7. South Dakota
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- Composite score: 83.72
- Average hotel nightly rate: $147
- Average gas price: $4.15
- Cost of everyday expenses (compared to average): -11.4%
- Annual National Park Service visits: 4,030,357
- Total National Park Service sites: 6
- Arts, entertainment & recreation density: 8.1
- Share of roads in good condition: 70.2%
South Dakota stands out as a premier outdoor destination, boasting the fourth-highest density of arts, entertainment, and recreation options in the country. While fuel and hotel rates are near national averages, daily travel costs in the state remain low with everyday expenses 11.4% below the national average. Road trippers can experience iconic American landmarks like Mount Rushmore and the dramatic, rugged landscapes of Badlands National Park. The state also offers incredible scenic drives through Custer State Park—famous for its free-roaming bison herds—and the historic Black Hills region, making it packed with sightseeing value.
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