The Coolest College Towns in South Dakota
Nestled along the banks of the Big Sioux River, Vermillion offers a charming college town experience centered around the University of South Dakota. Just over an hour south of Sioux Falls, Vermillion invites visitors to stroll through its historic downtown, where art galleries and cozy cafes spill onto brick-lined streets. The university campus itself is a highlight, with the Al Neuharth Media Center showcasing the legacy of the renowned journalist and native South Dakotan. During the fall, the vibrant foliage on the campus grounds provides a stunning backdrop for football games and outdoor events, making it a lively place to mix with students and locals alike.
In the northern part of the state, Brookings buzzes with youthful energy thanks to South Dakota State University, located about 55 miles northeast of Sioux Falls. Here, visitors can explore the South Dakota Art Museum, which sits on campus and features a collection emphasizing regional artists and Native American works. The university’s renowned botanical gardens offer a peaceful retreat with seasonal blooms and carefully curated plant species, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. The town’s farmer’s market, held weekly in the warmer months, brings fresh local produce and handmade crafts to Main Avenue, enhancing the community feel that makes Brookings so inviting.
Spearfish, about 75 minutes west of Rapid City, combines collegiate spirit with stunning natural surroundings thanks to Black Hills State University. The school’s campus overlooks the picturesque Spearfish Canyon, where outdoor enthusiasts can venture onto the hiking trail to Roughlock Falls. This moderately easy trail winds through pine forests and features cascading waterfalls that are especially spectacular during spring runoff or after a summer rain. Spearfish also hosts vibrant local music scenes and a handful of gastropubs that mix hearty Midwestern fare with innovative twists, reflecting the town’s blend of rugged outdoor culture and youthful creativity.
About 45 minutes northeast of Rapid City, the town of Sturgis offers a unique take on college town life anchored by the presence of the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame. While not a traditional university town, Sturgis is home to students attending various nearby institutions, and the museum provides a fascinating dive into motorcycle culture with exhibits that trace the history and technological innovations of this iconic American pastime. Visiting during the spring or early summer allows you to enjoy the quieter side of this town, well before the famed Sturgis Motorcycle Rally roars to life in August.
In the heart of the Black Hills, Deadwood offers a historic ambiance alongside its small college presence, with courses available through local community colleges. The town is roughly 45 minutes southwest of Rapid City and is best known for its Wild West past, which is vividly preserved in the Adams Museum. Walk the wooden sidewalks and absorb the stories of legendary figures like Wild Bill Hickok amid exhibits filled with artifacts and period costumes. Deadwood’s unique blend of education, history, and entertainment makes it a fascinating stop for visitors interested in both learning and lively nightlife.
Dickinson State University lies just across the border in North Dakota, but it is close enough to the eastern edge of South Dakota that the influence spills over into the small town of Sioux Falls itself, the largest city in the state. Sioux Falls is home to Augustana University, which boasts a beautiful campus and the Augustana Performing Arts Center. The city’s Falls Park, with its cascading waterfalls on the Big Sioux River, is a natural centerpiece and gathering place, especially striking at dawn or dusk. Sioux Falls offers a metropolitan mix of cultural amenities and outdoor spaces, providing a dynamic backdrop to any college experience.
Finally, Huron, roughly 80 miles west of Sioux Falls, hosts a branch of the South Dakota State University system and offers a more intimate college town feel. The Carnegie Resource Center highlights the town’s history, nestled inside a stunning historic library building. Huron’s proximity to the James River adds opportunities for kayaking and birdwatching, particularly rewarding in spring when migratory birds fill the skies. The town’s gentle pace and friendly community make it a welcoming spot for visitors seeking a genuine small-town atmosphere enriched by educational pursuits.
Together, these towns showcase the diversity of South Dakota’s collegiate life, each offering a distinctive blend of culture, nature, and education. Whether it’s the riverside charm of Vermillion, the artful energy of Brookings, or the rugged beauty surrounding Spearfish and Deadwood, these communities invite travelers to experience the rich tapestry of student life and local heritage in the Mount Rushmore State.