Empty and windy. Some might use those words to describe an I-90 road trip, but it is far from empty although it is windy. The magic of a road trip across South Dakota comes with the exits. You will want to plan many as this is a situation where it is about the journey!
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Stretching across the entire state, this legendary highway is packed with oddball roadside attractions, deep-rooted history, and jaw-dropping scenery. Whether you’re into quirky art, Cold War relics, or vast natural wonders, I-90 delivers an unforgettable journey. Buckle up as we explore some of the best stops along the way!
Porter Sculpture Garden – A Whimsical Welcome
Just west of Sioux Falls, you’ll find the Porter Sculpture Park, an ideal starting point for your South Dakota road trip. This captivating collection of scrap metal sculptures, crafted by artist Wayne Porter, offers a surreal experience that feels like stepping into a dreamlike world.
The park’s centerpiece is a colossal 60-foot bull head, a sight that is both awe-inspiring and slightly intimidating. However, the park is home to many other intriguing pieces, each with its own unique personality. From whimsical and humorous creations to thought-provoking and eerie figures, the sculptures are sure to spark your imagination and leave a lasting impression.
You will take a narrow dirt road to get to the park. As you wander through the park, you’ll encounter a diverse range of sculptures, each telling its own story. The park’s ever-changing light and shadows add another layer of depth and intrigue to the experience, making each visit unique.
Take a detour, stretch your legs, and let your imagination soar as you explore this extraordinary outdoor gallery. And when you’re ready to continue your South Dakota adventure, you’ll hit the road with a refreshed spirit and a camera full of unforgettable images.
This was also a great Harvest Host location. Although it is windy perched on the hilltop all you will hear is the wind and nature.
The Corn Palace – Mitchell’s Tribute to the Golden Grain
In Mitchell, South Dakota, a unique and unexpected sight will greet you: the world’s only Corn Palace. This whimsical, domed structure stands as a testament to the region’s agricultural heritage and ingenuity. Its exterior is a living canvas, adorned annually with intricate murals crafted entirely from corn, grains, and other natural materials. Each year, a new theme is chosen, and skilled artists meticulously apply thousands of bushels of colorful corn to create stunning designs that celebrate local culture and history.
Stepping inside the Corn Palace, you’ll discover a world of exhibits and activities that showcase the region’s agricultural bounty and the palace’s fascinating history. Displays highlight the evolution of corn cultivation, the importance of agriculture to the local economy, and the artistic process behind the palace’s ever-changing murals.
The Corn Palace is sure to leave a lasting impression. And where else can you say you’ve visited a building covered in corn?
Dignity: A Symbol of Strength and Culture
Located in Chamberlain, Dignitiy’s position atop a bluff provides a commanding view of the Missouri River. This 50-foot-tall sculpture depicts a Lakota woman, her figure draped in a flowing dress, holding a star quilt aloft. The star quilt, a significant symbol in Native American culture, represents hope, unity, and the interconnectedness of life.
The Dignity statue is a sight to behold at any time of day, but it is particularly striking at sunrise. As the sun’s rays bathe the statue in warm light, the sculpture seems to glow with a life of its own. The interplay of light and shadow across the folds of the woman’s dress and the intricate patterns of the star quilt create a sense of movement and depth.
The rest area adjacent to the statue offers visitors the opportunity to pause and make plans for more stops. The sweeping views of the Missouri River from this vantage point provide a sense of tranquility and connection to the natural world. The river, a vital source of life for countless generations, holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for Native American tribes.
Delta-09 Minuteman Missile Silo – A Chilling Reminder of the Cold War
A journey along South Dakota’s I-90 corridor is about the unexpected. From silly tourist attractions to monuments to Cold War history. The next stop will be unlike the last! Minuteman Missile National Historic Site is a dive into the Cold War history of the area and America. This historical site preserves a key component of the United States Cold War defense strategy, providing a sobering reminder of the tensions that gripped the world during that era.
One of the most impactful features of the site is the Delta-09 missile silo. Located just off I-90, this silo offers visitors a direct view into the heart of America’s nuclear deterrent. Through a glass cover, visitors can peer into the depths of the silo and see an unarmed decommissioned Minuteman II missile.
The Minuteman II missiles were a cornerstone of the US land-based nuclear arsenal during the Cold War. These intercontinental ballistic missiles, capable of delivering nuclear warheads to targets thousands of miles away, were designed for rapid response and were constantly on alert, ready to launch at a moment’s notice.
For those who wish to delve deeper into the history of the Minuteman missile program, the nearby Delta-01 Launch Control Facility offers a comprehensive look at the command and control aspects of these weapons. Visitors can tour the underground control center, where Air Force personnel once monitored and controlled ten Minuteman missiles, ready to launch them if the order was given. The facility provides a glimpse into the daily lives of the crews who bore the immense responsibility of managing these powerful weapons, highlighting the constant pressure and tension they faced.
The Minuteman Missile National Historic Site is as a stark reminder of the Cold War era, a period of heightened tensions and the ever-present threat of nuclear annihilation. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the technology and infrastructure that underpinned America’s nuclear deterrent, providing a deeper understanding of this critical period in history. Whether it’s peering into the depths of a missile silo or exploring the confines of a launch control facility, a visit to this historic site is a thought-provoking experience that sheds light on a significant chapter of the 20th century.
Badlands National Park – Otherworldly Beauty
Badlands National Park, a truly awe-inspiring destination and arguably the most breathtaking stop on this road trip, will transport you to another world with its dramatic and otherworldly landscape. The park’s rugged rock formations, sculpted by millions of years of erosion, rise from the earth like ancient castles, while deep canyons carve their way through the land, revealing layers of geological history.
