Dozen Distinctive Destinations
Hot Springs, SD
Year Listed: 2009 Hot Springs, less than an hour from Mt. Rushmore, is famous for its healing waters, impressive collection of pink sandstone buildings, scenic beauty and excess of natural and cultural resources. For more than a century, Hot Springs has welcomed visitors who have come to enjoy the warm-water swimming pool of Evans Plunge. The plunge and its therapeutic healing water is a cornerstone of the history of Hot Springs and it is the oldest tourist attraction in the region. At the flow rate of nearly 5,000 gallons per minute, Evans Plunge never contains the same water, changing entirely every hour and a half. Today, the plunge has been updated to include an indoor water park, fitness center, hot tubs and steam rooms. Hot Springs is the perfect gateway to the magnificent beauty of the southern Black Hills. Just south of town is the Wild Horse Sanctuary, where more than 500 wild mustangs run free across 11,000 acres. This area is also renowned for Native American ceremonial sites, petroglyphs and spectacular scenery. Ten miles outside of Hot Springs is the Angostura Reservoir and Recreation area. Showcasing the splendor of the southern Black Hills, the lake has room for boating, fishing and swimming, as well as 36 miles of shoreline and some of the finest sandy beaches in South Dakota. The site is also ideal for leisurely hikes and bike rides. Archeology fans will find something to love in the area. Hot Springs is home to the world-famous Mammoth Site, an active paleontology research site that includes the remains of 58 Ice Age mammoths and 27 other prehistoric species, most an estimated 26,000 years old. One of the nation's oldest National Parks, Wind Cave National Park is just minutes north of town. It has 119 miles of known passageways loaded with a maze of unusual formations and is home to abundant wildlife such as bison, elk, deer, antelope, prairie dogs and coyotes. Hot Springs is the cultural capital of the Black Hills, offering an array of diverse shops, world-class art galleries, annual arts festivals, restaurants and hotel accommodations. More than 35 sandstone structures are located in the downtown area. From the paved Freedom Trail, which winds under a waterfall and along the banks of the Fall River in the heart of town, visitors can see the century-old buildings, including the four-story schoolhouse built in 1893, now home to the Fall River County Pioneer Museum, and the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, which houses the Battle Mountain Museum. Interested in visiting Hot Springs? Visit their Chamber of Commerce.
Take the Plunge
Fall River in Hot Springs, South Dakota.
Credit: Hot Springs Area Chamber of Commerce Outdoor Activities
Archeology & Natural Resources
Downtown
River Street in Hot Springs, South Dakota
Credit: Hot Springs Area Chamber of Commerce
Now it's your turn! Share your experiences or impressions of this Distinctive Destination: Unique restaurants, sights, family-friendly activities, hang outs, art galleries... tell visitors what they shouldn't miss!
Now it's your turn! Share your experiences or impressions of this Distinctive Destination: Unique restaurants, sights, family-friendly activities, hang outs, art galleries... tell visitors what they shouldn't miss!
Submitted by smartaleckingleyoathe at: December 27, 2009
I'm homesick for my backyard. Thankyou PCH
Submitted by Dino at: December 23, 2009
Thank you Ashten, for your youthfull perspective!.I for one also love Hot Springs. I grew up here and was moved away some years ago. I Always wondered what ever happened to Hot Springs, while i was off in the big city. I came for a few visits and fell in love with my home town, again.
I too wish this wonderful little town could prosper. The State of SD Highway department has really given the town a new look with the street lights and improvements to Hwy 385. It seems to me Hot Springs' elected officials always are looking for a freebee or a hand out from some government agency of some kind. The town has relied on the irrigation projects, Veterans admin., State Home, and now hoping the Historic trust will fork over cash for the towns, much needed improvements.
