Press Releases

The presidents of Mount Rushmore National Memorial will embark on a 14-city tour across the Midwest, beginning May 23.

South Dakota joins states, cities and travel-related businesses nationwide in recognition of National Travel & Tourism Week (NTTW) to be held May 4-12.

The total economic impact of South Dakota’s visitor industry increased last year by 5 percent from 2011, translating to an overall economic impact of nearly $2 billion.

The South Dakota Department of Tourism invites all who are interested in the visitor industry to attend the 2013 Governor’s Conference on Tourism, Jan. 16-17, in Pierre.

The South Dakota Department of Tourism’s presidential mascots will be walking the streets of New York City this weekend to promote the Mount Rushmore’s American Pride float, which will appear for a third straight year in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade^®.

One of America's most endearing singer-songwriteres, Don McLean, will appear on the Mount Rushmore's American Pride float in the 86th annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. McLean will perfom his 1971 hit "American Pie."

Nearly 50 years of expertise will come together in Custer State Park when the 47^th annual Buffalo Roundup thunders across the prairie on September 24. 

Gov. Dennis Daugaard has appointed four new members to the South Dakota Board of Tourism: Ivan Sorbel of Kyle, Kristi Wagner of Whitewood, Mark Schilling of Mitchell and Ted Hustead of Wall.

After an extensive Request for Proposal process, the South Dakota Department of Tourism has chosen Sioux Falls-based Lawrence & Schiller and Kansas City-based MMGY Global as its marketing firms.

Save the date for the 2013 South Dakota Governor’s Conference on Tourism, January 16-17, 2013, at the Best Western Ramkota Hotel and Conference Center in Pierre.

Visitors to Mount Rushmore National Memorial on July 3rd and 4th will have the opportunity to experience a wide variety of educational programs, patriotic tributes, and musical entertainment in celebration of Independence Day with a focus on active duty military and veterans.

Staff from the Department of Tourism plan to visit communities across the state this summer. The first scheduled stops on their tour are Aberdeen on Thursday, June 14, and Belle Fourche on Tuesday, June 19.

Continuing their trek across the United States, the Presidents of Mount Rushmore National Memorial will visit Kansas City on May 26-27 and Des Moines on June 7, 8 and 9.

Department of Tourism Secretary Jim Hagen will lead South Dakota’s visitor industry in a travel rally on Tuesday, May 8, at the World’s Only Corn Palace in Mitchell, and again on Wednesday, May 9, at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center in Rapid City, as part of the 29^th annual National Travel and Tourism Week.

The South Dakota Walleye Classic Tournament committee has offered three paid entries to the winners of the Wyoming, North Dakota and South Dakota Governor's Cup fishing tournaments.

The South Dakota Department of Tourism recently launched a new statewide mobile app-featuring business and attraction listings from across the state. The app is available for free download on iPhones and iPads, and the Android and Blackberry operating systems.

Gov. Dennis Daugaard and the South Dakota Department of Tourism presented awards to top visitor industry leaders Thursday evening at the 2012 Governor’s Conference on Tourism in Pierre.

The Governor’s Tourism Advisory Board has elected new officers for the coming year.

The South Dakota Department of Tourism’s message reached the eyes of more than 330 million people in November, thanks to various public relations tactics combined with the float, “Mount Rushmore’s American Pride,” which appeared in the nationally televised Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Many of South Dakota’s visitor industry businesses and organizations are receiving recognition from the Department of Tourism for delivering outstanding customer service.

After staying in one place for decades, the Presidents of Mount Rushmore National Memorial are on the move.

Twenty-four communities from across South Dakota are partnering with the Department of Tourism to promote pheasant hunting during the Department’s 2011 Rooster Rush promotion.

The South Dakota Department of Tourism’s “Rooster Rush” campaign is in full swing as communities across the state prepare to welcome hunters to the fields of South Dakota.

South Dakota Gov. Dennis Daugaard has proclaimed the week of September 26-October 2, 2011, as “Photography Week” in South Dakota.
 

Five dozen cowboys will be in the saddle when the 46th annual Buffalo Roundup thunders through Custer State Park on September 26.

The Department of Tourism wishes to recongize exceptional individuals and businesses who have contributed to the state's tourism industry.

First Lady Linda Daugaard announced today that public tours of the Governor’s Mansion will begin on Wednesday, June 22.  
 

South Dakota's Governor Dennis Daugaard made a video announcement that despite flooding in the Pierre/Fort Pierre and Dakota Dunes areas, the state is ready and welcoming visitors. Fishing and boating are as good on the river as they have every been, and hundreds of public and private campsites are available.

Governor Dennis Daugaard said South Dakota is in great shape to welcome visitors who are making the state their family vacation destination.

First Lady Linda Daugaard announced today that she and Gov. Dennis Daugaard are opening the Governor’s Mansion to the public for tours this summer.
 

South Dakota's 12 Interstate Information Centers open Thursday, May 26, to welcome and aid guests as they travel through the state.

The week is a salute to travel and tourism in America and the impact of the visitor industry on local, state and federal economies. This year’s national theme is “Why Travel Matters.”

The State of South Dakota extends an invitation to the soon-to-be newlywed royal couple, Prince William and Kate Middleton, to honeymoon in the Black Hills, South Dakota, to celebrate their marriage.

