SDSouth Dakota
Mount Rushmore State · Capital: Pierre · Midwest (Plains)
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Bordering states: North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Wyoming, Montana.
4 fun facts about South Dakota
- Mount Rushmore, with the faces of Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt, was carved from 1927 to 1941.
- The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally draws 500,000+ riders every August — bigger than the city of Pierre.
- South Dakota has the only Crazy Horse Memorial, still being carved after 75 years.
- Sioux Falls is home to the largest US trust company because of South Dakota's friendly trust laws.
Frequently asked questions about South Dakota
Is South Dakota a US state?
Yes, South Dakota is one of the 50 US states. It was admitted to the Union in 1889, making it the 41st state. Its capital is Pierre and its largest city is Sioux Falls.
What is the capital of South Dakota?
The capital of South Dakota is Pierre. Note that the largest city in South Dakota is Sioux Falls, not the capital — a common point of confusion.
When did South Dakota become a state?
South Dakota became a US state in 1889. It is the 41st state admitted to the Union.
What is the abbreviation for South Dakota?
The 2-letter USPS abbreviation for South Dakota is SD.
How big is South Dakota?
South Dakota ranks #17 of 50 US states by area — a mid-sized US state.
What is the population of South Dakota?
South Dakota has a population of under 1 million.
What region is South Dakota in?
South Dakota is in the Midwest region of the United States, per the US Census Bureau.
What time zone is South Dakota in?
South Dakota observes Central Time (the state spans multiple time zones).
Learn more
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