This year, South Dakota debuts a wide array of openings and new experiences, from a resort to the anniversary of the state’s oldest powwow. Family travelers will find more than enough things to do in South Dakota.
Badlands Astronomy Festival (July 18–20)
Take in the stars shining in one of America’s darkest swath of sky. This festival features telescope viewings, night sky talks with astronomers and interactive family activities within Badlands National Park.
160th Anniversary of Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate Annual Wacipi (through July 6)
Dating back to 1867, this wacipi is the oldest powwow in South Dakota and the second-oldest in the nation. Visitors are encouraged to observe and enjoy Native American culture at Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate Ceremonial Grounds in Agency Village.
© Travel South Dakota
New Dinosaur Exhibit at Hell Creek Museum
This past May, an all-new dinosaur exhibit opened at the museum. Kids love witnessing fossils, engaging in hands-on exhibits and getting up close to other rare prehistoric treasures. Visitors are also invited to join a paleontologist-led fossil dig with Paleo Adventures.
Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup (Sept. 26)
This year marks the 60th anniversary of this celebration at the park. Watch cowboys and cowgirls herd more than 1,300 bison across the landscape.
© Travel South Dakota
Black Hills Powwow (Oct. 10–12)
Taking place in Rapid City, this powwow is the largest in the state, featuring singing, competitive dancing, drumming and other celebrations of Indigenous traditions.
© Travel South Dakota
Crazy Horse Memorial Volksmarch (Sept. 28)
One of the few times the public can hike to the arm of the world’s largest mountain carving, this walk promises unbeatable views, as well as a connection to Native American history and heritage.
New Hotels
Choosing a hotel for the family has never been easier thanks to new hotel openings across the state. Canopy by Hilton Downtown Sioux Falls opened in the Steel district, complete with an on-site Italian restaurant, coffee bar, fitness center and complimentary bikes. Rapid City also welcomed the new Hyatt Place Rapid City Downtown, a 10-story, mixed-used development with an on-site toast, juice and coffee bar. Shortgrass Resort also marks its first full season in Spearfish. This resort is perfect for older families with adults or parents seeking an adults-only escape.
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