What the Corn Palace is and where to find it
The Corn Palace is a real building in Mitchell, South Dakota, made almost entirely from corn and other grains. The walls, roof, and interior decorations are constructed from thousands of bushels of corn, wheat, rye, oats, and grass. It sits at 604 East Main Avenue in downtown Mitchell, about 135 miles west of Sioux Falls.
The building was first constructed in 1892 as a way to showcase the agricultural wealth of South Dakota. The structure has been rebuilt and redesigned multiple times since then — the current version dates to 1921. Every year, workers remove the old grain decorations and replace them with new designs, which means the interior looks different each season.
The Corn Palace operates year-round and is one of the most visited roadside attractions in the Midwest. It functions as both a historical landmark and an active event venue — the building hosts concerts, conventions, and sporting events inside.
Key Takeaways
- The Corn Palace is a working building made from corn and grain, located in downtown Mitchell, South Dakota, and open to visitors every day of the year.
- The interior grain murals change every year, so the decorations you see depend on when you visit.
- Admission costs money, and prices vary by age — children, seniors, and adults pay different rates.
- The building is about a two-hour drive from Sioux Falls and sits on a main road through Mitchell, making it straightforward to find.
- You can tour the interior, attend events, or straightforward view the exterior from the street at no cost.
How much it costs to enter and what you get inside
Admission to walk inside the Corn Palace costs money. Adult tickets, child tickets (usually ages 5–12), and senior tickets (usually 65 and older) are priced differently. Exact prices change year to year, so you should check the official Corn Palace website or call ahead before you visit. Some visitors choose to photograph the exterior from the street, which costs nothing.
Once inside, you can walk through the main floor and see the grain murals up close. The murals cover the walls and ceilings and depict scenes that change annually — past themes have included wildlife, historical events, and cultural scenes. You can also visit a small museum area that explains the history of the building and how the grain decorations are made and installed.
The Corn Palace also has a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs, corn-themed items, and local products. Food and beverages are sold inside as well, though you can also bring your own snacks.
When to visit and what the seasons mean
The Corn Palace is open every day of the year, including holidays. Hours vary by season — it typically opens earlier and closes later during summer months (May through September) and has shorter hours in winter. You should check the website or call 605-996-2311 to confirm hours before you go, especially if you are planning a winter visit.
The grain murals are completely replaced every year, usually in the fall after the summer tourist season ends. This means if you visit in June, you will see a different design than if you visit in December. The new murals are typically finished by late October or early November. If you want to see a specific year's design, plan your visit accordingly.
Summer and early fall are the busiest times. If you prefer smaller crowds, visit on a weekday or during winter months. Weather in Mitchell can be cold and snowy from December through February, so dress warmly if you visit then.
How to get there and where to park
Mitchell is located on Interstate 90 in southeastern South Dakota. If you are coming from Sioux Falls, take I-90 west for about two hours. The Corn Palace sits on East Main Avenue, which is the main road through downtown Mitchell. It is clearly marked with signs, and you cannot miss the building itself.
Parking is available on-site at the Corn Palace. There is a large parking lot adjacent to the building, and parking is free. The lot fills up during peak tourist season (summer) and during special events, but there is usually space available. If the main lot is full, additional parking is available nearby on city streets.
The building is accessible to people with mobility challenges. There is wheelchair access to the main entrance, and the interior pathways are designed to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers.
What happens during events and concerts
The Corn Palace is an active event venue. Throughout the year, concerts, sporting events, conventions, and other gatherings take place inside the building. These events are separate from regular admission — if you want to attend a concert or sporting event, you pay a ticket price for that specific event, not just the general admission fee.
The building hosts everything from high school basketball tournaments to professional concerts. You can find a calendar of upcoming events on the Corn Palace website. Some events sell out, especially popular concerts and sporting events, so you should purchase tickets in advance if you know what you want to see.
If you are visiting on a day when a large event is happening, the regular admission area may have limited access or different hours. Call ahead to confirm what will be open to general visitors on the day you plan to visit.
Nearby attractions and things to do in Mitchell
Mitchell has other attractions within walking distance or a short drive from the Corn Palace. The Mitchell Aquatic Center, the Dakota Discovery Museum, and several parks are all located in or near downtown. Main Street has restaurants, shops, and cafes where you can eat before or after your visit.
If you are staying overnight, Mitchell has hotels, motels, and bed-and-breakfasts throughout the city. Many visitors combine a Corn Palace visit with other South Dakota roadside attractions — Wall Drug and the Badlands are both within a few hours' drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take photos inside the Corn Palace?
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the building for personal use. However, you should check current policies on the website or ask staff when you arrive, as rules can change. Commercial photography or filming may require special permission.
Is the Corn Palace wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the main entrance and interior pathways are designed to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers. Accessible restrooms are available inside the building. If you have specific accessibility questions, call 605-996-2311 before your visit.
How long does it take to tour the inside?
Most visitors spend 30 minutes to an hour inside, depending on how much time you spend looking at the murals and reading the historical information. You can move through more quickly if you prefer, or spend longer if you want to examine the grain work in detail.
What if I visit in winter — will the building still be decorated?
Yes, the grain murals are permanent installations that stay up all year. The new design is installed in the fall and remains on display through the following summer. Winter weather does not affect the interior decorations.
Are there restaurants inside the Corn Palace?
The Corn Palace has a concession area where you can buy snacks, drinks, and light food. For full-service restaurants, you will need to go to downtown Mitchell, which is within walking distance or a short drive.