Wall South DakotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Wall, South Dakota.
1. Wall Drug
ICONIC ROADSIDE SHOPPING & DINING
Wall Drug is a world-famous roadside attraction known for its sprawling 76,000-square-foot complex featuring quirky shops, Western-themed restaurants, and unique photo ops. It offers everything from homemade donuts and bison burgers to cowboy boots and souvenirs, appealing to families and travelers of all ages. The interactive Wall Drug Backyard, complete with water shows and a giant Jackalope, ensures a memorable visit.
2. National Grasslands Visitor Center
PRAIRIE ECOSYSTEM EDUCATION
The National Grasslands Visitor Center is the only museum in the nation dedicated to America's national grasslands, providing insights into the region's unique prairie ecosystems. Visitors can explore hands-on exhibits about grassland wildlife, plants, and conservation efforts. The center is free to enter and serves as an educational stop for families and nature enthusiasts.
3. Delta-09 Missile Silo
COLD WAR MISSILE SITE
The Delta-09 Missile Silo is a preserved Cold War-era Minuteman II missile site, offering a glimpse into America's nuclear defense history. Guests can peer into the underground silo through a glass viewing enclosure and learn about the tense standoff between superpowers. Interpretive signs and audio tours provide deeper context to the facility's role during the Cold War.
4. Lakota Ways
NATIVE CULTURAL EXPERIENCE
Lakota Ways is a civic and cultural center dedicated to the traditions and stories of the Lakota people. The attraction offers hands-on experiences like tipi raising and beadwork, along with exhibits on buffalo hunting and daily life of Plains tribes. It serves as an educational hub for visitors seeking to understand local indigenous heritage.
5. Delta-01 Launch Control Facility
NUCLEAR COMMAND TOUR
The Delta-01 Launch Control Facility is a restored command center that managed several Minuteman Missile silos during the Cold War. Tours guide visitors through preserved living quarters and the underground control room, giving an immersive look at the lives of missileers and the realities of nuclear deterrence. The site is part of the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site complex.
6. Wall Drug Café
CLASSIC FAMILY RESTAURANT
The Wall Drug Café is a beloved dining venue offering hearty Western fare such as buffalo burgers, homemade donuts, and fresh hot coffee. Its nostalgic setting reflects the history of Wall Drug while providing a comfortable spot for travelers to relax and refuel. The café is especially popular for its affordable meals and friendly service.
7. Wall Drug Western Wear
BOOTS AND APPAREL SHOPPING
Wall Drug Western Wear is a specialty retail shop known for its impressive selection of cowboy boots, hats, and Western apparel. Visitors can browse quality gear for all ages and receive personalized fittings and advice from knowledgeable staff. The store captures the spirit of the Old West and is a favorite stop for tourists seeking a Western makeover.
8. 80-Foot Wall Dinosaur
ICONIC ROADSIDE LANDMARK
The 80-foot Wall Dinosaur is an eye-catching green sculpture visible from I-90, welcoming travelers to Wall. It provides a fun and quirky photo opportunity for families and is a memorable symbol of the town's playful roadside culture. Its presence has become an essential stop for anyone passing through the area.
9. Jackalope Ride at Wall Drug Backyard
WHIMSICAL PHOTO ATTRACTION
The Jackalope Ride in the Wall Drug Backyard offers visitors a chance to climb onto a giant statue of the legendary jackalope for a one-of-a-kind photo. Situated among other amusements and play areas, the Jackalope has become a must-see quirky highlight for kids and adults alike. It exemplifies the light-hearted fun that Wall Drug is known for.
10. Badlands National Park – Pinnacles Entrance
SCENIC GATEWAY TO THE BADLANDS
The Pinnacles Entrance to Badlands National Park is located just minutes from Wall, serving as the main gateway for exploration of the park's dramatic landscapes. Visitors can embark on hiking trails, enjoy panoramic views, and spot local wildlife such as bison and bighorn sheep. The entrance is renowned for its easily accessible photographic overlooks and visitor resources.
11. Roberts Prairie Dog Town
WILDLIFE VIEWING AREA
Roberts Prairie Dog Town is a popular site inside Badlands National Park where visitors can observe lively prairie dog colonies in their natural habitat. Interpretive signs explain the importance of prairie dogs to the local ecosystem. The area is easily accessible from Wall and provides a unique wildlife experience for all ages.
12. Wall Swimming Pool & Park
FAMILY RECREATION SPOT
The Wall Swimming Pool and Park offers a refreshing break from sightseeing with its public pool, shaded picnic areas, and playgrounds. It's a favorite summer destination for both locals and visitors looking to cool off or enjoy outdoor leisure. The well-maintained facilities provide a safe and relaxing environment for families.
13. Prairie Homestead Historic Site
PIONEER SOD HOUSE MUSEUM
The Prairie Homestead Historic Site preserves an original sod house and farmstead, offering a glimpse into the lives of early settlers on the Great Plains. Visitors can tour the restored buildings, see period artifacts, and interact with farm animals. The site is located a short drive from Wall and provides an educational experience about frontier life.
14. Wounded Knee Museum
NATIVE HISTORY EXHIBIT
The Wounded Knee Museum is dedicated to preserving the memory of the Wounded Knee Massacre and educating visitors about Native American history in the region. Through moving exhibits and personal stories, the museum highlights the impact of the event and its significance in American history. It provides context to the broader Native experience in South Dakota.
15. Badlands Loop Road
SCENIC DRIVE EXPERIENCE
Badlands Loop Road is a picturesque byway winding through the heart of Badlands National Park, easily accessed from Wall. The drive features numerous overlooks, hiking trailheads, and opportunities to spot native wildlife. It's a favorite route for both casual visitors and photographers seeking stunning landscape views.