Cultural tourism helps drive South Dakota’s economy

By James D. Hagen, Secretary of Tourism

Many of the 14.1 million visitors to South Dakota last year were drawn here by our unique cultural heritage, our growing creative community and the year-round arts opportunities presented by large cities and small towns throughout the state. According to a new study by Tourism Economics, visitor spending in South Dakota totaled $3.98 billion, an increase of 2.5 percent over the previous year—and a vital part of that growth may be reflected in our expanding cultural tourism sector.

South Dakota has a proud history of attracting visitors to share our arts and cultural sites. From the must-see sculptures at Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Crazy Horse Memorial to the music and pageantry of Native American celebrations to the famous paintings of Harvey Dunn in the South Dakota Art Museum, our state has unique cultural attractions that draw visitors from across the nation and around the world.

The best part of the summer arts scene in South Dakota is that it’s happening everywhere. Our music festivals range from jazz and blues in Sioux Falls to bluegrass in the Black Hills. Theatrical offerings bring local and tourist audiences drama and comedy from Shakespeare to melodrama, on stages under the stars and in historic buildings. It’s easy to plan stops to catch all the action with directions and details at TravelSouthDakota.com.

From the pine covered peaks of the Black Hills to the recreational wonderland that is the Missouri basin to the vastness of the prairie, our creative traditions weave a tapestry of the arts that is South Dakota today. The beauty of that land, the richness of our culture and our appreciation of the arts help draw those millions of visitors to our state every year. I am excited and proud to be a part of the opportunities that grow the arts and tourism in our state.

Celebrate summer! Visit www.TravelSouthDakota.com.