The state of South Dakota, named for the Dakota branch of the Sioux Indian Nation, tells the story of America's westward expansion in a way that simply cannot be found elsewhere in the country. From gold discoveries to battles with Indians, South Dakota is a state that fulfills the typical Hollywood image of the Old West. However, visitors to this fascinating state will find that South Dakota's history is far more interesting than any Hollywood Western they've ever seen. All in all, South Dakota offers visitors the adventure of a lifetime. South Dakota Natural Attractions One of South Dakota's finest natural attractions is Badlands National Park near Rapid City. This national park includes 244,000 acres of protected land that is home to wildlife such as bison and antelope. In addition to this, numerous fossils are found within the park which provide an interesting glimpse into the geological past of this land. With hundreds of miles of hiking trails and numerous other visitor activities, Badlands National Park is a natural attraction that nature lovers are sure to appreciate. Another great natural attraction in South Dakota is the Black Hills National Forest near Deadwood. This magnificent forest covers an area 125 miles long and 65 miles wide and features some of the most majestic rock formations and canyons found anywhere in the United States. In addition to its rock formations, this forest offers some of the best biking and hiking trails found anywhere in the United States. All in all, visitors to the Black Hills National Forest leave with a deeper appreciation for the stunning natural beauty found in this region. South Dakota Cultural Attractions In addition to having numerous...... middle of paper.. ....uth Dakota an adventure to remember for the rest of your life. Sources “Top 10 Vacation Attractions in South Dakota,” Choice Hotels http://centralus.choicehotels.com/south-dakota-hotels/top10attractions “Most Popular Attractions,” South Dakota.com http:/ /www. southdakota.com/most-popular-attractions/328"South Dakota", Wikipediahttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Dakota"Badlands National Park", National Park Servicehttp://www.nps.gov/ badl/index.htm"Black Hills National Forest", South Dakota.comhttp://www.southdakota.com/black-hills-national-forest/103"Black Hills National Forest" , US Forest Servicehttp://webcache.googleusercontent .com/search?q=cache:-ibL4Cz7AvIJ:fs.usda.gov/blackhills+black+hills+national+forest&cd=1&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=us&client=firefox-a“Wall Drug”, South Dakota.comhttp:/ /www.southdakota.com/wall-drug/282