The park offers a variety of ways to experience its unique beauty. Drive along the scenic Badlands Loop Road, which winds its way through the heart of the park, offering spectacular panoramic views of the dramatic landscape. To really get to see the area, embark on one of the park’s many hiking trails, which range from easy strolls to challenging treks. These trails will take you up close to the park’s famous layered rock formations, allowing you to appreciate the intricate details and textures of the landscape.
As you explore this incredible landscape, keep your eyes peeled for the park’s diverse wildlife. Bighorn sheep, with their impressive curled horns, can often be seen perched on rocky outcrops, while bison, the iconic symbol of the American West, roam the grasslands. Prairie dogs, with their playful antics and distinctive calls, add their own touch of charm to the prairie landscape.
Regardless of your chosen activites, Badlands National Park is a destination that will leave you in awe of the power and beauty of nature.
Giant Prairie Dog Sculpture – A Quirky Photo Op
As you journey along, just outside the awe-inspiring Badlands National Park, you’ll encounter a delightful and whimsical roadside attraction – the colossal prairie dog statue. This towering 12-foot-tall sculpture, crafted with meticulous detail, stands as a tribute to the region’s unique wildlife and decades goofy road trip photos.
The giant prairie dog is a symbol of the Ranch Store, a popular stop for travelers seeking souvenirs, snacks, and a chance to interact with the prairie’s most endearing residents. The Ranch Store offers bags of peanuts for visitors to feed the numerous prairie dogs that have made their home around the store, creating a fun and memorable experience for animal lovers of all ages.
Robert’s Prairie Dog Town – A Wildlife Spectacle
Next up is Robert’s Prairie Dog Town. This sprawling prairie dog colony provides a unique opportunity to observe and photograph these fascinating creatures in their natural environment.
As you wander through the park, you’ll be greeted by a symphony of chirps and whistles, as thousands of prairie dogs scurry about, popping in and out of their burrows. These highly social animals are constantly interacting with one another, creating a dynamic and engaging spectacle for visitors.
Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife photographer or simply looking to experience the wonders of the natural world, Robert’s Prairie Dog Town is sure offer some adorable photos.
Wall Drug – The Quintessential Roadside Attraction
Wall Drug, a legendary roadside attraction situated along I-90, has become an almost unavoidable landmark for travelers due to its ubiquitous billboards. This iconic stop is a fascinating blend of shopping mall, museum, restaurant and eccentric wonderland.
Wall Drug’s fame originated from its simple offer of free ice water to parched travelers during the Dust Bowl era. This resonated with people hot and thirsty after a long windy drive, and over time, Wall Drug transformed into a sprawling complex filled with a wide array of attractions.
The allure of Wall Drug extends beyond its shopping and entertainment offerings. The establishment also boasts a rich history and a collection of artifacts that showcase the spirit of the American West. Visitors can immerse themselves in the stories and legends of the region while enjoying the nostalgic ambiance of the complex.
And, of course, no visit to Wall Drug would be complete without indulging in their famous 5-cent coffee and a freshly made donut. We suggest the maple iced.
Dahl Chainsaw Art – A Masterclass in Woodworking
With several locations across the Black Hills, the first you are likely to come across is in Wall. Just blocks away from the famous Wall Drug. Dahl Chainsaw Art. This isn’t just a shop; it’s a gallery. For generations, the Dahl family has been transforming ordinary logs into mesmerizing works of art, using the unlikely tool of the chainsaw.
The range of their creations is astounding. Towering sculptures of majestic eagles with outstretched wings capture the power and grace of these iconic birds. Intricate replicas of Mount Rushmore, complete with the nuanced expressions of the presidents, showcase the artists’ meticulous attention to detail. And for those seeking a more personal touch, custom carvings and personalized pieces can be commissioned to immortalize cherished memories or capture the essence of a beloved pet.
Dahl Chainsaw Art isn’t just a place to buy souvenirs; it’s an immersive experience. Visitors can witness the artistic process firsthand, ask questions, and gain a deeper appreciation for the skill and dedication involved in chainsaw carving. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are always happy to share insights about the family’s history, the techniques they use, and the inspiration behind their work.
Buffalo Gap National Grasslands – Wide-Open Serenity
For a final, unforgettable immersion into South Dakota’s breathtaking natural beauty, consider taking a detour through the expansive Buffalo Gap National Grasslands. This vast expanse of rolling plains stretches out towards the horizon, seemingly without end, offering a stark and dramatic contrast to the rugged, jagged peaks of the nearby Badlands. The grasslands paint a serene and picturesque landscape, providing the perfect setting for a tranquil picnic, a leisurely scenic drive, or simply a moment of quiet contemplation to truly appreciate the untamed, raw beauty of the American prairie.
Within the grasslands, you might encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including bison, pronghorn, and prairie dogs, adding another layer of intrigue and discovery to your journey. The open landscape also provides unobstructed views of the sky, making it an ideal location for stargazing or simply enjoying the vastness of the open prairie. Whether you’re seeking solitude, adventure, or simply a deeper connection with nature, the Buffalo Gap National Grasslands offer a unique and enriching experience that captures the essence of the American heartland.
Driving across South Dakota on I-90 is an unexpected experience packed with history, quirky roadside attractions, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re marveling at the bizarre sculptures of Porter’s Garden, feeding prairie dogs, or standing in awe of the Badlands, this journey offers something for every traveler. So fuel up, hit the road, and get ready for an adventure you won’t forget!
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