The Ultimate Chicago to Sioux Falls Road Trip Itinerary

You're cruising down I-90, the Chicago skyline shrinking in your rearview mirror as the vast Midwestern landscape unfolds before you. That's how my love affair with the Chicago to Sioux Falls road trip began, and trust me, it's a journey that'll stick with you long after you've returned home.

This 574-mile adventure isn't just a drive from point A to B. It's a thread that weaves through the fabric of America's heartland, connecting the urban buzz of Chicago to the natural splendor of Sioux Falls. Along the way, you'll cross four states, each with its own unique flavor: Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and South Dakota. From the shores of Lake Michigan to the prairies of the Great Plains, this route serves up a smorgasbord of experiences that'll satisfy any road trip craving.

So, gas up the car, queue up your favorite playlist, and get ready to discover the surprises waiting around every bend. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or just in need of some wide-open spaces, this road trip's got something for you. Let's hit the road and uncover the gems of the Midwest together!

Gaze at Milwaukee's Lakefront

Your first major stop after leaving Chicago brings you to Milwaukee, Wisconsin's largest city and a hidden gem of the Midwest. As you approach, the gleaming Quadracci Pavilion of the Milwaukee Art Museum rises like a futuristic ship ready to set sail on Lake Michigan. This architectural marvel, with its movable sunscreen "wings" that open and close twice daily, is your introduction to Milwaukee's blend of innovation and tradition.

Take a stroll along the RiverWalk, where public art installations and bustling cafes line the Milwaukee River. Don't miss the Bronze Fonz statue, a nod to Milwaukee's pop culture claim to fame. As you explore, the aroma of hops from nearby breweries might tempt you to learn about the city's brewing heritage – but remember, there's more road ahead!

Key Information:

• Location: 700 N Art Museum Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53202
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light on the lakefront
• Duration: 2-3 hours

Why Stop Here: Milwaukee's lakefront offers a perfect blend of culture, architecture, and natural beauty, setting the tone for your Midwest adventure.

Road Tripper's Tip: Time your visit to see the Milwaukee Art Museum's Burke Brise Soleil (the "wings") in action - it opens at 10 am, closes/reopens at noon, and closes at 5 pm (or 8 pm on Thursdays).

Tour the Wisconsin State Capitol

As you roll into Madison, Wisconsin's capital city beckons with its crowning glory: the Wisconsin State Capitol. This architectural masterpiece, perched on an isthmus between two lakes, is a sight to behold. Its gleaming white granite dome, just three feet shy of Washington D.C.'s capitol, dominates the skyline and serves as the heart of this vibrant college town.

Step inside and you're transported to a world of marble columns, hand-painted murals, and intricate mosaics. The free tours are a treasure trove of state history and political intrigue. Keep your eyes peeled for the quirky details – like the miniature badger (the state animal) hidden in plain sight on the rotunda floor.

Key Information:

• Location: 2 E Main St, Madison, WI 53703
• Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for less crowded tours
• Duration: 45-60 minutes for the tour, plus time to explore the surrounding area

Why Stop Here: The Wisconsin State Capitol offers a fascinating glimpse into state government and stunning architecture, all for free!

Road Tripper's Tip: After your tour, take a short walk down State Street to sample some of Madison's famous food scene – you can't go wrong with cheese curds and a local craft beer.

Splash Around in Wisconsin Dells

Welcome to the "Waterpark Capital of the World"! Wisconsin Dells is where the Midwest lets its hair down and embraces its wild side. This quirky town is home to more water slides per capita than anywhere else on the planet, making it the perfect place to break up your drive with some aquatic adventures.

From heart-pounding vertical plunge slides to lazy rivers perfect for floating away an afternoon, there's a water attraction for every thrill level. But don't think it's all about the water – the Dells also boasts scenic boat tours of the Wisconsin River, where sandstone cliffs create a stunning backdrop for your journey.

Key Information:

• Location: Wisconsin Dells, WI
• Best Time to Visit: Summer for outdoor parks, year-round for indoor attractions
• Duration: Half day to full day, depending on your water park enthusiasm

Why Stop Here: Wisconsin Dells offers a unique blend of natural beauty and over-the-top fun that's quintessentially American.

Road Tripper's Tip: If you're short on time, hit up one of the indoor water parks – they're open year-round and offer a tropical escape, even in the depths of a Midwest winter.

