Discover Pierre: Capitol, museums, and nature

Pierre offers a variety of visitor experiences: history at the State Capitol, interactive exhibits, and trails through natural and riverside landscapes. If you’re looking for a hotel in Pierre, you can start by considering which of these experiences will shape your trip. The sites differ in their subject matter and visitor experience—from a courtroom open to the public to hiking and biking trails.

Capitol, Courtroom, and Remembrance

The South Dakota Supreme Court courtroom is located in Pierre’s State Capitol. A visitor notice dated January 7, 2026, lists Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., as the hours for public visits. Check the hours before your trip so you can plan your visit accordingly.

The Trail of Governors takes visitors through downtown Pierre and around the State Capitol Complex. Another named route is the Capitol Creek Walk, which connects the Capitol grounds with the Riverwalk. This makes it possible to combine a visit to the Capitol Complex with both a historical stop and a walking route.

The Fighting Stallions Memorial is also located on the Capitol grounds. It honors eight South Dakota residents, including Governor George Mickelson, who died in a plane crash in 1993. The memorial provides a specific historical connection, while the Trail of Governors takes visitors through downtown and around the Capitol Complex.

Interactive Exhibits and Collections

The South Dakota Discovery Center in Pierre has more than 60 interactive exhibits and an indoor treehouse. Visitors who enjoy exploring exhibits firsthand will find hands-on activities here. The exhibits and treehouse offer a different kind of experience from looking through historical documents or memorabilia.

The Lewis & Clark Family Center on Farm Island in Pierre offers interactive exhibits that provide an engaging way to learn about the history of the United States. The center is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. As seasonal hours may change, check whether it will be open during your travel dates.

The South Dakota National Guard Museum in Pierre is the state’s collection of artifacts, memorabilia, and historical documents related to the National Guard’s activities. Its history spans from the late 19th century to more recent peacekeeping missions. Opening hours may change, so check the current hours before your visit. Its subject matter and historical scope distinguish the collection from the interactive offerings at the other two institutions.

Natural Areas and Trails Along the Missouri

LaFramboise Island Nature Area in Pierre is covered with trees and meadows that provide habitat for a variety of wildlife and bird species. It has hiking and biking trails as well as a boat ramp. The landscape, wildlife and birds, and trails are the main features to explore during a visit outdoors.

The Riverwalk/Bicycle Path runs for 14 miles along the banks of the Missouri River. Its stated length and riverside route distinguish it from the trails in LaFramboise Island Nature Area, which are for hiking and biking. The Capitol Creek Walk, in turn, is described as a connection between the Capitol grounds and the Riverwalk. These route descriptions give you different points of reference without combining them into a single trail.

Your plans can include a range of themes: historic sites at the Capitol, interactive exhibits, a collection about the history of the National Guard, and nature and riverside trails. Which of these will shape your stay depends on whether you’d rather focus on history, exhibits, or outdoor activities.

For an overview of the broader trip: Hughes County.