2. Tour the home of the biggest bombers at Ellsworth AFB
North of Rapid City, you can visit Ellsworth Air Force Base, home to the country’s biggest bombers. The base tour includes a stop at an official underground Minuteman missile silo. Bus tour cost: Youth (4 & under) Free; Youth (5-10) $5; Youth (11-17) $7; Adult $10.
KidTripster Tip: Because of security restrictions, the base tour is only available to U.S. citizens and resident aliens. You must show a Real ID Act-compliant, state-issued driver’s license, military ID or passport.
Just outside the base, you can visit the South Dakota Air and Space Museum (2890 Rushmore Road). Here you’ll see Cold War artifacts, aircraft, missiles, and more. Cost: Free.
3. Learn about South Dakota’s Cold War past
Just beyond the Badlands off Highway 90, you’ll find the Minuteman Missile Visitor Center where you can learn about South Dakota’s fascinating role in the Cold War. For example, did you know that there were 150 nuclear missiles in South Dakota that – if deployed – could have reached halfway around the world in 30 minutes? I’d recommend watching the movie and picking up your kids’ Junior Ranger book here first.
Then double back and visit the Delta-09 Missile Silo on your way to the Pinnacles Entrance Station at Badlands National Park. While at the visitor center, ask for directions on how to download the self-guided silo tour on your cell phone.
4. Ride a jackalope at Wall Drug
Is this a tourist trap? Absolutely, but when an owner goes to the trouble of posting 290 signs up and down the highway inviting you to visit, how can you not go? Did we mention the 5¢ coffee (if you drink it on site) and fresh donuts, of which it serves 2,500 on the busiest days? Or the photo op on the back of a jackalope (an oversized rabbit with antlers)? How can you resist?
To orientate yourself, Wall is the name of the town about 8 miles from the Pinnacles Entrance Station of Badlands National Park. Wall Drug is the name of the collection of gift shops, restaurants and soda fountain, chapel, picnic area, and photo op statues that encompass an entire block. Started in 1931 by Ted and Dorothy Hosted, it made its mark with the promise of “free ice water” to thirsty Badlands visitors. Fast-forward several decades, and you’ll find the same family running one of America’s favorite roadside attractions.
