Wall Drug: The Wild West’s Wackiest Roadside Attraction

Wall Drug Store, nestled in Wall, South Dakota, is a captivating roadside attraction that draws in over 2 million visitors annually to a town with fewer than 900 residents. With its 5¢ coffee, free ice water, and offbeat attractions, Wall Drug is more than just a drug store. This colossal emporium, a blend of quirky Americana and practical services, is still managed by the descendants of its founders. Here’s a guide to experiencing this one-of-a-kind South Dakota gem.

Wall Drug: How it Started

Wall Drug’s journey began in 1931 when Ted and Dorothy Hustead acquired a modest pharmacy in Wall, a remote town near Badlands National Park. During the challenging times of the Great Depression, the business faced hardships until Dorothy’s ingenious idea of offering free ice water to parched travelers on Highway 16. This simple act revolutionized the industry. By 1936, roadside signs promoting ‘Free Ice Water’ and ‘5¢ Coffee’ lured passersby, leading to its evolution into a sprawling cowboy-themed complex.

Wall Drug Store: What To Expect

Free Attractions: Wall Drug remains faithful to its origins by providing free ice water at a well in the backyard and 5¢ coffee, which is surprisingly good for the price. The free coffee station is next to the restaurant at the back of the complex.

Dining: The Western Art Gallery Restaurant seats 520 and serves bison burgers, meatloaf, homemade donuts, and pie, with a kids’ menu. The Soda Fountain Ice Cream Shop offers shakes and sundaes, while the Prairie Parlor in the Back Yard has hot dogs, pizza, and tacos.

Shopping at Wall Drug is a Delightful Adventure

With 26 shops under one roof, you can find various items, from Black Hills gold jewelry to cowboy boots, hats, leather goods, souvenirs, and camping gear. The bookstore boasts a rich selection of regional titles, while the Apothecary Shop serves as a pharmacy and a museum. You’ll leave Wall with a memento from this huge roadside attraction.

Historical Displays: Over 300 original Western oil paintings, valued at $3 million, adorn the restaurant, including two by Mount Rushmore’s Gutzon Borglum. A museum of historical photos documents the Black Hills and pre-settlement life, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area’s past.

Photo Ops and Activities: The Back Yard features an 80-foot brontosaurus, a 6-foot jackalope, a mini-Mount Rushmore, and a roaring T-Rex. Kids can pan for gold, ride animatronic cowboys, or play in the water show.

Pharmacy: Wall Drug Store is a functional drug store serving locals and tourists, from Dramamine for road trips to antibiotics with a prescription for rare cases like prairie dog bites. It’s a lifeline in a 6,000-square-mile area with no other pharmacies. And yes, even the pharmacy offers souvenirs such as keychains, mugs, magnets, and t-shirts for your visit.

Nearby Attractions

Wall Drug is a must-do road trip stop if you’re heading to Mount Rushmore (55 miles away) or Badlands National Park (Pinnacles Entrance, 8 miles south). Its quirky charm—think “Where the Heck is Wall Drug?” bumper stickers—appeals to families and fans of Americana. If you need a break from I-90, it’s worth a stop. Expect to spend at least an hour exploring the store and outside attractions.

Location and Hours: Wall Drug Store is at 510 Main St, Wall, SD 57790, off I-90 exit 110. Look for the giant dinosaur. It’s a convenient stop if you’re heading to Mount Rushmore (55 miles away) or Badlands National Park (Pinnacles Entrance, 8 miles south). Open daily, 7 a.m.–9 p.m.; some shops/cafés may close earlier. Parking: Main Street can be hectic; try rear lots for easier access. For more details, check www.walldrug.com or www.travelsouthdakota.com.

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