5 Photogenic Sights of South Dakota

When I was 9 or 10 we took our first family road trip “out west”. We found a small, rustic campground near the badlands and spent the long weekend exploring. I remember being awe-struck (and bewildered) by these fantastic mountains that came out of nowhere- one minute you’re driving along flat grasslands, the next there are gently rolling, colorful mountains surrounding you! How is that possible? Truly a magical experience for a young girl.

I have been returned numerous times since, and the charm of South Dakota continues to captivate me. From fields of blooming sunflowers, to kitschy road trip rest stops, to some of the most well known sculptures in the world, there is an alluring draw to every part of South Dakota, especially from a photographer’s perspective.

1. Mount Rushmore

Mt. Rushmore at sunrise is breathtakingly beautiful. Facing east the presidents’ faces perfectly capture and reflect the ‘golden hour’ light. Plan at least 20 minutes for parking and getting set up before hand. (Don’t forget your tripod). Plus, if you get there early enough you won’t have to pay for parking.

Once the sun is up, explore the area by taking the trail around to capture photos from new perspectives.

2. Crazy Horse Memorial

The Crazy Horse Memorial is another grand sculpture which is slowly emerging from the mountainside near Rapid City, South Dakota. At the base the museum offers a history on Crazy Horse and information about the sculpture. If available, take the tour up to the top to get up close and personal with the sculpture. It’s not too often that you get to get that close to a sculpture of this scale.

3. Wall Drug and the Corn Palace

Although kitschy and incredibly touristy, both Wall Drug and the Corn Palace are marvels in their own right.

Wall Drug started out a small pharmacy offering up a free glass of ice water and today is one of the largest tourist attractions- with plenty to see, do and photograph! Walls of knick knacks, singing cowboy puppets, statues with which to pose, even a traveler’s chapel, there is something to captivate everyone!

The “World’s Only Corn Palace” is redecorated every year, so you can’t just visit once. The best time to visit is for the Corn Festival itself, for the commotion, colors and people watching. What’s not to love

4. Badlands National Park

There is no way to get the full Badlands experience by taking a “quick” drive through the loop. You will want to spend as much time exploring the Badlands as possible. Sunset and sunrise hours are the best for colors and shadows, although no matter where you go, you’re guaranteed you will find beauty at any time of day (or night). Pick a trail or two and explore the park to find the photographic treasures that abound.

5. Pierre and the State Capitol of South Dakota

Completed in 1910 the South Dakota’s state capitol building is a sight to behold. Stop to smell the roses as you approach the capitol building, which is open to the public until 7 PM. Self-guided tours are recommended as you explore the beauty this copper-domed Renaissance Revival has to offer.