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01 Feb 2025Updated last time
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Wisconsin To South Dakota Road Trip Trip Itinerary

Trip Itinerary: Wisconsin to South Dakota Journey

The road trip from Wisconsin to South Dakota covers a diverse range of landscapes and attractions, guaranteeing a memorable experience. Begin in Madison, WI, where you can enjoy the sophistication of this bustling capital city, from its political edifices to the scenic lakeshores. Continuing to the Wisconsin Dells offers an exciting change of pace, with its array of waterparks to bring joy to families and adventurers alike. Next, La Crosse, WI, allows for a peaceful retreat in the beauty of riverfront vistas and recreational activities.

As you venture into Minnesota, Rochester presents a chance to explore the world of medical innovations at the Mayo Clinic, complemented by a thriving arts and cultural scene. Crossing into South Dakota, Sioux Falls showcases the city’s namesake waterfalls and urban charm. A stop in Mitchell to visit the unique corn-themed Corn Palace provides a quirky yet fascinating glimpse into agricultural artistry.

Reaching Badlands National Park, you'll find yourself immersed in an otherworldly terrain, rife with geological marvels and paleontological wonders. The grand finale of the journey, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, offers a reflective moment in front of the monumental carvings of four influential U.S. presidents, etched into the mountain’s granite face, encapsulating the spirit of the nation and the grandeur of the American landscape.


Recommended Activities

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    Madison, WI

    As the capital of Wisconsin, Madison offers rich history, vibrant cultural experiences, stunning architecture like the State Capitol building, and access to beautiful lakes and outdoor activities.
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    Wisconsin Dells, WI

    Known as the 'Waterpark Capital of the World', Wisconsin Dells is a fun-packed destination for families and travelers looking for excitement. It offers a variety of waterparks, amusement parks, and natural scenic beauty.
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    La Crosse, WI

    Situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, La Crosse is known for its riverfront scenery, charming historic downtown, as well as opportunities for outdoor recreation including hiking, biking, and boating.
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    Rochester, MN

    Rochester is home to the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, offering visitors a chance to explore its medical history and advancements. The city also provides a variety of cultural attractions, beautiful parks, and a vibrant arts scene.
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    Sioux Falls, SD

    Sioux Falls is known for its stunning Falls Park, where the Big Sioux River cascades over beautiful rock formations. The city also boasts a lively downtown with shops, restaurants, and a vibrant arts and music scene.
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    Mitchell, SD

    Mitchell is famous for the Corn Palace, an iconic building decorated with murals made from corn and other grains. It's a unique architectural marvel and a tribute to the area's agricultural heritage.
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    Badlands National Park, SD

    Visit for the dramatic landscapes with layered rock formations, steep canyons, and towering spires. This park is also rich in fossils and has an abundance of wildlife, including bison and bighorn sheep.
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    Mount Rushmore National Memorial, SD

    Mount Rushmore is an iconic symbol of the United States, featuring the 60-foot high faces of four U.S. presidents carved into granite. It's a masterpiece of art and engineering and a site of national pride.
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Restaurants

  • Safe House

    A spy-themed restaurant in Milwaukee, WI, where guests need a password to enter, offering a fun and unique dining experience.
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    Ishnala Supper Club

    Ishnala Supper Club

    Nestled in the woods by Mirror Lake, this restaurant near Wisconsin Dells provides an exceptional view and ambiance with classic supper club fare.
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    The Monarch Public House

    The Monarch Public House

    Ireland's oldest serving tavern in Fountain City, WI, offers a historic setting with traditional Irish-American cuisine.
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  • Al's Oasis

    Located in Oacoma, SD, Al's Oasis offers a nostalgic dining experience with a historic backdrop, traditional Midwestern dishes, and their famous five cent coffee.
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    Carnaval Brazilian Grill

    Carnaval Brazilian Grill

    Bringing a taste of Brazil to Sioux Falls, SD, Carnaval offers an interactive dining experience where meats are carved tableside.
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    The Corn Exchange

    4.5
    $$$$

    The Corn Exchange

    An innovative restaurant in Rapid City, SD, that uses local ingredients to create inspired dishes reflecting regional flavors.
    4.5
    $$$$
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    Murdo Drive-In

    Murdo Drive-In

    A classic drive-in located in Murdo, SD, famous for its nostalgic charm and traditional American drive-in food.
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    Black Hills Burger and Bun Co.

