Yankton Travel Guide

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Facts and practical information

Yankton, a charming city located in the South Dakota region of the United States, is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and recreational activities. As you explore this picturesque destination, you will be captivated by its rich heritage, scenic landscapes, and warm hospitality.

One of the main attractions in Yankton is the Missouri National Recreational River, which flows through the city. This majestic river provides a plethora of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. From kayaking and canoeing to fishing and boating, adventure awaits at every turn. The river is also surrounded by lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for picnics and leisurely walks.

For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Dakota Territorial Museum is a must. This museum showcases the region's fascinating past through its extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits. You can learn about the Native American tribes that once inhabited the area, the Lewis and Clark expedition, and the pioneer settlers who shaped Yankton into what it is today.

Yankton is also home to the iconic Meridian Bridge, a historic landmark that spans the Missouri River. This bridge not only offers breathtaking views of the river and surrounding landscapes, but it also serves as a pedestrian and bike path, allowing visitors to explore the area at their own pace.

In addition to its natural and historical attractions, Yankton boasts a vibrant downtown area filled with unique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Take a leisurely stroll along the streets, where you can browse local artwork, sample delicious local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere that defines this welcoming community.

Alternative names: Population: 14.6 thous.Area: 8.45 mi²Elevation: 1230 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 42°52'57"N, 97°23'50"W

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South DakotaUnited States

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Yankton Top Attractions

Yankton Attractions - What to See and Explore

Yankton offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Discovery Bridge, Yankton Area Arts, Meridian Highway Bridge, Governor John L. Pennington House. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Bridge
Discovery Bridge
The Discovery Bridge is a bridge that carries US Route 81 across the Missouri River from the Nebraska border to the South Dakota border. The Discovery Bridge connects Yankton, South Dakota, with rural Cedar County, Nebraska. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was on October 11, 2008, a year ahead of schedule.
Museum
Yankton Area Arts
The Yankton Police Department is the Municipal police agency in Yankton, South Dakota, which has jurisdiction in the City of Yankton. It was created to protect the lives, property and constitutional rights of people in Yankton. It currently has an authorized strength of 29 sworn personnel.
Historic walking areas • Bridge
Meridian Highway Bridge
The Meridian Highway Bridge is a bridge that formerly carried U.S. Route 81 across the Missouri River between Nebraska and South Dakota. The Meridian Highway Bridge connects Yankton, South Dakota with rural Cedar County, Nebraska.

Day trips

Yankton – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Yankton, it's worth seeing attractions such as: National Music Museum (Vermillion), Chief Standing Bear Memorial Bridge (Missouri National Recreational River), First Methodist Episcopal Church (Vermillion).

25 milesE
Specialty museum, Art museum, Museum
National Music Museum, Vermillion
The National Music Museum: America's Shrine to Music & Center for Study of the History of Musical Instruments is a musical instrument museum in Vermillion, South Dakota, United States.
31 milesW
Bridge
Chief Standing Bear Memorial Bridge, Missouri National Recreational River
The Chief Standing Bear Memorial Bridge is a bridge across the Missouri River at the Nebraska-South Dakota border. Located near Niobrara, Nebraska, not far downstream from the confluence of the Niobrara River with the Missouri, it joins Nebraska Highway 14 to South Dakota Highway 37.
25 milesE
Church, Gothic Revival architecture
First Methodist Episcopal Church, Vermillion
The First Methodist Episcopal Church in Vermillion, South Dakota is a historic church at 14-16 North Dakota Street. It has also been known as First United Methodist Church. It was built during 1927-29 and was added to the National Register in 2004.
25 milesE
Church, Romanesque architecture
First Baptist Church of Vermillion, Vermillion
First Baptist Church of Vermillion is a historic church in Vermillion, South Dakota. It was added to the National Register in 1982.
49 milesSE
City hall
Wayne Municipal Auditorium, Wayne
The Wayne Municipal Auditorium in Wayne in Wayne County, Nebraska was built in 1935 as a Public Works Administration project. It is Art Deco in style. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2002. It is a three-story rectangular building.