Winner Travel Guide

Plan a trip to Winner with our comprehensive travel guide that covers everything from outdoor adventures to culinary experiences and cultural attractions.


Introduction to Winner

Located in the heart of South Dakota’s Great Plains region, Winner is a small, charming town that offers visitors a wealth of natural and cultural attractions. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking to explore the area’s rolling hills and grasslands, a history buff interested in learning about the region’s early Native American tribes and pioneering settlers, or a foodie looking to sample some of the best local cuisine, Winner has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the must-visit places, activities, and experiences that make Winner such a unique and unforgettable destination.

List of Places to Visit in Winner

If you’re planning a trip to Winner, you won’t want to miss these top-rated attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tripp County Historical Society - This fascinating museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Tripp County and the surrounding Great Plains region. The exhibits cover everything from prehistoric times to the present day, with a focus on the area’s early Native American tribes, pioneer settlers, and modern-day residents. Don’t miss the recreated early 1900s storefront, military exhibit, and outdoor museum featuring historic buildings and farm equipment.
  • Rosebud Indian Reservation - A visit to the Rosebud Reservation is a must for anyone interested in Native American culture and history. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the traditions and way of life of the Lakota people, who have lived on these lands for thousands of years. The reservation is home to several museums, cultural centers, and sacred sites, including the Wounded Knee Massacre site and the Crazy Horse Memorial.

Natural Attractions of Winner: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Winner City Park - Located in the heart of Winner, this beautiful park boasts lush greenery, walking paths, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a stream that runs through the center of the park. Visitors can enjoy a game of horseshoes, softball, or disc golf, or simply relax on one of the many benches and soak up the tranquil atmosphere.
  • Winner Creek Reservoir - If you’re looking for water sports and fishing, head to the picturesque Winner Creek Reservoir. This scenic body of water is surrounded by rolling hills and grasslands, making it the perfect spot for kayaking, boating, and swimming. Anglers can try their luck at catching bass, crappie, and catfish.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Winner

If you’re looking for some great trails to explore, Winner has got you covered. Here are some of the best routes for hiking and biking:

  • Merritt Dam Overlook Trail - This easy, scenic trail runs along the top of the Merritt Dam and offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Along the way, you’ll see a variety of plants and wildlife, as well as historic sites and information markers that highlight the area’s rich history and natural features.
  • Winner City Lake Trail - This 1.5-mile loop around the picturesque Winner City Lake is ideal for hikers and mountain bikers of all skill levels. The trail offers stunning views of the water and surrounding hills, as well as opportunities for bird-watching and nature photography.

Best Things to Do in Winner: Activities and Tours

  • Pheasant Hunting - South Dakota is known as the “Pheasant Capital of the World,” and Winner is no exception. Visitors can take part in guided or self-guided hunts for this popular game bird, which is found in abundance in the surrounding fields and grasslands.
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides - Take to the skies and experience the beauty of the Great Plains from above on a hot air balloon ride. Winner is home to several companies that offer balloon tours, which are especially popular during the annual Hot Air Balloon Festival.
  • Horseback Riding - Saddle up and explore the rolling hills and grasslands on horseback. Several providers in the area offer guided trail rides, which are suitable for riders of all experience levels.

Week-Long Itinerary for Winner

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Winner, here’s a sample itinerary that will help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Tripp County Historical Society Museum and explore downtown Winner
2 Take a guided tour of the Rosebud Indian Reservation and visit the Wounded Knee Massacre site
3 Enjoy a day of water sports and fishing at Winner Creek Reservoir
4 Hike the Merritt Dam Overlook Trail and have a picnic lunch at Winner City Park
5 Take a hot air balloon ride over the Great Plains and visit a local pheasant hunting lodge for dinner
6 Explore the surrounding towns of Burke and Ideal, which offer charming local shops and eateries
7 Go horseback riding through the grasslands and attend a local rodeo in the evening

Food and Drink Scene of Winner

No visit to Winner is complete without sampling some of the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Frybread - A traditional Native American dish, frybread is a simple yet delicious treat made from flour, sugar, salt, and water. Usually served with honey or jam on top, it’s a comforting and satisfying snack that’s perfect for a midday break.
  • Pheasant Casserole - Featuring the star of South Dakota’s hunting scene, this hearty casserole is made with pheasant, local vegetables, and herbs. It’s a savory and filling dish that’s perfect for a cold winter evening.

Local Beverages

  • South Dakota Wine - Although not as well-known as California or New York wines, South Dakota produces some exceptional varieties that are worth seeking out. Try a bottle of LaFramboise, a raspberry-flavored wine made by Valiant Vineyards near Vermillion.
  • Microbrews - South Dakota has a burgeoning craft beer scene, with several local breweries offering a range of flavorful and unique beers. Check out the prairie-inspired ales and lagers from Lost Cabin Beer Co. in Rapid City.

