13 Fun Stops To Make Between Texas And South Dakota

Get ready for an exciting road trip from the Lone Star State to Mount Rushmore with thirteen fun stops to make between Texas and South Dakota. From quirky roadside attractions to natural wonders, there's something for everyone in this journey filled with adventure, history, and fun. So buckle up and get ready to explore the heartland of America on a road trip you won't soon forget!

Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo, Texas

If you happen to be on a road trip from Texas to South Dakota or vice versa, there are plenty of attractions you do not want to miss along the way. One of the quintessential stops on a Texas to South Dakota road trip is the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas.

The Cadillac Ranch is a unique roadside attraction in Texas, located on the historic Route 66. It was created in 1974 by a group of artists called Ant Farm, who buried ten Cadillacs nose-first in the ground. These Cadillacs are covered in colorful graffiti and attract visitors from all over the world.

The Cadillac Ranch is free to visit and is open 24/7. Visitors are encouraged to bring spray paint to add their own personal touch to the artwork. Some visitors leave messages, while others simply add more artistic flair. It is always changing, and you never know what masterpiece you might stumble upon.

Beyond the Cadillacs, the nearby Route 66 Historic District offers plenty of opportunities for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Grab a bite to eat at the legendary Big Texan Steak Ranch, where you can challenge yourself to eat a 72 oz steak in under an hour. Or, stop by the Amarillo Zoo to see exotic animals from all over the world.

For those looking for a more adventurous experience, Palo Duro Canyon State Park is just a short drive away. It offers scenic hiking trails, horseback riding, and even a world-renowned outdoor musical.

In conclusion, a road trip from Texas to South Dakota is a great way to see a variety of unique sights and attractions. The Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo should definitely be on your list of must-see stops. So, make sure to pack some spray paint and experience this iconic landmark for yourself.

Big Texan Steak Ranch, Amarillo, Texas

Characteristic	Description
Name	The Big Texan Steak Ranch & Brewery
Type	$$
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.4 / 24,307
Address	7701 I-40, Amarillo, TX 79118
Phone	(806) 372-6000
Hours	Thursday - 10 AM–10:30 PM Friday - 10 AM–10:30 PM Saturday - 10 AM–10:30 PM Sunday - 10 AM–10:30 PM Monday - 10 AM–10:30 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–10:30 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–10:30 PM
Profiles

Are you planning a road trip from Texas to South Dakota? Well, don't forget to stop by the Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo, Texas for a meal that will satisfy your cravings and create memories.

The Big Texan Steak Ranch is a legendary restaurant that has been around since 1960, attracting locals and tourists alike. The restaurant is famous for its giant 72-ounce steak, which is free if you can finish it in one hour, plus baked potato, salad, dinner roll, and shrimp cocktail. Even if you don't think you can handle that much meat, the Big Texan Steak Ranch has plenty of other entrées to choose from, including juicy burgers, seafood, and delicious salads.

Besides the food, the restaurant also offers entertainment such as live country music, a gift shop, and an old-fashioned saloon where you can enjoy a cold beer or a signature cocktail. The Texas-style décor, complete with cowboy hats, boots, and saddles, adds to the unique dining experience.

But that's not all the Big Texan Steak Ranch has to offer. The restaurant is also conveniently located on the historic Route 66, which runs from Chicago to Santa Monica, California. The surrounding area boasts many other attractions, such as the Cadillac Ranch, a funky public art installation featuring ten graffiti-covered cars buried nose-first in the ground, and the Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the second-largest canyon in the United States, offering scenic views, hiking, and horseback riding.

Whether you're on a road trip or just looking for a memorable dining experience, the Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo, Texas is a must-visit destination. So, grab your appetite and cowboy hat and head on over to experience a true taste of Texas.

Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico

If you're planning a road trip from Texas to South Dakota, then one of the must-visit destinations is Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico. This national park is home to one of the largest cave systems in the world and offers a unique and unforgettable adventure that you won't want to miss.

Located in the southern part of New Mexico, Carlsbad Caverns can be easily accessed from Interstate 10 or 20. Once you reach the park, you'll have the opportunity to explore over 119 caves that have been carved out of limestone by water over the last million years.

