South Dakota in Movies and TV: Famous Filming Locations You Can Visit
Nestled in the western part of South Dakota, the Badlands National Park is not only a natural wonder but also a cinematic icon. About an hour’s drive east of Rapid City, this rugged landscape of sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires provided the backdrop for scenes in films like “Dances with Wolves.” Visitors can hike the Notch Trail, a moderately challenging 1.5-mile out-and-back trek, which offers dramatic views of the White River Valley and the jagged terrain famously captured on screen. The park’s unique geology and sweeping vistas set it apart from other natural areas in the state, making it a must-visit for movie buffs and nature lovers alike. Late spring and early fall bring milder temperatures and vibrant wildflower blooms, enhancing the cinematic vistas and wildlife watching.
Just south of Rapid City, the town of Deadwood invites visitors into a real-life Western movie set. Known for its rich Gold Rush history, this historic district’s authentic 19th-century architecture served as a location for the TV series “Deadwood.” Walking through the main street’s preserved saloons and storefronts, visitors can soak up the gritty atmosphere that made the show so compelling. The Adams Museum offers exhibits that reveal the town’s colorful past, from famous outlaws to the gold mining boom. Deadwood’s blend of history and entertainment, especially during their summer festivals and reenactments, brings the Old West to life like few other places in the state.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial, about 25 minutes southwest of Rapid City, stands as one of South Dakota’s most iconic landmarks and has appeared in countless films and television shows as a symbol of American history and patriotism. The granite faces of four U.S. presidents carved into the Black Hills draw visitors year-round. The Presidential Trail, a gentle 0.6-mile loop, offers close-up views of the monument along with interpretive signage that discusses both the sculpting process and historical significance. Visiting during the evening lighting ceremony adds a solemn, almost theatrical element to the experience, making it a unique way to connect with the monument’s enduring presence in popular culture.
In the southeastern part of South Dakota, Sioux Falls is home to the falls of the Big Sioux River, a setting featured in several regional films and documentaries. Falls Park, located just minutes from downtown, showcases the cascading waterfalls amid urban green space. Visitors can explore boardwalks winding over the falls, climb Observation Tower for panoramic views, or stroll the paved trails in the adjoining Sioux Falls Parks system. The park’s dramatic blend of natural beauty and urban accessibility creates a compelling backdrop that filmmakers have long appreciated. Spring runoff and autumn foliage particularly enhance the falls’ visual appeal, encouraging visitors to experience the spectacle in all seasons.
Just north of the Black Hills, the town of Sturgis is synonymous with motorcycle culture and has appeared in movies and documentaries chronicling the famous annual motorcycle rally. About 30 minutes northwest of Rapid City, Sturgis’ Main Street buzzes with biker bars, shops, and live music venues that capture the spirit of the open road. Outside of rally season, the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame offers a quieter chance to explore the history of motorcycling through vintage bikes and memorabilia. The town’s rugged charm and cultural significance to biker folklore give visitors a glimpse into a subculture often dramatized on screen. Late summer during the rally is when the energy peaks, but the museum’s exhibits are year-round attractions.
The small town of Custer, located in the heart of the Black Hills about 45 minutes southwest of Rapid City, served as a filming location for parts of the movie “Thunderheart.” Surrounded by lush forests and granite peaks, visitors can enjoy Custer State Park’s Wildlife Loop, a scenic 18-mile drive where bison, pronghorn, and elk roam freely. The rugged landscape and abundant wildlife offer a cinematic sense of the American frontier. Hiking the Cathedral Spires Trail, a moderate 2.3-mile route with striking rock formations, provides a hands-on way to immerse in the scenery that filmmakers have utilized to evoke the spirit of the West. Summer and early fall are ideal for wildlife sightings and comfortable hiking conditions.
In central South Dakota near the Missouri River, Fort Pierre offers a glimpse into frontier history and has featured in Westerns and historical reenactments. About 30 minutes west of Pierre, the South Dakota State Historical Society Museum tells the story of the frontier, Native American cultures, and early settlers through extensive exhibits. Nearby, Fort Pierre National Grassland offers wide-open prairies and rolling hills that have served as film locations emphasizing the vastness of the American landscape. Visitors can drive scenic routes or hike short trails to experience the sweeping views that have inspired storytellers. Spring and early summer bring vibrant wildflowers and active wildlife, adding vivid color to the cinematic plains.
Finally, the Corn Palace in Mitchell, located about two hours east of Sioux Falls, is a quirky cultural landmark featured in documentaries and travel shows. This unique building, adorned annually with murals made entirely from corn and other grains, offers a one-of-a-kind photo opportunity and a peek into agricultural artistry. Inside, visitors can tour exhibits highlighting the history of the region’s farming communities and attend events that celebrate local culture. The Corn Palace’s blend of folk art and Midwestern pride provides a colorful contrast to the state’s natural film sets. Late summer is the best time to see the completed murals in full splendor, making a visit both visually stunning and culturally enriching.