Wall Drug

Wall Drug

Wall Drug Store, commonly referred to as Wall Drug, is a renowned tourist attraction located in the small town of Wall, South Dakota, United States. It is famous for its unique marketing strategy of offering free ice water to travelers heading to the Mount Rushmore National Memorial, which helped it grow from a small pharmacy into a sprawling mall-like complex of stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

History

Wall Drug was founded in 1931 by Ted Hustead, a pharmacist who bought the Wall Drug Store in the small town of Wall near the Badlands National Park. The Great Depression was in full swing, and Hustead struggled to attract customers. In 1936, his wife, Dorothy, suggested advertising free ice water to travelers heading to the newly opened Mount Rushmore. The idea was a success, and soon Wall Drug was drawing thousands of visitors each year.

Attractions

Today, Wall Drug includes a variety of attractions such as a Western Art Museum, a chapel, and a 80-foot dinosaur replica. It is famous for its quirky and eclectic displays, including animated characters and a large jackalope, an imaginary animal of folklore. The complex also features a variety of shops selling everything from souvenirs to Western wear, and several eateries offering the famous Wall Drug doughnuts, homemade pies, and 5¢ coffee.

Marketing

Wall Drug's marketing strategy has become a case study in how to build a business in a remote location. The store's billboards are scattered across hundreds of miles of interstate highways, leading to the store's slogan, "Where the heck is Wall Drug?" becoming a part of American pop culture. The store's success is a testament to the power of word-of-mouth advertising and the allure of free offerings.

Cultural Impact

Wall Drug has been featured in numerous travel guides, magazines, and news articles, becoming a symbol of American entrepreneurship and kitsch. It is a must-see destination for tourists in South Dakota, contributing significantly to the state's tourism industry. The store has also been mentioned in novels, songs, and even a musical.

See Also

• Tourist attraction
• South Dakota
• Mount Rushmore
• Badlands National Park