West Dakota

When North and South Dakota became states in 1889 after 27 years in
territorial limbo, the political differences between the two regions had
escalated to the point where they could have never entered the Union as
originally planned: one unified state. Within ten years the political climate
had changed and both states realized they had made a mistake.
Scuttlebutt began circulating that dividing the territory the way God had made
them by the Missouri River (east and west) made more sense. But the proposal
has gotten about as far as the Nebraska panhandle’s periodic threats to secede from the rest of its state
and join Wyoming (which would reportedly welcome it). The borders of the two Northern Plains states
remain unchanged.

 "West Dakota" not only includes the region’s top attractions, but provides perspective into the common geographic, economic and psychological characteristics of western North and South Dakota. Travelers seeking a unique experience in the Great American West are invited to explore the best of western Dakota on this 8-day itinerary encompassing the broad sweep of history on the northern plains. Western wildlife, legendary characters and extraordinary national parks greet you at every turn in West Dakota!

Beginning and ending in Rapid City, SD, this 8 day / 7 night itinerary encompasses the broad sweep of history on the northern plains from the original inhabitants to the region’s first white explorers, Lewis & Clark, as they sought the northwest passage, Custer’s expedition to discover gold in the Black Hills and Teddy Roosevelt’s impact on the region (and it on him). Highlights include a Missouri Riverboat dinner cruise, the famed Medora Musical, Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse mountain carvings, a jeep ride to one of America’s largest buffalo herds, and much more.

Check for upcoming excursions to West Dakota: