Check back soon for additional updates on Rosie's travels around
South Dakota. Please forward comments, questions, or share with Rosie, your favorite South Dakota travels... Rosie Smith.
Rosie's Blog is written by Rosie Smith, Executive Director for
Glacial Lakes & Prairies Tourism.
April 13, 2007
After our recent mid-week snow storm, the sunshine and 50 degree weather in the forecast tells me, it may at last, be Spring. I've lived in the Dakotas my whole life, (I grew up on the state line of ND/SD) and have been in Watertown the past 6 1/ 2 years. Of the four seasons, spring and fall would be my favorites. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy both summer and winter, yes I said winter; However in the spring we get the beautiful 60 to 70 degree days, lots of sunshine, and everything in nature comes back to life....the trees, grass, flowers, birds, etc...
Spring also means time to clean and open up the family lake cabin. My family has had a lake cabin on Clear Lake, South Dakota for over 50 years. I used to beg my grandparents to take me there for the afternoon as a kid. Now as an adult, it's a peaceful and relaxing retreat. A chance to hang out around a campfire with family and friends. Cast a fishing line for awhile, grill out, catch up with the neighbors...all time well spent.
If you're looking for a place to get-away on vacation this summer, Northeast South Dakota has beautiful state parks and campgrounds, family friendly events, and affordable attractions. Below is a few of my favorite stops in the Glacial Lakes area(besides spending time at the lake), and my favorite locales state-wide. Enjoy and let me know what you think.
A few of my local favorites, in the Glacial Lakes & Prairies Region
Redlin Art Center in Watertown, South Dakota
Over 150 original Terry Redlin oil paintings on display, a beautiful facility, free to get into, and open year-round. Enjoy a stroll in the park this summer, you might just see some baby ducks out for swim. (Please note our regional office is located in this building, so yes I am a lucky gal)
Laura Ingalls Wilder and Ingalls Homestead in De Smet, South Dakota
My nieces each loved going here, and Marisa recently turned 8, so now it's her turn to go with me this summer. You can tour the actual house that Pa built in town, along with the Surveyor's House where they first lived. Be sure to check out Ingalls Homestead, which has plenty of wide open prairie for kids to explore. My nieces each enjoyed the horse-drawn wagon ride, going through what prairie school was like, and learning how they made rope in the old fashioned days.
Storybook Land in Wylie Park in Aberdeen, South Dakota
Also a family favorite, this magical theme park features 65 scenes from the Wizard of Oz, including the famous yellow brick road. Hours of fun including bumper boats, train rides, a carousel, zoo, and miniature golf. Your kids will love and remember a good time forever.
A few of my favorite locales throughout South Dakota
Deadwood, South Dakota
I have visited Deadwood for work and for fun. It's a great place to throw yourself a birthday party(I took friends of mine there almost two years ago), maybe win a little money playing three-card poker, or have fun losing a little, and lots of history and entertainment. My recommended stops include the Deadwood Times for lunch...unique menu, wonderful food, and warm hospitality. Take yourself home a souvenir of an old-fashioned western photograph or stroll the main street shops. My favorite hangout is Saloon #10. So many fun stories I could share.....There are many other great places to stay, eat, and have a good time at, so enjoy!
Hot Springs, South Dakota
I traveled to Hot Springs a couple of summers ago. Hot Springs is unique...Well-known for it's warm mineral waters that still flow through Hot Springs today, it's also home to the Mammoth Site and Wild Horse Sanctuary, both great family attractions. There's Evan's Plunge, the world's largest warm water indoor pool. I also recommend the Springs Bath House. Definitely treat yourself to a massage, facial, and relax in the outdoor, warm, mineral water pool.
If you've never been to South Dakota, get ready to experience a great family vacation. I've told my friends across the country, and yes some think I'm a little crazy, I enjoy traveling for work and fun throughout South Dakota, but I love living here even more.
Peace and Safe Travels,
-Rosie:)
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