Avon South DakotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Avon, South Dakota.
1. Niobrara State Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Niobrara State Park offers stunning views of the Missouri and Niobrara rivers along with outdoor recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking trails, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing throughout the year. The park's location near the South Dakota border makes it a popular destination for travelers exploring the region.
2. Niobrara Adventures
RIVER RECREATION OUTFITTER
Niobrara Adventures provides exciting river experiences for outdoor enthusiasts near the South Dakota border. They offer kayak and tube rentals for visitors wanting to explore the scenic Niobrara River at their own pace. Their knowledgeable staff ensures a safe and memorable experience on the water.
3. The Schnitz
LOCAL CULINARY GEM
The Schnitz is a highly-rated local eatery in Avon that serves authentic regional cuisine. The restaurant is known for its welcoming atmosphere and home-cooked meals that showcase South Dakota flavors. Visitors and locals alike praise the friendly service and quality food options.
4. Lewis and Clark Recreation Area
HISTORIC WATERFRONT PARK
Lewis and Clark Recreation Area is a popular destination located on the shores of Lewis and Clark Lake near Yankton. The area features camping facilities, boat ramps, swimming beaches, and picnic areas perfect for family outings. Visitors can enjoy water sports, fishing, and hiking while exploring the same route taken by the famous explorers.
5. Gavin's Point Dam
ENGINEERING MARVEL VIEWPOINT
Gavin's Point Dam is an impressive engineering structure spanning the Missouri River near Yankton. Visitors can learn about the dam's role in flood control, power generation, and recreation through informative displays at the visitor center. The site offers excellent photography opportunities and fishing access along with scenic views of the river system.
6. Zymurcracy Beer Company
CRAFT BREWERY EXPERIENCE
Zymurcracy Beer Company offers craft beer enthusiasts a taste of South Dakota's brewing culture. The taproom features a rotating selection of unique house-made beers crafted with locally sourced ingredients when possible. Visitors can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere while sampling flights of distinctive brews.
7. Millstone Family Restaurant II
HEARTY HOMESTYLE DINING
Millstone Family Restaurant II provides a welcoming dining experience with a menu of classic American comfort food. The restaurant is known for generous portions, friendly service, and a family-friendly atmosphere that appeals to travelers and locals alike. Their homestyle meals offer a taste of authentic Midwestern cuisine at reasonable prices.
8. RedRossa Italian Grille
UPSCALE ITALIAN CUISINE
RedRossa Italian Grille serves authentic Italian cuisine in an elegant setting in Sioux Falls. The restaurant features wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta dishes, and a selection of fine wines to complement each meal. Their menu combines traditional Italian recipes with contemporary culinary techniques for a memorable dining experience.
9. Badlands National Park
DRAMATIC ERODED LANDSCAPES
Badlands National Park showcases one of America's most unique and striking landscapes with its sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires. Visitors can explore hiking trails ranging from easy boardwalks to challenging backcountry routes through the otherworldly terrain. The park is also home to diverse wildlife including bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs that can often be spotted from the scenic drives.
10. Mount Rushmore National Memorial
ICONIC PRESIDENTIAL MONUMENT
Mount Rushmore National Memorial features the massive carved faces of four American presidents - Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln - sculpted into the Black Hills granite. The monument attracts visitors from around the world who can learn about its creation through museum exhibits and the evening lighting ceremony. The Presidential Trail offers close-up views of the sculpture while providing information about each president and the carving process.
11. Jewel Cave National Monument
SPECTACULAR UNDERGROUND WONDERLAND
Jewel Cave National Monument protects the third-longest cave system in the world with over 200 miles of mapped passages. Visitors can take guided tours to view the cave's spectacular formations including calcite crystals that sparkle like jewels in the lamplight. The monument also features surface hiking trails through ponderosa pine forest where wildlife viewing opportunities abound.
12. Wild Water West
FAMILY WATERPARK FUN
Wild Water West provides aquatic entertainment for visitors of all ages with water slides, a wave pool, and lazy river. The park also features dry attractions including mini-golf, go-karts, and sand volleyball courts for a complete day of family fun. Their concession stands offer refreshments and snacks to enjoy between activities during hot summer days.
13. Great Plains Zoo
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION CENTER
Great Plains Zoo houses over 1,000 animals from around the world across its 45-acre campus in Sioux Falls. The zoo focuses on conservation efforts for endangered species while providing educational experiences through interactive exhibits and keeper talks. Visitors can observe tigers, giraffes, rhinos, and many other species in naturalistic habitats designed for animal welfare.
14. USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial
MILITARY HISTORY MONUMENT
USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial honors the legendary World War II battleship through exhibits and preserved artifacts. The outdoor park is designed in the exact shape of the ship's deck and features authentic pieces from the vessel itself. Visitors can explore the free visitor center to learn about the battleship's significant role in naval history and its impressive combat record.
15. Falls Park
URBAN NATURAL WONDER
Falls Park showcases the natural beauty of the Big Sioux River as it cascades over pink quartzite formations in the heart of Sioux Falls. Visitors can explore walking paths, observation towers, and historic buildings while enjoying the sound of rushing water and scenic views. The park hosts seasonal events including a winter holiday lights display and summer farmers markets for added entertainment throughout the year.