I say the citizens and community leaders need to take control of the future of Hot Springs. The city needs to be ran as a business not as a welfare system,. The introduction of a limited amount of gambling would not hurt, but the history of Hot Springs is an good indication of what resources we have available to make a "change" in Hot Springs. The Historic District needs to have a tax incentive to enable the property owners to renovate these buildings. The city ought to make a plan to effectively encourage the community as a destination resort . The reports of 177 or more springs in the valley are either true or just stories, but where are they??? Did the owners of the Evans Plunge subdue the whereabouts of these springs?/ I feel the city ought to encourage the development of recreational opportunities in the downtown area. The simple supply and demand theory, folks. Without a supply of opportunities there will be NO demand. Also, the US Army Corp. of Engineers does not have complete controll of Fall River. The Community has the right to develop this resource too. We can request for the retention of water in the form of small dams along this "river". The universal law of parks and recreation..." give them something free and they will stay for the rest.: All classes in society want something for nothing.
I'm Just saying... Talk to you later!
Submitted by Greedy Little Bastard at: December 6, 2009
I Love Hot Springs! And it's mine! All mine! But I'm a sharing individual, so come along and enjoy the natural wonders of one of the most beautiful places in the world. I'm Hot for Hot Springs!
GLB
Submitted by fran at: November 5, 2009
Red Rock River Resort in HotSprings is serene & romantic. The restaurant has as chef trained @ the Culinary Institute.
The food is local, creative & delicious. The spa is restful & includes a heated sandroom - not to be missed!
Submitted by Hot Springs Cowboy at: September 30, 2009
In order to save the Historic Sandstone buildingsmillions of dollars need to be invested in the community. The town is economically depressed and has been for some time. Its sad to see the potential of what can be, when given resources search as the gambling revuneues Deadwood has. But unfortunately Deadwood only gives the State Historic office $100K a year for grant for projects. This is the same amount that was given 20 years ago when gambling started. I am just saying one alternative is gambling. There must be others as well. The downtown historic district is extremely overtaxed, and the only people in town who seem to be making money are those on Social Security. The trust HURT I know, but something NEEDS to happen, before Hot Springs becomes just a dot on a map. I for one LOVE, HOT SPRINGS, and hope that my comments don't sound to harsh. I just want the word to get out that the community needs HELP!
Submitted by a friend at: July 12, 2009
hot springs was the best town i ever lived in. i would go back any day!
Submitted by Stuart Kaye at: June 18, 2009
I do not think that gambling is a worthwhile price to pay for saving heritage architecture! Deadwood has a remarkable collection of buildings, but otherwise it is a tacky, overcommercialised, unpleasant place.
Submitted by Mark in Oregon at: May 19, 2009
Gambling may well work. I think a partnership with the folks at Pine Ridge would be the most promising route.
Submitted by Hot Springs Cowboy at: May 2, 2009
In order to save the wonderful Historic Buildings Hot Springs has that are falling further and further into disrepair, from years of abuse and neglect, the City and its Historic Preservation Commission needs to focus on what the community of Deadwood some 75 miles from Hot Springs did 20 years ago to legalize gambling into order to preserve their history and creat a model for Historical Preservation. Hot Springs has become what Deadwood was 20 years ago, and has very limited resources, local and through the state for much needed Historical Preservation. Its time Hot Springs look at gambling!
Submitted by Ashten at: April 27, 2009
hi, i'm not even halfway through being a teenager, and as far a things for locals to do, i will agree that there isnt much. but. i have spent the best times of my teeny little life here. and yea, i've lived the big cites, big populations, big traffic that makes it to where you drive a good 45 minutes just to get from your house to the grocery store. I love this place. every inch of it has character. even if i were only to look at the sidewalk when i walk through town, theres loads of character and awesomeness there too. just try it. you look on the ground, and theres dates. there's names. lol theres even impressions of an actual gun and pair of handcuffs in front of the cop station. Hot Springs is ever so convienently set between the seven sisters and battle mountain (hills) and the weather is nuts. it rains glittered snow in the sunshine, goes from 85 degrees to snow over night, and yea, to say the least we dont really listen to the weather guy. if it werent for the lack of educational/future opportunities here, i personally would never see a reason to leave this place. for me,,, its perfect.
Submitted by tuffy925 at: April 10, 2009
Go to the Veterans Affairs medical center. Nice campus.
Submitted by Kathy at: March 5, 2009
Hot Springs has been a "Distinctive Destination" to my husband and I for many years. We decided to buy a little piece of paradise two years ago and have just recently joined this wonderful community. The natural beauty here was the primary draw and we found that there is always something new to discover here. The hillsides are verdent with stands of tall grasses, sunflowers, goldenrod and many other varieties of plant life. The sunsets are like an artist's canvas with all the hues of color, and each night being a new painting. We are now a distinctive destination for our family and friends who have visited our new home.
