Vermillion Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Vermillion with our comprehensive travel guide featuring top things to do, places to stay, and local culture and customs.


Introduction to Vermillion

Nestled in the Great Plains region of the United States, Vermillion is a charming small town in Southeast South Dakota. It is home to the University of South Dakota, making it a lively college town and cultural hub with a rich history and beautiful natural scenery.

Vermillion boasts a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors, from museums and historical landmarks to outdoor adventures and scenic views. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore some of the top things to do in Vermillion and help you plan your trip to this underrated gem in South Dakota.

List of Places to Visit in Vermillion

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Music Museum: This world-renowned museum houses over 15,000 instruments from different cultures and time periods, making it a must-visit for music lovers and history buffs alike.
  • Vermillion Downtown Historic District: Take a stroll through the charming streets of Vermillion’s historic downtown district, which features over 60 historic buildings dating back to the 19th and early 20th century.
  • W. H. Over Museum: This museum showcases the local history and culture of the Vermillion area through exhibits and artifacts, including a replica of a 19th-century prairie town and a collection of fossils and minerals.

Natural Attractions of Vermillion: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Spirit Mound: This beautiful hill is said to be the site where Lewis and Clark met with the Native American spiritual leader, White Crane, and received spiritual guidance for their journey westward. The hike to the top of the mound offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding prairie landscape.
  • Missouri National Recreational River: Located just outside of Vermillion, this scenic stretch of the Missouri River offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
  • The Bluffs: Located on the edge of Vermillion, the Bluffs offers breathtaking views of the Missouri River valley and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Vermillion

  • Mickelson Trail: This 109-mile trail winds through the Black Hills and Badlands of South Dakota, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding natural scenery.
  • Prentis Park: Located right in Vermillion, Prentis Park offers several hiking and biking trails through scenic wooded areas.

Best Things to Do in Vermillion: Activities and Tours

  • Vermillion Area Farmers Market: Held on Saturdays during the summer months, this farmers market features locally-grown produce, artisanal products, and live music.
  • Spirit of Dakota: This art gallery showcases the work of South Dakota artists and offers classes and workshops for both adults and children.
  • Volunteer Day at the National Music Museum: Visitors can volunteer at the National Music Museum and help with various tasks, from cleaning instruments to assisting with museum events.

Week-Long Itinerary for Vermillion

Day 1: Begin with a visit to the National Music Museum followed by an afternoon exploring the Vermillion Downtown Historic District. End the day with a hike up the Spirit Mound.

Day 2: Spend the day outdoors at the Missouri National Recreational River, hiking, kayaking, and fishing.

Day 3: Head to the W. H. Over Museum to learn about the local history and culture before enjoying local produce at the Vermillion Area Farmers Market.

Day 4: Take a day trip to the nearby town of Yankton and explore the historic Meridian Highway Bridge and fascinating Dakota Territorial Museum.

Day 5: Relax with a day exploring Prentis Park and the Bluffs, followed by an evening at the Spirit of Dakota gallery.

Day 6: Volunteer at the National Music Museum in the morning before enjoying an afternoon exploring the shops and restaurants of downtown Vermillion.

Day 7: End your trip with a scenic drive along the nearby Lewis and Clark Trail, taking in the stunning rural scenery of South Dakota.

Food and Drink Scene of Vermillion

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chislic: A traditional South Dakota dish of cubed lamb or beef seasoned with garlic and salt, served hot and skewered.
  • Kuchen: A sweet, German-inspired pastry with a fruit or custard filling.

Local Beverages

  • South Dakota wines: The state boasts a growing wine industry, with local vineyards producing a wide variety of reds and whites.
  • Prairie Berry Winery: Located just outside of Vermillion, this award-winning winery offers tastings and tours of their beautiful facility.

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

  • The Prairie Inn: A comfortable and affordable motel located in downtown Vermillion, within walking distance of many attractions.
  • The Cottage Guesthouse: This charming bed and breakfast offers individually decorated rooms, a beautiful garden, and a delicious breakfast.

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

  • National Music Museum merchandise: Take home a souvenir from the world-renowned museum, including t-shirts, books, and instrument-themed gifts.
  • South Dakota wines: Bring home a bottle or two of local wine from Prairie Berry Winery or another nearby vineyard.

Local Culture and Customs of Vermillion

South Dakota is known for its friendly, welcoming locals and laid-back Midwestern culture. Visitors to Vermillion can expect to be greeted with warmth and hospitality, and should take care to respect the local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Vermillion

The best time to visit Vermillion is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny and many outdoor activities are available. Fall is also a beautiful time to visit, with stunning foliage colors and cooler temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Vermillion

Do:

  • Explore the great outdoors: Vermillion and the surrounding area offer some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the United States, so be sure to spend plenty of time outdoors.
  • Support local businesses: From restaurants to shops, there are many great local businesses in Vermillion that deserve your support.

Don’t:

  • Underestimate the weather: The South Dakota weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack accordingly with layers and rain gear.
  • Disrespect local customs: South Dakota has a strong sense of community and respect, so be sure to follow local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Vermillion

Vermillion is a very safe town, with low crime rates and a strong sense of community. However, visitors should still take normal safety precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Vermillion

Vermillion has several medical facilities, including a hospital and clinics, and is generally a healthy community. Visitors should still take normal health precautions when travelling, such as getting up-to-date vaccinations and practicing good hygiene.

Getting to Vermillion: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Vermillion

The nearest airports to Vermillion are Sioux Falls Regional Airport and Sioux City Gateway Airport, both of which are approximately one hour away by car.

Bus Stations Near Vermillion

Greyhound has a bus station in nearby Yankton, which is approximately 30 minutes from Vermillion by car.

Other Options

Many visitors choose to drive to Vermillion, as it is conveniently located near major highways including I-29 and US-50.

How to Get Around in Vermillion

Vermillion is a small town that is easy to navigate on foot or by bike. There are also several car rental companies located in town for those who prefer to drive.

Where to Go Next from Vermillion: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Yankton: This charming town is located just 30 minutes from Vermillion and is home to several interesting historical attractions.
  • Sioux Falls: Located just an hour away by car, Sioux Falls is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities.
  • Badlands National Park: Located a few hours away by car, Badlands National Park is a stunning natural wonder with incredible rock formations and abundant wildlife.

Conclusion

Vermillion may be a small town, but it is full of surprises and wonderful attractions that make it a must-visit destination in South Dakota. From the National Music Museum to the scenic views at Spirit Mound, there is something for everyone in this charming Midwestern gem. Plan your trip today and discover all that Vermillion has to offer!

Downtown Vermillion Downtown Vermillion Iowa Highway 3 Iowa Highway 3