Destination Development Program Application Deadline

"Your website, travel guide, and email newsletters all have a wealth of information. We listened to every episode of The Travel South Dakota Stories podcast and got some great ideas for places to visit. The South Dakota passports led us to spots that we likely would have missed otherwise. And I can't say enough about how helpful and friendly the staff were at the two visitors centers (Vermillion and Black Hills) where we stopped for information. ... My daughter and I had a memorable first trip to South Dakota because of it, and we felt like we were just scratching the surface."

"My husband and I had a GREAT time in SD last month. Great places indeed: gorgeous scenery, lots of wildlife, wonderful hikes, and great food (including our first taste of chislic in Spearfish Canyon). ... I hope to get back to the Black Hills again as I didn't get to do everything I wanted to do because of rainstorms. Your promotional materials were very helpful, and we picked up additional materials at rest stops on I-90."

"Hello! We did receive our vacation guide and we had a wonderful time in Sioux Falls, Oacoma, and the Black Hills. We spent 5 days in the Black Hills and could have stayed longer had we the time! My best meal of the 18-day vacation was a bison steak dinner in Hill City! The scenic bi-way drive through the Hills was spectacular; esp. the Needles highway! And the Bad Lands were something from another planet!! Thank you for your help, information & friendly welcome to us."

58,824 jobs were supported by tourism activity.

“We just returned from a trip to the Black Hills. We were overwhelmed with the beauty of this area and the friendliness of your residents. The landscape...both natural and man-made...was breathtaking. The wildlife was something we had never before seen close-up. Thank you so much for offering all that you do. You should be very proud.”

After being exposed to Tourism’s messaging, the number who believed South Dakota was a good place to live, attend college, start a business or even retire, all saw increases.

"We returned home a week ago from South Dakota. Wow! It was a wonderful place to spend the week. I can see why your state has become one of the hottest destinations I hear about, from different age groups. I’m telling everyone I know....'you gotta go'!”

"My wife and I spent 3 very relaxing and enjoyable weeks traveling your fine state in 2018. we had so much fun that we plan on coming back in 2019 and trying to see more of your wonderful sights and attractions."

“We have just returned from visiting your wonderful state and it was pure magic! The sites are unbelievable and even better, your residents are the best. So kind, nice and very helpful. I wish I could live there. Your vacation guide was very helpful along, with your workers at the Visitor Stations. Once again, thanks for a fabulous and spectacular vacation.”