South Dakota Staycation: 7 Fun Things to Do While Staying Close to Home

Although the weather may get chilly, South Dakota has plenty to offer families looking for a perfect staycation destination. From historical monuments and parks to fun educational experiences for young children, the Mount Rushmore State has something for everyone.

Here are seven great places to visit in South Dakota:

1. Mount Rushmore National Memorial: Located near Keystone, sculptor Gutzon Borglum created this famous mountainside carving depicting the faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt.

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2. GeoFun Trek: For those seeking day-long activity, a guided tour of the Black Hills and Badlands of South Dakota is a great start. These fun, specialty tours encompass a mixture of geology, paleontology, history, poetry and folklore to make your family staycation unforgettable.

3. Sertoma Butterfly House & Marine Cove: Located in Sioux Falls, visitors can enjoy over 800 free-flying butterflies from around the world. View hundreds of vibrant marine fishes and corals in over 10,000 gallons of aquariums, including the Pop-Up Dome Aquarium, Shark & Stingray Touch Pool, and Pacific Tide Pool.

4. Falls Park: Located in Sioux Falls, tourists can see the city's "namesake, as well as some of the first buildings built in Sioux Falls." Visitors can enjoy a scenic view and walking trials around numerous waterfalls and rocks.

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5. Storybook Island: Located in Rapid City, this fun-filled destination is great for children. Story of the island is free and in a safe educational environment for those young in years or young at heart. Great for experiencing the power of imagination.

6. Bear Country USA: Located in Rapid City, families can learn about American wildlife without leaving the safety of their car. Enjoy a leisurely 3 mile drive through this unique North American Wildlife park nestled on 250 acres of Black Hills Beauty.

7. Broken Boot Gold Mine: Located in Deadwood,  visitors can follow the path of ore cars deep underground into the century-old shaft of the Broken Boot. There's a lot to see and do at this historic mining area, including panning for gold.

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