If you’re road tripping across South Dakota on Interstate 90, it’s hard to miss billboards advertising the Corn Palace in the town of Mitchell. Drawing over a half million visitors each year and perhaps best described as an agricultural showplace, the Corn Palace showcases works of art created using native grasses, grains, and twelve colors of corn to create life-size murals inside and outside the building.
Interior Murals at the Corn Palace
What to See at the Corn Palace
Recently renovated with a grand entry, interactive exhibits, the installation of light-up domes, and access to the building’s second floor gallery space, visitors are welcome to experience the larger murals located on the building’s exterior from the walk-out building and observation deck. In late fall, the previous year’s outdoor murals are stripped one-by-one from the building and redecorated according to a new and different theme. This is also a great spot for a selfie or group photo.
The Corn Palace mosaics can be found outside and inside the building. (photo by Heather Lusk)
Admission to the Corn Palace is always free; there’s a small gift shop located within the building as well as another gift shop across the street. You’ll find concessions within the building and restaurants located in within walking distance within the downtown Mitchell business district. Before you go, look up the dates for the Corn Palace Festival, an annual “overflow” event with carnival rides, food, and entertainment.
Where to Stay in Mitchell, SD
Looking for more places to visit in South Dakota, check out our suggestions for Pierre, Sioux Falls, the Black Hills, and more.
Happy Trails!