The Executive Reorganization Order creating the Department of Tourism, signed by Gov. Dennis Daugaard in January, goes into effect today. The new Department of Tourism also includes the South Dakota State Historical Society and the South Dakota Arts Council.

South Dakota made the top 12 best roads to drive, according to the Huffington Post. Check out the link!

The amount of money spent by travelers in South Dakota jumped $96 million last year. It’s the largest single-year increase the state’s industry has ever seen.

Gov. Dennis Daugaard presented leaders in the visitor industry with the South Dakota Office of Tourism’s top awards Thursday evening.

The Tourism Advisory Board has made no changes to the elected officers for the year 2011.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism invites all visitor-related businesses to attend the 2011 Governor’s Conference on Tourism, Jan. 19-20, in Pierre.

Eighteen national and international journalists will visit the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation this week. The South Dakota Office of Tourism partnered with community members from the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation to host the journalists.

On Monday, September 27, 2010, thousands of visitors will feel the earth shake. Broadcast media will have the opportunity to capture live video during the event.

For the second year in a row, the Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival has been named one of the Top 100 Events in North America.

More than 100 photographers from across the nation are expected in the Black Hills this month.

Gov. Mike Rounds has appointed Gerard Baker of Rapid City to South Dakota’s 11-member Tourism Advisory Board.

Bravery, determination and a wilderness survival tale of beating all odds are the reasons Hugh Glass is one of South Dakota’s Great Faces.

Save the date for the 2011 South Dakota Governor’s Conference on Tourism, January 19-20, 2011, at the Best Western Ramkota Hotel and Conference Center in Pierre.

Planning a trip in South Dakota has never been easier, and more people than ever before are realizing it. Online travel bookings from TravelSD.com, South Dakota’s official travel website, have increased nearly ninefold so far this year.

It was the Great Depression and Ted Hustead (HYOO’-sted) had just started a business in a town that was said to be “godforsaken.”

With a passion for music and collecting, Arne Larson compiled one of the greatest collections of musical instruments, including some of the rarest in the world. For that, Larson is known as one of South Dakota’s Great Faces.

Photographers of all levels, it’s time to dust off your lenses and get ready to photograph all the Black Hills have to offer!The first-ever Black Hills Photo Shootout, a photography festival, is set for Sept.17, 18 and 19 in Rapid City, Spearfish, and Custer.

Located just minutes from two of the largest and most renowned outdoor sculptures in the world – Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Crazy Horse Memorial – Hill City, S.D., will host the third-annual Sculpture in the Hills Show and Sale on June 26-27, 2010.

The newly opened Lodge at Deadwood is ready to host meetings and conventions. The 16,000-square-foot facility provides a new venue for Deadwood to compete for large regional and national gatherings.

Visitors interested in South Dakota’s Native American culture have an updated resource to direct them to tribal lands and attractions. 

Third annual outdoor expo!

If you're seeking an exciting family event in South Dakota at a reasonable price, look no further than the annual Ipswich Trail Days, June 11-13.

South Dakota's 13 Interstate Information Centers open Saturday, May 22, to welcome and aid guests as they travel through the state.

The George S. Mickelson Trail in the Black Hills has gained national attention by being recently inducted into the Rails-to-Trails Hall of Fame.

Communities and attractions across South Dakota are collaborating with the Office of Tourism to celebrate See South Dakota Week and prepare for the onset of the summer tourism season. 

Josef Meier became an actor when he was 10 weeks old. Therefore, it's fitting that he established the Black Hills Passion Play in 1939, transplanting a custom of his native Germany into a well-known tradition in South Dakota.

Arthur C. Mellette was the only man to serve as both Governor of Dakota Territory and Governor of the State of South Dakota. His enthusiasm and advocacy for South Dakota's statehood make him one of South Dakota's Great Faces.

Frederick Evans is remembered as the man who developed Hot Springs, S.D., into a health resort destination. He capitalized on the area's warm mineral waters, creating a town still known for its healing atmosphere and historic significance.

Oscar Micheaux was one of the first African American filmmakers in the United States, and one of the first African American settlers in South Dakota.

Gutzon Borglum (John Gutzon Borglum) is most notably known in South Dakota as the man who directed the carving of Mount Rushmore National Memorial. While making his mark both on South Dakota history and the visitor industry, he was known for other artistic works as well.

The South Dakota Digital Revolution, a new co-op program, is now available to both large and small businesses in the visitor industry. The center of a revamped Tourism Web site, the Digital Revolution aims to benefit visitors to South Dakota through cross-linking features, which automatically suggest additional attractions, based on what the visitor has already viewed.

Gov. Mike Rounds and the South Dakota Office of Tourism presented awards to top visitor industry leaders Thursday evening at the 2010 Governor’s Conference on Tourism in Pierre.

South Dakota had a record number of visitors in 2009, according to a Global Insight study released Thursday evening at the 2010 annual Governor’s Conference on Tourism in Pierre.

PIERRE, S.D. – The Governor’s Tourism Advisory Board has elected new officers for the coming year.

Frank Smith of Gettysburg was elected board president during a meeting today in Pierre. Jim Schade (SHAY’-dee) of Volga was elected vice president/president elect.

South Dakota Office of Tourism now accepting applications

The South Dakota Office of Tourism is offering South Dakota businesses an updated opportunity to attract visitors.

