34 Best Stops Between Keystone and Medora (2024)

3 lists

$20 is fair admission for how much there is to see here, and is good for a whole week. I took the wildlife loop twice so the number of cars and people dwindled down. There were more bison in one place than I've ever seen (remember to not get out of your vehicle - they are dangerous, even when just grazing). A lot of people brought carrots and fruits to feed the burros. There are a bunch of pull-outs so you can stop for photos. The lakes are breathtaking but lots of people. If you like the water, consider staying at the lodges. The overlooks are beautiful. There's a good amount of signage. Park rangers do patrol in case you need help. Needles Highway requires patience. Read your maps so you know if your vehicle can make it through. I've visited Sylvan Lake before so I skipped it this time and went to Legion Lake instead. The Bison Center is finally open and, though small, packed with information and people willing and able to answer your questions. Please come and learn why conservation for the wildlife here is so important.

We loved this Park! Hadn't heard much about it but thoroughly enjoyed all the wildlife, breath taking views of the landscape and the pigtail, scenic drives. We saw herds of Buffalo, wild burros, pronghorn, deer, turkeys, rabbits, and prairie dogs all in the span of a few hours.

We drove through the wildlife loop in April. It was cold out, but the animals were not affected at all! We saw many bison, antelope, and even some deer! It's a beautiful place! Highly recommend!

You are going to enjoy the beautiful view, take a couple of days here for there is a lot to see. My favorite was kayaking. I could stay there for hours. Get there early to get a stop or go later in the day. The park is open 24/7. You have to pay to get in but the pad is $20 for 7 days. There is wildlife in the area so don’t go near or feed the buffaloes. Don’t forget to go downtown and take with the painted buffaloes. Super cool.

Take the wildlife loop and the needles highway/Sylvan lake route! If you take the loop, there are tons of bison on the east side of the halfway point. Then the needles highway loop is beautiful with some challenging hikes. The cathedral spires trail looks simple but is no joke. Bring water and be prepared to climb. You're on the honor system to purchase a week or annual pass at one of the automated kiosks.

This place is breathtaking. You're going to need plenty of space in your device for pictures. You're also going to need plenty of time to drive. There are several places along the highways to pull off safely for pictures. Go South for the Wildlife Loop, or go North for the Eye of the Needle. Personally, the Needle was my favorite. There are also plenty of lodges with dining available. However, they were all closed for the winter season during our trip.

Custer State Park is hands down the greatest state park in the United States. For my money, it has more attractions than some of the national parks. In the south, do not miss the Wildlife Scenic Road to view the largest bison herd outside of Yellowstone. Along the road you may spot wild turkeys, pronghorn and elk. In the fall, try to visit during the bison roundup, that is quite a site to see. In the northern part of the park be sure to drive the spectacular Needles Highway. From Sylvan Lake you can hike one the incredible trails to the best area in the Black Hills and South Dakota. Cathedral Spires, Sylvan Lake Trail, Sunday Gulch and Little Devil's Tower are incredible hikes to see. This park is worth 2-3 days for a more extensive visit. The campgrounds in the park are also very nice for being close to the sites of the park. The Needles Highway is closed during the winter so check conditions.

We stayed at the Blue Bell camping cabins the last week in June 2023. These cabins are AMAZING! We normally tent camp, but for an extra $10 a night, this was money well spent! Our week was wonderful! Weather could have been a little more cooperative, but hey can’t predict that! Extra shoutout to our camping hosts Mark & Kathy!! They were so awesome & patient with us on our last day!! These cabins would easily sleep a family of 4! I would highly recommend Custer State Park! The beauty & the wildlife, can’t be put into words!! I have NEVER stayed at a park that was kept this clean! Even the pit toilets were very clean! South Dakota, Mt Rushmore, Crazy House & the Badlands are must sees!! Every employee that we came in contact with were friendly, helpful & just a joy! Again highly recommended!!! 10 Stars!!

