USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial
Explore the legacy of the USS South Dakota (BB-57) at this unique memorial featuring actual battleship parts and a free museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the legacy of the USS South Dakota (BB-57) at this unique memorial featuring actual battleship parts and a free museum.
"A wonderfully done museum with great staff and exhibits, highly recommend for military and history lovers!"
Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy the entire memorial and museum at no cost. A fantastic value for history buffs and families alike!
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be walking around the outdoor grounds to see the ship's outline, so comfortable footwear is key.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Battleship Memorial Grounds
Outdoor exhibit area
Walk the outline of the mighty USS South Dakota, visualizing its immense scale and historical significance.
Free Museum & Artifacts
Indoor museum
Discover a wealth of WWII photos, artifacts, and historical accounts detailing the ship's storied career.
Historical Significance
Throughout the memorial
Learn about the USS South Dakota's crucial role in major Pacific battles from Guadalcanal to Tokyo Bay.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to the USS South Dakota
Free Museum & Outdoor Exhibits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy the entire memorial and museum at no cost. A fantastic value for history buffs and families alike!
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be walking around the outdoor grounds to see the ship's outline, so comfortable footwear is key.
Explore the Museum :books:
Don't miss the free museum packed with photos and artifacts detailing the ship's impressive history.
Great for All Ages :family_child:
This memorial offers an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages, from kids to adults.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy the entire memorial and museum at no cost. A fantastic value for history buffs and families alike!
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be walking around the outdoor grounds to see the ship's outline, so comfortable footwear is key.
Explore the Museum :books:
Don't miss the free museum packed with photos and artifacts detailing the ship's impressive history.
Great for All Ages :family_child:
This memorial offers an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages, from kids to adults.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial for its unique approach to honoring naval history, particularly the free museum and the outdoor footprint exhibit. Many highlight its educational value for all ages and its significance as a tribute to the ship and its crew. Some wish for more extensive exhibits, but the overall sentiment is highly positive.
"The USS South Dakota battleship is definitely a must see for tourists coming to Sioux Falls. They have parts of the battleship laid out on the property as if it was sitting there in real life. They also have a free museum that has many great old photos, artifacts, and lots of historical information about the battleship and it's journey."
B A
"Wonderfully done museum with great staff and exhibits. Highly recommend for military, history lovers, kids, and curious minds. Good layout and the grounds are set up in a way to see the outline and features of the ship. Great experience and worth the stop in on a road trip!"
Alicia Jobe
"What a wonderful and novel way to pay tribute to the battleship named after this state. Many components of the actual battleship were shipped to Sioux Falls after decommissioning. As a student of public history, this is an effective way of showing to the public authentic WWII artifacts. From Guadalcanal to Iwo Jima to Tokyo Bay, this ship saw major events in the Pacific theater. How fortunate for South Dakota to have her namesake proudly displayed in such a memorable and educational fashion."
Daniel Bacon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The memorial is located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. It's easily accessible by car and is a popular stop for those on road trips through the state.
Yes, there is typically ample parking available at the memorial site, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
The outdoor grounds and museum are generally accessible, though specific accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the memorial.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to both the outdoor memorial grounds and the indoor museum is completely free, making it a highly accessible attraction.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or contact the memorial directly for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times.
No, advance booking is not required as the memorial and museum offer free admission. You can visit anytime during their operating hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can walk the outline of the battleship on the grounds, explore the free museum with historical artifacts and photos, and learn about the ship's WWII service. +1
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring the grounds and the museum. You can spend more time if you're deeply interested in naval history.
Absolutely! It's a great educational experience for kids, allowing them to visualize the ship's size and learn about history in an engaging way.
While there might not be formal guided tours, the museum exhibits and informational displays provide a comprehensive understanding of the ship's history.
📸 📸 Photography
The outdoor grounds offer great perspectives to capture the ship's footprint against the sky. The museum also has interesting displays for photos.
Photography is generally allowed inside the museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The free museum offers engaging exhibits with plenty of photos and artifacts that can capture a child's attention. It's a chance to spark curiosity about history and the bravery of those who served. The accessible layout makes it easy for strollers and little legs to navigate. Consider it a fun and educational stop that offers a unique perspective on American history.
💰 Budget Travelers
This makes it an ideal stop for anyone looking for a meaningful and enriching experience that doesn't strain the wallet. It's a highly recommended attraction for its historical value and the quality of its exhibits, all offered at no cost.
📚 History Buffs & Military Enthusiasts
The free museum is packed with detailed information, photographs, and artifacts that offer deep insights into the ship's campaigns and the lives of its crew. You'll learn about its critical role in major Pacific battles and the technological advancements of its time. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the stories of courage and sacrifice.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the USS South Dakota (BB-57)
After decommissioning in 1947, many of her retired parts were distributed to various locations. Sioux Falls, South Dakota, was fortunate to receive a significant portion, leading to the creation of this unique memorial. The memorial serves not only as a tribute to the ship but also to the bravery and resilience of the sailors who served aboard her. It's a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made during the war and the enduring spirit of naval service.
Visiting the memorial offers a tangible connection to this history. The outdoor exhibit allows visitors to walk the footprint of the ship, visualizing its immense size, while the free museum provides a deep dive into its operational history, showcasing authentic artifacts and personal stories. It’s an immersive experience that brings the past to life for all who visit.
Exploring the Memorial Grounds and Museum
Adjacent to the outdoor exhibit is the free museum, which is a treasure trove of historical information. Inside, you'll find a compelling collection of photographs, personal mementos, and artifacts that tell the story of the USS South Dakota and its crew. The exhibits cover the ship's wartime journey, highlighting key battles and the daily life of sailors. The museum staff are often praised for their knowledge and passion, enhancing the visitor experience.
Many visitors find the combination of the outdoor footprint and the indoor museum to be a powerful way to connect with naval history. It’s a place that resonates with military enthusiasts, history buffs, and families alike, offering a unique and educational outing. The memorial is a testament to the ship's legacy and a poignant reminder of its service.
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