota State University, a feature that essentially makes Brookings a college town. Many will enjoy strolling through Brooking’s quaint Commercial Historic District—and sampling restaurants such as Nick's Hamburger Shop—whose delectable burgers boast national and international fame. Also, for being the oldest building in town, the Masonic Temple, located at 225 Main Avenue, is worth checking out.
Vermillion
Secreted in the southeastern corner of South Dakota, Vermillion sits on a bluff above the Missouri River, the longest river in the United States. The town takes its name after the Vermillion River, which joins the Missouri River near the town. Boasting a population of about 12,000, Vermillion is also the 12th largest city in South Dakota. Home to the University of South Dakota, Vermillion is a college town with a palpable aura of youthful energy. The town boasts several dining and shopping options and a lifetime of adventure, particularly at the Missouri River. Whether one wants to sail on the nearby Lewis & Clark Lake, boat about on the Missouri River, or hike at the picturesque Spirit Mound Historic Prairie, outdoor lovers will get a blast in this South Dakota secret.
Huron
Curled up along the picturesque banks of the James River, the second-longest river in South Dakota, sits Huron, the 8th largest city in South Dakota, with a population of about 14,000 residents. For its location in the heart of South Dakota’s glacial lakes, Huron is steps away from outdoor adventure. Whether one wants to go pheasant hunting in the vast acres that constitute the Ringneck Nation, go fishing walleye in Lake Byron, or admire the heart-ravishing views around the James River Fishing Area, Huron’s many outdoor attractions are hard to beat. As a pointer to the town’s hunting legacy, first-time visitors will want to marvel at the 22-foot statue of the world’s largest pheasant located on Highway 14.
Mitchell
If the idea of catching bluegill, channel catfish, or largemouth bass is something that will make one’s heart pick up speed, then South Dakota’s Mitchell should be on one’s bucket list. Boasting a population of about 15,000, Mitchell provides access to scenic Lake Mitchell. This lake offers 10 miles of picturesque shoreline where one can spend a beautiful morning playing cat-and-mouse with fish; however, fishing is not Mitchell’s main draw. Neither is the beautiful Lake Mitchell Campground complete with 48 RV campsites with hookups, picturesque hiking trails, and numerous outdoor opportunities. Mitchell is known across the country as home to The World’s Only Corn Palace, a whimsical icon that draws thousands to Mitchell’s Main Street every year.
Aberdeen
Aberdeen is a South Dakota stunner incorporated in 1882, which today is home to about 28,000 residents. Nestled in the picturesque James River Valley about 11 miles from the banks of the meandering waterway, Aberdeen is the third-largest city in South Dakota. Home to the Northern State University and Presentation College, Aberdeen is a college town. Those who will want to mingle with a youthful crowd and enjoy youthful adventures—in an environment that is fun and light-hearted have their answer in Aberdeen. Movie lovers will want to look for Capital Cinema, an old, classic theater that brings Hollywood to the community. Those with children, however, will find charm at Storybook Land, a theme park that features a simulated tornado experience (at Dorothy’s House), a miniature train, a small rollercoaster, and rides reminiscent of nursery rhymes. Also, Richmond Lake (11 miles from town) and Mina Lake (15 miles from town) are both blue-space gems worth checking out.
Yankton
Yankton is another South Dakota charmer that hugs the picturesque shoreline of the Missouri River. Moreover, Yankton is minutes away, from the Lewis & Clark Recreation Area—a popular site for waterfront camping, hiking, swimming, or just meaningful idling. Moreover, the sixth-largest city in South Dakota, with a population of about 15,000, boasts an amazing shopping and dining scene. El Tapatio Méxican Restaurant, located at 2502 Fox Run Parkway, offers authentic Mexican cuisines that few tongues will ever forget. Whether one is craving some yummy salsa or chicken fajitas, this facility is in a hard-to-attain culinary class. Moreover, Yankton’s downtown, the historic Meridian District, runs along the Missouri River—and is an amazing place to stroll through.
Dell Rapids
Dell Rapids boasts a population of about 4,000 and is conveniently located just 20 miles north of Sioux Falls. For its small population, Dell Rapids is ideal for those seeking the spaces and pleasures of a small town—and the conveniences associated with big cities. Noticeably charming and slow-paced, Dell Rapids is a vacationer’s dream. Once a railroad town, Dell Rapids’s downtown offers glimpses into the town’s historic past. Dotted with many Sioux quartzite buildings and an impressive array of shopping and dining options, this town deserves a spot among South Dakota’s most charming. A visit to Dell Rapids should include a detour to the implausibly dramatic Palisades State Park, located about 19 miles away.
While South Dakota’s towns are relatively small, and the state’s population is not even half the population of Chicago, its small cities offer something that eludes many of America’s big cities. Aside from authenticity and elbow room, South Dakota’s cities offer a relatively more intimate vacation experience. Add that to the natural attractions that encircle them—and one has a complete package. From Rapid City to Dell Rapids, Brookings to Yankton, and many cities in between—South Dakota’s cities could be its best-kept secrets.