20$ entry for some excellent wildlife viewing. You can also go up to sylvan lake and the needles parkway. The wildlife loop was great. We saw deer, Prarie dogs, bison, a badger, and much more.

What a fantastic state park! The scenery is absolutely gorgeous! There are do many things to see and do in this park. We saw bison, deer, prairie dogs and so many birds. This is someplace you could really spend an entire week exploring and enjoying the beauty of the area.

Loved it! Great park. So well taken care of. We rented a ATV and drove through the park. Worth every second. So much to see! Ponds, rock formations, scenic views, trails, animals, ect. If you have the time go through the park.

Breathtaking! I recommend stopping at the visitor center first to watch the short video and talk to the staff. It was snowing when I visited so the gentleman was helpful in knowing what roads were closed due to weather and where the best place to see the wildlife were. I drove the wildlife loop road in the morning and ended up coming back in the evening to do it again. I can’t wait to visit again during the season to take advantage of what I missed!

This area was so fabulous! We went here yesterday (In February). It was a gorgeous day with multiple herds of buffalo around and some bighorn sheep. We also saw burros, antelope, and deer. The scenery was breathtaking with the rolling hills and forests. If you like to take a nice drive, I would absolutely recommend it.

You can never go wrong w Custer State Park. The wildlife loop, scenic drives, picturesque lakes, rock formations...so much to see and experience! We loved the easy walk around Legion Lake. Watch the Buffalo from your camp site at the Game Lodge. Quintessential Black Hills fun.

Loved visiting this park!!! Although not a national park, it could easily be one given the scenic beauty and wildlife!! I highly recommend hiking the Sylvan Lake and Cathedral Spires trails. The wildlife loop offers great opportunities to view Bison, Prairie Dogs, and even some begging burros. One should definitely visit this park if visiting the Black Hills!

Beautiful park with breathtaking rock formations.Things to know :$20 temporary parking fee good for 1-7 days or you can purchase an annual pass.America the beautiful national parks pass does not cover parking fee.

Beautiful park. Many trails to hike and gorgeous views to see. Highly recommend looking into the different difficulties of hikes before going so you’re not caught unawares. Also, the Buffalo Safari Ride was worth it for the informational part about the park and animals.

I love Custer State Park. The campgrounds are beautiful and spacious. The lodges and cabins are rustic and welcoming. By far one of our favorite places to stay in the Black Hills. If you love the outdoors and viewing wildlife this is the place to come.

Had a great time a Custer! The wildlife loop didn’t disappoint; and the northern end of needles hwy was a sight to behold. Great views and cool tunnels. Lots of wildlife around: we saw bighorn, bison, and deer. Great time .

Custer State park is a park that is worthy of being a national park. Good on South Dakota for keeping it local. This place is nothing short of Amazing. The views the Bison and the scale. This place is huge. This is a must visit spot if you're in the area or even close by. This will be a family favorite for years to come.

Custer State Park is National Park worthy! Do yourself a favor and see this park. Be sure and take the jeep tour to see many scenic views and did I say buffalo! Wow! We ended up in the middle of a herd of about 200! It was amazing! Just go!

We went in May and had a great turnout for our first road trip and camping with our dog. The views were beyond amazing. Campsite staff were great and bathroom were always clean. Stores had nice merch and necessity selection. We hiked trail 9 up to Black Elk Peak and down. We did Lover’s Leap. We took trail 9 up to Black Elk Peak, but took trail 4 down the second time. Needles Highway, Iron Mt Road, and the Wildlife Loop Road are all worth the time. If no animals, at least a mostly peaceful drive, if not too busy. We had 3 full days, but I recommend more!

Went here with my brother and mom and it did not disappoint! It took us a bit of searching to get there, but once we did it was well worth it. We saw plenty of animals after going on the animal loop road. If you want to see some cool animals with your family close up this is the place to go!