One of the most popular attractions at Carlsbad Caverns is the Big Room. This is a massive underground chamber that is over 4,000 feet long, 625 feet wide, and 255 feet high. The Big Room tour takes about an hour and a half to complete and covers a distance of about 1.5 miles.

In addition to the Big Room, there are also other tours available that cater to various experience levels, from beginners to advanced cavers. Some of the other popular tours include the Left Hand Tunnel, the Spider Cave, and the Kings Palace. Each of these tours is unique and offers a different perspective of the amazing underground world.

If you're not much of a caver, you can still explore the park by taking a self-guided tour along one of the many hiking trails. There are several trails to choose from, each with its own level of difficulty and scenery. Some of the most popular trails include the Natural Entrance Trail, which takes you down into the caverns, and the Rattlesnake Springs Trail, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding desert and mountains.

Finally, no visit to Carlsbad Caverns would be complete without watching the famous bat flight. Every evening from late May to early October, thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from the caves and fly out into the desert to feed on insects. This natural spectacle is truly awe-inspiring and is not to be missed.

In conclusion, if you're looking for something to do between Texas and South Dakota, Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico is definitely worth a visit. Whether you're a seasoned caver or just a nature lover, there's something here for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Roswell UFO Museum, Roswell, New Mexico

If you're traveling between Texas and South Dakota, you'll want to make the most of your time on the road by checking out some of the unique attractions and landmarks along the way. One such attraction is the Roswell UFO Museum, located in Roswell, New Mexico.

The Roswell UFO Museum is dedicated to the infamous UFO incident that occurred in 1947, when a mysterious object crashed near Roswell and was widely believed to be an extraterrestrial spacecraft. The museum features exhibits and displays related to the incident, as well as general information about UFOs and extraterrestrial life.

Visitors to the museum can view artifacts and exhibits related to the 1947 incident, including newspaper clippings, photographs, and eyewitness accounts. The museum also features a replica of the crash site and a reconstruction of an alien autopsy. Additionally, the museum hosts a variety of events and lectures on UFOs and related topics.

While the museum is certainly an intriguing attraction for anyone interested in the UFO phenomenon, it's worth noting that the incident itself is widely disputed and many skeptics argue that it was simply a weather balloon that crashed. Nevertheless, the Roswell UFO Museum continues to draw in visitors from all over the world who are fascinated by the possibility of extraterrestrial life and the mysteries of the universe.

So, if you're traveling between Texas and South Dakota and want to add a little intrigue to your journey, stop by the Roswell UFO Museum for an enlightening and thought-provoking experience. Who knows, you might just see something you can't explain!

Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

As you plan your trip between Texas and South Dakota, you may be wondering what exciting things there are to see and do along the way. One stop that you won't want to miss is Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona. Located about halfway between the two states, Petrified Forest National Park is home to some of the world's most spectacular fossilized trees.

The park covers over 200 square miles and is a wonderland of rock formations, mesas, and petrified wood. Visitors can spend hours exploring the park's hiking trails, which wind through scenic canyons and over rugged terrain. If you're short on time, be sure to at least walk the mile-long paved trail that winds through some of the park's most impressive formations.

One of the highlights of Petrified Forest National Park is its rainbow-hued petrified wood. Many of the trees that lived here more than 200 million years ago were buried by sediment and volcanic ash, and over time the minerals in the rock replaced the trees' organic matter, preserving the wood in stunning detail. The park's Rainbow Forest Museum houses some of the most impressive specimens, including the Giant Log, a 35-foot-long fossilized tree.

In addition to its geological wonders, Petrified Forest National Park is also home to a rich cultural history. The park's Puebloan ruins and petroglyphs offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who lived here thousands of years ago.

If you're planning a visit to Petrified Forest National Park, be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, water, and sturdy hiking shoes. The park can get hot and dry in the summer months, so plan accordingly. The park is open year-round, but hours vary by season, so be sure to check the website before you go.

