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A Perfect Day Exploring Oacoma and Chamberlain
Native American heritage draws visitors to neighboring towns in central South Dakota.
Alicia Underlee Nelson is a freelance writer and photographer who specializes in immersive travel stories, hidden history, outdoor adventures, art, street food and beer. Her perfect trip involves all of these things, in no particular order. Alicia is the author of "North Dakota Beer: A Heady History" and co-author of "Midwest Road Trip Adventures." When she's not traveling, this Minnesota native is at home in North Dakota studying languages, hiking, consuming absurd amounts of black coffee and hanging out with her husband, son and two feisty cats.
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Deep-rooted Lakota and Dakota culture, a love for the outdoors, and a strong connection to the Missouri River link the South Dakota towns of Chamberlain and Oacoma with the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe and Crow Creek Sioux Tribe upriver. Your journey begins on a bluff high above I-90 in the state's center, where the Missouri widens into Lake Francis Case reservoir.
Learn About Lakota Life
The 50-foot-tall Dignity of Earth and Sky sculpture stands on a bluff above Chamberlain, her shimmering star quilt ( wičháhpi owíŋža in Lakota) held high. Visit the Aktá Lakota Museum and Cultural Center for multisensory displays showing early Lakota life, as well as modern art. Meditate on Lakota directional prayers in the riverfront Medicine Wheel Garden or visit Our Lady of the Sioux Chapel, where the Seven Sacred Rites of the Lakota glow in stained-glass windows.
Shop for Local Goods
Buy a star quilt, beaded earrings, porcupine quill jewelry (a regional specialty) or Lakota books from the museum store or Dakota Indian Foundation's Dakota Plains Gallery and Gifts , nestled among antiques stores and mom-and-pop shops in downtown Chamberlain. Stop at Main St. Cafe and Market for cinnamon roll pancakes or savory, fried chislic (cubed red meat), the state's official nosh. Drive to Al's Oasis in Oacoma for a wedge of pie, plus coffee that still only costs a nickel.
Follow the Missouri River for Panoramic Views
The Native American National and State Scenic Byway follows the Missouri River over rolling hills, past grazing bison and into tribal communities. Start in Chamberlain's Roam Free Park for a panoramic river view. Honor the Dakota fallen at The Spirit of the Circle Monument near Big Bend Dam. Take a short hike to see traditional dwellings and a 25-mile river curve at The Narrows Historical Interpretive Area.
Fish for Walleye
Lake Francis Case is a walleye hot spot. Fish from the pier or rent pontoons, paddleboards or kayaks at American Creek Campground in Chamberlain. Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center in Oacoma offers boat and river tube rentals, plus waterfront lodging.
Dine with a View
Eat on the riverside patio at The Smoking Mule , or on the rooftop at Upper Crust Pizza and Wings , near Chamberlain's steel bridge. As the sun slips below the horizon, the Missouri is never far away.
Enjoy a Seasonal Event
Attend one of these fun fall events in Oacoma and Chamberlain.
St. Joseph's Indian School Powwow
Dancers, singers and drummers from many tribal nations gather in Chamberlain. Powwows are ceremonial, but visitors are welcome . Treat it like any place of worship.
Harvest Festival
Celebrate fall with live music, street food, community art and a pumpkin patch in Oacoma City Park. Don't miss the pumpkin catapult contest!
Rooster Rush
Hunters flock to Chamberlain-Oacoma for the opener of pheasant season. Allen's Hillside Guide Service, Thunderstik Lodge and both tribes off er hunting info, guides and lodging.
Related Articles
- Chamberlain Tourism
- Chamberlain Itineraries
- Chamberlain Hotels
Top Tourist Attractions in Chamberlain
- North America
- United States
- South Dakota
- Chamberlain
- Things To Do In Chamberlain
Best Things To Do in Chamberlain, South Dakota
Have you ever visited a new place and felt ‘wow’ about it? For many visitors, it happens at Chamberlain.
Chamberlain may not be as popular as other cities in United States, but don’t let that fool you. Chamberlain is a smaller but beautiful upcoming tourist destination that is worth a visit. You will be surprised by some of the unique things to do and places you can explore at this hidden destination.
You might wish to revisit it someday again, to take a break and relax at Chamberlain.
If you have plans to visit United States and are not sure if Chamberlain should be included in your itinerary, keep reading. In this list, we have put together some of the things to do in Chamberlain and around. We have a hunch that if you include this city in your travel plans, you will be thrilled you did so.
- Leisure Activities in Chamberlain
- Museums in Chamberlain
- Art & Cultural Attractions in Chamberlain
Tourist Attractions in Chamberlain
Here is the list of things to do in Chamberlain and tourist attractions in city.
Silver Dollar Bar
Akta lakota museum, american creek recreation area, jehovah's witnesses, church of jesus christ of latter day saints, jehovah's witnesses kingdom, south dakota hall of fame, chamberlain swimming pool, river hills fellowship.
Where is the Statue of Sioux Woman- heard it was perhaps the third largest monument in SD
I guess you are talking about the Dignity Statue that is also known as the Dignity of Earth & Sky. It is located in South Dakota near Chamberlain off Interstate 90.
