The Next Exit: For corn’s sake

Can you spot our Souvies®
corny cob plushies?

An article about RGU customer
Corn Palace, as published
by Kristen Hampshire of
Souvenir Gifts and Novelties Magazine

Photo by Joni Rasmussen

This corny Spot attracts tourists from around the world to experience events, see corn murals and shop for all-things corn.

The world’s only Corn Palace is in Mitchell, South Dakota. The year-round attraction draws more than a half million tourists each year who come to see elaborate corn murals that change every year.

Ear by ear, corn is nailed to the palace to create memorable scenes such as Famous South Dakotans and Wonders of the World.

This “agricultural showplace” is home to festivals, banquets, bull riding, a circus, tournaments, concerts and is billed by USA Today as a top 10 place in America for high school basketball. It’s also a free attraction, making it a draw for tourists from all over. Above all, it’s a corny yet cool place to visit. 

The gift shop across the street offers just about “every corn-related souvenir you can imagine,” says Jennifer Haddon, tourism retail director.