Take in the View from Grandad Bluff

As you approach La Crosse, Wisconsin, prepare for a view that'll take your breath away. Grandad Bluff, a 600-foot bluff overlooking the city, offers a panoramic vista of the Mississippi River Valley that'll make you feel on top of the world. On a clear day, you can see three states: Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa.

The winding drive up to the bluff is an adventure in itself, but the real payoff comes when you step out onto the observation deck. Watch as the mighty Mississippi snakes its way through the landscape, flanked by rolling hills and lush forests. It's the perfect spot for a picnic lunch or to stretch your legs and breathe in that fresh Midwest air.

Key Information:

• Location: 3020 Grandad Bluff Rd, La Crosse, WI 54601
• Best Time to Visit: Sunrise or sunset for spectacular light
• Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour

Why Stop Here: Grandad Bluff offers unparalleled views of the Mississippi River Valley and a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the Midwest.

Road Tripper's Tip: Bring a pair of binoculars to spot eagles soaring over the river – La Crosse is known for its bald eagle population.

Explore Medical History at Mayo Clinic's Heritage Hall

As you cruise into Rochester, Minnesota, you're entering a city that's been at the forefront of medical innovation for over 150 years. The Mayo Clinic, world-renowned for its cutting-edge treatments and research, offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of modern medicine at its Heritage Hall.

Step into this museum-like space and you're transported through time. From the clinic's humble beginnings in a small frontier practice to its current status as a global healthcare leader, the exhibits tell a story of dedication, discovery, and hope. Don't miss the recreated 1900s-era doctor's office, complete with some hair-raising old medical instruments that'll make you grateful for modern medicine!

Key Information:

• Location: 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905
• Best Time to Visit: Weekday afternoons tend to be less busy
• Duration: 1-2 hours

Why Stop Here: Mayo Clinic's Heritage Hall offers a unique blend of science, history, and human interest stories that'll fascinate more than just the medically inclined.

Road Tripper's Tip: After your visit, take a stroll through the Peace Plaza nearby. Keep an eye out for the "Philanthropy" sculpture – a testament to the clinic's founding principles.

Get Quirky at the SPAM Museum

You might not expect to find a museum dedicated to canned meat in the middle of your road trip, but that's exactly what awaits you in Austin, Minnesota. The SPAM Museum is a delightfully quirky homage to this iconic American product that's been feeding folks since 1937.

Inside, you'll find a world of SPAM-tastic exhibits that are equal parts informative and amusing. Learn about SPAM's role in World War II, test your canning skills on a virtual assembly line, and marvel at the wall of SPAM featuring cans from around the world. It's a slice of Americana that's as unexpected as it is entertaining.

Key Information:

• Location: 101 3rd Ave NE, Austin, MN 55912
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning on weekdays to avoid school groups
• Duration: 1-1.5 hours

Why Stop Here: The SPAM Museum offers a unique, lighthearted look at a piece of American food history that's sure to leave you smiling.

Road Tripper's Tip: Don't leave without trying a sample of SPAM – you might be surprised at how tasty it can be when prepared right!

Strike a Pose with the Jolly Green Giant

As you roll into Blue Earth, Minnesota, get ready for a larger-than-life photo op with one of America's most iconic advertising mascots. The Jolly Green Giant statue stands a whopping 55.5 feet tall, his hand outstretched in a welcoming wave to road-weary travelers.

This big green guy has been watching over I-90 since 1979, and he's been putting smiles on faces ever since. Climb up to his feet for a sense of scale, and don't forget to check out the small museum nearby that tells the story of the Green Giant company and its impact on the local community.

Key Information:

• Location: I-90 exit 119, Blue Earth, MN 56013
• Best Time to Visit: Daytime for the best photos
• Duration: 15-30 minutes

Why Stop Here: The Jolly Green Giant statue is a classic piece of Americana and a perfect way to break up your drive with some fun.

Road Tripper's Tip: Visit in July during Blue Earth's annual Giant Days festival for an extra dose of small-town charm and celebration.

Marvel at the Corn Palace

As you cross into South Dakota, prepare for a truly unique roadside attraction that's been drawing curious travelers for over a century. The Corn Palace in Mitchell is exactly what it sounds like – a palace decorated with corn and other grains. But trust me, it's so much more than that.