Break out the skis. Snow has hit South Dakota and winter sports enthusiasts now have miles of fun ahead of them. Whether it's snowmobiling, downhill or cross-country skiing, South Dakota is an ideal and affordable winter getaway.

Offers insight into small-business success and thinking big

Four South Dakota communities will get a boost from state government in their 2010 tourism efforts. Chamberlain, Huron, Ipswich and Rapid City will each host one of South Dakota’s Great Events of 2010.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism invites all visitor-related businesses to attend the 2010 Governor’s Conference on Tourism, Jan. 20-21, in Pierre.

Dozens of tourism businesses and organizations are receiving recognition for their dedication to customer service.

Pheasants have thrived in South Dakota for more than a century, and with this year’s traditional season opener just around the corner the state is preparing to greet outdoorsmen and women from around the globe for world-class hunting experiences.

Crazy Horse Memorial will celebrate Native American Day with its 20th annual celebration on Monday, Oct. 12, starting at 10:00 a.m. MDT. Traditional hoop dancers, Native American artists, an educational program, a blast on the mountain and more will all be a part of the event.

The Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival is one of the premier events on this continent, according to the American Bus Association (ABA).

Starting Sept. 26, the Black Hills and Custer State Park come alive with events ranging from arts festivals and historic reenactments to chili cook-offs and old-time fiddlers, all centered around the annual roundup of the park’s nearly 1,500 bison.

The South Dakota Department of Tourism’s newest tool for bringing visitors to the Black Hills is receiving national recognition.

The Office of Tourism has officially launched the Rooster Rush campaign in an effort to attract pheasant hunters from surrounding states.

Each year, the Missouri River is a destination spot for people throughout South Dakota and surrounding states, and this year is no exception.

Spectators who want to take part in Primal Quest Badlands Presented by SPOT will have several ways to enjoy the excitement of “The World’s Most Challenging Human Endurance Competition” to be held August 14 – 23, 2009.

Dustin Evans and the Johnny Holm Band to Perform

South Dakota partners with the Minnesota Vikings

Cowboys and horses will bring plenty of commotion to the community of Belle Fourche on Aug. 5, 2009, when the Best of America by Horseback cast and crew trots into town.

The Governor’s Tourism Advisory Board has approved seven new partners for the Governor’s Million Dollar Challenge matching grant program.

In 1989, Deadwood launched a long-shot experiment to see if legalized gambling could save the town's economy and preserve its heritage.

The 2010 South Dakota Governor’s Conference on Tourism will be held January 20-21, 2010, at the Ramkota River Centre in Pierre.

Wrapped semi-trucks and social media highlight tourism marketing

Does your community host an event that’s great? The South Dakota Office of Tourism wants to know about it.

Once upon a time, family vacations were about spending time together, not standing in long lines. Memories didn't cost hundreds of dollars. Instead they were fueled by imagination.

For thousands of archery enthusiasts and competitors from around the globe, Yankton will be the new home of the National Field Archery Association (NFAA) headquarters and the Easton Sports Development Foundation Center for Excellence in Archery (ESDF).

Only 74 more days left until the World’s Most Challenging Human Endurance Competition, also known as Primal Quest, begins in South Dakota.

Record attendance expected for convention.

Registration available for charity event that kicks off 2009 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

After venturing into the Black Hills in search of gold, French goldsmith Henri LeBeau became hopelessly lost. Almost dying of starvation, LeBeau came across wild grapes that saved his life. In honor of the lifesaving grapes, he designed what he called the "good luck" jewelry.

Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of summer, and the South Dakota State Historical Society is extending the hours the museum is open at the Cultural Heritage Center.

When you get to be a national icon of a certain age, you need a little help looking smooth and youthful. Mount Rushmore National Memorial, which turns 68 this year, undergoes a facelift every year.

On May 18, 2009, the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) launched their new quarterly e-newsletter called CVBeat!

South Dakota’s 13 Interstate Information Centers are now open for the season to welcome guests as they travel through the state.

Each year at the annual South Dakota Governor's Conference on Tourism, awards are presented to outstanding members or organizations who have contributed to the state's visitor industry.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism encourages South Dakotans to discover the state’s great traditions this summer.

As Native American history grows and continues to capture the interest of travelers around the world, the South Dakota Native American experience provides some of the best travel opportunities and destinations in the world.

The Governor’s Tourism Advisory Board has approved 19 new partners for the Governor’s Million Dollar Challenge matching grant program.

Known as the Queen City of the Black Hills, this once-sleepy farming town has become a thriving center for commerce, medicine, higher education, outdoor recreation and tourism.

Few truly wild places remain in this country, but 71,000-acre Custer State Park in the Black Hills of South Dakota is certainly one of them.

Primal Quest Adventure Racing requires the teams competing in the human endurance race be co-ed. This year’s race is holding strong with 35 women and 93 men (32 teams total) signed up to cover the Badlands of South Dakota; with more teams talking about registering daily.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism recently enhanced its consumer Internet site, www.TravelSD.com, making it easier for users to arrange travel plans online.

On June 3, 1948, sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski and Chief Henry Standing Bear decided to make their dream of carving a memorial to Crazy Horse a reality. This historic marker, located at the entrance of the memorial on Highway 16, describes why Lakota Chief Crazy Horse was chosen as the model/subject

State tourism officials invite the visitor industry to attend one of four informational meetings in the coming months as part of an “Ask South Dakota Tourism” road trip.

