Explore agriculture history in a fun and fascinating way at the South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum. The museum is dedicated to preserving and inspiring a passion for the history of agriculture and the rural way of life in South Dakota.
This family-friendly spot makes history come alive. The museum sparks curiosity in kids through hands-on experiences at its Ag-Xploration Gallery. Museum staff offers school group tours and hosts interactive events such as “Make and Take Monday.”
Digging Deep – Secrets of Soil is a must see exhibit running through 2026. Using soil scientist Joseph Hutton’s unpublished research notes, museum staff partnered with South Dakota State University to revisit Hutton’s locations to see how soil has changed in the past century. “The museum is part of research, not only historic but scientific, and that’s another reason why museums matter,” says Executive Director Gwen McCausland. The museum received a grant from the National Resources Conservation Service to support the exhibit.
For those more interested in steaks than soil, the museum is opening a new exhibit in April 2025 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of South Dakota State University’s Meat Lab. Until 1979, the lab was housed in the museum’s basement. Today, it is located on the west end of the Animal Science Complex. The lab processes and sells meat products which are available to purchase from the lab and museum’s gift shop.
Beyond exhibits, the museum brings the community together through year-round events such as Summertime Food Trucks and Fun, Fall family Festival and Holiday Market. The museum’s store promotes local produce and products by capturing the spirit of South Dakota in every gift. Kuchen (pronounced Koo-ken), South Dakota’s state dessert, can be purchased at the store, as well as honey, taffy and other locally made products.
Part of the Great 8 Passport
*This story has been written in collaboration with South Dakota State University‘s Public Relations class for our 2025 Visitor Guide. Read the guide here.*