We stayed in the Tatanka cabin at Custer State park. The cabin was absolutely beautiful and perfect for our huge family. Custer Park was very beautiful especially with the light snow that we had. The wildlife on the wildlife loop was especially cool to drive through!

Best state park I've ever been too. I can't believe this doesn't have 5 stars. The hikes are phenomenal and the terrain is so diverse. Even if you aren't into hiking there's a lake, scenic drives, plenty of visitor centers, easy walks, and a huge nature loop where you can see hundreds of bison. We also had some fantastic barbecue food at Sylvan lake. If you're in South Dakota, you have to visit this park.

4.8

(9098)

5.0

(6211)

South Dakota, USA

5 lists

Great memorial to see if you're already in the area to check out Mount Rushmore (if you are in the area for a different reason as well, but I'm going to guess 99.9999% of you are in the area to see Mount Rushmore). It would be cool if this memorial ever gets finished, but based on what they told us it's a long shot where funding is concerned. There's always hope, but, "it's the hope that kills you" (-Ted Lasso). Definitely cool to check out and a nice sculpture to pay homage to South Dakotans.

This place has so much more to offer than Mount Rushmore! I loved coming here and learning about Crazy Horse. This place is a must see. I recommend trying the Indian fry bread taco as well, it was so yummy. There is a ton of information here and I loved seeing all that they had to offer of their lives and how they lived.

This is one of the most incredible stops that you can make. The entire experience is Crazy Horse experience is mesmerizing. You need a minimum of 2 hours, but plan on a half a day of you want to take it all in. There is obviously the monument that they are carving into the mountain, but there are informational documentary movies, and the best Native American museum I've ever seen.They also provide entertainment including native American dancers that share their culture and take questions from the audience. That was one of the most informational sessions on Native American culture I have every had!There is also a nice family style restaurant and cafe on site.There is also commentary over night RV parking in a lot just outside the entrance road.

If you get a chance to visit crazy horse monument I 100% recommend it. Our family thoroughly enjoyed our visit. The museums were interesting and very educational, we really enjoyed the Bearsheart Family show. The gift shop was well stocked with anything you could want to purchase. The area is easily accessible, not very many stairs. The most walking we had to do was from the parking lot to the center. Everyone at the center was very kind and courteous. We definitely want to visit again.

Was a grand monument. Quite the endeavor. Was totally in awe. Would love to come back. But blessed to have had the chance to see it at least once. Definitely take the tour. A plus on the tour guild.

The history of this monument is fascinating. The story of the monument, the people who started and continue to work on it and the philanthropy for native communities today makes this worthwhile for a visit. Bring your kids and maybe one day they'll bring their kids to see more and more of the monument. There's a $12 entrance fee to the compound and also an optional $5 to get closer which I didn't have time for. Check with them before you go so you can time it well.

I enjoyed our visit very much. It was better than I expected. There’s a great educational video at the beginning and many interesting exhibits. We rode the bus up to the base of the monument and it showed the massive scale of the project. We visited Mt. Rushmore afterwards and my kids all said afterwards that they preferred Crazy Horse, which I thought was interesting and unexpected.

This memorial and cultural teaching center will continue to grow. The history of the driving force to build this monumental sculpture AND construct a educational center and cultural assemblage for the native tribes is very well documented and easy to understand. The views are fantastic! The feelings and goals are alive and well. The goal of completion is still far off but the message is very clear. The minimal costs or $30.00 for 2 people and a car worth supporting this effort. You can even receive a reenter pass good for 3 days to return again.

I would recommend someone to visit it more to understand and to get feel of native American culture and how they used to live earlier rather than for monument. Monument is too far from viewing deck and you cannot go near it. However, museum was very beautiful showcasing native American artefacts, culture, etc. Also, local performance and dances were very nice.

