Visiting South Dakota

With winter’s chill officially gone, and the rejuvenation of spring rolling through with an eye on summer, be sure to explore greater South Dakota. Essentially comprised of everything east of the Badlands, greater South Dakota features cities rife with attractions and sights that are truly must-see. Head into the capital city of Pierre and check out the Fighting Stallions Memorial, or tour the South Dakota State Capitol building. From there, make your way into Mitchell and check out the Corn Palace, where in late August, visitors can take part in the annual Corn Palace Festival – musical guests include Loretta Lynn, and .38 Special.

A small and urbane city, Chamberlain is set east of Pierre, just along Lake Sharpe. Home to the South Dakota Hall of Fame, Chamberlain is a fine destination for spring and summer travelers.

A city rich in Native American history, guests of the Best Western Chamberlain hotel are in close proximity to the Akta Lakota Museum & Cultural Center – open only on weekdays through April. Explore even more local history with a trip to the Lewis and Clark & Keelboat Center, just minutes from downtown Chamberlain.

Aberdeen, north of Chamberlain and west of Watertown, is easily accessed from Highway 81 and is home to the Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge. A visit to Aberdeen during the spring and summer opens up great outdoor recreation possibilities at the Richmond Lake Recreation Area, and Yellowstone Trail.

Plan to visit the Brown County Fair in August, where guests will be treated to an exhibition at the Dacotah Stampede Rodeo. Then, at the same Brown County Fair, just a few days later, get ready for some excellent country music – August 16 brings Travis Tritt to the stage, with special guest Hunter Hayes. August 18, you’ll be delighted by a live performance from country music star Dierks Bentley.

If you’re in town prior to the start of the Brown County Fair, be sure explore local history with a visit to the Isaac Lincoln Hall Art Gallery – an Aberdeen staple.

Dubbed the “Best Little City in America,” Sioux Falls is home to the Wild Water West Waterpark – take the family on a warm summer day for an aquatic adventure. For more local flair, one where you’ll actually stay dry, head over to Yankton Trails Park for the Sioux Falls JazzFest, July 26-28.

Set nearly in between Watertown and Sioux Falls is Brookings. If you’re a fan of college baseball, make the scenic drive into Brookings and watch at the South Dakota State Jackrabbits take on Western Illinois University at Erv Huether Field on May 17.

South Dakota Hotel Map