Wall Drug
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Wall Drug

The famous roadside drugstore at the edge of the Badlands.

Wall Drug in Wall, South Dakota, began as a small drugstore in the 1930s and became a roadside legend by offering free ice water to travelers. Today it is a sprawling complex of shops, restaurants and quirky photo spots.

It sits at the gateway to Badlands National Park, so it pairs naturally with a Badlands day. It is a long drive from the cabin, so plan for a full day.

Highlights

  • Free ice water, a tradition since the 1930s
  • Doughnuts, a cafe and shops
  • A giant jackalope and other photo spots
  • The gateway to Badlands National Park

Local tips

  • It is a long day from Custer: leave early and combine it with the Badlands Loop Road.
  • Expect crowds in summer.
  • Watch for the roadside signs along I-90, which count down the miles.

Also nearby

The closest other places in the guide to Wall Drug.

about 21 mi from here
Towns & day trips

Badlands National Park

Striped spires and big sky, a long day trip east.

about 50 mi from here
Towns & day trips

Rapid City

The Black Hills' biggest city: murals, bronze presidents and family attractions.

about 50 mi from here
History & family fun

Dinosaur Park

Giant concrete dinosaurs on a hilltop above Rapid City.