Things To Do
in Pierre
Pierre is the capital city of South Dakota, located in the central part of the state along the Missouri River. It is known for its charming small-town atmosphere and picturesque riverfront views. The city serves as the political hub of South Dakota, home to the state government and many historic landmarks.
Visitors can explore cultural attractions, outdoor recreational activities, and learn about the region's Native American heritage.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike at the Oahe Dam. Enjoy the serene views of the water and the surrounding landscape.
Visit the South Dakota State Capitol to appreciate its stunning architecture. Discover the history of South Dakota through informative exhibits.
Relax with dinner at a local restaurant offering regional dishes. Enjoy the evening by taking a stroll along the Missouri River.
Kick off the day with fishing at Lake Oahe, known for its great catch. Pack some snacks for a quick brunch while you fish.
Kayak or paddleboard on the lake for some fun on the water. Feel the sunshine and enjoy the beautiful scenery around you.
Head back for a barbecue dinner at one of the parks. Enjoy the sunset as you gather around with friends or family.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Small-town charm and friendly community.
- Access to beautiful outdoor activities, including fishing, hunting, and hiking.
- Low cost of living compared to larger urban areas.
- Rich in history and culture, with various local events and festivals.
- A strong sense of community involvement and local support.
- Limited job opportunities and economic diversity.
- Harsh winters with extreme cold and snow.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options compared to larger cities.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Potentially slower pace of life may not appeal to everyone.
Best Activities in Pierre
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a day of fishing on Lake Oahe, one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States, known for its abundant fish species.
Explore the scenic trails and natural beauty of the Cheyenne River area, perfect for hiking and observing wildlife.
Ride your bike on the beautiful Factory Lake Trail that offers stunning views and a well-maintained path for cyclists of all levels.
Rent a kayak and paddle along the Missouri River, enjoying the picturesque landscapes and tranquility of the water.
Spend a relaxing afternoon at Griffin Park with family and friends, featuring picnic areas, playgrounds, and scenic views.
Observe local wildlife in their natural habitat at the Lake Oahe Wildlife Management Area, a great spot for birdwatching and photography.
Enjoy a camping experience with facilities and access to recreational activities like fishing, hiking, and swimming.
Visit the Pierre Farmers Market for a fun outdoor shopping experience featuring local produce, crafts, and food vendors.
Tours
Uncover the best of Pierre with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Pierre
Visit one of these nice places.
The South Dakota State Capitol offers stunning architecture and panoramic views of Pierre's downtown area. The grounds are perfect for photography, especially at sunset.
This massive dam on the Missouri River provides scenic views of the water and surrounding landscape. The nearby park areas offer excellent spots for photos.
Accessible by bridge, LaFramboise Island has trails through nature and overlooks of the river, making it a peaceful setting for outdoor photography.
This park along the Missouri River provides beautiful views of the river and the city. The pathways and picnic areas offer great photo opportunities.
The historical site features beautiful river views and interpretative signs. It's a great location for combining history with picturesque photography.
Besides a great golfing experience, the elevated hills provide beautiful vistas of the Missouri River and surrounding area, ideal for capturing the landscape.
This natural area provides scenic hiking trails with great views of the surrounding hills and river. A perfect spot for nature photography.
Food in Pierre
Pierre Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential local dish, the bison burger showcases the region's Native American roots and the prevalence of sustainable bison ranching. Savor this lean and flavorful meat in a variety of local eateries, including Sica's Guest House and Tammy's Bakery & Café.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught from the nearby Missouri River, walleye pike is a beloved local delicacy. Its mild, flaky white flesh makes it a staple in many Pierre restaurants, such as RedRossa Italian Grille and Drifters Bar & Grille.
An iconic dish in South Dakota, chislic consists of seasoned and skewered cubes of red meat, typically served with a side of garlic toast. For an authentic chislic experience, head over to The Hitchrail Bar & Grill or the iconic Oahe Dam Bar.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Pierre better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the vibrant food truck scene in Pierre, offering an array of delicious street food options ranging from gourmet sandwiches to global flavors. Keep an eye out for local favorites like Wild Moon Sambusas and Texas Taco.
Discover the seasonal abundance of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delectable treats at the Capital City Farmers Market. This local market is the perfect place to sample local flavors and find unique ingredients for your culinary adventures.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Understanding and adhering to local customs, such as greetings and social etiquette, is crucial in Pierre. A friendly smile and a polite greeting go a long way in establishing rapport with residents.
