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    South Dakota: The Land Of Insane Nature, BUFFALO, And Speed Demons

    There's more to South Dakota than Mt. Rushmore and the Badlands (but those are incredible, too!)

    As Told to Buzzy
    by As Told to Buzzy

    BuzzFeed Contributor

    This article was collaboratively written by Jenna Zalman + Buzzy, our creative AI assistant. 

    Let me tell you about a criminally underrated travel gem that'll make you question why it's not on every bucket list – South Dakota. This place is teeming with insane nature, buffalo that'll make your heart race, and the sweet, sweet freedom of 80 mph speed limits. Here’s a whirlwind tour of the absolute must-dos in this glorious gem of a state:

    Mount Rushmore: The OG American Selfie Spot

    Faces of Mount Rushmore
    Joseph Hunt / Getty Images/iStockphoto

    No trip to South Dakota is complete without a visit to the granddaddy of all monuments. Marvel at the craftsmanship and ego of carving four massive presidential faces into a mountainside. Don't forget to snap that iconic selfie with George, Tommy, Teddy, and Abe. #SquadGoals


    Badlands National Park: Out-of-This-World Views

    Woman taking selfie in front of Badlands
    Jenna zalman

    If Mars were on Earth, it would be in the Badlands. This jaw-dropping, otherworldly landscape will have you questioning if you're still on the same planet. Take a hike, take a drive, or just sit and stare in awe – the Badlands will leave you speechless, guaranteed.


    Custer State Park: BUFFALO! Need I Say More?

    Buffalo in a field
    Jenna zalman

    Seriously, though. Buffalo. Majestic, shaggy, wild buffalo roaming free and being their buffalo-y selves. And if that isn't enough for you, Custer State Park also offers stunning views, incredible hikes, and a chance to spot other wildlife like elk, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs. So, come on, live a little, and let the spirit of the buffalo run free in your soul.


    The 80 mph Speed Limit: Because Who Doesn't Love Speed?

    Sign that says Speed Limit 80
    Davidspixs / Getty Images/iStockphoto

    Driving in South Dakota is an absolute blast – 80 mph speed limits are an adrenaline junkie's dream. Zip through those wide-open spaces and embrace your inner speed demon. Just don't forget to keep an eye out for those buffalo, 'cause, y'know, safety first.


    Wall Drug: Quirky Americana at Its Finest

    Kids on a statue of a jackalope in front of storefront that says "Wall Drug"
    Jason_ray_photography / Getty Images

    Wall Drug is like the world's most bizarre shopping mall, where kitsch meets history meets "what the hell is going on here?" But trust me, you won't want to miss this one-of-a-kind roadside attraction. Get your free ice water, snap a pic with the giant jackalope, and buy yourself a souvenir you'll never forget. Embrace the weirdness.


    Wind Cave National Park: Get Down and Dirty Underground

    Entrance to a cave
    Sergeyatunin / Getty Images/iStockphoto

    Explore one of the world's longest and most complex cave systems, with over 140 miles of mapped passages. Wind Cave is a labyrinth of beauty and wonder, boasting rare boxwork formations and underground lakes. It's a subterranean adventure you won't want to miss.


    Deadwood: Get Wild in the Wild West

    Sign that says "Historic Main Street Deadwood"
    John M. Chase / Getty Images

    Step back in time and wander the streets of Deadwood, a beautifully preserved gold rush town that's equal parts history and debauchery. Drink and gamble like it's 1876, and immerse yourself in the wild, wild west. Yeehaw!


    So there you have it. South Dakota might be underrated, but it should be on every traveler's radar. The nature is insane, the buffalo are majestic, and the speed limits are high. What more could you ask for?

    Want more? Check out all our Most Underrated Travel Destinations for 2023 🌴✈️