MITCHELL, S.D. (Mitchell Now) Rising above downtown Mitchell, the Corn Palace is more than a roadside attraction—it’s a symbol of the region’s agricultural roots and small-town pride. Covered in intricate murals made entirely from corn and other grains, the building draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. But beyond its colorful exterior, the Corn Palace has a rich history and a few surprising details that even longtime locals may not know.

Here are 10 things you may not know:

1. It’s the only one of its kind
The Corn Palace is often called the world’s only corn-themed building—a claim that still holds true today.

2. The murals are rebuilt every year
Each year, artists redesign and replace the exterior murals using naturally colored corn and grains, giving the building a completely fresh look.

3. It started as a way to attract settlers
The first Corn Palace, built in 1892, was created to showcase the region’s fertile soil and lure new residents to the area.

4. It’s more than a tourist attraction
Inside, the building functions as a community venue hosting concerts, sports events, and local gatherings year-round.

5. There have been multiple versions
The current structure isn’t the original—several Corn Palaces have been built over time, with the present one dating back to the early 1920s.

6. Hundreds of thousands of ears of corn are used
Each mural requires thousands of ears of corn and other grains, carefully arranged by hand.

7. The designs follow annual themes
Every year features a new theme, ranging from American history to pop culture and regional pride.

8. It’s a free attraction
Visitors can stop in and explore the Corn Palace without paying admission, making it one of the most accessible attractions in the region.

9. It hosts a major local festival
The Corn Palace Festival is a long-standing tradition featuring live music, rides, and community celebrations.

10. It’s a symbol of Mitchell’s identity
More than just a building, the Corn Palace represents the agricultural roots and community spirit of Mitchell.

Whether you’ve lived in Mitchell your whole life or you’re just passing through, the Corn Palace offers more than meets the eye. Its ever-changing designs and deep community ties make it a living piece of South Dakota history—one that continues to evolve while staying rooted in tradition. Next time you stop by, you might find yourself seeing it in a whole new way.