Where to Stay in Winner: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast, a comfortable hotel room, or a rustic cabin in the woods, Winner has a range of accommodations to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the most popular options:

  • Winner Super 8 Motel - This conveniently located hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms at reasonable prices. Amenities include free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking.
  • Winner Circle Lodge - A great option for families, this lodge offers cozy cabins and guest rooms, as well as a range of recreational activities such as fishing, hiking, and ATV riding.
  • Westwood Ranch Bed and Breakfast - For a more upscale experience, check out this beautiful bed and breakfast, which features luxurious guest rooms, a hot tub, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

What to Buy in Winner: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and gifts to bring back from your trip, here are some of the top products to keep an eye out for:

  • Native American Crafts and Jewelry - The Rosebud Reservation is a great place to shop for authentic Native American crafts and jewelry, such as beaded necklaces and bracelets.
  • Pheasant-related Merchandise - From t-shirts to mugs to shot glasses, there’s no shortage of pheasant-themed merchandise to be found in Winner. Look for items featuring the local high school mascot, the Winner Warriors.
  • South Dakota Gourmet Foods - Take home some of the best flavors of South Dakota with locally produced foods such as honey, barbecue sauce, and jerky.

Local Culture and Customs of Winner

South Dakota is known for its laid-back, welcoming culture, and Winner is no exception. Visitors should be respectful of the region’s Native American traditions and history, and be prepared for the often harsh weather conditions that can occur in the Great Plains. It’s also a good idea to brush up on your knowledge of prairie wildlife and plant life, as these are major features of the region’s landscape. Finally, be sure to take time to connect with locals and learn more about their way of life, as the people of South Dakota are known for their friendliness and hospitality.

Best Time to Visit Winner

The best time to visit Winner is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny and the fields are in full bloom. However, fall and early spring can also be great times to explore the region, as the cooler temperatures provide relief from the hot summer sun and the changing leaves create a beautiful and colorful backdrop. Winter is the least popular time to visit due to the often harsh weather conditions, but visitors who brave the cold will be rewarded with stunning snow-covered vistas and plenty of opportunities for winter sports and activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Winner

Do:

  • Do take the time to explore the surrounding countryside and natural attractions, which are some of the most beautiful in the country.
  • Do respect the traditions and customs of the region’s Native American tribes and learn more about their history and way of life.
  • Do try the local cuisine, including traditional Native American dishes and pheasant-inspired cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Don’t underestimate the harsh weather conditions in the Great Plains, especially during the winter months.
  • Don’t ignore the many opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and water sports.
  • Don’t forget to tip your servers and service workers, who rely on tips for a significant portion of their income.

Safety and Health

Safety in Winner

Winner is a safe and welcoming community that has very low crime rates. However, visitors should always take common sense precautions such as locking their doors and securing their belongings when staying in hotels or rental properties, and avoiding poorly lit or deserted areas at night.

Health in Winner

Medical facilities are available in the town of Winner, including a hospital and several clinics. Visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage before traveling, and take basic precautions to avoid illness such as drinking bottled water and washing their hands frequently. It’s also important to be aware of the risks associated with exploring the wilderness, such as tick bites and snake encounters, and take appropriate safety measures.

Getting to Winner: Transportation Options and Logistics

If you’re looking to visit Winner, you have several transportation options to choose from:

Airports Near Winner

The nearest airport to Winner is the Pierre Regional Airport, which is located approximately 80 miles to the northeast. This airport offers direct flights to several major cities in the region, including Denver and Minneapolis.

Bus Stations Near Winner

Greyhound operates a bus station in Pierre, which is approximately 80 miles from Winner.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Winner by car, either by driving themselves or renting a vehicle from one of the nearby airports or cities. Once in town, getting around is easy by foot or bike, although a rental car may be necessary for exploring the more remote areas of the region.

How to Get Around in Winner

Winner is a small town that is easily accessible on foot or by bike. The downtown area is compact and pedestrian-friendly, and most of the major attractions are located within a few miles of each other. However, if you’re planning to explore the surrounding countryside or visit neighboring towns, a rental car or bike may be necessary. Several local rental companies offer reasonably priced options for visitors.

Where to Go Next from Winner: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to extend your trip or explore more of the region, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Badlands National Park - Located approximately 100 miles to the west of Winner, Badlands National Park is famous for its stunning rock formations and prairie landscapes. Visitors can explore the park on foot, horseback, or by car, and take part in ranger-led activities and programs.
  • Black Hills National Forest - About 150 miles to the west of Winner lies the Black Hills National Forest, a stunning area of mountains, canyons, and forests that offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions, including the Mount Rushmore National Memorial and the Crazy Horse Memorial.
  • Sioux Falls - Located approximately 170 miles to the east of Winner, Sioux Falls is South Dakota’s largest city and offers a range of cultural and recreational attractions, including museums, galleries, and parks.

Conclusion

Winner may be a small town, but it’s packed with natural beauty, history, and culture that make it a must-see destination for anyone traveling through South Dakota. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or culinary delights, Winner has something to offer everyone. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip and discover some of the hidden gems of this charming and unique destination.