Body
Question
How can I get around Vermillion?
What transportation options do I have?
Answer
Coyote Assistance - Rides to the Grocery Store in Vermillion
- Rides leave from the Burr House and travel to Walmart and Hy-Vee Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday
- Limited slots available
- USD Student ID required
- You must sign up through USD Involved ahead of time (before 12 noon)
- Arrive 10 minutes before departure
- Timing, details and sign up through USD Involved
Yote Bike Share
You can rent a bike at the main desk in the MUC and use it for transportation or to enjoy a little exercise. Bring your ID with you. After checking out a bike you will pick it up at the racks on Cherry Street in front of the MUC and across from the Burr House. They are bright red, you can’t miss them!
USD Safe Ride
Plan a sober ride, USD Safe Ride picks up students downtown Vermillion Friday-Saturday, 10pm-3am, call 605-624-7433, its free.
Vermillion Public Transit
Vermillion Public Transport is a non-profit service provided to the local Vermillion community for a nominal fee. Transportation is via shared vans and mini-buses staffed by professional, trained drivers.
- Rides have to be scheduled at least one day ahead. Day of service is NOT available.
- Call 605-624-7433 to schedule a ride
- Hours: M-F 8:00 am to 5:00 pm and Sundays: 9:00 am-1:00 pm
- Costs: $3.00 each way
- Fare card: 20 rides for $60, unlimited monthly rides for $85 within city limits (must call ahead and pre-pay; the cards are good from first of month to last of month)
- Sioux Falls: VPT does make trips to Sioux Falls for a fee. For exact dates/times/cost, call a few days ahead of your intended departure
Rideshare Apps
Vermillion has both Lyft and Uber services, though both are new and availability is somewhat limited. You can download the apps on your mobile device and use their services as needed. It is also possible to get a Lyft/Uber to Sioux Falls or Sioux City for around $65-75 each way.
Jefferson Lines Bus Service
Jefferson Lines runs regular bus service to Sioux Falls (and continuing to cities like Minneapolis) and Sioux City (and on to cities like Omaha, Kansas City and Chicago) throughout the week. Both routes leaves from the McDonald’s parking lot. Fares for these two route are around $20 and need to be purchased online, in advance, using a major credit card. https://www.jeffersonlines.com/travel-information/ticket-purchasing-options/
Your Own Car
Car ownership in the US is extremely common, especially in rural states like South Dakota. Depending on how long you plan to be in the US, it might be worth it in the long run to invest in a driver’s license and a car. Used cars can go for as little as a few thousand dollars, and vehicle registration, tax, and insurance are typically quite a bit less expensive than what you are used to at home.
Your Own Bike
If you choose to get your own bike, it is a good idea to register it with USD Public Safety. Bike stealing is unusual in Vermillion, but it does happen and registered bikes are more often returned to the rightful owner than those that are not registered. Learn more about USD bike registration.