While local and state officials want to spread the word that there is more to Mitchell than its corn-covered attraction, the one-of-a-kind Palace still reigns supreme.
According to state Tourism Secretary Jim Hagen, the Corn Palace ranks second in online inquiries about the state, behind only Mount Rushmore.
"Americans love those out-of-the-way and unusual attractions, and the Corn Palace certainly fits that bill," he said.
Hagen led roughly 75 representatives of the state's tourism industry Tuesday during a rally at the Corn Palace.
Early indications are that it will be a good year for tourism in South Dakota, he said, with requests for information up 19 percent through April compared to the same period last year.
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"I think it is a great sign of things to come. It demonstrates that our marketing is working and it's reaching people," Hagen said.
Tourism is often described as the state's second-largest industry, ranking only behind agriculture. Visitors generate an estimated $1.8 billion in economic impact and $271 million in state and local tax revenue. Hagen said every household in the state would have to pay $833 more in taxes without the tourism industry.
"Most people don't realize just how big of an industry tourism is in South Dakota. It affects everything in this state, and we're all a part of that," Hagen said.
Mitchell Mayor Lou Sebert said he can feel the excitement in the city during the summer travel months, and also the slowdown when the fall season comes.
"There's a difference in Mitchell's lifestyle with the tourism, but there's a tremendous benefit with those things," Sebert said.
Tuesday's rally for the eastern portion of the state was to be followed by a stop today in Rapid City geared toward West River cities.
Sebert declared the week of May 5-13 "Travel and Tourism Week in Mitchell, South Dakota," which will include free admission Saturday and Sunday to Mitchell's attractions. He estimated that 33 percent of those who stop in Mitchell and the Corn Palace will be back again to visit.
"When you meet somebody and you say 'Hi,' you'd be surprised how many people appreciate that, and that's the first impression that you make not only as a person, but as a community," Sebert said. "And that's where we need to start."
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Chris Huber/Republic
South Dakota Department of Tourism Secretary Jim Hagen speaks to a group of about 75 tourism industry professionals during a rally Tuesday at the Corn Palace in Mitchell.