In Pierre, there's a strong sense of community. Engaging in local events and showing support for community initiatives is appreciated and helps to foster good relationships with neighbors.
Being on time is considered respectful in both social and professional settings. Arriving promptly to meetings, gatherings, or appointments is important to maintain a positive image and show respect for others' time.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Pierre with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Pierre
Ensure a smooth experience
In Pierre, South Dakota, tipping practices typically follow the standard norms seen across the United States. In restaurants, it is customary to tip between 15% to 20% of the total bill for good service. For other services such as hairdressing, taxi rides, and hotel staff, tipping is also common, usually ranging from 10% to 20%. It's important to note that tips are expected as part of the service industry compensation.
Payment practices in Pierre align with national standards, where various forms of payment are accepted. Most establishments accept cash and credit/debit cards. Additionally, mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are becoming more popular. For goods and services, it is common for businesses to provide an itemized receipt, and customers can expect clear payment options at restaurants and retail outlets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Pierre.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Pierre, usually from March to May, brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers. It's a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and visiting parks. Expect occasional rain but generally pleasant weather.
Summer, from June to August, can be warm to hot, with temperatures often reaching the 80s and 90s°F. It's a popular time for festivals, water activities on the Missouri River, and other outdoor events. Expect larger crowds and vibrant local culture.
Fall, from September to November, showcases beautiful autumn foliage. Temperatures begin to cool down, making it comfortable for outdoor explorations. This season is ideal for enjoying local harvest festivals and scenic views.
Winter, from December to February, can be quite cold with temperatures often below freezing. Snow is common, making it suitable for winter sports like snowshoeing and ice fishing. Expect quieter attractions and serene landscapes.
Pierre at Night
Hiking in Pierre
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located just north of Pierre, Whitney Recreation Area offers a range of hiking trails with stunning views of Lake Oahe and varied terrain.
This expansive grassland features a variety of trails for hiking, with opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy panoramic views of the prairies.
A scenic urban trail that wraps around the state capitol in Pierre, perfect for a leisurely hike with easy access.
A short and accessible trail located within the city limits of Pierre, offering a nice place for casual hiking and enjoying local nature.
This trail runs along the shores of Lake Oahe, providing beautiful views of the water and surrounding landscapes, making it ideal for hiking and birdwatching.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Pierre through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Pierre by plane.
Located approximately 280 miles southwest of Pierre, this is the largest airport in the region and serves as a major hub for domestic and international flights.
About 300 miles to the east, this is a key airport serving the Upper Midwest, providing a wide variety of flight options.
Located around 600 miles southeast, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world, handling a large number of both domestic and international flights.
Also located in Chicago, approximately 610 miles from Pierre, this airport primarily serves domestic flights but also has some international services.
Roughly 650 miles to the southeast, this airport serves as a significant hub for airlines in the central United States.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Pierre, representing a significant majority of the population.
This group comprises a significant portion of the population, reflective of South Dakota's historical and cultural heritage.
A growing demographic in the area, contributing to the cultural diversity of Pierre.
This group represents a smaller percentage of the population but is an integral part of the community.
A minority group in Pierre, representing a small section of the overall demographic composition.
Individuals identifying with more than one racial group, representing a small but increasing demographic.
The Soul of Pierre
Discover the essence of Pierre through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A team sport where two teams try to score points by shooting a ball through the opponent's hoop.
A contact sport played between two teams where points are scored by advancing the ball into the opposing team's end zone.
A bat-and-ball game played between two teams where players aim to score runs by hitting a ball and running around a series of bases.
A sport where two competitors attempt to gain control over each other, focusing on grappling techniques.
A team sport played on ice, where players use sticks to hit a puck into the opponent's goal.
A variant of baseball played with a larger ball on a smaller field, typically involving slower pitches.
A collection of athletic contests based on running, walking, jumping, and throwing.
A club-and-ball sport where players try to hit a ball into a series of holes on a course with the fewest number of strokes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pierre.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several establishments in Pierre offer delectable vegetarian and vegan dishes, including the likes of La Minestra, which features a selection of plant-based Italian specialties to satisfy discerning palates.
For those seeking gluten-free dining options, many restaurants in Pierre, such as La Minestra and Cattleman's Club Steakhouse, provide dedicated menus or the flexibility to accommodate gluten-free dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Pierre with these cultural adventures.