Flandreau South DakotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Flandreau, South Dakota.
1. Royal River Casino
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT HUB
Royal River Casino is a premier entertainment destination in Flandreau featuring gaming, live music, and entertainment in the Royal Room. The venue has hosted many famous artists, comedians, and musicians across different genres. Visitors can also enjoy the Royal Feast buffet, one of two restaurants at the casino offering comforting dishes to satisfy any appetite.
2. Moody County Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
Moody County Museum stands as one of the top attractions in Flandreau, preserving the rich history of the region. The museum houses artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Flandreau's past and the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the cultural heritage and historical significance of Moody County through various displays and collections.
3. Japanese Gardens
HISTORIC GARDEN RETREAT
The Japanese Gardens, dating back to 1919, offers a serene retreat located in Flandreau City Park about one mile east of town. The gardens feature a dance pavilion with hardwood floors, making it a unique historical attraction. This peaceful setting provides visitors with a glimpse into early 20th century landscape design while offering a tranquil escape from everyday life.
4. Crystal Theater
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
Crystal Theater, built in 1913, is one of the oldest theaters in South Dakota, located at 215 E. Second Avenue. The venue continues to offer live performances, preserving its historical significance while providing entertainment to the community. Its longevity and continued operation make it a cultural landmark in Flandreau.
5. St. Vincent Hotel
HISTORIC LODGING EXPERIENCE
St. Vincent Hotel, established in 1897, is the second oldest continually operated hotel in South Dakota, located at 100 N. Wind Street. This historic accommodation offers guests a chance to stay in a building with over 125 years of history. The hotel represents an important piece of Flandreau's architectural heritage and hospitality tradition.
6. Flandreau Dam
POPULAR FISHING SPOT
The Flandreau Dam on the Big Sioux River is situated on the original site of the Flandrau Mill built in 1878, located on Crescent Street north of Second Avenue. Today, it serves as one of the favorite places for fishing among area anglers. The dam provides a popular recreational outlet for both locals and visitors seeking outdoor activities.
7. Flandreau Aquatic Center
MODERN FAMILY WATER PARK
The Flandreau Aquatic Center was completed in May 2004 as a community recreation initiative funded through a government grant and local contributions. The facility features amenities such as a zero-entry pool, slides, diving board, and lap lanes for swimmers of all ages. This modern water park represents the community spirit of Flandreau through the fundraising efforts and generosity that made it possible.
8. Thatcher Monument
HISTORICAL MEMORIAL SITE
The Thatcher Monument pays tribute to Mrs. Joseph Thatcher, a captive of the Spirit Lake Massacre who was drowned in the Big Sioux River. Located in Flandreau City Park, one mile east of Flandreau, the monument preserves an important historical narrative of the region. Visitors can reflect on this somber piece of frontier history while enjoying the park's natural setting.
9. Mad Mary's Steak House & Saloon
LOCAL DINING FAVORITE
Mad Mary's Steak House & Saloon is a popular dining establishment in Flandreau offering hearty meals in a rustic atmosphere. The restaurant specializes in steak dishes while providing a saloon experience reminiscent of South Dakota's frontier heritage. Visitors and locals alike enjoy the comfortable ambiance and satisfying food served at this Flandreau eatery.
10. Ingalls Homestead
LITTLE HOUSE HERITAGE
Ingalls Homestead in De Smet allows visitors to step into the pages of Laura Ingalls Wilder's classic tales that inspired her 'Little House on the Prairie' books. Located near Flandreau in the northeast region of South Dakota, this living history site offers an authentic glimpse into pioneer life on the prairie. Families can experience hands-on activities and explore the setting of the beloved literary works that captured frontier life.
11. Shakespeare Garden & Anne Hathaway Cottage
LITERARY ENGLISH REPLICA
The Shakespeare Garden & Anne Hathaway Cottage is a charming replica of its English namesake located in Brookings, not far from Flandreau. This unique attraction offers visitors a taste of Elizabethan England in the heart of South Dakota. The garden and cottage create a picturesque setting for literature enthusiasts and those interested in historical architecture.
12. Terry Redlin Art Center
WILDLIFE ART COLLECTION
The Terry Redlin Art Center in Watertown showcases the renowned works of one of America's most popular wildlife and Americana artists. The gallery houses an extensive collection of Redlin's detailed paintings depicting rural American scenes and natural landscapes. Visitors can immerse themselves in nostalgic portrayals of outdoor life and appreciate the artist's meticulous attention to detail and use of light.
13. Children's Museum of South Dakota
INTERACTIVE FAMILY LEARNING
The Children's Museum of South Dakota in Brookings offers interactive exhibits and hands-on learning experiences designed for children and families. Located within driving distance of Flandreau, this educational attraction encourages play-based discovery through various themed areas and activities. The museum provides a stimulating environment where children can develop their creativity, curiosity, and understanding of the world.
14. Sica Hollow State Park
MYSTICAL NATURAL TRAILS
Sica Hollow State Park offers scenic hiking trails through a mystical landscape that has inspired numerous Native American legends. The park's unique features include bubbling springs and streams that sometimes appear blood-red due to the high iron content, earning it the name 'Sica' or 'evil' in Dakota language. Visitors can explore this natural wonder while hiking the Trail of the Spirits, which is designated as a National Recreation Trail.
15. Bramble Park Zoo
FAMILY WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
Bramble Park Zoo in Watertown is an accredited zoological park housing over 500 animals representing 130 different species from around the world. Visitors can enjoy up-close encounters with wildlife through various exhibits, educational programs, and interactive experiences. The zoo provides a family-friendly destination within driving distance of Flandreau where people can learn about animal conservation while enjoying a day among exotic and native species.