Submitted by ds at: February 20, 2009
okay
Submitted by Mike at: February 19, 2009
It is unfortunate that many do not see the natural beauty or the potential of the folks who live here. This is a wonderful place to live and great place to interact with others in the community if you are of a mind to do so. The architecture is outstanding and unique opportunities are here such as the Mammoth Site, Evans Plunge, Pioneer Museum, Wild Horse Sanctuary, Wind Cave National Park and many others. I have lived in many communities and this one has made enough of an impression on my wife and I that we plan to make it our retirement spot when that event finally occurs. Please visit and make develope your own opinion, you'll enjoy the time spent here.
Submitted by Brian at: February 19, 2009
My family and I moved here in June 2008 and opened a quilt store in a historic sandstone. We moved here because we love the town and the people. The history, architecture and stunning natural beauty are icing on the cake. This town played a pivotal role in the development of this portion of the Dakota Territory, and has always attracted people looking to take advantage of its mineral waters, great climate, and its jumping off location for the rest of the Black Hills. Stop and stay for a spell and you'll fall in love with it, too.
Submitted by Dave at: February 11, 2009
I was born and grew up in Hot Springs and spent most of my adult life away in larger towns and cities. But no matter where I was living, I always said Hot Springs, SD, was my home and I always returned yearly for vacations. I am now retired and have chosen to return to this beautiful town. The people are friendly, the weather, year round, is temperate and there is seldom a day goes by that I am not taking advantage of all the activities that community and the surrounding area has to offer. Visit once and you will want to return!
Submitted by Amber at: February 10, 2009
Alright, I just had to comment on this. It was way too tempting. I've lived here my entire life and I can honestly say for the most part, Hot Springs is a "dump"..Granted it is a pretty place to visit, but I have to correct a few things. Hot Springs might have been worth while back in the day but as of lately, nothing much to see and nothing worth paying for. Except the Mammoth Site. The plunge is expensive, theres practically no restaurants left, nothing is cheap, alot of places have been fixed up so there goes the whole historic experience. Most of the sandstone buildings are condemned or empty. And yes, the education here sucks! As for the deer problem? Sad? Okay maybe the person who posted that comment wont read this again, but I'm gonna say it anyways. What would be more sad..shooting an average of 150 deer...or having your kid get in a car accident because of them..they're over populated and most of them have been sick over the last couple of years, along with the prarie dogs and mount lions. Great place to settle down when you're older I suppose, but not when you're young. And yes, everything is closed early or for good tell summer rolls around again.
Submitted by Robin at: February 5, 2009
I have spent significant time in this well-kept secret in the Black Hills. It is truly a beautiful and historic place to visit. I encourage all to make the journey.
Submitted by Connie at: January 25, 2009
Hello and congratulations, Hot Springs from Bonaparte, Iowa, 2001 Distinctive Destination. I hope to visit this summer, I will continue to read comments to find out what to see.
Submitted by Jim at: January 24, 2009
I was through there last week and found the sandstone acrhitecture amazing. there weather was great compared to the rest of the Black Hills. There is a least a couple great restaurants, an amazing art gallery and over forty incredible buildings along the river; it is definately not a 'dump'. what a beautiful place to live and truely deserving the award.
