When most people think about South Dakota, they focus in on the southwest corner of the state. While the Black Hills and Badlands are certainly beautiful, there is a lot more to discover about South Dakota. Come visit the northeast corner of The Land of Infinite Variety and climb to the top of a huge observation tower for some stunning views.

Located just 3.5 miles west of Sisseton is the Joseph N. Nicollet Observation Tower and Interpretative Center. The 75-foot tall tower stands as a monument to French explorer and cartographer Joseph Nicollet, who helped to accurately map the area we now call South Dakota.

Joseph N. Nicollet Tower/Facebook

The tower rises above the Lake Traverse Reservation lands and gives visitors the ability to see for miles into South Dakota, North Dakota, and Minnesota.

Sisseton, SD/Facebook

Climb the 96 steps to the top of the tower. The open-air platform allows for unobstructed views. Often times there will be no other visitors and you can enjoy the solitude and scenery.

Cheryl H/TripAdvisor

Many visitors enjoy climbing to the top right around sunset. There is certainly something magical about South Dakota during the golden hour.

Stephanie D/TripAdvisor

The tower is free and open to the public year-round. The interpretive center is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and on Sundays from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m.

Cheryl H/TripAdvisor

Nicollet Tower may not be the most well-known observation tower in the state, but its sights make it well worth a visit!

South Dakota Tourism/Facebook

Have you been to the top of Nicollet Tower? Were you impressed by the views? Tell us in the comments below!

Joseph N. Nicollet Tower/Facebook

Sisseton, SD/Facebook

Cheryl H/TripAdvisor

Stephanie D/TripAdvisor

Cheryl H/TripAdvisor

South Dakota Tourism/Facebook

Interested in seeing more of South Dakota from great heights? Check out the Stone Fire Tower in South Dakota for stunning views and a bit of exercise too.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: Nicollet Tower & Interpretive Center, 45356 SD-10, Sisseton, SD 57262, USA