Toronto South DakotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Toronto, South Dakota.
1. Mount Rushmore National Memorial
ICONIC PRESIDENTIAL MONUMENT
Mount Rushmore National Memorial features majestic figures of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln carved into granite. This iconic landmark is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Black Hills of South Dakota. Visitors can explore the memorial and learn about the history of these four influential presidents.
2. Badlands National Park
RUGGED NATURAL WONDER
Badlands National Park showcases a unique landscape of rugged rock formations, deep canyons, and otherworldly scenery. The park preserves fossil beds that contain remains of ancient mammals like saber-toothed cats and rhinos. Visitors can explore hiking trails and scenic drives that showcase the park's dramatic terrain.
3. Wildlife Loop Road
SCENIC WILDLIFE DRIVE
Wildlife Loop Road is one of South Dakota's most popular attractions for viewing native animals in their natural habitat. The 18-mile scenic drive winds through Custer State Park, offering opportunities to see bison, pronghorn, elk, and other wildlife. Visitors often encounter the park's famous begging burros that approach vehicles looking for handouts.
4. Crazy Horse Memorial
MASSIVE MOUNTAIN CARVING
Crazy Horse Memorial is a massive mountain carving tribute to the Lakota leader that began in 1948. Once completed, it will be the largest mountain carving in South Dakota and the world. The site includes the Indian Museum of North America and the Native American Educational & Cultural Center where visitors can learn about Native American culture.
5. Tatanka: Story of the Bison
NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE
Tatanka: Story of the Bison is a Native American interpretive center dedicated to educating visitors about the history and culture of the Lakota people. The center features an authentic Lakota encampment complete with traditional tipis and is staffed by Native American interpreters. Visitors can participate in educational programs and activities that illuminate the significance of bison in Lakota culture.
6. Wind Cave National Park
UNIQUE CAVE FORMATIONS
Wind Cave National Park features the world's largest concentration of rare boxwork formations. This site was the first cave to be designated as a national park in the United States. Above ground, the park includes 33,851 acres of forest and prairie that serve as a sanctuary for wildlife.
7. Jewel Cave National Monument
EXTENSIVE CAVE SYSTEM
Jewel Cave National Monument protects one of the world's longest cave systems with over 200 miles of mapped passages. The cave is named for its sparkling calcite crystals that line the cavern walls. Visitors can choose from different tour options to explore the cave's unique formations and learn about its geological history.
8. SDSU Dairy Sales Bar
FAMOUS CAMPUS ICE CREAM
SDSU Dairy Sales Bar is a popular destination known for its fresh ice cream made right on the South Dakota State University campus. The ice cream shop offers dozens of flavors produced by students in the university's dairy program. With a 4.8 rating from visitors, this spot is considered a must-visit when in the Brookings area.
9. South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum
RURAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum preserves and celebrates the state's rich agricultural history. Exhibits showcase farming equipment, rural life, and the technological evolution of agriculture in the region. Visitors can explore artifacts and displays that tell the story of how agriculture shaped South Dakota's development.
10. Dana J Dykhouse Stadium
MODERN COLLEGIATE SPORTS VENUE
Dana J Dykhouse Stadium is a state-of-the-art football facility that serves as the home field for the South Dakota State University Jackrabbits. The 19,000-seat stadium opened in 2016 and provides an impressive venue for collegiate sports events. With a near-perfect 4.9 rating, visitors praise the modern amenities and exciting game-day atmosphere.
11. Bank Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Bank Brewing Company is a popular craft brewery located just across the border from Toronto, South Dakota. The brewery produces a variety of handcrafted beers in a historic bank building, giving the establishment its unique name. Visitors enjoy sampling flights of beer in the rustic taproom atmosphere with a 4.7 visitor rating.
12. World's Only Corn Palace
UNIQUE AGRICULTURAL ATTRACTION
The World's Only Corn Palace is a one-of-a-kind attraction decorated with murals made entirely from corn and other grains. Each year, the exterior murals are redesigned and replaced with new corn art depicting different themes. The venue hosts various events throughout the year and offers visitors a glimpse into South Dakota's agricultural heritage.
13. Falls Park
URBAN NATURAL WONDER
Falls Park is the natural crown jewel of Sioux Falls, featuring the cascading waters of the Big Sioux River. The park encompasses 123 acres with viewing platforms, walking trails, and a five-story observation tower that provides panoramic views of the falls and city skyline. Visitors can also explore historic buildings including the remains of the Queen Bee Mill built in the 1880s.
14. Great Plains Zoo
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ANIMAL EXPERIENCE
The Great Plains Zoo is home to more than 1,000 animals representing 137 species from around the world. This 45-acre facility combines a zoo with the Delbridge Museum of Natural History, featuring one of the nation's largest collections of mounted animals. Visitors can enjoy up-close animal encounters, educational programs, and interactive exhibits designed for all ages.
15. Bramble Park Zoo
DIVERSE ANIMAL COLLECTION
Bramble Park Zoo houses over 500 animals representing 130 different species in a family-friendly environment. The zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, a distinction held by less than 10% of animal exhibitors licensed by the USDA. Visitors can enjoy educational programs, animal feedings, and special exhibits throughout the 15-acre facility.