Mitchell Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, eat, and see in Mitchell, South Dakota with this comprehensive travel guide. From museums and historical places, to outdoor adventures and scenic views, to local culture and customs, this guide has it all.


Introduction to Mitchell

Located in the Great Plains region of Southeast South Dakota, Mitchell is a charming and historic city known for its natural beauty and cultural attractions. With a population of around 15,000 people, Mitchell provides visitors with a unique and authentic American experience.

List of Places to Visit in Mitchell

If you’re planning a trip to Mitchell, make sure to include the following places in your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Corn Palace: Located in the heart of downtown Mitchell, the Corn Palace is an iconic South Dakota landmark that celebrates the agricultural heritage of the state. The palace is decorated with colorful murals made entirely of corn, and hosts concerts, festivals, and other events throughout the year.

  • Dakota Discovery Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the Great Plains region, with exhibits on Native American artifacts, pioneer life, and local art. Visitors can also explore the outdoor prairie village and historic buildings on the museum’s grounds.

  • Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village: This National Historic Landmark features an archaeological site with the remains of an ancient Native American village that dates back 1,000 years. Visitors can see artifacts, reconstructions, and exhibits that tell the story of the people who once lived here.

Natural Attractions of Mitchell: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Mitchell: This beautiful lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming. With over 1,000 acres of water and miles of shoreline, Lake Mitchell offers something for everyone.

  • Hitchcock Park: This 65-acre city park is home to walking trails, hiking paths, and picnic areas. Visitors can also enjoy the park’s playgrounds, ball fields, and disc golf course.

  • Coorn-Husker Trail: This scenic trail runs from Mitchell to nearby Parkston, and offers hikers and bikers a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area. With wildflowers, wildlife, and stunning views, the Coorn-Husker Trail is a must-visit for nature lovers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mitchell

In addition to the Coorn-Husker Trail, Mitchell offers several other hiking and biking routes for visitors to enjoy. Some popular options include:

  • Mitchell Bike Path: This paved path runs throughout the city, offering easy access to parks, shops, and restaurants.

  • Lake Mitchell Trail: This 17-mile trail circles Lake Mitchell, offering scenic views of the water and surrounding countryside.

  • Wild Oak Trail: This 2-mile loop trail runs through Wild Oak Golf Course, and is great for runners, walkers, and cyclists of all skill levels.

Best Things to Do in Mitchell: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of fun and exciting activities to do in Mitchell, such as:

  • Dakota Wesleyan University: This private university offers a variety of cultural and academic events throughout the year, including lectures, concerts, and sporting events.

  • Escape Rooms: Located in downtown Mitchell, these escape rooms challenge visitors to solve puzzles and clues in order to escape from a themed room.

  • Trail King Museum: This museum showcases the history of Trail King Industries, a Mitchell-based manufacturer of trailers and other equipment. Visitors can see vintage trailers, interactive exhibits, and other displays on the company’s history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mitchell

If you’re planning to spend a week in Mitchell, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Corn Palace and explore downtown Mitchell
2 Hike the Coorn-Husker Trail and have a picnic at Hitchcock Park
3 Visit the Dakota Discovery Museum and explore the prairie village
4 Take a bike ride around Lake Mitchell and have lunch at a local restaurant
5 Explore the outdoor sculpture gardens at the Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village
6 Go fishing on Lake Mitchell and have a bonfire on the beach
7 Take a day trip to nearby Parkston and hike the Medicine Creek Trail

Food and Drink Scene of Mitchell

No trip to Mitchell is complete without trying some of the local cuisine and beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Corn on the Cob: This classic Midwestern dish is a staple at the Corn Palace and other local restaurants.

  • Kuchen: This German dessert is a sweet, custard-filled pastry that’s popular throughout South Dakota.

  • Bison Burger: Made with lean, grass-fed bison meat, this burger is a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers.

Local Beverages

  • South Dakota Wine: With over 25 wineries in the state, South Dakota is known for producing unique, high-quality wines made from local grapes.

  • Craft Beer: Several local breweries offer a variety of craft beers and ciders, including the award-winning Wooden Legs Brewing Company.

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

Mitchell offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Some popular choices include:

  • Quality Inn: This comfortable hotel offers a convenient location near the Corn Palace and other downtown attractions.

  • Thunderbird Lodge: This cozy motel is located on the edge of town, and offers well-appointed rooms at affordable prices.

  • Mitchell Hostel: This budget-friendly hostel offers private rooms and dorms, as well as a shared kitchen and lounge area.

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

For a unique and authentic souvenir of your trip to Mitchell, consider purchasing:

  • Corn Palace Memorabilia: From t-shirts to magnets to postcards, there are plenty of souvenirs available to commemorate your visit to the Corn Palace.

  • Kuchen Mix: Bring home a taste of South Dakota with a package of kuchen mix, available at local grocery stores and gift shops.

  • Bison Jerky: For a protein-packed snack on the go, try some locally-made bison jerky.

Local Culture and Customs of Mitchell

Mitchell is a friendly and welcoming city, with a strong sense of community and local pride. Visitors should be respectful of the local culture and traditions, and follow basic etiquette when interacting with locals.

Best Time to Visit Mitchell

The best time to visit Mitchell is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny, and many outdoor events and activities take place. However, the city is also charming during the fall and winter, when the leaves turn colors and the holiday lights sparkle.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mitchell

Do:

  • Do visit the Corn Palace, Dakota Discovery Museum, and other cultural attractions.

  • Do try some local cuisine and beverages.

  • Do be respectful of the local culture and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage natural areas.

  • Don’t behave disrespectfully or disruptively.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mitchell

Mitchell is a safe and welcoming city, with low crime rates and a strong sense of community. Visitors should take basic precautions to ensure their personal safety, such as locking doors and windows, being aware of their surroundings, and avoiding unfamiliar or deserted areas at night.

Health in Mitchell

Mitchell has several hospitals and medical centers to serve the needs of visitors and residents. Visitors should be aware of potential health hazards, such as sunburn, dehydration, and allergies, and take appropriate precautions.

Getting to Mitchell: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mitchell is easily accessible by car, bus, and plane, and offers several transportation options for visitors:

Airports Near Mitchell

  • Mitchell Municipal Airport: This small airport offers daily flights to and from major cities in the region.

  • Sioux Falls Regional Airport: Located about an hour’s drive from Mitchell, this larger airport offers flights to and from major cities across the U.S.

Bus Stations Near Mitchell

  • Greyhound: This bus station offers daily routes to and from Sioux Falls and other major cities in the region.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Visitors can rent a car from several local and national rental companies, and explore the area at their own pace.

  • Shuttle Service: Several local shuttle companies offer transportation to and from surrounding cities and attractions.

How to Get Around in Mitchell

Mitchell is a pedestrian-friendly city, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops located within easy walking distance of each other. However, visitors can also use bike rentals, taxi services, and public transportation to get around the city.

Where to Go Next from Mitchell: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Southeast South Dakota, consider visiting:

  • Badlands National Park: This stunning natural landscape is located about 2 hours from Mitchell, and features rugged canyons, colorful rock formations, and abundant wildlife.

  • Mount Rushmore National Memorial: Located about 3 hours from Mitchell, this iconic American landmark features the faces of four U.S. presidents carved into the mountainside.

  • Sioux Falls: This bustling city is located about an hour’s drive from Mitchell, and offers a variety of cultural attractions, shopping and dining options, and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Mitchell, South Dakota is a unique and authentic destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Great Plains region. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor adventures, or just relaxing and enjoying local cuisine, Mitchell has something for everyone. So come and explore this charming and historic city, and discover all that it has to offer.

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