The charming town of Vermillion, South Dakota, is a beacon of education, culture, and community, rightly earning its title as the best college town in the state. Nestled in the southeastern corner of South Dakota and bordered by Nebraska, Iowa, and Minnesota, Vermillion might be small, but it packs a mighty punch in terms of its contributions to the state’s educational and cultural landscape.
Established in 1859 as a French fur-trading outpost, Vermillion gradually bloomed into a vibrant community steeped in rich history. Today, it is home to the University of South Dakota (USD), the state’s oldest and second-largest public university.
Tom Brokaw, celebrated journalist and USD alumnus [/caption]
The University of South Dakota, founded in 1862, has grown alongside Vermillion to become a powerhouse of higher learning. With an annual enrollment that swells around 10,000 students, the town’s population nearly doubles during the academic year. Students from across the United States and the world bring a vibrant influx of cultural and economic activity to the area. This seasonal demographic shift transforms Vermillion into a hub of youthful energy and innovation.
The university offers a wide array of academic disciplines, including law, medicine, business, and the liberal arts, distinguishing itself with specialized programs such as the Knudson School of Law, the oldest in the state, and the esteemed Sanford School of Medicine. It has gained national recognition for its research prowess and civic engagement efforts, providing an affordable yet world-class education.
Al Neuharth, founder of USA Today and USD alumnus [/caption]
USD has produced numerous notable alumni who have achieved greatness in various fields. Tom Brokaw, the iconic television journalist and former NBC Nightly News anchor, is among the university’s distinguished graduates. Additionally, Al Neuharth, founder of the widely popular USA Today, and Tim Johnson, former U.S. senator and representative for South Dakota, are among the alumni driving local pride.
Vermillion’s allure extends beyond academia. The town is woven into the cultural fabric of South Dakota, offering numerous historical and natural attractions. Landmarks such as Old Main, an architectural gem on the National Register of Historic Places, and the National Music Museum, which hosts an impressive array of musical instruments and showcases centuries of evolution, are both situated on the USD campus.
Former U.S. Sen. Tim Johnson, a proud USD alumnus [/caption]
Visitors and residents alike can enjoy Vermillion’s off-campus attractions, such as the Downtown Vermillion Historic District, famous for its well-preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Missouri River provides outdoor enthusiasts with ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching just a few miles from town, while the Spirit Mound State Historic Prairie offers a captivating look at South Dakota’s unique tallgrass prairie ecosystem.
The strong relationship between Vermillion and USD manifests in both economic and cultural exchanges. Events like the USD football games in the DakotaDome and the vibrant Dakota Days homecoming celebration exemplify this “Town and Gown” synergy. These occasions draw crowds from across and beyond the state, highlighting the town’s welcoming spirit and the broader state pride.
Downtown Vermillion bustling with activity. [/caption]
The town’s infrastructure supports its dynamic lifestyle, with accommodations ranging from the budget-friendly Prairie Inn to the opulent Main Street Inn, ideally situated for those exploring Vermillion’s rich offerings. The dining scene is a delightful mix, from Café Brulé’s homey comfort foods to the exotic flavors of Silk Road Café and the refined American fare at Red Steakhouse.
Indeed, Vermillion shines as South Dakota’s best college town by achieving a harmonious balance between academic excellence and community development. Its residents reap the benefits of an ever-evolving student body, while the students themselves find a nurturing, welcoming environment to thrive in. Together, they form a community that not only embraces its historical roots but also eagerly shapes its future, ensuring that Vermillion’s legacy as a premier educational and cultural destination endures.