We went for the mountain but it was SO much more! Start with the film, don't miss the bus tour (100% worth it!) take in a show and then walk through all the museum exhibits. We spent an incredible morning and probably could have stayed longer. It is a tale of what the love of one's heritage (Chief Standing Bear) and the legacy of one family can do. We were awed by the experience, and we are already planning to return.

It's amazing how much it has grown and what has been accomplished, (not just in the mountain but also with the university, etc.) since I started visiting as a child. This year we did the story tellers tour up to the finished area. It was well worth the donation.

I was very impressed with my experience here. There was a5 dollar bus tour--very short, but worth it. We were able to experience a presentation and dances by a native, who also told us some very good history. The visitors center here is large--plan extra time to see it all or plan to miss some of it. I am in awe of the effort to create this memorial and to keep it in the hands of the local native Americans rather than using the state or federal government. My respect for them is much greater and my compassion for the things they went through at the hands of the white man is much more real.. I would visit here again just to experience the spirit of the monument.

Well worth the time and effort to see gives a person. A whole new perspective of the Native Americans. Plan on at least 4 hours if not more. And definitely take the bus tour. The restaurant was fantastic. I had the bison stew. Well worth the price. Overall, as an average white male American, very humbling experience.

The scale of the project is enormous! Hope to see it finished in the future. The entire complex offers views of Crazy Horse. Did not take the bus ride to get closer but the museum, gift shop, theatre, and viewing areas were worth the visit. The cost was around $20-$25 for an all day pass.

A must see place if you are in south Dakota, would suggest visiting mt Rushmore first and then crazy horse to be able to imagine and understand the scope of this and the time and effort it would take for theCompletion i think that is what thisPlace signifies .. “time”My Second visit after a decade, bit was still amazed. Its a nice Place to know about a lot of native American culture and has a wonderful collection of artifacts.

It is going to be spectacular when finished. We were able to see his face. His pointing arm is taking shape. You can see the outline of the horse marked on the mountain. The sculptors home, and workshop is part of the entry fee. There is a bus tour priced separately ($4) to get a closer view. *We were told the van tours take you up so you can walk on the arm ($125) A restaurant is on site.

I found this to be much more interesting than Mount Rushmore. They take you on a bus ride up and give you a guided tour along with the story. They also have a theater room where you can watch a movie about the family. Also an excellent Museum to tour. This place was spectacular. Price you pay to get in is more than worth it. It's awesome this place is privately funded and the money goes to help them.

I visited Crazy Horse 20 years ago and saw only the face was carved out.Now fast-forward 20 years and only difference is some of the base, part of the mane and hand has been completed.If only the support, funding, and commitment to completing The Crazy Horse memorial was met with the same enthusiasm as Mount Rushmore was completed back in their timeline...I was assigned to C Troop 1/3 Armored Calvary Regiment (ACR) and our unit was named after Crazy Horse, I was surprised to see nothing in the museum mentioned about our unit honoring Crazy Horse?I was hoping that the Crazy Horse memorial would have been finished in my lifetime, especially now that I am over 50.

$12 for only me. They don’t give receipts at the entry gate. I did expect to be able get close to the mountain. You can’t. You’re going to be at least a mile or so away. I was disappointed . I found out that the sculpture has been in the works for 75 yrs. This may be an over-ambitious task. I don’t think I’d go back cause that sculpture is never going to be done in this lifetime. I did think the museum was really nice. Especially if you’re interested in the Native American culture. They did tell me that the gift shop Indian artifacts are hand made and authentic. I bought some things that they said were from the Navajo Nation. I hope they’re real. Wouldn’t know though.

Crazy Horse Memorial is amazing!There is much to do there; world class artwork, shopping, a huge restaurant, history abounds, videos of carving a mountain, walking paths, shuttles that can take you close to the top of the mountain when safe.