Its time to start planning ahead for family-friendly, affordable events that will get everyone out of the house for a weekend. This year’s Great Events are cost effective, enjoyable and fun for all ages.

Training for an adventure race is never easy, and training for one like Primal Quest requires more than just time and energy.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism recently completed its updated 2009-2010 Group Tour Planning Guide.

The Goss Opera House and Gallery in Watertown, S.D., has opened their new TUTANKHAMUN: Wonderful Things from the Pharaoh’s Tomb exhibition.

As a retired Navy SEAL, American adventure racing pioneer, co-founder of Odyssey Adventure Racing and Director of Primal Quest Adventure Racing; Don Mann is the man!

Applications are now being accepted for a new multi-media press release cooperative program offered by the South Dakota Office of Tourism.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism’s top awards were presented to visitor industry leaders by Governor Mike Rounds Thursday evening.

2.8% increase marks 7th consecutive year of growth

Conference blog offers updates for those unable to attend

Next summer, South Dakota will host Primal Quest Badlands: the World’s Most Challenging Human Endurance Competition, a 10-day expedition adventure race totaling 600 miles. That leaves many asking, who does these kinds of races?

Yankton’s Rockin’ Ribfest, held in September, helped boost the local economy through increased attendance, more vendors and more food.

A newly created group in southeast South Dakota is developing an integrated website marketing strategy that will drive online traffic to 15 member communities’ websites.

Primal Quest Badlands is an expedition level adventure race taking place in South Dakota next summer. Athletes will compete with one another and against each other on a 600-mile wilderness course. So, what exactly is adventure racing?

The Pheasantennial featured event, recently held in Mitchell, S.D., was deemed a success by the South Dakota Office of Tourism.

The Governor’s Tourism Advisory Board has approved six new partners for the Governor’s Million Dollar Challenge matching grant program.

The Office of Tourism has recognized 110 South Dakota businesses and organizations for their superior customer service efforts in 2008.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism has finalized the five events chosen for the 2009 Great Events Campaign.

In less than a year, co-ed teams of four will race to the Black Hills and Badlands area for a grueling 600-mile race.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism invites all visitor-related businesses to attend the 2009 Governor’s Conference on Tourism, January 21-22 in Pierre.

Thousands saw it first-hand. Millions viewed it or read about it across the country.

South Dakota to host Primal Quest Badlands presented by SPOT in August 2009.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism is currently accepting applications for the Great Service Star Designation Program.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism has launched its shoulder season marketing campaign, targeting empty nesters, families and hunters on a regional, national and international scale.

Each year at the annual South Dakota Governor's Conference on Tourism, awards are presented to outstanding members or organizations who have contributed to the state's visitor industry.

The classic rock band KISS will appear at Glencoe Campground/Rock’n the Rally on August 4 to accept a proclamation from Governor Mike Rounds, presented by Sturgis Mayor Maury LaRue, prior to their concert.

Tourism organizations can apply for the Million Dollar Challenge, having met and followed the program requirements set by the Office of Tourism.

The fall season in South Dakota typically means one thing. The pheasants are flying and the hunters are flocking.

Does your community host an event that’s great? The South Dakota Office of Tourism wants to know about it.

State tourism officials invite the visitor industry to attend one of four informational meetings in July as part of "Ask South Dakota Tourism."

The South Dakota Agritourism conference will take place in Mitchell, July 15, on the campus of Mitchell Technical Institute.

Fireworks will highlight the Independence Day Celebration on July 3, at Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

Tim Binder, Marketing Research Analyst with the South Dakota Office of Tourism, has been chosen to serve as Secretary of the Board for the CenStates Chapter of the Travel and Tourism Research Association (TTRA).

The third annual Festival of Presidents will take place June 27-28, 2008, in Rapid City.

The Oahe Days Arts Festival will take place June 20-22, 2008, in Pierre.

The media and public are invited to attend screenings of a new documentary about Czech Days called, Tabor: A Little Czech Town on the American Prairie.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism launched its first ever online customer service training curriculum May 29, 2008.

Czech Days is one of the longest running and best-known Czech Festivals in the United States.

The 2009 South Dakota Governor’s Conference on Tourism will be held Jan. 21-22 at the Ramkota RiverCentre in Pierre.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism’s marketing plan continues to showcase the state to travelers looking for the perfect summer getaway.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism has added a new feature to their award winning travel website.

Discover Great South Dakota Traditions.

Hospitality, leadership and industry trends are the focus of training workshops being held across South Dakota in upcoming weeks.

While the fishing season in South Dakota never closes, spring is often one of the greatest times of the year for trout fishing in the Black Hills. Hungry fish and beautiful weather welcome anglers of all skill levels who are searching for a little serenity and solitude.

South Dakota’s 13 Interstate Information Centers open for the season May 17.

It will now be easier for golf enthusiasts to find and enjoy their favorite golf courses in South Dakota.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism, in partnership with the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks (SD GFP) and the South Dakota Campground Owners Association (SDCOA), has launched a new section of www.TravelSD.com.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism will launch its first ever online hospitality training curriculum May 15, 2008.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism will begin showcasing everything South Dakota in a new press release series titled "In Your Own Backyard."

The South Dakota Office of Tourism will meet with media outlets and travel agents in key markets in the next two months.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism soon hopes to share more than just a border with the state of Minnesota.

