The Dakotas: Reasons for This Sibling Rivalry of Epic Proportions

The Dakotas, America’s frosty siblings, have been rivals since their split in 1889. Each state boasts unique attractions and quirks, often overshadowed by their friendly bickering. From natural wonders to quirky roadside stops, which Dakota comes out on top? Let’s dive into a round-by-round comparison.

1. Mount Rushmore vs. Theodore Roosevelt National Park

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South Dakota throws the first punch with Mount Rushmore, the iconic monument to American presidents carved into the Black Hills. It’s a symbol of national pride and a testament to human determination and skill.

2. The Enchanted Highway vs. Corn Palace

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North Dakota counters with The Enchanted Highway, featuring massive metal sculptures that turn a drive into an art gallery. In response, South Dakota parades the Corn Palace, a uniquely American folk art spectacle, adorned with murals made from corn and grains.

3. Sturgis Motorcycle Rally vs. Norsk Høstfest

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The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally revs South Dakota’s engines, drawing leather-clad enthusiasts from around the globe for the ultimate gathering of bikes and bikers. North Dakota responds with the Norsk Høstfest, celebrating Scandinavian heritage with one of the largest festivals of its kind in North America.

4. Badlands National Park vs. Red River Valley

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South Dakota’s Badlands National Park offers surreal landscapes and ancient fossils, presenting a stark beauty that’s almost alien. North Dakota’s Red River Valley boasts some of the most fertile farmland in the nation, painting a picture of pastoral perfection.

5. Deadwood vs. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park

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The historic town of Deadwood, where Wild West legends like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane once roamed, adds a point to South Dakota’s score. North Dakota counters with Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, a key military outpost and the departure point for the ill-fated Custer’s Last Stand.

6. Black Hills vs. Lake Sakakawea

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South Dakota’s Black Hills offer a mix of majestic scenery and sacred ground, home to Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial. North Dakota boasts Lake Sakakawea, one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the US, offering endless water recreation and fishing.

7. Wall Drug vs. The Geographic Center of North America

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Wall Drug, the kitschy drugstore-meets-tourist-attraction in South Dakota, is known for its free ice water and eclectic assortment of merchandise. North Dakota stakes its claim with the Geographic Center of North America in Rugby, a monument marking the middle of a continent.

8. Custer State Park vs. International Peace Garden

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Custer State Park showcases South Dakota’s wildlife and outdoor adventure, with roaming bison herds and scenic drives. The International Peace Garden, straddling the North Dakota-Canadian border, symbolizes peace and friendship between nations, set within a beautiful parkland.

9. Wind Cave National Park vs. Knife River Indian Villages

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South Dakota’s Wind Cave National Park is one of the oldest parks in the nation, offering unique underground explorations. North Dakota’s Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site provides a glimpse into the lives of the Northern Plains tribes.

10. Crazy Horse Memorial vs. Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center

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The Crazy Horse Memorial, still under construction, is South Dakota’s monument to the Native American warrior and promises to be the world’s largest sculpture. North Dakota’s Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Washburn expands on the explorers’ journey, offering insights into their expedition’s impact on American history.

The Dust Settles

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As the final bell rings, it’s clear that both Dakotas pack a punch with their array of attractions, natural beauty, and rich history. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged landscapes and monumental carvings of South Dakota or the historical depth and cultural celebrations of North Dakota, there’s no denying the unique charm each state brings to the table. So, why choose a side when you can explore both and double the adventure? Here’s to the Dakotas, where the spirit of the American frontier lives on.