Discover the best experiences in Rapid City, South Dakota! From iconic landmarks and outdoor adventures to art, wildlife, and local flavor, this fun guide highlights top must-dos for an unforgettable Black Hills getaway.
Downtown Rapid City
Rapid City also has a robust downtown core, with Main Street Square serving as its anchor. Throughout the year, Main Street Square hosts a variety of events, from ice skating in the winter to a splash pad in the summer and a range of events - from a winter market to a kids' carnival and the great downtown pumpkin festival to a downtown trick or treat - taking place here.
See MoreBlack Hills
As Rapid City serves as the gateway to the Black Hills, it's also easy to get out into the great outdoors. The Black Hills are prime for outdoor recreation and are home to national parks and monuments (Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial®, Wind Cave, Jewel Cave, etc.), as well as the Black Hills National Forest.
See MoreCuster State Park
Custer State Park has 71,000 acres, with roads (Needles Highway is amazing, as is Wildlife Loop Road), trails, and lakes.
See MoreMount Rushmore National Memorial
During the summer months, catch the evening lighting ceremony at Mount Rushmore Memorial.
See MoreBig Badlands Overlook
To the east of Rapid City (about a one-hour drive) is Badlands National Park, an incredible place that has badlands, hiking trails, colorful geological formations, and sweeping scenery.
See MoreBokujō Ramen
Bokujo Ramen is owned by Justin Warner and his wife, Brooke. Here, they combine their love of Japanese food with fresh, locally sourced ingredients from South Dakota. Local favorites include the bison bun and beef bone ramen.
See MoreThe Sour
The Sour is a local bakery that serves up all things sourdough. They are open daily, and their food is incredible.
See MoreDakota Meat Company - Burgers & Brews
Dakota Meat Company is a small butcher shop and cafe that's committed to serving locally raised meats (and tasty food) in its storefront in downtown.
See MoreReptile Gardens
Reptile Gardens is a family-owned business that opened its doors in 1937; today, it has one of the largest collections of reptile species in the world. Here, visitors can tour the botanical gardens, see giant tortoises, learn about crocodiles and alligators, meet a rescued bald eagle, and attend one of the shows to learn more.
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