Overall, Petrified Forest National Park is a must-see attraction on your road trip from Texas to South Dakota. Its unique combination of natural and cultural wonders makes it a destination you won't soon forget. So make sure to plan a stop at this incredible national park and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the petrified wood, mesas, and canyons for yourself.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

When you're traveling from Texas to South Dakota, you're in for a long and scenic journey. There are many places to visit along the way, but one destination that should definitely be on your list is the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona.

The Grand Canyon is a natural wonder and a true masterpiece of nature. It is a massive gorge carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, and it offers unparalleled vistas and awe-inspiring scenery. Here are some things to do at the park:

• Hiking: The Grand Canyon has some of the best hiking trails in the world. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, there is something for everyone. The most popular hiking trails include the Bright Angel Trail, the South Kaibab Trail, and the North Kaibab Trail.
• Camping: The Grand Canyon has several campgrounds that offer a range of camping options. From tent camping to RV camping, there is something for everyone. Camping in the park is a great way to experience the Grand Canyon and its stunning vistas.
• Scenic drives: The Grand Canyon has some of the most scenic drives in the world. The most popular scenic drive is the Desert View Drive, which takes visitors through the eastern end of the park and offers stunning views of the canyon and the Colorado River.
• Ranger-led programs: The Grand Canyon offers ranger-led programs, including tours, hikes, and talks. These programs are a great way to learn more about the park and its history.
• Wildlife watching: The Grand Canyon is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elk, mule deer, and bighorn sheep. Visitors can also spot eagles, hawks, and other birds of prey soaring above the canyon.

The Grand Canyon National Park is a must-see destination when traveling between Texas and South Dakota. It offers a range of activities that are suitable for all ages and interests. So, make sure to add it to your itinerary and prepare to be amazed by the beauty of one of the world's most magnificent natural wonders.

Zion National Park, Utah

If you're planning a road trip from Texas to South Dakota, there are countless attractions and stops that you can make along the way. One amazing place that you won't want to miss is Zion National Park, located in southern Utah. With incredible scenery and plenty of hiking opportunities, Zion is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the American Southwest.

Zion National Park is famous for its towering sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and lush forests. There are miles of hiking trails that wind through the park, taking you past stunning viewpoints and through awe-inspiring natural formations. Some popular hikes include Angel's Landing, The Narrows, and the Emerald Pools trails, but there are dozens of other options to choose from depending on your skill level and interests.

One of the most iconic features of Zion is its towering red cliffs, which create a surreal atmosphere that is difficult to describe in words. Whether you're admiring the scenery from a lookout point or taking a leisurely hike through one of the park's many trails, you'll feel like you're walking through a dream-like landscape that is unlike anything else in the world.

In addition to hiking, there are also plenty of other activities that you can do in Zion. From rock climbing to mountain biking to camping, there is something for everyone at this incredible destination. You can spend a day exploring the park on your own, or you can book a guided tour to learn more about the area's history and geology.

Overall, Zion National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the American Southwest. Whether you're looking for stunning scenery, outdoor adventures, or simply a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Zion has everything you need to make your trip unforgettable. So why not add it to your itinerary and see what all the fuss is about? You won't be disappointed!

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

If you're planning a road trip between Texas and South Dakota, make sure to add Bryce Canyon National Park to your itinerary. Located in Utah, this stunning park offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, scenic views, and unforgettable experiences.

Here are just a few of the things you can do at Bryce Canyon National Park:

Hiking: With more than 50 miles of hiking trails, Bryce Canyon is a hiker's paradise. From easy strolls along the rim to challenging backcountry treks, there's something for every level of hiker. One of the most popular trails is the Navajo Loop, which takes you down into the canyon and past iconic rock formations like Thor's Hammer and Wall Street.

Scenic drives: If hiking isn't your thing, don't worry – there are plenty of scenic drives that will take you through the park's breathtaking landscapes. The Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive is a must-do, with stops at overlooks like Sunrise Point and Rainbow Point that offer sweeping views of the canyon.

Stargazing: Bryce Canyon is one of the best places in the country to see the stars. With its high elevation and dark skies, the park is a haven for astronomy enthusiasts. Join a ranger-led stargazing program for an unforgettable night under the stars.

Photography: Bryce Canyon's unique geology – including its famous hoodoos – make it a photographer's dream. Whether you're a professional or just snapping pictures with your smartphone, you'll find endless opportunities to capture stunning shots.

