(Pierre, SD) — As Labor Day marks the unofficial end of tourist season, South Dakota wraps up a slower year for travel. Attractions like Reptile Gardens in Rapid City saw visitor numbers drop by up to ten percent in July, though staff say there’s no cause for alarm after a strong showing last year. Across the state, tourism was generally down except for the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, which saw an 11 percent bump in traffic and higher tax revenue. Industry leaders point to inflation, political tension, and economic uncertainty as reasons some families chose to stay home. But there’s hope for a strong fall and an even bigger rebound in 2026 when the country celebrates its 250th birthday, and Mount Rushmore is expected to take center stage.
