Experience an archaeological dig (enclosed and air conditioned) at the Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village where you can see excavations in progress and visit the reconstruction of a lodge house that people lived in around 1000 C.E. There is a great deal to see and experience here, with hands-on exhibits for kids and even a miniature sandbox “dig” where they can find their own treasures. And now for something completely different: Mitchell is home to the fabulous Corn Palace, which resembles nothing more than a Russian Orthodox cathedral gone agricultural. Built in 1892 to stimulate economic growth, the palace’s walls were made with 3,000 bushels of corn.
If the Midwest feels like quintessential Americana, then you will not want to miss the Starlite Drive-In, an icon of the mid-20th century that is rapidly disappearing. A staff person will sell you tickets while another thoughtfully cleans your windshield. If you arrive early for the movie, you can spend some time playing miniature golf. Bring lawn chairs for the ultimate in drive-in comfort. Mix art and history and you have the Dakota Discovery Museum, where you can see exhibits on the plains Indians, fur trade, railroads and farming and ranching. A village complex allows you to step back in time as you walk through reconstructions of a home, railroad depot, church and one-room schoolhouse. Quillwork and beadwork displays highlight the art of the various plains tribes, including Sioux, Meti, Chippewa-Ojibway and Plains Cree. The Corn Palace’s memorabilia is important to Mitchell, and you can see more of it at the Carnegie Resource Center, a beautiful library that also houses the work of one of the Midwest’s most famous artists, Oscar Howe.
If you are a true car lover, then it is worth the steep admission price to visit the Telstar Mustang Shelby Cobra Museum, where you will see an exhaustive collection of these quintessential American cars: not only are there Shelbys from every year, but there are rare cars as well, including Jet Drag Pack convertibles.
When looking for a hotel in Mitchell, South Dakota, check out the Choice Hotels properties listed above. Whether your interest is learning about the Plains Indians, viewing South Dakota art or checking out unique automobiles, there is something here for you to enjoy.