The view alone is a reason to go to the Lewis & Clark Visitor Center, run by the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers; but what you’ll find inside this interactive center will even make you more happy you found this place.

Stand atop the hill and look north for an awe-inspiring, panoramic view of the Missouri River Valley: the river, Lewis & Clark Lake and the Gavins Point Dam. Inside, the Center has displays and exhibits for the whole family, including detailed history about the Lewis and Clark expedition. Other exhibits will display the area’s natural history and the vast flora and fauna of the area.

The history of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the agencies role in management of the river is also featured. Kids especially love to hop on board a replica of an old riverboat – ring the bell! And looking inside an authentic Sioux tipi brings that culture to life. Displays of common fish found in the river, and telescopes to view out the windows are enjoyed by young and old.

The interactive map of the Missouri River dam system helps you understand the infrastructure that’s been built to bring about the river of today. The theatre runs shows on a regular basis throughout the day; there are Rangers on hand to answer questions, and the gift shop is full of books and other history-related items.

There are nature programs conducted by the Rangers, held on a regular basis during the key summer season.  The Welcome Center is located 2 miles south of Yankton on Highway 81 (actually on the Nebraska side of the river).

There is no admission fee. In the summer months, from Memorial Day – Labor Day, it’s open from 9am – 6pm; in the off-season, it’s available to visitors from 10am – 4pm.