Submitted by smartaleckingleyoathe at: December 27, 2009
I'm homesick for my backyard. Thankyou PCH
Submitted by Dino at: December 23, 2009
Thank you Ashten, for your youthfull perspective!.I for one also love Hot Springs. I grew up here and was moved away some years ago. I Always wondered what ever happened to Hot Springs, while i was off in the big city. I came for a few visits and fell in love with my home town, again. I too wish this wonderful little town could prosper. The State of SD Highway department has really given the town a new look with the street lights and improvements to Hwy 385. It seems to me Hot Springs' elected officials always are looking for a freebee or a hand out from some government agency of some kind. The town has relied on the irrigation projects, Veterans admin., State Home, and now hoping the Historic trust will fork over cash for the towns, much needed improvements. I say the citizens and community leaders need to take control of the future of Hot Springs. The city needs to be ran as a business not as a welfare system,. The introduction of a limited amount of gambling would not hurt, but the history of Hot Springs is an good indication of what resources we have available to make a "change" in Hot Springs. The Historic District needs to have a tax incentive to enable the property owners to renovate these buildings. The city ought to make a plan to effectively encourage the community as a destination resort . The reports of 177 or more springs in the valley are either true or just stories, but where are they??? Did the owners of the Evans Plunge subdue the whereabouts of these springs?/ I feel the city ought to encourage the development of recreational opportunities in the downtown area. The simple supply and demand theory, folks. Without a supply of opportunities there will be NO demand. Also, the US Army Corp. of Engineers does not have complete controll of Fall River. The Community has the right to develop this resource too. We can request for the retention of water in the form of small dams along this "river". The universal law of parks and recreation..." give them something free and they will stay for the rest.: All classes in society want something for nothing. I'm Just saying... Talk to you later!
Submitted by Greedy Little Bastard at: December 6, 2009
I Love Hot Springs! And it's mine! All mine! But I'm a sharing individual, so come along and enjoy the natural wonders of one of the most beautiful places in the world. I'm Hot for Hot Springs! GLB
Submitted by fran at: November 5, 2009
Red Rock River Resort in HotSprings is serene & romantic. The restaurant has as chef trained @ the Culinary Institute. The food is local, creative & delicious. The spa is restful & includes a heated sandroom - not to be missed!
Submitted by Hot Springs Cowboy at: September 30, 2009
In order to save the Historic Sandstone buildingsmillions of dollars need to be invested in the community. The town is economically depressed and has been for some time. Its sad to see the potential of what can be, when given resources search as the gambling revuneues Deadwood has. But unfortunately Deadwood only gives the State Historic office $100K a year for grant for projects. This is the same amount that was given 20 years ago when gambling started. I am just saying one alternative is gambling. There must be others as well. The downtown historic district is extremely overtaxed, and the only people in town who seem to be making money are those on Social Security. The trust HURT I know, but something NEEDS to happen, before Hot Springs becomes just a dot on a map. I for one LOVE, HOT SPRINGS, and hope that my comments don't sound to harsh. I just want the word to get out that the community needs HELP!
Submitted by a friend at: July 12, 2009
hot springs was the best town i ever lived in. i would go back any day!
Submitted by Stuart Kaye at: June 18, 2009
I do not think that gambling is a worthwhile price to pay for saving heritage architecture! Deadwood has a remarkable collection of buildings, but otherwise it is a tacky, overcommercialised, unpleasant place.
Submitted by Mark in Oregon at: May 19, 2009
Gambling may well work. I think a partnership with the folks at Pine Ridge would be the most promising route.
Submitted by Hot Springs Cowboy at: May 2, 2009
In order to save the wonderful Historic Buildings Hot Springs has that are falling further and further into disrepair, from years of abuse and neglect, the City and its Historic Preservation Commission needs to focus on what the community of Deadwood some 75 miles from Hot Springs did 20 years ago to legalize gambling into order to preserve their history and creat a model for Historical Preservation. Hot Springs has become what Deadwood was 20 years ago, and has very limited resources, local and through the state for much needed Historical Preservation. Its time Hot Springs look at gambling!
Submitted by Ashten at: April 27, 2009
hi, i'm not even halfway through being a teenager, and as far a things for locals to do, i will agree that there isnt much. but. i have spent the best times of my teeny little life here. and yea, i've lived the big cites, big populations, big traffic that makes it to where you drive a good 45 minutes just to get from your house to the grocery store. I love this place. every inch of it has character. even if i were only to look at the sidewalk when i walk through town, theres loads of character and awesomeness there too. just try it. you look on the ground, and theres dates. there's names. lol theres even impressions of an actual gun and pair of handcuffs in front of the cop station. Hot Springs is ever so convienently set between the seven sisters and battle mountain (hills) and the weather is nuts. it rains glittered snow in the sunshine, goes from 85 degrees to snow over night, and yea, to say the least we dont really listen to the weather guy. if it werent for the lack of educational/future opportunities here, i personally would never see a reason to leave this place. for me,,, its perfect.