This architectural oddity is adorned with massive murals made entirely of corn, grains, and native grasses. The designs change each year, telling stories of South Dakota's history and culture. Step inside to learn about the painstaking process of creating these corn-based masterpieces and to soak in the quirky charm of this one-of-a-kind attraction.

Key Information:

• Location: 604 N Main St, Mitchell, SD 57301
• Best Time to Visit: Late summer when the new murals are completed
• Duration: 1-2 hours

Why Stop Here: The Corn Palace is a testament to Midwestern creativity and agricultural pride, offering a truly unique experience you won't find anywhere else.

Road Tripper's Tip: If you're visiting in the evening, check if there's a basketball game happening – the Corn Palace doubles as the local high school's gym!

Reflect at the Dignity Statue

As you approach Chamberlain, South Dakota, keep your eyes peeled for a breathtaking sight on the horizon. The Dignity statue, a 50-foot-tall stainless steel sculpture of a Native American woman, stands proudly overlooking the Missouri River. This powerful work of art is a tribute to the Lakota and Dakota cultures of South Dakota.

Take a moment to stop and appreciate the statue's intricate star quilt, made of over 100 blue diamond shapes that move in the wind. As the light changes throughout the day, so does the appearance of the statue, creating a mesmerizing effect. It's a poignant reminder of the rich Native American heritage of the region and a moment for reflection on your journey.

Key Information:

• Location: I-90 exit 263, Chamberlain, SD 57325
• Best Time to Visit: Sunset for stunning photo opportunities
• Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour

Why Stop Here: The Dignity statue offers a powerful cultural experience and a chance to appreciate the Native American heritage of the region.

Road Tripper's Tip: Visit the nearby Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center to learn more about the area's history and the significance of the Missouri River in the exploration of the American West.

Explore Prehistoric Life at the Mammoth Site

Take a slight detour to Hot Springs, South Dakota, and prepare to step back in time – way back. The Mammoth Site is an active paleontological dig site and museum where you can see the remains of Colombian and woolly mammoths that lived over 26,000 years ago.

What makes this site unique is that it's the world's largest mammoth research facility where you can watch paleontologists at work. Walk along the edges of a sinkhole where dozens of mammoths met their fate, preserved for millennia. The guided tour brings the Ice Age to life, helping you imagine a time when these colossal creatures roamed the plains.

Key Information:

• Location: 1800 US-18 BYP, Hot Springs, SD 57747
• Best Time to Visit: Summer months when active excavation is underway
• Duration: 2-3 hours

Why Stop Here: The Mammoth Site offers a rare opportunity to see prehistoric remains in situ and learn about Ice Age megafauna.

Road Tripper's Tip: Call ahead to see if you can participate in a "Junior Paleontologist" program – it's a hands-on way to experience the thrill of discovery.

Wander Through Wall Drug Store

As you cruise across South Dakota, you'll start to see signs for a place that's become a road trip legend: Wall Drug Store. What started as a small-town pharmacy in 1931 has evolved into a sprawling 76,000-square-foot wonderland of kitsch and Americana.

Step inside and you'll find yourself in a maze of shops, restaurants, and oddities. From the towering T-Rex that roars to life every few minutes to the chance to pan for gold or sit on a jackalope, Wall Drug is a sensory overload in the best possible way. Don't forget to grab a cup of their famous free ice water – it's what put them on the map back in the day!

Key Information:

• Location: 510 Main St, Wall, SD 57790
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning to beat the crowds
• Duration: 1-2 hours, or more if you're really into quirky souvenirs

Why Stop Here: Wall Drug is a quintessential American roadside attraction, offering a unique blend of history, kitsch, and pure fun.

Road Tripper's Tip: Try the homemade donuts at the cafe – they're a local favorite and perfect fuel for the road ahead.

Hike Badlands National Park

As you approach Badlands National Park, prepare for a landscape that seems almost alien. The rugged beauty of the Badlands, with its layered rock formations, steep canyons, and towering spires, offers a stark contrast to the rolling prairies you've been driving through.

Take the Badlands Loop Road for a scenic drive that'll have you stopping at every overlook for photos. But to really experience the park, lace up your hiking boots and hit one of the many trails. The Door Trail is an easy 3/4-mile round trip that takes you into the Badlands for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and prairies. Keep an eye out for wildlife – bighorn sheep, pronghorn, and bison all call this park home.