Record attendance at the 2008 Governor's Conference on Tourism was due to the number of first-time attendees.

Melissa Bump has been named Director of the South Dakota Office of Tourism.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism is now accepting applications for travel counselors and supervisors at 10 Information Centers along Interstate 29 and 90.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism’s top awards were presented to visitor industry leaders by Governor Mike Rounds Thursday evening.

The $76 million growth translates into the largest one-year increase in visitor spending dollars in the state’s history.

The South Dakota Film Office has launched a brand new locations library online at www.FilmSD.com.

President and vice president of the Tourism Advisory Board were elected in a meeting Jan. 15 in Pierre.

NATIONAL TREASURE: BOOK OF SECRETS has increased traffic to the South Dakota Tourism website www.TravelSD.com.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism has added two new posters to their revised poster series.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism is showcasing the state’s activities and attractions by recently launching its winter season advertising campaign to draw winter enthusiasts to the state.

The Governor's Conference on Tourism will begin with four issue forums designed to address the needs and latest topics of today's South Dakota visitor industry.

All over the upper Midwest, fishermen are gearing up for a long awaited ice fishing season. With temperatures dipping into the teens, and below zero in many South Dakota counties, their wait has come to an end.

The Office of Tourism has recognized 84 South Dakota businesses and organizations for their superior customer service efforts in 2007.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism, through a joint partnership with the ethanol industry, recently received another national award for their 2006 “Twenty Bucks for the Road” campaign.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism’s website, www.TravelSD.com now features information about the upcoming film National Treasure: Book of Secrets including movie trailers, interviews and information about the South Dakota locations used in the film.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism has selected 5 events for the 2008 Great Events campaign.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism recently launched a new web site designed specifically to provide useful information to travel agents, meeting planners and group tour operators with the hopes that the site will help them bring more visitors to the state.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism encourages all tourism-related businesses to attend the 2008 Governor’s Conference on Tourism, January 16-17 in Pierre.

Two weeks into this year’s pheasant season and things couldn’t be better in South Dakota. A large population of birds, coupled with great weather, is providing some of the best pheasant hunting in the country.

An estimated 11,000 visitors were in attendance for the Buffalo Roundup. In addition to the visitors in attendance, millions of viewers tuned in to see the images of wranglers on horseback and rangers in pickups herding the stampeding bison into corrals.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism has once again received national recognition for excellence in tourism marketing.

With online travel planning dominating the tourism market, the South Dakota Office of Tourism has upgraded its Web site to improve the planning process.

First Lady Jean Rounds will host the First Lady's Prairie Art Showcase from 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 27, at the Ramkota RiverCentre in Pierre.

The Fort Sisseton Historical Festival and Hill City Western Heritage Festival have been selected as the 2008 Top 100 Events by the American Bus Association (ABA).

A one-of-a-kind experience awaits fall travelers.

Get a bird’s eye view of the great outdoors at this year’s Mickelson Trail Trek, which takes biking enthusiasts through the heart of the Black Hills.

The Office of Tourism is currently seeking applications for The Great Service Star Designation Program.

South Dakota’s "Twenty Bucks for the Road" campaign that captured national attention was one of two Office of Tourism campaigns that received awards from the National Council of State Tourism Directors.

Wheels & Wings, one of four Great Events promoted by the South Dakota Office of Tourism, will take place August 25-26, 2007.

Nominations for the Office of Tourism’s two annual awards, the Ben Black Elk Award and A.H. Pankow Award, are due September 4, 2007.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism announces the first annual Custer State Park Tribal Art Show. The juried art show will take place May 17-18, 2008, in conjunction with the Game, Fish and Parks’ free weekend.

Feel the thunder at Wheels & Wings, August 25-26, 2007 in Aberdeen.

South Dakota took center stage yesterday on the CBS “Early Show” and gained national exposure as Dave Price of CBS shot on-location at Mount Rushmore National Memorial as part of The CBS’ Great American Vacation Give-away.

The Sioux Falls Sports Authority has been named the newest partner in the Governor’s Million Dollar Challenge.

Peak season inquiries up 17.5% over 2006

The Corn Palace Stampede Rodeo begins today with entertainment, rodeo and other activities.

An estimated 52.8 million viewers watched as fireworks lit up America’s Shrine of Democracy at Mount Rushmore National Memorial on July 3, 2007.

Does your community host an event that’s great? The South Dakota Office of Tourism wants to know about it.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism has recently launched an all new interactive Newsroom on www.TravelSD.com.

Over 1,000 professionals from throughout the state geared up for the peak tourism season in South Dakota last month by attending one of the eight hospitality training workshops conducted around the state.

From a polka mass to kolaches and traditional Czech costumes, the 59th annual Czech Days celebration has something for everyone.

The Governor’s Million Dollar Challenge program is a part of Goal 1 of the 2010 initiative to double visitor spending in South Dakota.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism is encouraging South Dakotans to explore the vacation opportunities in their own backyard. The campaign, called See South Dakota Week, also stresses the importance the visitor industry has on local economies.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism is updating the South Dakota Adventure Travel Guide. Inclusion in this booklet is free and open to all businesses in the state offering adventurous activities.

