When deciding where to travel in the United States, many people overlook South Dakota. However, this lesser-visited state has a lot to offer. The landscape is truly magnificent, featuring stunning peaks, rolling hills, and forests that reach as far as the eye can see. Plus, Oyate, South Dakota is conveniently located in the middle of many fun and educational attractions, making it an ideal region for singles, couples, and families alike.
If you are heading to Oyate, South Dakota, here are ten nearby destinations you should add to your list.
1. Denny Sanford Premier Center
Located in Sioux Falls, the Denny Sanford Premier Centre is a massive multipurpose facility that hosts a range of events. Along with large meetings and conventions, sporting events, concerts, banquets, and more are held at the venue. The building can seat up to 12,000, so a show here may feel more intimate even when filled to capacity.
2. Shakespeare Garden & Anne Hathaway Cottage
If you are looking for a unique destination, the Shakespeare Garden and Anne Hathaway Cottage should certainly be on your list. You can stroll through the beautiful landscaping and take a tour of the only thatched roof structure in the entire state. The Anne Hathaway Cottage was created to resemble the original, which is located in Stratford-on-Avon, England. You can also schedule a tour of the cottage or reserve a “high tea” inside if you plan in advance.
3. Sculpture Walk
An engaging outdoor exhibit, the Sculpture Walk in downtown Sioux Falls is available year-round. Artists can display their creations for one year, and each one is available for purchase if you are so inclined and beat other buyers. Since the displays change regularly, each trip can be a completely unique exploration of art.
4. Spirit Mound Historic Prairie
If you want to embrace a sense of adventure, you can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark by taking a trip to Spirit Mound Historic Praire, a South Dakota state park. The Plains Indians believed the region was home to the “little people,” folkloric figures described as looking like dwarfs who were said to play pranks of people or sing and then hide when visitors tried to find the source of the music.
5. Moody County Museum
Located in Flandreau, Moody County Museum focuses on the history and heritage of the surrounding region. Many of the displays showcase the culture and influence of the area’s Native American populations, making it an educational destination for those interested in learning about history. You can also view the Moody County Historical Society’s research facilities, which are on site, giving you insights into upcoming exhibits and new information.
6. Good Earth State Park at Blood Run
A park that is as beautiful as it is historically significant, Good Earth State Park is largely undeveloped, making it a natural wonder. However, it is also considered one of the oldest sites where human’s have inhabited an area over the long-term, serving as a trading center for native peoples from approximately the years 1300 to 1700. It is also the largest Oneota cultural site ever discovered in the upper Midwest, as it was also used for seasonal ceremonies for centuries.
7. Four Winds Cultural Center
At the Four Winds Cultural Center – located on the campus of the Flandreau Indian School – you can view historical items, artifacts, and memorabilia, as well as more contemporary displays, focused on Native American history and culture.
8. Split Rock Park
Filled with quartzite rock formations nestled along the Split Rock River, this park is ideal for spending some time in nature and exploring unique structures featuring locally-quarried quartzite. Primitive campsites are available, making it great for an overnight stay focused on simple living. Visitors can also spend time canoeing, hiking, or fishing, or can bring a picnic lunch so that they can enjoy a quick bite by the bank of the river.
9. Children’s Museum of South Dakota
If you are traveling with kids and want to take them to a place brimming with fun and exploration, the Children’s Museum of South Dakota is a great destination. The indoor/outdoor facility is all about play and learning, giving kids a chance to take part in some hands-on activities that lead to entertaining discoveries.
10. Teddy Bear Town
Part museum, part store, Teddy Bear Town is the Guinness World Record holder for the “Largest Teddy Bear Collection,” featuring about 10,500 different teddy bears. Bears from all 50 US states call Teddy Bear Town home, along with teddies from 29 other countries. Best of all, it is completely free to come in and take a look (though they do accept donations to help with operational costs), and you can even take a teddy bear home if you find one you can’t do without in the gift shop and decide to make a purchase.