Today I’m just going to do an image dump for your viewing pleasure. No magical descriptions or explanations. No other obstructions getting in your way of enjoying these photos. So, here goes…
Wall, South Dakota
Wall South Dakota is a quirky town with an abundance of touristy delights! Renowned for its close proximity to the iconic Wall Drug Store, visitors can’t resist exploring the town and especially Wall Drug. From its vibrant, larger-than-life roadside sculptures to its nostalgic Western-themed shops, the main street is a haven for souvenir hunters and photo enthusiasts alike.
Inside Wall Drug Store, you’ll find a bustling and eclectic emporium that has grown from a humble pharmacy to a sprawling tourist destination. The store is filled with a diverse array of merchandise, ranging from souvenirs and gifts to clothing, jewelry, and local crafts. From the moment you step in, you’ll be greeted by a collection of larger-than-life sculptures, including a giant dinosaur and a towering jackalope, perfect for unique and fun photo opportunities. As you explore further, you’ll stumble upon a fascinating assortment of rare and unusual gifts, such as locally crafted Native American art, cowboy boots, and intricate leather goods. Don’t forget to taste the famous free ice water, a tradition that dates back to Wall Drug’s early days, and indulge in their delicious homemade fudge or a classic buffalo burger.
Wall South Dakota Dinosaur
The small town of Wall, South Dakota, is known for its iconic roadside attraction: the dinosaur statue that stands tall at the entrance of the town. This larger-than-life sculpture has become a beloved landmark and an important part of Wall’s identity.
Standing at 60 feet tall and 80 feet long, the dinosaur statue is hard to miss. It is a replica of an Apatosaurus, also known as a Brontosaurus, which roamed the earth more than 150 million years ago during the Jurassic Period. The statue is made of concrete and steel, and its design is based on fossilized skeletons of the ancient creature.
The statue was built in 1964 by Emmet Sullivan, a local entrepreneur who owned a nearby gas station and motel. Sullivan wanted to attract more visitors to the area, and he believed that a giant dinosaur statue would do the trick. He commissioned a local artist, Elmer Petersen, to design and construct the sculpture, and the two worked tirelessly to bring the Apatosaurus to life.
The statue quickly became a hit with tourists, and it still draws crowds to this day. Visitors from all over the world come to take photos with the dinosaur and marvel at its massive size. The statue has also been featured in numerous films and TV shows, including the popular HBO series “Deadwood.”
The Bad Lands
Our next stop after the Dignity rest stop was the Badlands. Specifically the free camping area called “The Wall” or “Nomad View”. This was our view out of our RV for the next two weeks as we explored Badlands National Park, the town of Wall, South Dakota, and the surrounding area. More info upcoming.