Visiting South Dakota

South Dakota is bisected by the Missouri River into eastern agricultural land and western ranching lands. Well Recognized as the home of Mount Rushmore National Memorial, this is a top tourist draw to the state.

Sioux Falls near the eastern state line is the largest city in South Dakota and is a wonderful place to visit with the ease and pace of a small town and the excitement of a world class city. Plan a trip with the family for the 2010 Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Falls Park. This is a fun event, welcoming the entire community and geared for Families. With free admission, bring everyone to enjoy music, entertainment and terrific food. The Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum also has a May celebration with a Mexican theme. Critter de Mayo is an activity packed day at the zoo where kids can swing a pinatas and enjoy a variety of other Mexican themed events.

2010 marks the 50th anniversary of the modern hot air balloon. June 2010 is the 35th annual Great Plains Balloon Race. Come see the mass of hot air balloons as they rise into the blue sky over Sioux City, enjoy the festival and perhaps take a tethered trip on one yourself. A great day to be had by all.

Yankton, south of Sioux Falls, celebrates children the first of June. The 19th annual Kids Arts Festival will be held at Riverside Park. Bring elementary aged children to enjoy the day. The park will be full of art activities and fun geared specifically for the kids. Aberdeen, north of Sioux Falls hosts a similar event mid-June. Wylie Park is transformed into Storybook Land for a two day Family Fun Weekend.

Combine Family Fun Weekend with the Ipswich Trail Days in nearby Ipswich. Trail Days was a tradition in the community in the 50s and 60s and has been revived. The fun includes pie baking competition, car and motorcycle shows, live concerts and a demolition derby. Looks like no one will be disappointed with the event schedule.

The South Dakota Outdoor Expo, in Huron, is another June family friendly option for a great weekend. This exceptional event is both entertaining and educational. Visitors get to participate hands on in activities including kayaking, shotgun shooting, panning for gold, and fly fishing. There will be hunting safety lessons, archery and hunting dog demonstrations on the schedule.

The Mayors Challenge in Pierre may be the only event of its kind. The June event is a 1/4 mile drag race challenge from the Mayor of Pierre, to his colleagues in surrounding communities. Held at Oahe Speedway, this is one of many racing events scheduled monthly.

Murdo in May is a motor-heads wonderland. Get ready for the 2010 Classic Car Auction, hosted by Pioneer Auto Museum. The entire town pitches in to make this a terrific weekend for automobile enthusiasts. Check out car shows, exhibits, vendors or sell a car of your own at the car corral. There will be music, dancing and a parade. Remember the weekend before Memorial Day for this event.

Best Western Hotels in South Dakota are ready for your visit when you come. Convenient locations make travel easy, and with affordable rates, you will sleep better. Book Best Western Hotels for a weekend getaway, a night on the road or an entire vacation.

South Dakota Hotel Map