Record Number of Tourists Flock to South Dakota in 2023

The numbers are in and South Dakota was a big hit with tourists in 2023.

According to figures released by Tourism Economics, visitor spending and total visitation each set all-time records in the state last year.

The Mount Rushmore State welcomed 14.7 tourists over the past 12 months. That's a 2.3 percent increase over the previous record year of 2022.

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And while that jump is impressive, it's nothing compared to the record levels of spending those visitors brought into the state - a whopping $4.96 billion, which is up nearly five percent from 2022.

Overall, tourism generated $384 million in state and local tax revenue.

The tourism industry supports 57,835 jobs in South Dakota and brings in 2.2 billion dollars of income for those families.

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What Was It like to Vacation in South Dakota’s Black Hills 60 Years Ago?

This time of year our thoughts often turn to planning that perfect getaway to enjoy the warmer weather and extended daylight.

For a lot of us in South Dakota, that means a trek to the Black Hills and all of the things they have to offer.

But vacationing in western South Dakota is hardly a new concept. People from all over the globe have been coming to the area for decades.

Gallery Credit: Jeff Harkness/B1027.com

10 South Dakota Myths Even Some Natives Believe

Have you ever notice how much outsiders (and some insiders) get wrong about South Dakota? They believe and repeat some of these ridiculous South Dakota stereotypes.

SO, to do our part in educating folks, here's a list of some of the most ridiculous myths outsiders always believe South Dakota.

Gallery Credit: Andy Gott