    Black Hills Burger and Bun Co.

    In Custer, SD, this spot is known for its gourmet burgers, made-from-scratch ingredients, and cozy atmosphere.
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Hotels

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    The Don Q Inn

    The Don Q Inn

    Located in Dodgeville, WI, this unique hotel features themed rooms including a cockpit of a 1956 Boeing C-97 aircraft.
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    Sundara Inn & Spa

    Sundara Inn & Spa

    An adults-only hotel in Wisconsin Dells, offering a serene retreat with a focus on wellness, including forest bathing and spa services.
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  • HotelRED

    This boutique hotel in Madison, WI, is stylishly appointed with a distinctively modern and artistic edge, adjacent to the iconic Camp Randall Stadium.
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    Hotel Alex Johnson

    Hotel Alex Johnson

    Rapid City, SD's historic hotel, mixes Native American culture with Germanic Tudor architecture to create an unforgettable ambiance.
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    Sylvan Lake Lodge

    Sylvan Lake Lodge

    Built in the 1930s, this Custer, SD lodge in Custer State Park designed by Frank Lloyd Wright offers stunning views over Sylvan Lake.
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    Arrowwood Cedar Shore Resort

    Arrowwood Cedar Shore Resort

    A relaxing oasis in Oacoma, SD, with beautiful views of the Missouri River, ideal for a tranquil retreat.
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Local Events & Happenings

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    Austin Snell

    Austin Snell

    The event will take place at Captain's Getaway in Arnolds Park.
    Map IconCaptain's Getaway in Arnolds Park (34.16 mi)
    Calendar Icon19 Jul 2024
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    Wyatt Flores

    Wyatt Flores

    The event will take place at Captain's Getaway in Arnolds Park.
    Map IconCaptain's Getaway in Arnolds Park (34.16 mi)
    Calendar Icon9 Aug 2024
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    Vickis Camp n Country Jam Friday

    Vickis Camp n Country Jam Friday

    The event will take place at Vickis Camp N Country Jam in Redwood Falls.
    Map IconVickis Camp N Country Jam in Redwood Falls (50.39 mi)
    Calendar Icon28 Jun 2024
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    Brett Young

    Brett Young

    MUST BE 18+ YRS TO ATTEND, NO REFUNDS OR EXCHANGES, TICKET REQUIRED TO ATTEND, WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE EXCEPT FOR GRANDSTAND, DACOTAH EXPOSITION CENTER, SHOW 8PM, DOOR 6:30PM, INTERNET SALES THRU TICKETMASTER ONLY
    Map IconJackpot Junction Casino Hotel in Morton (54.16 mi)
    Calendar Icon12 Jul 2024
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    Nitty Gritty Dirt Band

    Nitty Gritty Dirt Band

    The event will take place at the ALLIANCE in Sioux Falls.
    Map Iconthe ALLIANCE in Sioux Falls (66.82 mi)
    Calendar Icon28 Jun 2024
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    Barenaked Ladies w/ Toad the Wet Sprocket

    Barenaked Ladies w/ Toad the Wet Sprocket

    The event will take place at Washington Pavilion of Arts & Science in Sioux Falls.
    Map IconWashington Pavilion of Arts & Science in Sioux Falls (66.82 mi)
    Calendar Icon4 Nov 2024
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    HYPE

    HYPE

    HYPE
    Map IconWindy City Bites in Sioux Falls (67.21 mi)
    Calendar Icon10 Aug 2024
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Travel Gems from Reddit


Music for Your Journey