“Information Center travel counselors answer questions for and offer travel tips to thousands of visitors throughout the summer,” said Billie Jo Waara, Director of the Office of Tourism. “Their efforts throughout the peak tourism season can really have an impact on our visitors’ experience.”

The “Power of Approachability” takes place in Chamberlain May 23 and Sioux Falls May 24, featuring Scott Ginsberg. Mr. Ginsberg has been interviewed by CNN and USA Today and quoted in The Wall Street Journal and Cosmopolitan magazine as “The World’s Expert on Approachability.”

The 2008 South Dakota Governor’s Conference on Tourism will be held Jan. 16-17 at the Ramkota RiverCentre in Pierre. South Dakota Office of Tourism organizes the event and encourages all members of the state’s visitor industry to attend. This year’s theme is “Destination 2010: Driving Forward.”

“The Governor’s Million Dollar Challenge is meant to generate new business and new growth for the tourism industry,” said Richard Benda, Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Tourism and State Development.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism is planning its 2007 Media and Trade Blitzes in three key areas in the next two months.

Tour operators from the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, France, the Netherlands, Belgium and the United States will gather in Deadwood and Hot Springs today and tomorrow for the 13th annual Rocky Mountain International (RMI) Roundup.

George Kessler of Mina was elected president of the Governor’s Tourism Advisory Board during a meeting Jan. 16 in Pierre. John Brockelsby of Rapid City was elected vice president/president elect.

Governor Rounds announced a proposal to the South Dakota legislature to add another $1 million to the Office of Tourism’s budget.

A cooperative campaign aimed at combating rising fuel prices and a predicted slump in summer tourism travel proved to be an overwhelming success.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism’s top awards were presented to industry leaders by Gov. Mike Rounds Thursday evening.

Visitor Spending Up by 6.9% over 2005.

The overall number of visitors coming to South Dakota is steadily increasing.

South Dakota Office of Tourism is now accepting applications for travel counselors and supervisors at 10 Information Centers along Interstates 29 and 90.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism will feature the Missouri River from the bluffs and Badlands National Park.

Visitors to South Dakota are taking longer vacations and spending more.

The Office of Tourism has recognized more than 100 South Dakota businesses and organizations for their superior customer service efforts.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism has launched its winter season advertising campaign to attract winter enthusiasts to South Dakota.

Yet again, South Dakota is being recognized for its extraordinary pheasant hunting, only this time it is on a national stage. Mike Hegedus from CNBC’s “On the Money” was joined by Gov. Mike Rounds to discuss the economics of pheasant hunting.

The Office of Tourism has recognized more than 100 South Dakota businesses and organizations for their superior customer service efforts.

Four South Dakota events have been selected by the Office of Tourism for the 2007 Great Events campaign.

First Lady Jean Rounds will host the First Lady's Prairie Art Showcase from 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 28, at the Ramkota RiverCentre in Pierre.

Several of South Dakota’s artists and specialty producers will come together Nov. 8-9 for the second annual Agri-Cultural Heritage Tourism Conference.

The Old West returned to South Dakota on Oct. 2 during Custer State Park’s Annual Buffalo Roundup. Millions of viewers tuned in to see the images of wranglers on horseback and rangers in pickups herding the stampeding bison into corrals.

Imagine trying to round up nearly 1,500 wild buffalo roaming over 71,000 acres of prairie grasslands. It’s not an easy task, but it’s a magnificent site that draws thousands of people from all over the world to South Dakota.

Black Hills Storytellers will haunt the halls of the Adams Museum with ghoulish tales on Saturday, September 24, 2005 from 10 p.m. to midnight.

Why is South Dakota a great place to plan a fall getaway? Is it falling prices at the pump? Smaller crowds? The colorful scenery? An abundance of pheasants? Or is it one of the dozens of weekend fall festivals and family events that makes South Dakota an ideal destination?

The South Dakota Office of Tourism is reaching out to motorcycle enthusiasts with a brand new collateral piece designed to showcase some of South Dakota’s best rides.

Opening in Gallery A on July 28 is the innovative and collaborative exhibit Do Not Fold, Bend, Spindle or Mutilate: Computer Punch Card Art.

Back by popular demand, after winning an unprecedented four consecutive Grammy’s for Best Traditional Soul Gospel, The Blind Boys of Alabama return to Sioux Falls for a performance at the Washington Pavilion of October 1, 2005.

Mt. Rushmore has been named the most beautiful vacation spot in America, according to ABC's Good Morning America and AAA New York's Car and Travel magazine.

Broncs and bulls, blood, sweat and tears. Prepare for the excitement of the Corn Palace Stampede Rodeo set for July 13-16.

An estimated 62 million viewers across the country watched as fireworks lit up America’s Shrine of Democracy at Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

“Lights, cameras and action” will begin July 1 in Carthage when Academy Award-winning actor Sean Penn begins directing his adaptation of Jon Krakauer’s nonfiction book “Into the Wild.”

A full field of 250 boats will take to the waters of Lake Sharpe near Pierre June 23-24 for Cabela’s National Walleye Championship.

A film crew recently wrapped up filming in South Dakota for an upcoming episode of “Discovering America,” which airs on The Outdoor Channel.

Enthusiasts of the Wizard of Oz and American Indian culture will discover there is no place like Aberdeen during the 2006 Oz Festival/The Dakota Heritage June 9-10.

