World's Only Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota
One of my goals this past summer was to spend time with my kids being tourists in our own area. Due to a change in the academic calendar for this year, our summer was cut about 4 weeks short. Anyhow, my kids are no different than any others. They love video games, iPads, phones etc. Which actually doesn't bother me to some extent. And is no fault of their own. This is the era they have grown up in. But I do consider it my job to make sure we create a balance.
After some planning, I realized my own children had never been to the Corn Palace, in Mitchell, South Dakota; just one hour from our home. How did this even happen? My son is 13 years old! But honestly, I hadn't been there for so many years either, so it was the perfect place to plan an afternoon trip and spend some time. My younger sister happened to be in town from Chicago as well, so she came along for the day!
The Corn Palace is located in downtown Mitchell. In the summer months you can get a free guided tour, or you are welcome to tour on your own as well. The exterior murals of the corn palace is made entirely of corn! It is so incredible. The murals change yearly so even if you have been before, you must visit again! The interior has photographs showing the corn palace through history. Their is even a video you can watch! Make sure to head out on the balcony on the 2nd floor to get a view through the main downtown corridor!
Did I mention is it free to visit!? You can buy souvenirs at the gift shop or walk along the streets of downtown Mitchell and visit any of the cute local shops and boutiques! We stopped at an adorable cupcake and ice cream shop as well as many clothing and home decor boutiques. I was amazed at how cute Mitchell really is and wondered why it had taken me so long to come back! Typically I come to Mitchell to either go to Cabela's or drop the dogs off at our favorite kennel (which will remain a secret so they don't get too full to take our dogs! ha!) But I am so glad I decided to venture into this community and spend some time as a tourist!
South Dakota is an incredible place. Much of the tourism focuses on the Black Hills part of the state out west, but the east end should not be left out! If you are planning a trip and need some help with ideas throughout the state, let me know! I am happy to offer great suggestions from east to west and back again!
Have you been to the corn palace? I'd love to hear about your experience in the comments!
