Yes.
The Southeast region of South Dakota has generated more in tourism revenue for the state than the Black Hills and Badlands for three consecutive years.
Data from the Department of Tourism shows that the Southeast region generated $2 billion in revenue compared to $1.9 billion for Black Hills and Badlands in 2024. Margins were similar in 2022 and 2023.
The state divides the state into four regions: Black Hills and Badlands (the western-most part of the state), Missouri River (counties that border the river on its north-soute route), Glacial Lakes and Prairies (northeast) and Southeast (Sioux Falls, Yankton and Mitchell areas).
The Glacial Lakes and Prairies Region was third in visitor spending in 2024 and Missouri River fourth. Region data hasn't been released for 2025.
While western South Dakota tourism focuses on outdoors and traditional tourism sites, Southeast is driven by weekend excursions, retail, events, shows and restaurant visits.
This fact brief responds to conversations such as this one.
Sources
South Dakota News Watch, Southeast SD surges ahead of Black Hills in tourism revenue
South Dakota Department of Tourism, 2024 region report
State of South Dakota, 2025 shows continued strength for South Dakota's tourism industry
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This story was produced by South Dakota News Watch, an independent, nonprofit organization. Read more stories and donate at sdnewswatch.org and sign up for an email to get stories when they're published. Contact Michael Klinski at michael.klinski@sdnewswatch.org.
