Does Southeast SD generate more tourism dollars than the Black Hills?

The Southeast region of South Dakota has generated more in tourism revenue for the state than the Black Hills and Badlands for three consecutive years.

Data from the Department of Tourism shows that the Southeast region generated $2 billion in revenue compared to $1.9 billion for Black Hills and Badlands in 2024. Margins were similar in 2022 and 2023. 

The state divides the state into four regions: Black Hills and Badlands (the western-most part of the state), Missouri River (counties that border the river on its north-soute route), Glacial Lakes and Prairies (northeast) and Southeast (Sioux Falls, Yankton and Mitchell areas).

The Glacial Lakes and Prairies Region was third in visitor spending in 2024 and Missouri River fourth. Region data hasn’t been released for 2025.

While western South Dakota tourism focuses on outdoors and traditional tourism sites, Southeast is driven by weekend excursions, retail, events, shows and restaurant visits.