Things To Do

Downtown Rapid City

Fun restaurants and bars, a public water fountain play area for the kids, ice cream, coffee, local shops and more!

Sylvan Lake & Black Elk Peak

A perennial favorite. Also the start of the hike up Black Elk Peak can be found here! (Fun fact: part of National Treasure 2 was filmed on the large boulder in the lake)

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Classic. South Dakota must-visit!

Spearfish Canyon

The most beautiful drive through Spearfish Canyon. There are places to stop and see the falls and walk around (and even fish!) along the way.

Crazy Horse

Incredible monument, interesting museums, and so close to the Custer State Park!

Needles Highway (Scenic Drive)

Gorgeous drive through the unique Needles! Very close to Sylvan Lake and Black Elk Peak.

Custer State Park Spur

Badlands National Park

Incredible striped canyons. An unforgettable experience!

Devils Bathtub Trailhead

Bring your swimming suit and slide down the natural water slide! It's not a long hike, but you cross a creek several times, so bring waterproof shoes.

Jewel Cave National Monument

Go on a tour in the third longest cave in the world! Check out the flow stone and the sparkly jewel-like formations this National Monument is named for!

Historic Deadwood

Part of the historic Wild West! Wild Bill Hickok was shot here- the poker hand he was holding is now known as the "Dead Man's Hand!" Casinos, museums and beautiful scenery.

Devils Tower-National Monument Road

Keystone

Free Things to Do in South Dakota

Lots of fun things to do, especially with kids!