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On Vacation

On Vacation

On Vacation What would life in South Dakota be without vacation time? This episode explores how leisure and travel have been entwined with the history of South Dakota from the earliest times.

Even in the 1830s, visitors "vacationed" here to see our natural wonders. Tourism is the second-largest industry in our state. From Mount Rushmore National Memorial to the great lakes on the Missouri, from the lower James River Valley to the lake country of Sisseton, South Dakota is a vacation wonderland. We look at the history of tourism, how it has grown, and why.

Episode Activities

Watch Episode

Episode Quiz

Student Glossary

Crossword Puzzle (answers)

Discussion Cards

Tourism Promotion: Then & Now Class Activity

Bonus Activity: Identify attractions in your region. Then design and build a “scaled” model of a new tourist attraction for your community. 

Episode Script

Related Video Playlist

Related Resources
Additional videos, activities, and more below.

On Vacation Additional Videos
YouTube Playlist with a variety episode related topics including the Badlands, the Black Hills, and Mount Rushmore
Tissue Paper Mural - Corn Palace
Learn about the world’s only Corn Palace, and create or recreate a Corn Palace mural using tissue paper.
Wall Drug Store Art Activity
Design and present a marketing plan.
The Black Hills Passion Play - 1939-2008
For 69 summer seasons, the Black Hills Passion Play drew people to a 6,000 seat Spearfish amphitheater.
Forestburg's Ruskin Park
Ruskin Park is significant because it illustrates the history of recreational activities in the Midwest.
South Dakota Department of Tourism
There are plenty of fun things to do in South Dakota for adventurers of all ages and interests.
World’s Largest Pheasant
The Miller Bulls

Climbing Black Hills Spires 
Pete Cleveland's climb of Superpin still baffles and astounds nearly 50 years later.
Custer's Big Rock Aerial Tramway
The idea was perfect. Build a cable car tramway originating in downtown Custer that would transport tourists.
Native American Tribes in South Dakota
Experience genuine hospitality, discover authentic art, and hear about a fascinating history & unique culture.
Dinosaur Park Sculptor Emmet Sullivan
In downtown Rapid City, you can see giant creatures on a ridge of sandstone at the top of a hill.
State's Pheasant Tourism Efforts
Hunters take to the South Dakota prairie every year for the fall pheasant season. 
Pheasant Salad Sandwiches
For the hunters in your class - WWII Pheasant Canteen's famous pheasant salad sandwich recipe. 

For more information about

SDPB's educational resources and services,

contact Steven Rokusek at EdServices@sdpb.org

(605)222-3422

(E&O Staff)

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