If you're taking a family vacation to South Dakota, you'll find an abundance of attractions that will please the whole family.  The Rushmore State has plenty of exciting, affordable family attractions that will allow your family to spend quality time together while enjoying the abundance that South Dakota has to offer.

1880 Train Tours - Black Hills

Perhaps the most authentic way to experience the majestic beauty of western South Dakota’s Black Hills, the 1880 Train is a fully functioning, antique steam locomotive. Children and adults will enjoy the train’s steam-puffing engines and long, low whistle.

Reptile Gardens - Rapid City

Located in Rapid City, Reptile Gardens offers fun and excitement for the whole family. They maintain the finest collection of tropical plans and reptiles in the world, and have more species and subspecies of venomous reptiles than any other zoo or park anywhere!!

Laura Ingalls Wilder - De Smet

Remember reading the "Little House on the Prairie" books growing up? Well now you can actually view the real thing. Check out the Ingalls Homestead where Pa Ingalls first set his claim in 1880. There are many available attractions to see including the Ingalls Homestead, Surveyor's House, the Loftus Store and many more attractions.

Evans Plunge - Hot Springs

Evans Plunge is the world's largest natural warm spring swimming pool, and as such provides wonderful opportunities for families visiting South Dakota to get together for a day of leisure in some of the most relaxing waters known to man. Located in the southern area of the Black Hills, enjoy the bubbling waters of the plunge as you rejuvenate the senses; the kids will surely get a kick out of the water's offerings.

South Dakota Zoos

Whether you visit the eastern or western part of the South Dakota, there are great zoos in the area that are an excellent place to stop and stretch your legs on your journey.

Falls Park - Sioux Falls

This stunning park in the city of Sioux Falls is actually where the city itself derives its name. Whether you're a huge fan of nature or prefer the cemented ways of the city life, you're bound to appreciate Falls Park, which is named for the plummeting waterfalls which beautifully grace its grounds. This is a great place to stop and enjoy a little time outdoors with the family.

WaTiki Water Park - Rapid City

WaTiki Water Park is the largest indoor water park in South Dakota, and is sure to make a splash with your whole family! With 30,000 sq. ft. of waterpark, arcade and concessions, this family attraction offers all kinds of fun in one great location. You will find numerous food items from hot pizza to cold drinks in the concession area filled with an arcade of fun and games. There is also ample seating and tables around the waterpark for a friendly game of cards or sit with a group for conversation.

For those wanting to just relax, take a dip in the giant hot tub or climb aboard a tube in the lazy river. For the more adventuresome, the tube slides are sure to be a highlight before taking on some water basketball or chasing little ones around the large water playland.