Is the Corn Palace Worth Visiting — or Is It Just Corn?
Is the Corn Palace Worth Visiting or Just Corn? Honest Guide
Is the Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota actually worth visiting, or is it just a corny roadside stop? Here’s the honest truth, who should go, and who should skip it.
Is the Corn Palace Worth Visiting — or Is It Just Corn?
Honest Answer
Yes — the Corn Palace is worth visiting, but only if you know exactly what it is and what it isn’t.
If you’re expecting a theme park or a major attraction, you’ll be disappointed. If you enjoy quirky Americana, quick stops, and “only in the USA” experiences, it’s absolutely worth 30–45 minutes.
What the Corn Palace Actually Is
The Corn Palace is a multi-purpose civic building decorated with massive murals made entirely from corn, grains, and native grasses.
Every year:
The exterior murals are completely redesigned
Over 300,000 ears of corn are used
Local artists and farmers collaborate on the designs
Inside, it functions as:
A small exhibit space
A gift shop
An event arena (basketball games, concerts, festivals)
Why People Think It Might Be a Waste of Time
Let’s be honest — the name alone raises doubts.
Common concerns:
“It’s just corn on a building”
“This sounds like a gimmick”
“Is this really worth stopping for?”
Those doubts are exactly why people search this.
The Reality (What No One Tells You)
The Corn Palace is:
Free to visit
Right off I-90
Quick, not a time commitment
It’s not meant to be a destination — it’s a perfect break stop on a long Midwest drive.
Most visitors who enjoy it:
Stop spontaneously
Spend 20–45 minutes
Leave pleasantly surprised
Most disappointed visitors:
Expected something much bigger
Drove hours just to see it
Who Should Definitely Stop
Road-trippers crossing South Dakota
Families with kids
Fans of roadside Americana
Anyone already stopping for gas or food in Mitchell
Who Should Skip It
Travelers on a tight schedule
People expecting a major attraction
Anyone who dislikes kitschy landmarks
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June–September) for the freshest murals
Daytime for photos (murals are easier to see)
Avoid arriving late at night — it loses impact
How Long You Need
Exterior viewing: 10–15 minutes
Inside exhibits + gift shop: 20–30 minutes
Total visit: 30–45 minutes max
Final Verdict
The Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota is not overrated — it’s misunderstood.
If you treat it as: “A quick, weird, free stop I’ll remember forever” You’ll enjoy it.
If you treat it as: “The main reason for my trip” You’ll be disappointed.