Calling all car buffs. Head to the Black Hills for the 2nd Annual Black Hills Overdrive All-Car Rally, June 9-18 and enjoy 10 fun-filled days of club rallies, organized drives and show competitions.

A fourth grade student at White Lake Elementary School is the winner of the South Dakota Office of Tourism’s 2006 Lewis and Clark Essay Contest.

Gather the family and kick off summer with a boatload of fun at Fish Days in Lake Andes June 2-4. Spend three days in a community full of family-friendly hospitality.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism, in partnership with 12 local convention and visitors bureaus, is encouraging South Dakotans to look in their backyard for close-to-home vacation ideas.

Due to the tremendous response to the Office of Tourism’s “Twenty Bucks for the Road” program, the American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) and the South Dakota ethanol industry have committed additional funding resources to expand the program.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism has launched the South Dakota Travel Monitoring System (SDTMS) to report changes in the volume of travel activity occurring in the state.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial will host radio personality Jeff Gould on February 12, 2006, at 2 pm in the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center Museum.

Gary Howey’s television show “Outdoorsmen Adventures” will feature an interview with Terry Redlin and footage from last year’s “Redlin Rendezvous” weekend. Tune in on Saturday, February 11 at 6:30 a.m. and Sunday, February 12 at 7:00 a.m. on Sioux Falls Fox KTTW/KTTM-TV.

The South Dakota Group Tour Planning Guide, an all-in-one tool for group tour operators, is being updated for 2007.

Hollywood Does Deadwood Preservation Thursday at the Adams Museum

The South Dakota Office of Tourism’s top awards were presented to industry leaders by Gov. Mike Rounds Thursday evening.

Marketing strategies, hospitality, e-commerce trends and agritourism are all session topics featured during the 2006 South Dakota Governor’s Conference on Tourism, Jan. 18-19, at the Ramkota RiverCentre in Pierre.

George Kessler of Mina was elected president of the Governor’s Tourism Advisory Board during a meeting Tuesday in Pierre. John Brockelsby of Rapid City was elected vice president.

Custer State Park is ready for snowy conditions, making snowshoe hikes possible during the mid- to late winter season. The park is offering three guided snowshoe hikes during the winter season, the first of which will take place on Jan. 28.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial will be designing and implementing a Comprehensive Interpretive Plan to guide interpretation at the memorial for the next ten years.

This rare and extensive collection of papers includes legal files, correspondence and a multitude of documents associated with the pioneer lawyer’s Deadwood practice from 1877 to 1927.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism has launched its winter season advertising campaign to lure winter enthusiasts to South Dakota.

The food service and merchandise concessioner at Mount Rushmore National Memorial has begun an extensive remodeling of the dining facilities at the Memorial.

The Black Hills Yesterday and Today:Re-photographing Historic Photo Sites

The Washington Pavilion continues the new year with its ongoing Performance Series and the presentation of another award-winning Broadway musical. Thoroughly Modern Millie comes to the Great Hall on Tuesday, January 24 at 8 p.m.

Aggressive marketing contributed to increased shoulder season revenues and Web visits for the South Dakota Office of Tourism.

The 2006 South Dakota Governor’s Conference on Tourism is set for Jan. 18-19 at the Ramkota RiverCentre in Pierre.

Four South Dakota events have been selected by the Office of Tourism for the 2006 Great Events campaign.

Leaders of the top 100 travel companies associated with MLT Vacations Inc.®, a wholly owned subsidiary of Northwest Airlines Corporation, visit South Dakota Nov. 11-14.

American Indian and South Dakota films will be featured at the Northern Route to the Black Hills Film Festival Nov. 5. Six films will be shown at the historic Capitol Theater in downtown Aberdeen.

A conference designed to foster markets for artists and specialty producers in South Dakota by developing and enhancing agri-cultural tourism networks is set for Oct. 25-26 at Cedar Shore Resort in Oacoma.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism is revamping the film office Web site, FilmSD.com.

Millions of viewers across the country saw the Old West return to South Dakota during Custer State Park’s Buffalo Roundup Oct. 3.

The first episodes of a new series airing nationally on PBS will feature stories from South Dakota.

Deadwood’s Adams Museum will kick off the 3rd annual South Dakota Festival of Books with Three Voices: Speaking From the Past, for its Preservation.

Join the Black Hills National Forest on Saturday, September 17 at 7:00 p.m. for a living history presentation on Seth Bullock at Mount Roosevelt Monument near Deadwood, South Dakota.

Think your community has an event that’s great? The South Dakota Office of Tourism wants to know about it.

The American Association for State and Local History (AASLH), based in Nashville, TN, recently announced the Adams Museum & House, Inc. is the recipient of the AASLH Certificate of Commendation for General Excellence.

Recently organized Artists of the Black Hills (ABH) held a full membership meeting August 21, 2005 hosted by Blue Dog Framers and Gallery in Lead, South Dakota and elected the following officers and directors.

The Black Hills National Forest and Devil’s Tower National Monument are better off thanks to the work of 20 American Indian youth, members of the forest Tribal Youth Conservation Corps program.

Despite record-high gas prices averaging more than $2.61 per gallon today, AAA expects no let up in travel for the Labor Day holiday weekend.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism is launching its shoulder season advertising campaign targeting family travelers, empty nesters and outdoor enthusiasts.

