The World's Only Corn Palace — Attraction in Mitchell

We had seen things for the Corn Palace as we closed on Mitchell. But our front desk guy gave us the details on it. We were on an overnight stay in Mitchell, June, 2023. So we decided to delay our departure and check it out. I expected a lot of what it was because of the information we got the night before. The most impressive thing for me was the outside appearance. It's great to look at. The inside did have information and such. But was a little cheesy inside. But it's fun and great for kids to be entertained during the visit. The venue also acts as the town entertainment center. There is the theater/arena area that has sports events like basket ball or such, but also has a nice stage for stage acts. When we visited, the main floor was being used for a pretty good size gift shop for the folks visiting the Corn Palace. I'm not going to knock it in anyway, because it was done very nice. And the wife did purchase something. There is also a Corn Palace gift shop right across the street. And to no surprise, there's quite a few other stores near by for your shopping connivence. Another nice feature of the Corn Palace is an outside balcony that allows for really nice views of the street below. It has glass railings to protect you, but not interrupt the views from the street, and down to the street. The Corn Palace does have rest rooms on the first floor. Mens room on one side, women's on the other. But they were fairly large and can probably accommodate a decent amount of people. Well maybe not if there's a big event or such. Something we made the mistake of doing was that we were close by at night, but didn't go to see the Corn Palace lit up at night. We were told it really is great to see the outside at night when lit up. But he said the rest is better in the day. So if you can do both, do it. If you can only go at one time, they probably are both good which ever way you choose. We did the day only and got on the road. We probably should have run over the night before to see it lit up. Anyway, the Corn Palace can be a little corny! Yeah, I had to throw that in. But it was really a much better place to visit than I would ever have imagined. Not everyone is going to like it. But most folks probably will find it...

If you are interested in visiting a building dedicated to visual displays of art made from various forms of corn plant pieces, this is not to be missed! A quirky and unique tourist attraction, in the category of appeal to the ever famous Wall Drug attraction and the world's largest ball of twine, the Corn Palace offers a one of a kind photo opportunity that will give your sightseeing adventure a noteworthy talking point that you will never forget, in 5 minutes or less! Slightly longer if you choose to enter the world famous building, which is basically a civic center convention hall, but really, you can experience the full glory without ever stepping foot inside, with no fear of missing out on any of the excitement. A few minutes to drive around the block to view the various angles of the featured artwork prominently displayed on the outer walls of this establishment and a quick leg stretch to reach the picture perfect metal corn statue, to capture that iconic post-worthy selfie, is enough to satisfy the requirements for the bragging rights of this destination. Well worth the stop if you are driving right past the exit or within five minutes of Mitchell, but those who go out of their way to enjoy this spectacle may be underwhelmed by the experience. While I have previously enjoyed both inner and outer viewings, this trip only included the outside area and it was everything I expected it to be in the artistic niche of the organic...

The corn cob murals are really something to see. The murals on the exterior are changed out pretty much annually sometime in July or August if I remember correctly. The murals inside are permanent fixtures as they tell the history of South Dakota. I arrived just in time for a free tour. They played a short film then they walked you around the arena showing you photos and drawings of previous murals on the exterior. Also got to step out on the balcony to get an up close and personal look at the murals. Those afraid of heights may want to skip this part as the rails are glass so it could be a bit scary. Otherwise it's a nice short tour. There are band's that play there and high school and college basketball is played on the court there. They had the gift shop set up the court during my visit. I bought some popcorn. They also have a concession stand open to buy popcorn, pop and treats. As well as a smooshed penny machine and a smooshed quarter machine which I've never seen so had to do that one. Definitely worth the stop to check this place out. Just make sure they are open so you can get inside. Sometimes they close early which is what I found out when I had gone there the first time. Luckily I was staying in town and went back a few days later. I do think though they just switched their hours to summer hours and open...