The cost was $12 per person. To take a closer look, $5 per person for a bus ride. Like a school bus, but with only 10-12 rows of seats. (It truly flashed me back to my school days riding a metal bus with bouncy seats). The driver was very informative and interesting. The tour included a brief history (with pictures) of how the Crazy Horse sculpture became fruition.Along with seeing the sculpture, there is a beautiful, fairly large museum filled with artifacts, artwork, and history.An expansive gift shop filled with local artists' sculptures, paintings, etc, along with the usual t shirts_hoodies, magnets, and postcards. All were reasonably priced for a gift shop, IMO.

Absolutely spectacular memorial. The story and history is like nothing else. The size and scope of the project is quite impressive - to think that all of Mount Rushmore can fit inside just the head of Crazyhorse, is unbelievable. Last I visited, you could pay or bring canned goods for admission. I love this magical place.

Beautiful monument and museum. Very handicap accessible for my grandma who came with us, and the staff was so kind and accommodating to her.The staff members were all so kind and knowledgeable.The observation deck was really cool to experience.

This was a cool experience. The video was very informative and it was nice to learn about something I never knew existed. I will be following this memorial to see the progress in the coming years. Bus tickets are $5. This is a dog friendly attraction. Dogs are not allowed in the restaurant or on the bus. Dogs can not walk on the wood floors of the visitor center and museum and must be carried. I have a small dog and had no issues carrying her around on the wood floors. It was cool they also have free rocks that are part of the crazy Horse progress. $12 for an adult to get in (off season pricing).

Native owned and funded. Still in the process of carving this beautiful memorial to honor the tribes of Native America. Get a short history lesson and learn a little about the tribes of the area. Watch as it develops into something amazing by visiting more than once. The bus ride to the site was an extra $5 a person but I enjoyed it. I wish I could have afforded the van tour to the top.

4.3

(4316)

4.0

(5486)

Crazy Horse, SD 57730, USA

1 list

Words can not describe just how amazing the Needles Highway is. This thrilling road runs through Custer State Park, but the entry fee is worth every penny. I entered the Needles Highway off U. S. Highway 385 just a few miles from the Crazy Horse Memorial. Soon after entering the park the amazing views began. Do not do this drive unless you have plenty of time because you will be constantly stopping for photos and to take in the wonderful views. Sylvan Lake great but just a prelude to what is to come as you wind your way through the rocky landscape toward Cathedral Spires. Along the way you will move slowly through the Needles Eye Tunnel which is simple unbelievable. The road handles traffic in both directions but the tunnel is only one lane, so there may be a considerable wait during peak tourist season. The tunnel is a little over 8-feet wide and about 12-feet tall so it is a tight fit, but I did witness a full size tour bus make it through with inches to spare. I traveled the Needles Highway all the way through from Highway 385 to U. S. Highway 16-A. Even Though it is only distance of about 20 or 25 miles the journey took me a little over two hours as I was treated to spectacular beauty at every turn and kept stopping for pictures. Along the way, I saw a variety of wildlife including deer, a bear and buffalo. This is one of the most amazing drives in the country and should be done when you have plenty of time.

Of course it didn't match Instagram hype 😂 but we pretty much had the needles highway to ourselves so the tunnels and views were awesome. We loved the whole trip and Custer SP exceeded our expectations.

Oh my GOSH! This was exciting. We not only saw a huge tour bus get through that tiny tunnel (to applause I might add), when we started to enter there were two mountain goats waiting for their photo opp. Beautiful!

Beautiful and scenic! The scenery is just breathtaking. Loved our time exploring this national park! Definitely be sure to give yourself bample time for exploring, we only drove through and stopped at several of the overlooks.

Very cool to drive through and experience. O ly one vehicle at a time and check size, no big RVs or large trucks will fit. Highly recommend and beautiful.

Absolutely beautiful!We drove the loop, we hiked to the Cathedral Spires and it was amazing!! One of the most beautiful places ever!

Beautiful scenery! Very narrow road with 2-way traffic. The 2 tunnels are single lane only however, we found people to be very patient & willing to take turns. We saw numerous deer & a mountain goat (next to the road on top of a rock pinnacle). Take time to stop at the different pullouts - the views are stunning! We went thru the tunnels with our Winnebago Travato without any difficulties.

