Every year the world's only corn palace gets a fresh mosaic mural made entirely from ears of corn. South Dakota wears its history on the land itself, and this landmark is a case in point.

The building's exterior murals are rebuilt each year using thousands of bushels of corn.

What sets it apart

The current Moorish-revival structure dates to 1921 and anchors downtown Mitchell. That detail is easy to overlook, but it helps explain the pull this place has on locals and visitors alike.

The murals follow a new theme annually, from folklore to sports to Americana.

Why it matters

Step back, and a larger picture comes into view: this is South Dakota in miniature, rugged and unhurried. However you come to it, this is a place that stays with you long after the drive home.