What’s There to Do in Wall in Winter?

The weather outside might be frightful, but did you know there’s still lots to do in Wall that’s truly delightful?

From enjoying the Badlands National Park (with hardly a hint of traffic!) to shopping at any one of our amazing, locally owned businesses, one thing’s for sure:

There’s a lot to do in Wall no matter what time of the year it is.

Here’s your guide to enjoying the very best of what Wall has to offer… Even in the winter! 

Things to Do in Wall in the Winter

Wall Drug

The first thing you need to do before braving the South Dakota chill?

Caffeinate!

Thankfully, you can still grab a cup o’ Joe at Wall Drug for only five cents. Brewed fresh daily, too. Wow!

While you’re there, be sure to grab a homemade donut. Chocolate, vanilla, maple, plain. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside. There’s a reason why they’ve been known to sell over a million of these sweet treats every year.

You can also pick out a kitschy souvenir or two for everyone on your Christmas list as you explore all 76,000 sq. ft. of Wall Drug’s retail space.

Even better? You’ll easily hit your goal of taking 10,000 daily steps along the way. 

Places to Eat in Wall in Winter

Speaking of walking, you’ll want to check out some of our amazing local restaurants to keep from getting hangry.

• Badlands Bodega: A little bit of everything, from beer and wine to candy and groceries. Did we mention they’ve got Krispy Krunchy Chicken? Yum! 
• Badlands Saloon & Grille: How can you resist their famous Badlands Burger? Maybe because their Badlands Rattlesnake Pizza was calling your name… 
• Salty Steer: Spaghetti and Buffalo Meatballs, Steer Mac & Cheese, Mushroom & Steak Ravioli… is your mouth watering yet? Don’t forget to save room for their Fried Waffle! 

Places to Shop in Wall in Winter

Now you’re refreshed and ready to shop your way through our locally owned, amazing retailers that remain open even as temperatures begin to drop. These include:

• 4th Avenue Floral: Why not buy a beautiful bouquet of flowers for your favorite person? These freshly cut stems are sure to brighten up a dreary winter day. 
• Badlands and Co: From locally made products to brand swag, their shelves are stocked with one-of-a-kind goods. 
• Badlands Harley Davidson: The ultimate pit stop for motorcycle fans and adventurers. Check out the wide range of HD gear and accessories from the friendliest staff around. 
• Black Hills Gold Diggers: Beautifully handcrafted jewelry made from distinct, tri-color gold, with each piece going through a minimum of 40 different steps during its creation. 
• Dakota Sky Stone: It’ll be love at first sight when you lay eyes on their authentic Native American made, locally USA made jewelry and turquoise. 
• Out West Quilt and Fabric: Handmade quilts and notions that will keep you and yours cozy during the frosty months.
• The Little Outpost: From barrel jeans to the cutest, coziest cardigans, your closet will never be the same after browsing this “gotta have it” selection of women’s clothing. 

The Badlands National Park

Did you know that when the Badlands was first proposed as a park in 1922, the suggested name was Wonderland National Park?

Today, this geological wonder of land draws millions of visitors from around the globe, most of which come during the summer months.

That’s why visiting the Badlands is one of the best things to do in Wall during the winter! Less traffic, less congestion, more time to savor every beautifully snow capped butte at your own pace.

The Badlands website is a treasure trove of useful information, but here’s a quick FAQ to get you started. 

Q: Is the Badlands National Park Open During the Winter?

A: Yes! The Badlands National Park is open 24/7, year-round although some roads may be closed due to winter weather. So, the first thing you want to do is check the road conditions before heading out. 

Q: Is the Badlands Free in the Winter Months?

A: No. Entrance fees for the Badlands are collected year-round. And did you know that around 80% of all the money from entrance fees remain in the park where it was collected? They’re super important for helping support and maintain America’s beautiful national parks, including the Badlands. 

Q: Are Any of the Visitor Centers Open in the Badlands During the Winter?

A; The Ben Reifel Visitor Center remains open from October through April from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. It is closed on all federal holidays. 

Q: Is it Worth Visiting the Badlands in the Winter?

A: Yes! Visiting the Badlands during the “off” season will give you an entirely different experience and is totally worth braving the cold.

Expect to see very few people and a lot of wildlife. Bison, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, prairie dogs, mule deer and maybe a coyote or two may be visible as you meander along the scenic drive.  

Visiting in the “off season” also gives you plenty of time to take in those snow covered buttes at your own pace. Imagine pulling off to one of the park’s overlooks and stepping out to savor the peaceful stillness that surrounds you. If you’re lucky, you may catch a few snowflakes along the way, turning the scene into a beautiful snow globe.

And if staying in the cozy, warm comfort of your car is more your speed, remember that you will still see many of the park’s iconic landmarks as you drive along. 

Places to Stay in Wall in Winter

Now that you’re all tuckered out, do you really want to make the long drive home? Why not make it an overnight trip by staying in one of our local hotels!

• Travelodge by Wyndham: Less than 10 minutes from Wall Drug! Includes free WiFi. Please note that this seasonal hotel is closed from January 1st through March 31st. 
• Days Inn by Wyndham: Free WiFi and a complementary daily continental breakfast located just off of I90. 
  Econo Lodge: Located close to I90, this pet friendly hotel includes free WiFi
  American Best Value Inn: Easily accessible via Exit 109 or 110 off of I90, your stay includes a free hot deluxe continental breakfast and free WiFi 

Ready to Go to Wall?

We’d love to see you anytime of the year, but we think you’ll find Wall to be particularly charming in the winter.

Come and see for yourself!