Key Information:

• Location: 25216 Ben Reifel Rd, Interior, SD 57750
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light and cooler temperatures
• Duration: Half day to full day

Why Stop Here: Badlands National Park offers otherworldly landscapes and a chance to experience the raw beauty of the American West.

Road Tripper's Tip: Visit the Ben Reifel Visitor Center to check on ranger-led programs – the night sky programs are particularly magical in this remote area.

Step Back in Time at 1880 Town

Just when you thought your road trip couldn't get any more eclectic, 1880 Town appears on the horizon like a mirage from the Old West. This open-air museum is a meticulously recreated frontier town that'll transport you back to the days of cowboys and pioneers.

Wander through more than 30 buildings from the 1880s, each filled with period-correct artifacts. Try on some authentic cowboy gear, pan for gold, or catch a glimpse of the movie props from "Dances with Wolves" which was filmed nearby. The authenticity of 1880 Town will have you half-expecting to see a tumbleweed roll by or a cowboy ride up on horseback.

Key Information:

• Location: 24180 SD-63, Murdo, SD 57559
• Best Time to Visit: Summer months when all attractions are open
• Duration: 2-3 hours

Why Stop Here: 1880 Town offers a fun and educational dive into frontier life, perfect for history buffs and families alike.

Road Tripper's Tip: Don't miss the chance to dress up in period costumes for an Old West photo shoot – it's cheesy in the best possible way!

Discover Prehistoric Beasts at Dinosaur Park

As you approach Rapid City, keep your eyes peeled for some prehistoric silhouettes on the skyline. Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, Dinosaur Park is home to seven larger-than-life concrete dinosaur replicas that have been delighting visitors since the 1930s.

Climb the stairs to the top of the hill and you'll be rewarded with not only a close-up look at these charming retro dinos but also panoramic views of Rapid City and the Black Hills beyond. It's a quirky slice of roadside Americana that's stood the test of time, much like the fossils that inspired it.

Key Information:

• Location: 940 Skyline Dr, Rapid City, SD 57701
• Best Time to Visit: Sunset for great views of the city
• Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour

Why Stop Here: Dinosaur Park offers a fun photo op and great views, plus a dose of 1930s charm.

Road Tripper's Tip: Bring a picnic to enjoy at the tables near the dinosaurs – it's a great spot for an al fresco meal with a view.

Explore the Wild West at Deadwood

Step into the pages of a Wild West novel as you enter the historic town of Deadwood. This former gold rush boomtown, once home to legendary figures like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane, has preserved its frontier spirit while adding a dash of modern entertainment.

Stroll down Main Street, where historic buildings now house museums, saloons, and casinos. Don't miss the reenactments of Wild Bill's assassination at Saloon #10, or a visit to Mount Moriah Cemetery where many Wild West legends are laid to rest. For a deeper dive into the town's colorful past, check out the Adams Museum, which houses a treasure trove of Black Hills history.

Key Information:

• Location: Deadwood, SD 57732
• Best Time to Visit: Summer for full Western experience with gunfight reenactments
• Duration: Half day to full day

Why Stop Here: Deadwood offers a unique blend of authentic Old West history and modern entertainment.

Road Tripper's Tip: Try your luck at one of the historic casinos – even if you're not a gambler, they're a great place to soak in the atmosphere and maybe catch some live music.

Witness History at Mount Rushmore

No road trip through South Dakota would be complete without a visit to one of America's most iconic landmarks: Mount Rushmore. As you approach, the massive carved faces of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln slowly come into view, a testament to human ambition and artistry.

Take the Presidential Trail for an up-close look at the 60-foot-tall faces, learning about the monument's creation and the presidents it honors along the way. The evening lighting ceremony adds a patriotic flourish to the experience, illuminating the sculpture against the night sky.

Key Information:

• Location: 13000 SD-244, Keystone, SD 57751
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds, or evening for the lighting ceremony
• Duration: 2-3 hours

Why Stop Here: Mount Rushmore is a bucket-list American landmark that offers both stunning visuals and a deep dive into presidential history.

Road Tripper's Tip: Don't rush off after seeing the faces – the Sculptor's Studio and Lincoln Borglum Museum offer fascinating insights into the monumental task of carving the mountain.

Marvel at Crazy Horse Memorial

Just a short drive from Mount Rushmore, you'll find another mountain carving in progress: the Crazy Horse Memorial. This massive sculpture, when completed, will depict the Oglala Lakota warrior Crazy Horse riding a horse and pointing into the distance.

