Location: Pierre
Top Things to do in Pierre
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Top 7 Free Things to do in Pierre, South Dakota (SD)
If historical pursuits like following in the footsteps of famous explorers Lewis and Clark, unraveling the engineering intricacies of a famous dam or meandering around a museum that uncovers the culture of Native Americans, are your bag, Pierre is only a getaway away. The laid-back capital city of South Dakota boasts a number of interesting attractions and outdoor pursuits. Visit the illustrious State Capitol or peruse relics at the Cultural Heritage Center. Pack a picnic and spend the day walking or bicycling around Steamboat Park. Take the kids to the aquarium, for ice cream at an old-fashioned parlor and finish the day with a leisurely cruise on the Missouri River.
Restaurants in Pierre
1. Oahe Dam
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 79 reviews
Dam and power plant.
Reviewed By kimberlyj419 - Vero Beach, United States
Beautiful outdoor area. Cannot tour the actual dam anymore, but the area around the dam is very pretty. Great for a picnic.
2. State Capitol
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 226 reviews
This stunning Greek Revival building completed in 1910 was at first modernized and later, in 1989, restored to its original magnificence, making it the most fully restored capitol building in the U.S. Self-guided and free guided tours are available.
Reviewed By mimudbrazil - Sugar Land, United States
Went on a Sunday to see the capitol after reading reviews about it. The price of admission is Free, but it was worth the time spent there. The gentleman who checked us in was very informative and extremely pleasant to us. We only saw one other visitor while there, so the visit was pleasant. Very pretty building, with a lot of interesting history, so for those who like facts, it was well worth the visit. If you are in Pierre and have the time, I highly recommend visiting Governor Noem's "office".
3. South Dakota National Guard Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 11 reviews
In 1862, twenty-seven years before statehood, Governor Janyne petitioned the War Department for authority to raise two companies of soldiers. These soldiers would act as a territorial defense while the Active Army was fighting in the Civil War. The first company to muster in was Company A, First Dakota Cavalry in Yankton and the second was Company B, First Dakota Cavalry in Sioux City. The First Dakota Cavalry are the ancestors of the South Dakota National Guard. Here at the South Dakota National Guard Museum we honor our Guard members both past and present. Stop by today and learn of the history and hero's of our South Dakota Guard.
4. La Framboise Island
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 23 reviews
A causeway connects downtown Pierre with this scenic island where only foot-traffic is allowed.
Reviewed By GoRideABike - Anaheim, United States
Biked over the causeway and rode the main trail down to the tip of the island and back again. It was easy to follow, nearly completely flat, and well maintained. My hybrid bicycle handled the terrain well. Once I completed the main trail I rode the various single track trails. Had to dismount and walk through the sandy areas near the shore's edge but still great fun! I highly recommend these trails to hike or bike. Quiet secluded beaches, great views of rolling hills in the distance and a nice mix of woods and prairie fields across the interior of the island. I'd frequent this park if I were a local.
5. Trail of Governors
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 15 reviews
Reviewed By leroyf733 - Fort Pierre, United States
4 new governor statues have been added to the Trail. Governor Tom Berry holding an axe to cut the state budget, Joe Foss searching the sky for planes, Sigurd Anderson waving to the crowd, and Leslie Jensen protecting the Soldiers & Sailors World War Memorial.
