“The South Dakota Passport program was created as a way to educate travelers and residents to disperse entirely around the state and to introduce the many hidden gems that South Dakota has to offer,” said Erin Weinzettel, global marketing and brand strategy manager for Travel South Dakota.
With the click of a button, you’ll be on your way to creating unforgettable adventures.
“With each passport, visitors and locals can check in at designated locations to unlock a broad range of prizes based on the number of sites visited,” explained Weinzettel.
Throughout the participant’s road trip, their location and redemption are followed through GPS-based tracking, and point accumulation and redemption are tracked through the passport.
“Travel South Dakota offers prizes to participating individuals who check in at stops, with each stop earning 10 points,” said Weinzettel.
Explore the state through four passports: Great Finds, State of Create, Peaks to Plains, and Tribal Nations: Oceti Sakowin.
The best trips contain an element of surprise that can end in a “do you remember?” moment. An unexpected discovery can become a lifelong memory.
“The Great Finds Passport is perfect for the traveler looking to find those unexpected and off-the-beaten-path destinations across the state,” revealed Weinzettel.
This specific passport was designed to showcase the hidden gems locals swear by. The businesses listed span restaurants, retail shops, outdoor activities, and more.
Weinzettel adds that this experience was curated with returning visitors and residents in mind to motivate the exploration of unique and lesser-known destinations.
“The main objective of this passport is to highlight a range of locations throughout the state to encourage dispersion,” said Weinzettel.
“THe program delivery is seamless, with no app download needed.” – erin Weinzettel
If you’re looking for a more artistic journey, the State of Create Passport is suited to showcasing local art throughout the state.
With this specific passport, you can check into artistic shops and discover places you’ve always wanted to see or never knew existed.
“This passport is perfect for people looking to be inspired, entertained, and enlightened, as well as those who’re unfamiliar with the variety of artistic wonders South Dakota has to offer,” explained Weinzettel.
The creative works are as varied as the landscapes themselves, from museums and galleries, festivals, statues, and more.
Eligible Prizes:
+ 100 points: Local Artist Sticker Packs
+ 200 Points: Custom South Dakota Posters
+ 300 Points: South Dakota Field Notes, Big Frig Rambler, or South Dakota Carhartt Cap
+ 400 Points: South Dakota T-shirt
+ 500 Points: ENO Hammock, South Dakota Osprey Backpack
“This experience is also perfect for people who love to support local art,” added Weinzettel. “We also partnered with the South Dakota Arts Council on the development of the passport.”
Tighten your hiking boots, pack the tent, fire up the watercraft, or let your fishing line fly with the Peaks to Plains Passport.
Developed in partnership with South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks, this digital passport will introduce you to a world full of outdoor wonder and sights, with everything from hiking trails to pristine waters, and blissful campsites.
“This passport is designed for those looking to get some fresh air,” said Weinzettel. “It’s also geared toward individuals looking to explore the lesser-known outdoor areas of the state.”
Let the adventure begin and stroll into a world of wonder with sights that will stick with you long after you head home.
“To truly experience South Dakota, one must explore Native American culture, whether that means attending a powwow, taking in the legendary Red Cloud Art Show, or experiencing the historical opportunities,” said Weinzettel.
The Tribal Nations: Oceti Sakowin Passport expands your horizons with stops that include art, tours, performances, and cultural sites that are designed to celebrate and honor Indigenous culture.
The culturally inspired passport highlights the rich history of the state, along with the nine tribal nations that call South Dakota home.
“Each passport is independent, so participants need to sign up for each pass they wish to use. However, once you’ve signed up for multiple passports, they can all be accessed through the same home screen application.” – erin weinzettel
Travel South Dakota is preparing to add one more passport to their collection, the Black to Yellow Passport.
“The Black to Yellow Passport will be a continuation of a former partnership between Travel South Dakota and the Wyoming Office of Tourism,” said Weinzettel.
The fifth passport will aim to highlight areas of the Black to Yellow Trail linking travelers from Chicago to Yellowstone through South Dakota, specifically focusing on promoting locations across I-90 and Highway 14.
The Black to Yellow passport is expected to launch in late 2023.
For more information, visit TRAVELSOUTHDAKOTA.COM+
