10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Mitchell, South Dakota (Davison County)
If you’re planning a road trip on I‑90 through South Dakota, there’s a good chance you’ll pass right by
Mitchell in
Davison County. Most people know Mitchell for the famous
Corn Palace, but there’s a lot more to do here than snap a quick photo and jump back on the highway.
Whether you’re traveling with kids, exploring solo, or looking for an easy weekend getaway from Sioux Falls, Mitchell is a friendly, affordable stop packed with small‑town charm and surprising attractions.
Below are
10 things to do in and near Mitchell, South Dakota that make this prairie town worth more than just a gas stop.
1. Explore the World‑Famous Corn Palace
You can’t talk about Mitchell without starting with the
World’s Only Corn Palace. It’s right in downtown Mitchell and it’s honestly one of the most unique roadside attractions in America.
Each year, artists decorate the exterior with giant murals made from real corn, grains, and native grasses. The designs change annually, so even if you’ve been here before, it’ll look different the next time you visit.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Free exhibits about the history of the Corn Palace
- A small gift shop with quirky souvenirs
- Seasonal concerts, basketball games, and events
Plan 45 minutes to an hour if you like to browse, longer if there’s an event happening. Parking is usually easy along nearby streets.
2. Step Back in Time at the Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village
Just a few minutes from downtown, the
Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village is one of the most interesting historical sites in South Dakota.
This is an active archaeological site where Native people lived about 1,000 years ago. A climate‑controlled building called the
Archaeodome covers the dig area so you can actually see where archaeologists are working to uncover the village.
Highlights include:
- Walkways above the excavation site
- A museum with tools, pottery, and artifacts
- Hands‑on activities for kids in the summer
If you enjoy history or want your kids to learn something beyond textbooks, this is a must‑see stop near Mitchell.
3. Spend Time Outdoors at Lake Mitchell
Need a break from driving? Head to
Lake Mitchell, just north of town. It’s a calm, easygoing place to relax, especially on a warm summer afternoon.
At Lake Mitchell you can:
- Rent a kayak or canoe (in season)
- Try your luck at fishing for walleye, crappie, and bass
- Walk or bike on nearby trails
- Enjoy a picnic with lake views
Lake Mitchell also has campgrounds if you’re RV‑ing or tent camping your way across South Dakota. It’s a peaceful base if you’d rather camp than stay in a hotel along the interstate.
4. Visit the Dakota Discovery Museum
If you’re curious about the people and stories that shaped this part of the Midwest, stop by the
Dakota Discovery Museum on the campus of Dakota Wesleyan University.
This museum covers:
- Early pioneer life on the prairie
- Native American history and culture in the region
- Rotating art exhibits and special displays
The museum isn’t huge, which is nice—it’s easy to work through in about an hour without feeling overwhelmed. It’s a great rainy‑day thing to do in Mitchell, and it adds depth to what you see driving across the plains.
5. Stroll Mitchell’s Historic Downtown
If you enjoy small‑town main streets, set aside some time to wander
downtown Mitchell.
Within a few walkable blocks you’ll find:
- Locally owned coffee shops and bakeries
- Fun antique stores and thrift shops
- The photogenic Corn Palace as the centerpiece
It’s an easy place to stretch your legs, grab a sandwich or an ice cream cone, and people‑watch for a bit. If you’re doing a big South Dakota road trip, these little breaks can really help keep everyone in the car happier.
6. Catch a Local Event or Festival
Mitchell may be small, but the town loves to celebrate. Depending on when you visit, you might catch:
- Corn Palace Festival – Late summer with rides, food, and live music.
- Craft fairs and vendor events around the Corn Palace and downtown.
- High school and college sports that draw big local crowds.
If you’re flexible, it’s worth checking the city or Corn Palace event calendar before your trip. A simple overnight stop in Mitchell can turn into a surprisingly fun festival weekend.
7. Hit the Trails at the Mitchell Recreation Area
If you like to move a bit while you travel, head for the
Mitchell Recreation Area near Lake Mitchell. This is where you’ll find:
- Easy walking and biking trails
- Open space for frisbee, soccer, or just running around
- Picnic shelters and playgrounds
The trails here are generally flat and friendly, which is great if you’ve been in the car for hours. Even a quick 20‑minute walk can make a long drive across South Dakota feel a lot shorter.
8. Discover Quirky Roadside Stops and Local Shops
Mitchell leans into its identity as a
road trip town, and that’s not a bad thing. If you enjoy roadside Americana, you’ll find a few fun stops along the main highway and near I‑90.
Look for:
- Small local diners serving hearty Midwestern comfort food
- Antique and thrift stores with everything from old farm tools to vintage signs
- Classic “tourist trap” gift shops with T‑shirts, magnets, and snacks
Part of the charm of traveling through places like Mitchell is poking around these little spots. You never know when you’ll find that one weird souvenir that becomes a favorite travel memory.
9. Play a Round of Golf in Prairie Country
If you like to golf, pack your clubs. Mitchell has a couple of
golf courses that offer open skies and wide fairways, typical of prairie golf.
You’ll find:
- Public courses suitable for casual players
- Relaxed, unpretentious vibes—no need to be a pro
- Chance to enjoy a South Dakota sunset right from the course
After hours in the car, a walk around a course can feel pretty refreshing—even if you’re just there for a quick nine holes.
10. Use Mitchell as a Base for Day Trips Along I‑90
One of the best things about Mitchell is its location. Right off
Interstate 90, it’s a convenient stop between other South Dakota attractions.
From Mitchell, you can take easy day trips to:
- Sioux Falls – About 1 hour east for waterfalls, shopping, and dining.
- De Smet – Roughly 1.5 hours north for Little House on the Prairie history.
- Platte or Chamberlain – South and west for Missouri River views and outdoor recreation.
Staying a night or two in Mitchell lets you explore more of eastern South Dakota without constantly packing and unpacking.
Tips for Visiting Mitchell, South Dakota
To make the most of your time in Mitchell and Davison County, keep these simple tips in mind:
- Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall. Summers are lively, and many attractions are in full swing.
- Weather: It can be hot in July and August and windy most of the year—bring layers and sunscreen.
- Getting around: You’ll want a car. Most places are just a few minutes apart, and parking is usually easy.
- Budget‑friendly: Many attractions, like the Corn Palace and walking downtown, are free or low‑cost.
Mitchell is a simple, friendly, very “Midwest” kind of town—and that’s exactly what makes it worth exploring.
Final Thoughts: Why Mitchell Belongs on Your South Dakota Road Trip
Mitchell, South Dakota may not be as famous as Mount Rushmore or the Badlands, but it offers something just as valuable on a long trip:
real small‑town charm, easy sightseeing, and a relaxing break from the highway.
From the quirky
Corn Palace to peaceful
Lake Mitchell, from historic sites to family‑friendly festivals, there’s more than enough here to fill a day or a weekend.
If you’re planning a South Dakota road trip, consider adding Mitchell and Davison County to your route. You might be surprised how much you enjoy slowing down in this prairie town.
Share Your Mitchell Experience
Have you visited
Mitchell, South Dakota?
Toured the Corn Palace, fished at Lake Mitchell, or found a great local diner?
Share your favorite Mitchell memories or tips in the comments below—your experience can help other travelers plan their stops along I‑90.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends and family planning a South Dakota road trip. Safe travels!
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