Pierre

Pierre is a state capital on the Missouri River in Hughes County, South Dakota, United States. The city spreads across gentle hills and river bluffs with government buildings centered around the State Capitol complex.

The town began in 1880 as a railroad endpoint and became the state capital in 1890. Voters confirmed this role permanently during a second election in 1904.

The State Cultural Heritage Center displays traditional Lakota clothing and tools from early settler days. Guided tours through the capitol building present murals by local artists depicting scenes from South Dakota's past.

The regional airport offers connections to Minneapolis and Denver with daily flights during the week. Public transit runs through the city and connects residential areas to government buildings.

The city remains the second smallest state capital in the United States by population. The Discovery Center houses an aquarium with fish species from the Missouri River that visitors can observe up close.

Location: Hughes County

Inception: 1880

Elevation above the sea: 442 m

Shares border with: Fort Pierre, Stanley County

Website: https://cityofpierre.org

GPS coordinates: 44.36836,-100.35114

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:39