State of the week: South Dakota

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Where are we? Mount Rushmore State, and you're all probably aware of why that's South Dakota's nickname. If there are any Jason Schwartzman and Bill Murray fans out there -- sorry to disappoint, this Midwestern state did not get its moniker from the movie. Other than the heads of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Teddy Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln carved into the famous rock face, what do you know about South Dakota? Read on and find out why you shouldn't leave it off your places-to-visit list.

Lewis and Clark held the first election by U.S. citizens west of the Mississippi River at present-day Elk Point, S.D. It is re-enacted yearly on the anniversary date. (Photo by South Dakota Tourism)

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South Dakota history: The first known discovery of the land that would become South Dakota by European explorers was in 1743 by the LaVerendrye brothers of France. They buried a lead plate on the bank of American's longest river -- the Missouri -- to claim the land for France. In 1803, as part of the Louisiana Purchase, the USA acquired the land the LaVerendrye brothers claimed from the French government, but it was not until 1861 that the Dakota Territory was officially established. This territory also included what would become North Dakota, Montana and Wyoming. Finally in 1889, South Dakota became the 40th state in the union; its neighbor to the north being the 39th.

South Dakota on the course: Built in 1979, Southern Hills Golf Course -- not to be confused with the Tulsa, Okla., host of last year's PGA Championship -- is in Hot Springs, S.D. A short but both challenging and enjoyable course, Southern Hills plays through hillsides, Midwestern meadows, rocky ravines and mountainous outcrops, giving golfers a taste of what Mount Rushmore State's countryside has to offer over 18 scenic holes. The course isn't without wildlife either, given that South Dakota is a haven for such classically American animals as buffalo, bears, deer and otters. Greens fees aren't bad either, starting around $50, including use of the golf cart. In addition to the spectacular landscape, expect a golf course staff with that famous friendly Midwestern demeanor.

South Dakota off the course: The spot where the LeVerendrye brothers buried that plate back in 1743 eventually became the location of Fort Pierre, a trading fort on the banks of the Missouri River from which the city took its name. A visit to Fort Pierre (the city) will give you a taste of an old Western border town. Though the city has modernized to a point, the historical and natural landmarks of the area have been preserved to protect its rich history. You can explore the grounds of Fort Pierre Chouteau (the fort), which replaced Fort Tecumseh, as well as walk part of the National Certified Lewis and Clark trail, see the spot where the French lead plate was buried (and later discovered by high school students in 1913) and drive a stretch of the Native American Scenic Byway -- the entire 100-mile highway passes through all of South Dakota's nine Indian Reservations. If you want to experience one of the places where America truly began, then Fort Pierre is it.

South Dakota resort: Actually, instead of a resort or hotel, you should consider renting a vacation home in the Black Hills region of South Dakota. Alpine-covered mountains rise out of the great plains in a part of America where you can literally walk for days and not see another soul if you don't want to. If outdoorsy isn't your thing, then you'll miss out on the best of this state because it has some of the most beautiful hiking trails and fishing spots in the States as well as easy access to five National Parks, including the legendary Crazy Horse memorial. Hole up in a rustic log cabin and enjoy a warm fire at night to treat your sore muscles after all the exploring you'll do here.

South Dakota eats: A big game hunting state, South Dakota knows how to serve up a pheasant like no other state. From pheasant puffs to pheasant stew to pheasant enchiladas, you can try this bird any way you like it. If taking the pheasant to new levels frightens you a little, then you can always sample it traditional-style roasted with garlic and served with a cream sauce. An after-dinner glass of brandy is a popular way to finish off a pheasant meal.

PGA TOUR winner Tom Byrum is from Onida, S.D. (Miralle/Getty Images)

South Dakota culture: You can't get a better feel for South Dakota culture anywhere other than Mount Rushmore National Park. Yes, it's a huge tourist destination, but it's a tourist destination for a reason. Where else in the world can you see the faces of four of the most influential and beloved political leaders staring back at you from the face of a mountain 5,000 feet above seal level? It's a perfect celebratory union of the once thought of "promised land" and the men who made it their life goals to protect it, grow it and free it.

South Dakota golfer: Born in Onida, S.D., in 1960, Tom Byrum has honors this week as the featured golfer from the Mount Rushmore State. A one-time TOUR winner, Byrum won the 1989 Kemper Open with an astounding final score of 16-under par. In addition to his win, he finished second six times, third five times, had 41 top-10 finishes and 110 top-25 finishes in 543 career starts. The 47-year-old has only made three starts and one cut so far this season, a tie for 35th at the inaugural Puerto Rico Open.

Next week: The smallest state in America sure has a lot of PGA TOUR golfers who call it home.