Our family road trip through South Dakota with kids had been packed with unforgettable destinations. After exploring the rugged beauty of Custer State Park, we decided to make a stop at Wall Drug before heading to the awe-inspiring Badlands National Park. This was no ordinary roadside stop. Wall Drug with kids is an experience in itself, blending a quirky mix of shops, history, and attractions that kept us entertained for hours.
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What is Wall Drug?
Wall Drug began as a small pharmacy in the 1930s, enticing travelers with signs offering “Free Ice Water” along the open highways of the Midwest. Over the years, it’s grown into an iconic attraction, drawing visitors from all over with its unique charm. Today, Wall Drug is more than just a store – it’s a collection of shops, photo ops, Western-themed displays, and dining spots that give you a taste of the American West, from a bygone era.
Wall Drug Location
510 Main St, Wall, SD 57790
Why We Stopped at Wall Drug with Kids
After our stay in Custer State Park, we were excited to keep exploring. Wall Drug was the perfect place to take a break before entering the Badlands. The kids were thrilled by the prospect of finding cowboy boots, dinosaur statues, and unique souvenirs, and the free ice water and donuts made it an even better choice for the entire family. We ended up spending over two hours here, far longer than we anticipated, but there was so much to see and do!
Things to Do at Wall Drug With Kids
Western Wear Shopping
One of our main highlights at Wall Drug was picking out cowboy boots for Brynn. With a wide selection of boots, hats, and Western attire, Wall Drug makes it easy to gear up like a cowboy or cowgirl. Brynn had a blast trying on boots, and we left with a classic pair that she’s been eager to wear ever since.
Iconic Photo Ops
From giant jackalopes to life-sized cowboy statues, Wall Drug is packed with fun photo ops at every turn. The giant T-Rex was definitely a hit with the kids. We couldn’t resist snapping photos of everyone by the quirky displays that make Wall Drug one-of-a-kind.
History and Art
In addition to its family-friendly attractions, Wall Drug has a fascinating Western art gallery, with paintings, sculptures, and artifacts that give you a sense of the area’s history. It was a nice, quieter spot to wander through while taking a break from the more energetic parts of the store.
Free Ice Water and Delicious Donuts
One of the quirks that made Wall Drug famous is its offer of free ice water, which is a lifesaver for road-weary travelers, especially on a warm summer day. And the homemade donuts? They’re legendary! We took some with us as a treat for the road ahead.
A Perfect Family Stop: Wall Drug With Kids
Whether you’re a fan of kitschy roadside attractions or looking for a place to stretch your legs, Wall Drug has something for everyone. It’s the kind of place where you can lose track of time browsing through the various shops, picking up souvenirs, and taking photos. Our kids loved the experience – from finding Brynn’s cowboy boots to laughing at the quirky displays – and we left with memories of Wall Drug that made our road trip even more memorable.
After refueling on donuts, packing up our souvenirs, and hydrating with free ice water, we hit the road again, feeling ready to dive into the dramatic landscapes of the Badlands. Wall Drug with kids was definitely more than just a pit stop.