Please provide information about the Lewis and Clark River Cruise
The Lewis and Clark River Cruise comes with gracious service, delicious cuisine, nightly entertainment while you are taken to historic destinations. To find out more details about their cruises, it is recommended that you visit the cruise line's official website.
Do you still have the weekend street fair with vendors and games?
I do not think so, but if you want to be sure, you can ask the locals.
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- What to do in Chamberlain in 1 day
- What to do in Chamberlain in 2 days
Lakeview Heights
Sd Highway 44
North Main St
Things to Do in Chamberlain, SD
1. The Smoking Mule
"1- super nice folks 2- awesome food 3- great atmosphere 4- not just dog friendly, do..." more
2. Mi Pueblo Mexican Restaurant
"I had the best plate of my recent trip experience here, chicken and chorizo with a cr..." more
3. Dignity of Earth and Sky
"Absolutely beautiful statue representing indigenous peoples. Strongly recommend to an..." more
4. Akta Lakota Museum & Cultural Center
"This museum was a real fantastic look into the life and culture of the Lakota Sioux I..." more
5. Upper Crust Pizza & Wings
"The shop has a great fun atmosphere. The stools have the carvings of animal butts for..." more
Best Restaurants in Chamberlain, SD
The Smoking Mule
"The mule burger was the best burger that's ever been inside mouth and down my esophagus." See all The Smoking Mule reviews
"The store was crystal clean and the staff was extremely friendly and welcoming ." See all Subway reviews
Mi Pueblo Mexican Restaurant
"This restaurant is very convenient to I-90 and is very large restaurant." See all Mi Pueblo Mexican Restaurant reviews
Charlys Restaurant & Lounge
"Since we were traveling, we asked for a restaurant recommendation at our hotel and they told us to go to Charly 's." See all Charlys Restaurant & Lounge reviews
Arby's
"For a fast food restaurant located by a gas station in basically the middle of nowhere, it was surprisingly very good." See all Arby's reviews
Main St Cafe & Market
"I ordered an anchor burger assuming it was the signature item until the lady told me that she had never seen one and it looked so good that she would order one for herself later." See all Main St Cafe & Market reviews
Upper Crust Pizza & Wings
"We found this gem of a restaurant on our vacation to the Black Hills from Minneapolis." See all Upper Crust Pizza & Wings reviews
Casey's
"Great place frequented by the locals and with a view of the Missouri River ." See all Casey's reviews
Al's Oasis
"Today I felt adventurous and stopped for lunch after crossing over the Missouri river ." See all Al's Oasis reviews
Nightlife in Chamberlain, SD
Commerce Street Grille & Bar
"Great service and lovely atmosphere which we didn't expect when we saw the little town ." See all Commerce Street Grille & Bar reviews
" Small town eateries can be sketchy." See all Club Vega reviews
The 605 Restaurant & Bar
"Driving across country with 4 adults and 6 kids and we were looking for food for a couple hours." See all The 605 Restaurant & Bar reviews
Silver Dollar Bar
The Pour House
Spotted Horse
Hutch's Cafe & Lounge
Sargent's
Shorty's Bar
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COMMENTS
3. Chamberlain Lewis & Clark Welcome Center & Rest Area. 212. Visitor Centers. Rest area with scenic Missouri River views, a museum on the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and the iconic Dignity Statue. Enjoy historical displays and a relaxing environment. Seasonal availability. 4. South Dakota Hall of Fame.
Attractions. This area of central South Dakota is alive with culture and history. ... Dignity of Earth and Sky was gifted to the people of South Dakota by Rapid City businessman Norm McKie and his wife Eunabel in 2016. The 50-foot, stainless steel statue of a Native American woman holds a star quilt over her shoulders as she gazes south over ...
10. Points of Interest & Landmarks • History Museums. Open now. Our mission is to champion a culture of excellence in South Dakota. Excellence exists in many forms and is identified through the success stories of those inducted into the South Dakota Hall of Fame…. 5. Native American National And State Scenic Byway. 1.
Dignity Statue. The Dignity statue is a must-visit for anyone interested in art. This 50-foot-tall stainless steel statue was designed by sculptor Dale Lamphere to honor the cultures of the Lakota and Dakota people. The statue is located on a bluff between exits 263 and 265 on Interstate 90, near Chamberlain.
South Dakota Hall of Fame. 10. Points of Interest & Landmarks • History Museums. By kayn688. So if you want to learn about South Dakota visit Chamberlain it has the variety this state is known for all wrapped up... 3. Native American National And State Scenic Byway. 1. Points of Interest & Landmarks • Scenic Drives.
Interstate 90 Rest Area Above The Missouri River, Chamberlain, SD 57325. Reach out directly. Visit website Call. Full view. Best nearby. Restaurants. 18 within 3 miles. ... While the center is well done and educational they also have a impressive collection of free brochures of attractions in South Dakota. Read more. Written August 3, 2021.
