Tag Archives: Dorothy Hustad

Cross Country Vacation Sept./Oct. 2025-Post 3

Wall, South Dakota

Have you ever been to the well advertised Wall Drug Store in South Dakota?

The Hubster and I have taken many family trips over the years, always by-passing Wall Drug in spite of those famous road signs. I always thought that place would be too touristy for me. There are plenty of other places to explore.

Wall Drug, South Dakota

*Clicking on a photo will give you a closer look!

The kids have grown and have their own families now.

Of course, when they traveled, they made Wall Drug a destination.

This year, the Hubster and I decided to stop in and see what the hoopla is all about. We can’t have our kids visiting somewhere that we haven’t been, now can we?

Wall Drug, South Dakota

Wall Drug Store was founded by Ted and Dorothy Hustad in 1931 during the Great Depression.

Dorothy thought of advertising free ice water to thirsty travelers heading to the newly opened Mount Rushmore monument 60 miles to the west. From then on, business was booming.

Wall Drug has become a sprawling western-themed roadside tourist attraction known for its free ice water, 5-cent coffee, a cafe, a book shop, souvenir shops, a chapel, art galleries, a historic pharmacy and various amusements.

The complex draws some two million annual visitors.

You are going to love it if this is your thing!

Wall Drug, South Dakota

We loved the cherry pie that we had for breakfast!

We would definitely stop by again just for that!

By the way, the dining rooms have over 300 original oil paintings, representing one of the best private collections of original Western and Illustration Art in the country. Who knew?!

Wall Drug, South Dakota

Wall Drug, South Dakota

Wall Drug, South Dakota

Wall Drug, South Dakota

See the world around you!

More Travel Posts: