The Dakotas
United States
United States
The Dakotas offer a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventures, from the Badlands and Black Hills to the historical sites of Native American culture and pioneers. It's a destination for those seeking wide-open spaces and a connection to the American frontier.
Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. LGBTQ+ rights vary by state, but federal protections are in place for marriage equality and some anti-discrimination laws. Public opinion is increasingly supportive.
Representing North and South Dakota, with a generalized continental climate.
Climate Zone: Continental Cool
A thick, creamy soup featuring small, German-Russian potato dumplings (knoephla) and often includes chunks of potatoes, carrots, and celery. It's a co
A lean and flavorful alternative to a traditional beef burger, bison is a staple meat in the Dakotas due to the region's ranching heritage. Often serv
This signature South Dakota dish consists of small cubes of skewered and deep-fried or grilled red meat, typically beef, lamb, or venison. It is usual
A Nordic dish made from dried whitefish (usually cod or ling) that has been treated with lye, giving it a gelatinous texture. It is traditionally cons
A staple of Native American cuisine, this flat dough is fried until puffy and golden brown. It can be topped with powdered sugar and honey for a sweet
Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:
The Black Hills (near Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park) is the most popular tourist region. Accommodation fills up completely, especially for peak summer dates and major events.
A rental car is essential for exploring the vast distances and scattered attractions, particularly in the summer when demand for vehicles, especially larger ones, spikes.
Campsites, particularly those with utility hookups or in desirable locations, are extremely limited and book up on the first day reservations become available for the summer season.
The annual Sturgis Rally causes a massive influx of visitors, drastically increasing prices and making any lodging within a 100-mile radius scarce or unaffordable unless booked far ahead.
Lodging immediately adjacent to smaller national parks like Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Dakota) is limited and books up quickly during the summer touring season.
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