While still under construction, the site offers a powerful experience. The face of Crazy Horse, completed in 1998, is already larger than the presidents at Mount Rushmore. Visit the Indian Museum of North America on-site to learn about Native American culture and the vision behind this monumental project.

Key Information:

• Location: 12151 Avenue of the Chiefs, Crazy Horse, SD 57730
• Best Time to Visit: June for the Volksmarch event when you can hike to the arm of the sculpture
• Duration: 2-3 hours

Why Stop Here: Crazy Horse Memorial offers a glimpse into an ongoing sculptural marvel and deep insights into Native American culture.

Road Tripper's Tip: Check the blasting schedule – witnessing a blast on the mountain is an unforgettable experience.

Take a Scenic Drive Through Spearfish Canyon

As you head towards the northern Black Hills, prepare for one of the most scenic drives of your trip. Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway winds its way through towering limestone palisades, offering 19 miles of breathtaking beauty.

Keep your eyes peeled for waterfalls along the way – Bridal Veil Falls and Roughlock Falls are particularly stunning. The canyon is a riot of color in the fall, but it's beautiful year-round. Pull over at one of the many turnouts to breathe in the fresh pine-scented air and listen to the rushing waters of Spearfish Creek.

Key Information:

• Location: US-14A through Spearfish Canyon, SD
• Best Time to Visit: Fall for spectacular foliage, but beautiful year-round
• Duration: 1-2 hours, depending on stops

Why Stop Here: Spearfish Canyon offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the Black Hills, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Road Tripper's Tip: Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots along the byway – it's a great way to slow down and really soak in the natural beauty.

Explore Underground at Jewel Cave National Monument

Take a break from the surface world and delve into the underground wonders of Jewel Cave, the third-longest cave system in the world. This subterranean maze stretches for over 208 miles, and new passages are still being discovered.

Join a guided tour to explore the cave's fantastical formations – from delicate soda straws and fragile cave popcorn to massive flowstones. The cave maintains a constant 49°F year-round, making it a cool retreat on hot summer days. Above ground, don't miss the chance to spot wildlife on the Roof Trail or learn about the area's natural history at the visitor center.

Key Information:

• Location: 11149 US-16 B-12, Custer, SD 57730
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but reservations are recommended in summer
• Duration: 2-3 hours for a tour and exploring the surface area

Why Stop Here: Jewel Cave offers a unique underground adventure and a chance to see some of nature's most intricate handiwork.

Road Tripper's Tip: Wear sturdy shoes with good traction – some parts of the cave can be slippery. And don't forget a light jacket, even in summer!

Step into Prairie Life at the Ingalls Homestead

As you leave the Black Hills behind and head east, make a stop in De Smet to visit the Ingalls Homestead, where Laura Ingalls Wilder lived and which inspired her beloved "Little House on the Prairie" books. This hands-on museum brings pioneer life to vivid reality.

Try your hand at pioneer activities like making corn cob dolls, twisting hay sticks, or washing clothes on a washboard. Take a covered wagon ride across the prairie, visit a one-room schoolhouse, and see what life was like in a claim shanty. It's a immersive experience that'll give you a new appreciation for the challenges and joys of frontier life.

Key Information:

• Location: 20812 Homestead Rd, De Smet, SD 57231
• Best Time to Visit: Summer for full range of activities
• Duration: 3-4 hours

Why Stop Here: The Ingalls Homestead offers a unique, hands-on look at pioneer life and a connection to beloved American literature.

Road Tripper's Tip: If you're feeling adventurous, book a night in one of the covered wagons on site for a true pioneer experience!

Discover Space at the Mammoth Site

Just when you thought this road trip couldn't get any more eclectic, you'll stumble upon a full-size replica of the Starship Enterprise in the small town of Hanson. This unexpected roadside attraction is part of a larger exhibit called "Spaceships Earth," created by a local farmer with a passion for space exploration.

Walk around the impressive 80-foot long, 32-foot high structure and imagine yourself boldly going where no one has gone before. The creator, Steve Huls, is often on site and happy to chat about his creation and his vision for inspiring interest in space and science.

Key Information:

• Location: 25854 421st Ave, Hanson, SD 57241
• Best Time to Visit: Daylight hours for the best view
• Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour

Why Stop Here: It's a quirky, unexpected attraction that showcases the creativity and passion of local Midwesterners.

