Why go
Wall is at first sight a small town with less than 1,000 inhabitants. But hardly any place along Interstate 90 is more famous. For decades, countless advertising signs have attracted travelers from all directions to Wall – and almost every road trip through South Dakota leads past here sooner or later.
The city is known for its legendary Wall Drug, but it has much more to offer. It is the western entrance gate to Badlands National Park and is an excellent starting point for hiking tours, Scenic Drives and overnight stays with the camper.
Many travelers stay for a short stop. However, if you spend one night in Wall, you can experience the Badlands National Park at sunrise or sunset almost without crowds.
At a glance
Category | Information
Inhabitants | Approximately 800
Ideal stay | 1⁄2–1 day
Fifth-wheel access | Check your vehicle, specific campsite and approach road.
Shopping | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Family Friendly | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Wall Drug
Wall Drug is far more than a pharmacy. For decades, one of the most famous road trip attractions in the USA developed from a small drugstore.
Today, the complex includes:
several restaurants
Bakery
Gift shops
Bookstore
Western Article
Cowboy clothing
Art galleries
small museums
Wall Drug was originally known for its free ice water for travellers – a tradition that has been maintained to this day.
Insider tip
Many visitors arrive only in the afternoon. If you stop by right after opening, Wall Drug experiences much more relaxed.
Downtown Wall
The main road exudes the charm of a classic western city.
Here you can find:
Small boutiques
Arts and crafts
Cafés
Western shops
Ideal for a leisurely walk.
National Grasslands Visitor Center
An often overlooked visitor centre with exciting information about the prairies of the American West.
Topics include:
Animal life
Plants
Geology
History of the Great Plains
Admission is free of charge.
Wounded Knee Museum (exhibition)
A small exhibition informs about the history of Lakota and the events surrounding the massacre of Wounded Knee.
It provides an important insight into the history of the region and complements the visit to the Black Hills in an impressive way.
Walk through Wall Drug
The exploration of the various shops alone can take several hours.
Especially popular:
Photos with the giant Jackalope
homemade donuts
Western clothing
Bookstore
Badlands at sunrise
Many experienced campers spend the night in Wall and drive to the National Park early in the morning.
Photo Tip
From the city centre to the Pinnacles Entrance of Badlands National Park, it's just a few minutes away.
Discover local art
Several small galleries present works by regional artists and photographers.
Shopping
Wall is one of the best places in South Dakota for classic road trip souvenirs.
Recommended are:
Western clothing
Cowboy hats
Leather belt
Boots
souvenirs
National Park Books
Postcards
Jewelry of the Lakota
Regional specialities
Food
Small supermarkets meet daily needs.
Rapid City is recommended for larger purchases.
Wall Drug Café
The most famous address in the city.
Absolutely try:
Buffalo Burger
homemade donuts
Pie
Milkshakes
Love of the locals
The famous Hot Beef Sandwich has been one of the classics for decades.
Red Rock Restaurant
Rustic American cuisine.
Ideal for steaks and burgers.
Cactus Café
Popular for breakfast and coffee.
Sleepy Hollow Campground
The most popular RV park in the city.
Benefits:
Full Hook-up
Large pull-through pitches
minutes from Badlands National Park
Ideal for large Fifth Wheels.
Wall Camp & RV Park
Quiet alternative with good equipment.
Cedar Pass Campground
If you prefer to stay directly in the national park, you will find one of the most beautiful campsites in South Dakotas.
No hook-ups.
But spectacular sunrises.
RV tip
Wall is an excellent supply stop. Tank here, buy food and then drive relaxed into Badlands National Park.
Photo Tip
The illuminated facades of Wall Drug look particularly atmospheric after sunset and offer beautiful motifs for night shots.
Savings Tip
Many souvenirs and Western items are cheaper in Wall than in the tourist shops around Mount Rushmore.
Avoid frequent errors
Plan more time for Wall Drug than you think at first – the complex is much bigger than expected.
In the high season it can be very crowded between 11 and 15 o'clock.
If you want to visit Badlands National Park, start early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the biggest heat and crowd.
Our recommendation
Wall is one of those places that embody the classic American road trip. Of course, Wall Drug is touristy – but that's exactly what makes it all its charm. Between historical advertising signs, western shops and nostalgic flair you feel moved into a different time.