Ranger programs: Bryce Canyon's rangers offer a variety of programs, including guided hikes, campfire talks, and junior ranger activities. These programs are a great way to learn more about the park's history, geology, and wildlife.

No matter what you choose to do at Bryce Canyon National Park, you'll be treated to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

If you are planning for a road trip between Texas and South Dakota, make sure to add Mount Rushmore to your itinerary. Mount Rushmore is a national memorial located in the Black Hills of South Dakota and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the United States. The sculpture of four American presidents’ faces carved into the granite mountain attracts more than 2.5 million visitors each year.

Here are a few things you can do during your visit to Mount Rushmore:

Take a guided tour: The National Park Service provides a guided tour of the site, which is a great way to get an overview of the monument. The tour takes approximately 30 minutes, and during this time, you will learn about the history of the memorial, the sculptors, and the presidents who are depicted.

Walk the Presidential Trail: Take a mild hike on the Presidential Trail that takes you on a loop around the base of the mountain. This trail is approximately 0.6 miles long and provides visitors with a close-up view of the memorial. You can also get stunning views of the surrounding Black Hills.

Watch the Evening Lighting Ceremony: The lighting ceremony is one of the most popular events at Mount Rushmore. Every evening during the summer, the monument is illuminated at sunset, and the park rangers give a talk about the memorial. The ceremony ends with the playing of the national anthem.

Visit the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center: The Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center is the main hub of the memorial, which houses a range of exhibits, displays, and artifacts related to the site. You can watch the orientation video, view the artifacts, and purchase souvenirs.

Take a stroll in the Avenue of Flags: The Avenue of Flags is a walkway that displays the flags of all the states and territories of the United States. The flags are arranged in alphabetical order, and it is a great way to learn about the diversity and unity of the United States.

In conclusion, Mount Rushmore is a must-visit place if you are traveling between Texas and South Dakota. The memorial provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about American history, nature, and art. Make your visit memorable by taking a guided tour, walking the Presidential Trail, watching the evening lighting ceremony, visiting the visitor center, and strolling in the Avenue of Flags.

Crazy Horse Memorial, South Dakota

If you find yourself traveling between Texas and South Dakota, there are plenty of exciting and picturesque places to see on the way. One of the best attractions to visit is the Crazy Horse Memorial located in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota.

Crazy Horse Memorial is not just any ordinary national monument; it is a unique and magnificent tribute that is unlike any other memorial in the country. This remarkable sculpture is a celebration of the legendary warrior Crazy Horse, who was one of the great leaders of his time.

The memorial's construction began in 1948 when Polish-American sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski decided to create a monument to honor the great warrior. Today, the memorial is the largest sculptural undertaking in the world, featuring a carving of Crazy Horse riding a horse with his outstretched hand pointing to his tribal lands.

Visitors to the Crazy Horse Memorial can experience many activities, including the Indian Museum of North America, the Native American Cultural Center, and a variety of performances and festivals that happen throughout the year.

One of the most popular and awe-inspiring experiences at the memorial is the nightly laser light show. Guests gather on an outdoor viewing deck and watch as the monument comes alive to the sound of music and narration, making for a truly unforgettable experience.

Crazy Horse Memorial is not just a tribute to a great leader; it is also a celebration of Native American history, culture, and traditions. Whether you're traveling solo, with your family, or in a group, the monument is a must-visit destination that offers something for everyone.

In conclusion, if you're looking for something fascinating to see on your journey between Texas and South Dakota, then the Crazy Horse Memorial is definitely worth a visit. The awe-inspiring monument, combined with all the other activities on offer, makes it a destination that you'll never forget. So, take a detour to the Black Hills of South Dakota, and witness the incredible story of Crazy Horse come to life.

Wall Drug, Wall, South Dakota

If you're taking a road trip from Texas to South Dakota, there are plenty of unique and interesting things to see and do along the way. One must-see attraction is Wall Drug in Wall, South Dakota.

Ever since it opened in 1931, Wall Drug has been a popular stop for travelers passing through South Dakota. What started as a small drugstore has grown into a massive complex that includes a gift shop, restaurant, museum, and even a backyard area with a playground and a lifesize dinosaur.

