Mobile and Technology

The South Dakota Department of Tourism recently launched a new statewide mobile app-featuring business and attraction listings from across the state.

The app is available for free download on iPhones and iPads, and the Android and Blackberry operating systems.

Jim Hagen, Secretary of the Department of Tourism, said, “We understand the need to continue to develop strategies that will allow visitors’ questions to be answered as they ask them.”

Upon download, visitors are able to explore the state in a number of ways:

·    Explore by Region. South Dakota is divided into four regions: western, central, northeast and southeast. 

·    Explore by Category. Find dining, shopping, lodging, outdoor adventures and attractions.

·    Search Events. 

·    What’s Nearby: Attractions, lodging, dining and shopping partners near users’ current location.

·    Social Media. Using social media to tell friends and family about the experience.

·    My Favourites. To keep a list of favourites for return trip.

Hagen said, “With the ability to search by proximity and the ease of browsing through our listings pertinent to their interests, we know that this app will serve as an effective marketing tool.”

In addition to developing the app, the Department of Tourism also launched a mobile landing page. The page is reached when mobile users type www.TravelSD.com into their smartphones or tablet devices. The landing page offers users the following options: continue to TravelSD.com, download mobile app, call travel expert, download audio tours, request free guide.

The South Dakota Department of Tourism consists of Tourism, the South Dakota Arts Council, and the South Dakota State Historical Society.