Those who think of South Dakota may think of one of two things. First, they may think of Mount Rushmore, the attraction that has literally given this state a face. Home to the heads of four famous presidents, Mount Rushmore is forever cemented in South Dakota lore.
Second, people may think of Wall Drug, an old time store located in the town of Wall. With roots that began in the Great Depression, when it offered free ice water to customers, Wall Drug is filled with relics, food, and history of the region. Billboards advertising this store can be seen from as far away as Wyoming; it may only be a matter of time before these signs are even seen from outer space.
While Mount Rushmore and Wall Drug are important entities to South Dakota, they are by far not the only things that define the state. From the Badlands to Indian reservations, South Dakota is one state filled with endless experiences. The following is a list of places that might not be very well known, but they are certainly well loved.
Bear Country, USA - For people who like animals - who really like animals and don’t just like them with a side of mashed potatoes - Bear Country is a place that is begging to be seen. Filled with black bears, elk, reindeer, cougars, bobcats, deer, bighorn sheep, buffalo and many more, this attraction allows tourists to take a three mile drive through a variety of enclosures. During the drive, several animals will approach, sniffing a bumper, pawing a side mirror, putting a nose up to a windshield. Those touring Bear Country find safety in their vehicles; it’s probably best not to tour this area in a convertible. Tourists are also discouraged from picking up hitchhiking mammals… no matter how cute they look or how much gas money they offer.
1880 Train - All aboard for a feel like no other. The 1880 Train, located near Mount Rushmore, enthralls tourists with the epitome of a western experience. Not only are people allowed to get a sense of an old time locomotive - as the engine roars, the whistle blows, and the train chugs across the tracks - but the scenery appears to have been painted by God, or at least Bob Ross. The train ride, winding through the rocky landscape of the Black Hills, takes roughly two hours round trip.
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