Carthage South DakotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Carthage, South Dakota.
1. SoDak Prairie Acres
WILDLIFE AND PRAIRIE TOURS
SoDak Prairie Acres offers immersive nature and wildlife tours in the scenic prairies surrounding Carthage. Visitors experience the unique ecology of the South Dakota grasslands and may spot native wildlife during guided tours. This attraction is perfect for those seeking a tranquil outdoor adventure close to Carthage.
2. Ingalls Homestead - Laura's Living Prairie
HISTORIC HOMESTEAD EXPERIENCE
Ingalls Homestead - Laura's Living Prairie transports visitors back to pioneer days with its interactive homestead experience based on Laura Ingalls Wilder's childhood. Guests can explore original sites, participate in hands-on activities like wagon rides and making corn cob dolls, and learn about prairie life in the late 1800s. This historic destination is especially popular with families and fans of the Little House books.
3. De Smet Cemetery
HISTORIC PIONEER CEMETERY
De Smet Cemetery is the final resting place of several members of the Ingalls family, made famous by Laura Ingalls Wilder's novels. Visitors can pay their respects and reflect on the region's rich pioneer heritage. The site holds significant appeal for history enthusiasts and fans of the Little House series.
4. World's Only Corn Palace
ICONIC CORN-DECORATED VENUE
The World's Only Corn Palace in Mitchell is a unique landmark adorned with murals and designs made entirely from corn and other grains. Guests can tour the facility, learn about its history, and attend various events and festivals held throughout the year. Its ever-changing exterior makes it a must-see attraction for travelers in the region.
5. Gold Mine Pizzeria
LOCAL PIZZA FAVORITE
Gold Mine Pizzeria offers a friendly, relaxed dining experience known for its tasty pizzas and welcoming atmosphere. Locals and visitors alike enjoy its broad menu, which features creative toppings and classic Italian dishes. It's a popular stop for those exploring attractions in and around Mitchell.
6. Badlands National Park
STRIKING ERODED LANDSCAPES
Badlands National Park is celebrated for its dramatic rock formations and otherworldly landscapes sculpted by millennia of erosion. Visitors can drive the scenic Badlands Loop Road, hike trails, and enjoy some of the best views in South Dakota. The park is a haven for wildlife watching and photography.
7. Mount Rushmore National Memorial
FAMOUS PRESIDENTIAL SCULPTURE
Mount Rushmore National Memorial is an iconic American landmark featuring monumental sculptures of four U.S. presidents carved into granite cliffs. The site includes a visitor center, museum, and scenic trails for exploration. Each year, millions visit to marvel at this symbol of American history and achievement.
8. Jewel Cave National Monument
EXPANSIVE CAVE SYSTEM
Jewel Cave National Monument is the third-longest cave system in the world, offering guided tours through stunning crystalline formations. Above ground, visitors can enjoy nature trails and a 1,279-acre park teeming with flora and fauna. It's a captivating destination for adventure seekers and geology enthusiasts.
9. Custer State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Custer State Park spans over 71,000 acres and is renowned for its bison herds, granite peaks, and scenic drives. Visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, and relaxing at plush lodges within the park. Its diverse landscapes make it one of South Dakota's most beloved outdoor destinations.
10. Historic Deadwood
GOLD RUSH TOWN
Historic Deadwood is a legendary 1870s gold rush town with a vibrant history tied to figures like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. Today, the town buzzes with casinos, museums, parades, and entertainment. Its well-preserved Main Street and historic sites attract visitors seeking a taste of the Old West.
11. Missouri River
WATER RECREATION HUB
The Missouri River runs through South Dakota, providing ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and water-based recreation. Several reservoirs, including Lake Oahe and Lake Francis Case, offer scenic beauty and family-friendly activities. The river's shores are dotted with parks and campgrounds for outdoor lovers.
12. Wind Cave National Park
UNIQUE BOXWORK FORMATIONS
Wind Cave National Park is famous for its rare boxwork cave formations and sprawling prairie ecosystem above ground. Guided cave tours give insight into its geology, while wildlife such as bison and elk roam the surface. The park is a sanctuary for both adventure and nature enthusiasts.
13. Crazy Horse Memorial
UNFINISHED GIANT CARVING
Crazy Horse Memorial is an ambitious mountain carving dedicated to the famed Lakota leader, which, when completed, will be the largest of its kind in the world. Visitors can observe the work in progress, explore the Indian Museum of North America, and learn about Native American heritage. The monument is an enduring symbol of cultural pride and history.
14. Mount Moriah Cemetery
FAMOUS WESTERN GRAVES
Mount Moriah Cemetery is renowned for being the final resting place of iconic Old West figures such as Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. The cemetery offers sweeping views of Deadwood and interpretive markers sharing stories of the town's colorful past. It's a poignant stop for history buffs touring the Black Hills.
15. Downtown De Smet Shopping
BOUTIQUE SHOPS AND GIFTS
Downtown De Smet offers a selection of boutique shops and local stores where visitors can find unique gifts, souvenirs, and handmade items. The area's friendly merchants and small-town charm make for an enjoyable shopping experience. It's a great place to pick up mementos while exploring literary and pioneer sites nearby.