Hughes County Sd Gis
Introduction
Hughes County is located in the central part of South Dakota. Named after Alexander Hughes, a prominent lawyer and politician in the late 1800s, Hughes County is home to a variety of attractions and activities for travelers to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, or cultural immersion, Hughes County has something for everyone.
Top Attractions
Pierre Governors’ Mansion
The Pierre Governors’ Mansion is a historic home that was built in 1935 for South Dakota’s governor. The mansion is open for tours and offers a glimpse into the state’s political history. Visitors can see the various rooms of the mansion, including the governor’s office, dining room, and library.
South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center
The South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the state. The museum features exhibits on Native American history, pioneer life, and the state’s political and social history. Visitors can also see artifacts from the Lewis and Clark expedition and learn about the state’s role in the Civil War.
Hidden Gems
Fishing on Lake Oahe
Lake Oahe is a popular spot for fishing in Hughes County. The lake is home to a variety of fish, including walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. Visitors can rent boats or fish from the shore and enjoy the beautiful views of the lake and surrounding hills.
Exploring LaFramboise Island Nature Area
LaFramboise Island Nature Area is a 350-acre park located on an island in the Missouri River. The park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors can see a variety of birds and other animals in their natural habitat, including deer, foxes, and bald eagles.
Food Scene
The Mad Mary’s Steakhouse and Saloon
The Mad Mary’s Steakhouse and Saloon is a popular restaurant in Pierre that serves up delicious steaks, burgers, and other American fare. The restaurant has a casual, western-themed atmosphere and often features live music on the weekends.
The Wooden Legs Brewing Company
The Wooden Legs Brewing Company is a craft brewery located in Brookings, just a short drive from Hughes County. The brewery offers a variety of beers on tap, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers. Visitors can also enjoy live music and food trucks on the weekends.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Visit the State Capitol
The South Dakota State Capitol in Pierre is free to visit and offers guided tours. Visitors can see the inner workings of the state government and learn about the history of South Dakota politics.
Explore the Parks
Hughes County is home to several parks and nature areas that are free to visit. Visitors can hike, bike, or picnic in these areas and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking in Badlands National Park
Badlands National Park is located just a short drive from Hughes County and offers some of the most stunning scenery in the region. Visitors can hike along the park’s trails and see the unique rock formations, canyons, and prairies.
Fishing and Boating on the Missouri River
The Missouri River runs through Hughes County and offers a variety of recreational opportunities. Visitors can fish, boat, or kayak on the river and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding hills.
Historical Landmarks
The Fort Pierre Chouteau Site
The Fort Pierre Chouteau Site is a National Historic Landmark that was once a trading post for the American Fur Company. Visitors can see the remains of the fort’s walls and learn about the history of the fur trade in the region.
The Verendrye Monument
The Verendrye Monument is a stone obelisk that marks the spot where the Verendrye brothers, French explorers, are believed to have visited in 1743. The monument is located on a hill overlooking the Missouri River and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Family-Friendly Activities
The South Dakota Discovery Center and Aquarium
The South Dakota Discovery Center and Aquarium is a science museum that offers hands-on exhibits and activities for children and adults. Visitors can explore the aquarium, learn about space travel, and engage in interactive exhibits on weather and the environment.
The Storybook Island Children’s Theme Park
The Storybook Island Children’s Theme Park in Rapid City is a magical place where kids can explore their favorite fairy tales and nursery rhymes. The park features themed play areas, a train ride, and a petting zoo.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Casey Tibbs South Dakota Rodeo Center
The Casey Tibbs South Dakota Rodeo Center in Fort Pierre is a museum dedicated to the history of rodeo in South Dakota. Visitors can see exhibits on the sport’s history, watch live demonstrations, and learn about the life of Casey Tibbs, a famous rodeo cowboy from the state.
The Akta Lakota Museum and Cultural Center
The Akta Lakota Museum and Cultural Center in Chamberlain is a museum that celebrates the history and culture of the Lakota people. Visitors can see exhibits on Native American art, history, and traditions, and learn about the challenges facing Native communities today.
Natural Wonders
The Missouri River
The Missouri River is one of the longest and most significant rivers in North America. Visitors to Hughes County can enjoy the scenic beauty of the river and its surrounding hills, as well as the recreational opportunities it offers.
The Badlands
The Badlands are a unique geological formation that offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the region. Visitors can hike, bike, or drive through the park and see the colorful rock formations, canyons, and prairies.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Oasis Bar and Grill
The Oasis Bar and Grill is a popular spot for nightlife in Pierre. The restaurant and bar offers live music, karaoke, and a variety of drinks and food.
The Brass Rail Lounge
The Brass Rail Lounge is a local favorite for its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. The bar offers a variety of drinks and often features live music on the weekends.
Local Markets
The Pierre Farmers Market
The Pierre Farmers Market is a great place to find fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. The market is open on Saturdays from May through October and offers a variety of vendors.
The Brookings Farmers Market
The Brookings Farmers Market is another great option for fresh produce and handmade goods. The market is open on Saturdays from May through October and features a variety of vendors from the region.
Beaches and Mountains
Lake Oahe
Lake Oahe is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing in Hughes County. The lake offers several beaches and picnic areas where visitors can enjoy the sun and sand.
The Black Hills
The Black Hills are a mountain range located in western South Dakota. Visitors to Hughes County can take a day trip to explore the hills and see popular attractions like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial.
Cultural Immersion
The South Dakota Hall of Fame
The South Dakota Hall of Fame in Chamberlain is a museum dedicated to the people who have made significant contributions to the state. Visitors can see exhibits on famous South Dakotans, including politicians, artists, and athletes.
The South Dakota State Fair
The South Dakota State Fair is an annual event that celebrates the state’s agricultural heritage. The fair offers livestock shows, live music, carnival rides, and a variety of food and craft vendors.
Art and Music Scene
The Oahe Chapel
The Oahe Chapel is a historic church located on the shores of Lake Oahe. The chapel hosts concerts and other cultural events throughout the year, and visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of the lake from the church’s windows.
The South Dakota Symphony Orchestra
The South Dakota Symphony Orchestra is a professional orchestra that performs throughout the state. Visitors to Hughes County can catch a concert in nearby cities like Sioux Falls or Rapid City.
Walking Tours
The Pierre Historic Walking Tour
The Pierre Historic Walking Tour is a self-guided tour that takes visitors through the city’s historic downtown area. The tour features several buildings and landmarks that date back to the 1800s and early 1900s.