One of the main draws of Wall Drug is its free ice water. Back in the 1930s, the store's owners put up signs advertising cold water for thirsty travelers. Today, the tradition continues, and visitors can still enjoy a refreshing drink of water for free. Plus, the store sells plenty of other souvenirs and snacks, including homemade fudge and donuts.

Another highlight of Wall Drug is its collection of Western art and artifacts. The store's museum features displays on cowboys, Native American culture, and the history of the Wild West. Visitors can see a life-sized stagecoach, a mounted buffalo head, and vintage firearms, among other items.

Of course, no visit to Wall Drug would be complete without snapping a few photos with the iconic billboards that line the highways leading to the store. These signs advertise everything from coffee to cowboy boots to jackalopes (a mythical animal that resembles a jackrabbit with antlers).

Not only is Wall Drug a fun and quirky place to stop on your way from Texas to South Dakota, but it also has a rich history and a unique charm that you won't find anywhere else. So next time you're passing through Wall, South Dakota, be sure to make a pit stop at this famous roadside attraction.

Badlands National Park, South Dakota

If you find yourself on a road trip between Texas and South Dakota, you're in for a treat. This stretch of the country offers stunning natural beauty, rich history, and endless opportunities for adventure. One of the must-visit destinations along the way is Badlands National Park, located in southern South Dakota.

Badlands National Park is a unique landscape that is unlike anything else you'll see during your road trip. It features rugged canyons, towering spires, and colorful rock formations that have been carved out over millions of years of erosion. The park spans over 244,000 acres, and it's home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The best way to explore Badlands National Park is by car, as the scenic drives offer unparalleled views of the park's rugged terrain.

One of the popular routes through the park is the Badlands Loop Road. This scenic drive takes you through some of the most stunning parts of the park, featuring incredible overlooks and pull-offs where you can take in the panoramic views. Along the way, keep an eye out for the park's resident bison herds, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, and coyotes.

If you're looking for a more active way to explore Badlands National Park, there are plenty of hiking trails that will take you through some of the park's most remote areas. Some of the popular trails include the Door Trail, Notch Trail, and the Fossil Exhibit Trail. These trails vary in difficulty and length, so be sure to choose one that suits your skill level.

Another popular activity in Badlands National Park is stargazing. Being far from any sources of light pollution, the park offers some of the darkest skies in the country. On clear nights, you can see an incredible amount of stars, including the Milky Way and shooting stars.

Overall, Badlands National Park is a must-visit destination on your road trip between Texas and South Dakota. Its incredible landscape and unique wildlife make it a true gem of the American West. Whether you choose to explore by car, foot, or stargaze, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience.

Corn Palace, Mitchell, South Dakota

The drive from Texas to South Dakota can be a long one, spanning over a thousand miles and taking close to twenty hours. However, there are plenty of interesting sites to visit along the way, such as the famous Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota.

Located on Main Street, the Corn Palace is a unique attraction that draws visitors from all over the world. The building itself is a stunning example of Moorish architecture, with its towers, minarets, and domes adorned in brightly colored corn murals. Every year, the murals are redesigned with a new theme, using thousands of ears of corn in various colors to create stunning works of art.

But the Corn Palace isn't just a feast for the eyes – it's also a hub of entertainment and community events. Throughout the year, the Corn Palace hosts concerts, festivals, and sporting events, drawing visitors from all over the region. The largest event of the year is the Corn Palace Festival, a week-long celebration that has been going on since 1892. This festival features parades, dances, live music, and more, all centered around the theme of corn.

If you're visiting Mitchell during the off-season, you can still enjoy the Corn Palace by taking a tour of the interior. The building houses a museum that showcases the history and culture of the region, as well as the construction and decoration of the Corn Palace itself. You can learn about the artists who design the murals each year, the process of creating the corn art, and the many events that take place here throughout the year.

Overall, the Corn Palace is a must-see attraction for anyone driving between Texas and South Dakota. It's a unique piece of American art and architecture, as well as a vibrant center of community life. Don't miss out!

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