Enchanted Highway
Time Needed: half-day
Experience Type: offbeat & fun, scenic drive
The Enchanted Highway transforms a quiet 32-mile stretch of prairie road into an open-air art gallery of giant metal sculptures. Created by local artist Gary Greff, this whimsical roadside attraction celebrates small-town creativity, prairie life, and the power of imagination.
MUST-DO CHECKLIST
- See All the Sculptures – Drive the 32-mile route from Gladstone to Regent to admire seven massive artworks like Geese in Flight, Deer Crossing, and Tin Family.
- Stay at the Enchanted Castle – Spend the night in Regent’s medieval-themed hotel, converted from a high school, complete with a tavern and a steakhouse.
- Visit the Gift Shop in Regent – Browse for souvenirs, coffee, snacks, and ice cream. You may even meet artist Gary Greff as he works on his next giant knight-and-dragon sculpture.
- Explore the Whirligig Display – Push a button to bring whimsical wind-powered sculptures to life in downtown Regent, adding a kinetic twist to your art-filled journey.
- Take a Side Trip to Salem Sue – Detour to New Salem to photograph Salem Sue, the world’s largest Holstein cow, overlooking the prairie from her scenic hilltop.
Cool Find: For more out-of-the-ordinary Dakota experiences, The Dakotas Off the Beaten Path highlights caves, powwows, festivals, and hidden historic sites. It’s a helpful guide for travelers seeking lesser-known adventures beyond the region’s usual tourist stops.
Photo Credit: Amaury Laporte/Flickr