Explore the Mighty Missouri River. One of the top reasons to visit Chamberlain is the captivating beauty of the Missouri River. Meandering through the heart of the city, this majestic river offers a paradise for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and fishing enthusiasts alike.
However, there's more to Chamberlain and Oacoma than the Missouri River. The river's Lake Francis Case Reservoir offers impressive walleye fishing. We also offer several great family campgrounds with nearby hiking, biking and boating access. In the fall, wide-open spaces give pheasant hunters pleasant and eager thoughts.
Explore our Area Located at the crossing of Interstate 90 and the Missouri River, Chamberlain and Oacoma have provided services and rest to travelers for generations. Necessary supplies, refreshing outdoor spaces, unique shopping and outdoor recreation are just the beginning of what we have to offer. Attractions Explore Attractions Dining Explore Dining Shopping Explore Shopping […]
Alicia Underlee Nelson. Published on August 8, 2022. Deep-rooted Lakota and Dakota culture, a love for the outdoors, and a strong connection to the Missouri River link the South Dakota towns of Chamberlain and Oacoma with the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe and Crow Creek Sioux Tribe upriver. Your journey begins on a bluff high above I-90 in the state ...
In the heart of Sioux Country on the banks of the Missouri River in Chamberlain, the Akta Lakota Museum stands as a tribute to the Sioux Nation. Exhibits strive to preserve and promote Sioux culture with a rare combination of contemporary Native arts. www.stjo.org • [email protected]. 605-734-3452 • RES 1-800-798-3452.
Chamberlain Tourism: Tripadvisor has 3,351 reviews of Chamberlain Hotels, Attractions, and Restaurants making it your best Chamberlain travel resource. ... Plan Your Trip to Chamberlain: Best of Chamberlain Tourism. By hd452016. 889. Chamberlain, South Dakota. Essential Chamberlain. Pick a category to filter your recs. Essentials.
Top Things to Do in Chamberlain, South Dakota: See Tripadvisor's 3,362 traveller reviews and photos of Chamberlain tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in October. We have reviews of the best places to see in Chamberlain. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.
Here is the list of things to do in Chamberlain and tourist attractions in city. Silver Dollar Bar 4.4 (50 Votes) Bar. Akta Lakota Museum 4.7 (46 Votes) Museum. ... It is located in South Dakota near Chamberlain off Interstate 90. Report Abuse. Linda Everett 04-Feb-2020 Please provide information about the Lewis and Clark River Cruise ...
3. Chamberlain Lewis & Clark Welcome Center & Rest Area. 212. Visitor Centers. Rest area with scenic Missouri River views, a museum on the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and the iconic Dignity Statue. Enjoy historical displays and a relaxing environment. Seasonal availability. 4. South Dakota Hall of Fame.
Best of Chamberlain: Find must-see tourist attractions and things to do in Chamberlain, South Dakota. Yelp helps you discover popular restaurants, hotels, tours, shopping, and nightlife for your vacation.
Visiting Dignity: Of Earth & Sky. Those traveling through southeastern South Dakota will have no problem making Dignity part of their visit. Dignity is located on I-90 between exits 263 and 265 at the Chamberlain Welcome Center (mile marker 264.4). The Welcome Center is open from mid-May through October, but the statue can be viewed year-round.
If you're a more budget-conscious traveler, then you may want to consider traveling to Chamberlain between March and May, when hotel prices are generally the lowest. Peak hotel prices generally start between June and August. Chamberlain Tourism: Tripadvisor has 3,360 reviews of Chamberlain Hotels, Attractions, and Restaurants making it your ...
Hunting & Fishing. Chamberlain/Oacoma is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts in all seasons. Whether you are looking for a self-guided adventure or choose to enlist a pro, we've got all the resources you need for the perfect trip. Easy to get to off Interstate 90, our location on the Missouri River is ideal for the pursuit pheasants, deer and ...
3. Chamberlain Lewis & Clark Welcome Center & Rest Area. 212. Visitor Centres. Rest area with scenic Missouri River views, a museum on the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and the iconic Dignity Statue. Enjoy historical displays and a relaxing environment. Seasonal availability. 4. South Dakota Hall of Fame.
3. Chamberlain Lewis & Clark Welcome Center & Rest Area. 212. Visitor Centres. Rest area with scenic Missouri River views, a museum on the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and the iconic Dignity Statue. Enjoy historical displays and a relaxing environment. Seasonal availability. 4. South Dakota Hall of Fame.
Get Directions. 112 N Main Street, Chamberlain, SD 57325. (605) 234-4416. Details. The Chamberlain-Oacoma Area Chamber of Commerce/CVB is your one-stop information service for south central South Dakota. Chamberlain and Oacoma are located at the crossroads of Interstate 90 and the majestic Missouri River. Contact us for information about our ...
3. Chamberlain Lewis & Clark Welcome Center & Rest Area. 212. Visitor Centres. Rest area with scenic Missouri River views, a museum on the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and the iconic Dignity Statue. Enjoy historical displays and a relaxing environment. Seasonal availability. 4. South Dakota Hall of Fame.