The Bests Places to Visit Along the Route from Baltic, South Dakota to Rapid City, South Dakota
Are you planning a road trip from Baltic, South Dakota to Rapid City, South Dakota? If so, you are in for some awe-inspiring scenery, small town charm, and unique attractions. Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or friends, there are plenty of destinations along the way that will satisfy any travel appetite.
In this blog post, we have compiled a list of some of the best places to visit, sites to see, and activities to do along this route. So, fasten your seat belts, grab some snacks, and let's hit the road!
1. Pettigrew Home and Museum State Historic Site
If you're interested in the history of this region, start your road trip off with a visit to the Pettigrew Home and Museum State Historic Site. Built-in 1889, this home is an example of a Victorian mansion design popular in the late 19th century. The site features original furnishings and a collection of artifacts that tell the story of Senator Pettigrew's life and the region's history. The museum offers guided tours, and visitors can enjoy lovely gardens and a picnic area.
2. The Corn Palace - Mitchell, South Dakota
No trip through South Dakota is complete without a stop at the Corn Palace. You won't believe this unique and fascinating tourist attraction. The Corn Palace located in the heart of Mitchell is a palace made entirely of corn. Each year, local artists adorn the exterior with murals made of naturally-colored corn and other grains. You can discover the history of the Corn Palace by taking an audio tour, and there is also a gift shop that sells distinctive corn-themed souvenirs.
3. Wall Drug Store - Wall, South Dakota
Wall Drug Store in Wall, South Dakota, is a true roadside attraction and not to be missed! The sprawling store, which started as a small drug store, offers a memorable shopping experience with 76,000 square feet of unique souvenir items, including cowboy hats, leather goods, and homemade fudge. The store also has a cafe with excellent food and the famous Wall Drug Billboards, which have lured road-trippers for generations.
4. Badlands National Park - Interior, South Dakota
One of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world is the Badlands National Park. The park comprises over 244,000 acres of rugged terrain, stunning rock formations, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can take a leisurely drive along the Scenic Loop Drive, hike one of the many trails, or just relax and take in the gorgeous panoramic views. With so much to see and do, make sure to stop at the Visitor Center to get maps and information before exploring.
5. Mount Rushmore National Memorial - Keystone, South Dakota
A bucket list destination is America's Shrine of Democracy, the Mount Rushmore National Memorial. This incredible monument features the faces of four United States Presidents carved into the Black Hills mountains. Visitors can take a guided tour, watch a short film, or stroll along the Presidential Trail that provides different views of the mountain sculpture. The park also hosts a selection of restaurants, gift shops, and exhibits.
6. Crazy Horse Memorial - Custer City, South Dakota
The Crazy Horse Memorial is a work of art in progress. It is an ongoing project that began in 1948 to honor all Indigenous Peoples and promote their preservation, culture, and traditions. The project aims to be one of the biggest mountain carvings in the world, portraying the Lakota leader, Crazy Horse, riding his horse into the future. Visitors can take a guided tour and watch a Native American Dance Performance or browse through the Indian Museum of North America and the Native American Educational & Cultural Center.
In Conclusion
This 300-mile road trip from Baltic, South Dakota, to Rapid City, South Dakota, offers a fantastic opportunity to explore some unique and interesting destinations. Whether you're an adventure seeker, history lover, or just looking for a quick getaway, we hope this list of top places to visit has inspired you. Now it's time to pack your bags, hit the road, and create unforgettable memories. Happy travels!