Road Tripper's Tip: Call ahead if you can – sometimes the creator offers impromptu tours of his other space-related projects on the farm.

Splash and Play at Wild Water West

As you approach your final destination of Sioux Falls, take a break from the road and cool off at Wild Water West, South Dakota's largest water park. This family-friendly attraction is the perfect place to unwind after your long journey.

Zoom down water slides, float along the lazy river, or catch some waves in the wave pool. For those who prefer to stay dry, there's go-karts, mini-golf, and sand volleyball. It's a great way to stretch your legs and have some fun before the final leg of your trip.

Key Information:

• Location: 26767 466th Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57106
• Best Time to Visit: Summer afternoons
• Duration: Half day to full day

Why Stop Here: Wild Water West offers a fun-filled break from driving and a chance to cool off in the summer heat.

Road Tripper's Tip: Bring your own picnic to save on food costs – there's a designated picnic area outside the park.

Experience the Namesake at Falls Park

You've made it to Sioux Falls! Celebrate the end of your epic road trip with a visit to the city's namesake, Falls Park. Here, the Big Sioux River tumbles over a series of pink quartzite formations, creating a stunning natural spectacle right in the heart of the city.

Take a stroll along the walking trails, climb the five-story observation tower for panoramic views, or simply find a spot to sit and watch the rushing waters. The park is beautifully lit at night, offering a different perspective on the falls. Don't miss the remains of the Queen Bee Mill, a 19th-century ruin that adds a touch of history to the natural beauty.

Key Information:

• Location: 131 E Falls Park Dr, Sioux Falls, SD 57104
• Best Time to Visit: Sunset for beautiful colors on the falls, or after dark to see the light show
• Duration: 1-2 hours

Why Stop Here: Falls Park is the perfect finale to your road trip, showcasing the natural beauty that gives Sioux Falls its name.

Road Tripper's Tip: Grab a bite at the Falls Overlook Café, housed in a restored 1908 hydroelectric plant overlooking the falls.

Your Day-by-Day Chicago to Sioux Falls Road Trip Adventure

Now that we've explored the highlights of this epic Midwest journey, let's put it all together into a day-by-day itinerary. Remember, this is just a suggestion – feel free to adjust based on your interests, energy levels, and how much time you want to spend in each location.

Day 1: Chicago to Madison

• Morning: Depart Chicago early to beat traffic
• Afternoon: Explore Milwaukee's lakefront and art museum
• Evening: Arrive in Madison, enjoy dinner on State Street
• Overnight in Madison

Day 2: Madison to La Crosse

• Morning: Tour Wisconsin State Capitol
• Afternoon: Drive to Wisconsin Dells for water park fun
• Evening: Continue to La Crosse, enjoy sunset from Grandad Bluff
• Overnight in La Crosse

Day 3: La Crosse to Sioux Falls

• Morning: Drive to Rochester, visit Mayo Clinic's Heritage Hall
• Afternoon: Stop at SPAM Museum in Austin, then see Jolly Green Giant in Blue Earth
• Evening: Arrive in Sioux Falls, dinner downtown
• Overnight in Sioux Falls

Day 4: Sioux Falls to Badlands

• Morning: Early start, stop at Corn Palace in Mitchell
• Afternoon: Visit Dignity statue, then explore Badlands National Park
• Evening: Stargazing in the Badlands
• Overnight near Badlands National Park

Day 5: Badlands to Black Hills

• Morning: Finish exploring Badlands, then visit Wall Drug
• Afternoon: Drive to Rapid City, visit Dinosaur Park
• Evening: Explore downtown Rapid City
• Overnight in Rapid City

Day 6: Black Hills Exploration

• Morning: Visit Mount Rushmore
• Afternoon: Explore Crazy Horse Memorial
• Evening: Experience Wild West atmosphere in Deadwood
• Overnight in Deadwood

Day 7: Black Hills to Sioux Falls

• Morning: Scenic drive through Spearfish Canyon
• Afternoon: Tour Jewel Cave National Monument
• Evening: Drive back to Sioux Falls, farewell dinner at Falls Park
• Overnight in Sioux Falls

Remember, this road trip is all about the journey, not just the destination. Don't be afraid to take detours, linger in places that capture your interest, or seek out those quirky roadside attractions that make American road trips so special. Happy travels!