Returning to Sioux Falls to headline the 2005 Sidewalk Arts Festival Street Dance is one of country music’s hottest talents, Gary Allan.

Uncover the rich tradition of bluegrass music at the Oak Lake Bluegrass Jamboree, Aug. 19-21 at Oak Lake near Astoria. Musicians from across the country will share their time-honored bluegrass and gospel music talent.

Over 200 volunteers are needed to help with the 3rd Annual South Dakota Festival of Books on September 23-25, 2005.

Join the Black Hills National Forest on Saturday, August 20 at 7:00 p.m. for a presentation on raptors at the knife’s edge overlook near Piedmont, South Dakota.

Sioux Falls Mayor Dave Munson announced yesterday that Qwest has provided complimentary high-speed wireless Internet service at Falls Overlook Café.

A brand new Smokey Bear hot air balloon will fly at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally to help focus attention on fire prevention in the Black Hills.

Gather ‘round and grab a seat to hear some of the greatest tales ever told. Master storytellers from around the region gather for the Pierpont Storytelling Festival, Aug. 12-14, in Pierpont.

Art enthusiasts can learn from some of the country’s best artists during the Wall-Badlands Art Expo, Sept. 6-10. Set against a backdrop of the majestic, inspiring landscape of Badlands National Park, the expo features a week of workshops taught by three nationally-known artists.

Local author and railroad enthusiast Rick Mills will show a video clip from Black Hills Railroads: Then and Now, a documentary he wrote the script for, and sign copies of his new book 125 Years of Black Hills Railroading on Saturday, July 30, 2005 from 1-4 p.m. at the Adams Museum.

An estimated 27 million viewers across the country watched as fireworks lit up South Dakota’s famous faces at Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

From Viborg to Westport and Brandon to Belle Fourche, filmmaking teams across South Dakota head to Aberdeen to compete in the 48 Hour Film Project.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism is seeking nominations for the 2006 Ben Black Elk Award and the A.H. Pankow Award. The awards are presented each year at the Governor’s Conference on Tourism.

Celebrate the man whose murder made the “Dead Man’s Hand” and Saloon #10 famous during Wild Bill Hickok Days in Deadwood

An international filmmaking competition is coming to South Dakota July 8-10. The 48 Hour Film Project is held in 30 cities worldwide, including New York, Los Angeles, London and Aberdeen, S.D.

A fourth grade student at Canistota Elementary School is the winning essayist in the South Dakota Office of Tourism’s 2005 Lewis and Clark Essay Contest.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism and Citibank South Dakota are partnering to host a travel planning day for Citibank’s 3,200 Sioux Falls employees. The planning day, May 12, is part of the Office of Tourism’s National Tourism Week campaign, “Explore South Dakota.”

South Dakota’s second birding trail guide is ready to help birdwatching enthusiasts find birds in the state. The Southeast South Dakota Birding Trail Guide provides a detailed look into birding southeastern South Dakota.

When planning a vacation this year, consider traveling a South Dakota scenic byway. Nearly 600 miles on six scenic byways represent the depth and breadth of South Dakota’s scenery, history and culture.

A fully loaded motorcoach, an average of 46 passengers, on a charter or tour making an overnight stop contributes an average of $5,000 to $7,500 per day to the local economy, according the American Bus Association. They eat, shop, visit attractions and sleep, all contributing to the economy.

Anglers heading to Lake Oahe need not be concerned about catching fish or getting their boat on the water – neither will be a worry in 2005.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism, in partnership with 12 local convention and visitors bureaus, is encouraging South Dakotans to look in their backyard for close-to-home vacation ideas.

Rookie or veteran, everyone in the hospitality industry can benefit from a refresher course in customer service. Taking care of the customer is the focus of three upcoming training workshops for front-line employees.

Forty counselors from South Dakota's 10 Interstate Information Centers tour the state April 30-May 5. The counselors represent all the Information Centers near Chamberlain, New Effington, Salem, Spearfish, Tilford, Valley Springs, Vermillion, Vivian, Wasta and Wilmot.

Country music stars Big and Rich recently filmed scenes in South Dakota for the music video of their newest single, “Big Time.” The video, featuring some Deadwood residents, is airing on Country Music Television (CMT).

The South Dakota Office of Tourism has kicked off its peak season advertising campaign which features a renewed emphasis on South Dakota’s slogan, Great Faces. Great Places.

Gov. Mike Rounds has appointed Jim Entenman of Sioux Falls to the 11-member Governor’s Tourism Advisory Board.

The Redlin Art Center will sponsor an “Evening with Terry Redlin and Lee Greenwood” Aug. 6 on the center’s grounds in Watertown. Redlin will meet with fans and sign prints and collectibles. Greenwood will give a free outdoor concert followed by a fireworks finale.

The South Dakota Office of Tourism’s Web site is the perfect planning tool for travelers looking for a romantic interlude. TravelSD.com features intimate getaway packages in locations across the state.

Mystic District Ranger Bob Thompson said crews are now actively working to implement the Prairie project near Rapid City.

Gov. Mike Rounds presented Tourism’s top awards to industry leaders Thursday at the closing banquet of the 2005 Governor’s Conference on Tourism.

Visitors to South Dakota spent $752 million in 2004 – $54 million more than the previous year.

Billie Jo Waara has been named the new Director of Tourism, according to Jim Hagen, secretary, Department of Tourism and State Development.