Grand River Museum

About this activity

It's all about the history of the USA, and also South Dakota, at the impressive Grand River Museum, featuring a number of displays that explore life on the ranch, as well as old time entertainments, Native American history, the Bismarck-Deadwood Trail and the history of the area. 

Founded by Stuart and Lisa Schmidt, the museum was lucky to have cowboys and families from all over donate artifacts and pictures to display at the museum, which makes the collections extra special - you know they really are embracing local cultures and history!

The Grand River runs right through the Schmidt Ranch, and in fact, 90% of the fossils that you see in the museum were found on that property, which is pretty incredible when you think of it!

You can see the skull of a Pachycephalosaurus (bonus points if you can pronounce that!) which was dug up at the ranch, and is actually a done-headed dinosaur. 

Kids can see the teeth of a T-Rex, as well as a Triceratops skull - and did you know that the Triceratops is the South Dakota state fossil? Check out the Triceratops Cowboy sculpture too, which will greet you when you arrive!

Immerse yourselves in Native American history as you learn about notable figures and traditions, including Sitting Bull who became the most respected leader of all the Lakota People, and most recognized Indian of all times.

A fascinating day out at the Grand River Museum, which really embraces exactly what South Dakota is all about.