Thunderstorms and a deluge of biblical proportions met us at the Wyoming/South Dakota border, and didn’t ease up until the following morning. Regardless, the scenery is astounding! Straight outta vintage black&white cowboys and Indians films (or Jarmuschs’ Dead Man). Hordes of tourists and vehicles is the only downside.

Beautiful area in the Black Hills of South Dakota. This is a must-see if you are in this part of the country. Expect slow-moving traffic and do not attempt this road if you have a larger than normal vehicle without checking clearance first.

Definitely a place to stop and look around. Take your time to get on some of the rocks and take pictures. Read about Needle Eye. Drive through the tunnel. Enjoy the fresh air. A must see place.

The best part of driving along the scenic driveway is going through the needles tunnel, which is truly unique. The tunnel is a one lane section of the road that passes right through granite rock. The tunnel is quite narrow. Make sure that you check out the size restrictions. The tunnel is less than two miles from Sylvan Lake Lodge. It is a great picture spot.

This entire area is stunningly beautiful. The tunnels on this road are crazy... they're one lane, and the drivers can make some interesting decisions, so use caution. It's a great trip.

The drive was very long. But once you got to it, it was so beautiful. If you go park and walk around it nice

Tunnel is just along the needles highway! The worse you are as a driver, the more exciting it is. If you're a good driver it's just ok. For me it was exciting.

If you're looking for an amazing scenic drive in South Dakota, Needles Highway in Custer State Park is a must-do. And if you're lucky enough to visit during the fall, the Needle Tunnel is a truly special sight.As you approach the tunnel, you'll be greeted by towering rock formations that resemble giant needles. The tunnel itself is narrow and winding, with walls that are just inches away from your car on either side. But it's the views from inside the tunnel that are truly breathtaking.As you drive through, you'll feel like you're on another planet. The rock formations are so otherworldly, and the fall colors are simply stunning. The tunnel is also a great place to see wildlife, such as mountain goats and deer.If you're looking for a truly unique and memorable experience, I highly recommend visiting Needle Tunnel in Custer State Park during the fall. It's an experience you'll never forget.Here are some specific things I loved about Needle Tunnel:* **The amazing views:** The views from inside the tunnel are simply incredible. You can see towering rock formations, lush forests, and meadows filled with wildflowers.* **The feeling of being on another planet:** The rock formations in Needles Highway are so unique and otherworldly. It really feels like you're driving through another planet.* **The beautiful fall colors:** The fall colors in Needles Highway are absolutely stunning. The leaves on the trees turn a brilliant red, orange, and yellow, creating a truly breathtaking sight.* **The massive rocky boulders:** The boulders in Needles Highway are simply massive. They're some of the largest boulders I've ever seen.If you're planning a trip to Custer State Park, be sure to add Needle Tunnel to your itinerary. It's an experience you won't soon forget.

One of the coolest places - so many photo ops right there. More to explore than just the tunnel - which is awesome. My kids loved going through it multiple times in our suv. Pretty sweet place.

The Black Hills is a very special place. With each turn it seems to get better. The Needles Eye is a place where you can grab a chair and just gaze at the surroundings for hours and enjoy it's spectacular views.

This was a very fun ride for our family to ride down this road after we left Mt Rushmore. Be sure you stop at the pull offs and check out the tunnels on the Needles Highway

4.9

(1057)

5.0

(1738)

MP 31, SD-87, Custer, SD 57730, USA

2 lists

It takes around 30-60 minutes to walk around the whole lake, depends on how much time you take photos and breaks. Very scenic lake.

Sylvan lake was gorgeous! We enjoyed the hike around it. The parking lot was quite busy, but we managed to find a spot.

Really beautiful especially when the water is clear and reflective. There's a lodge with food and amenities here and you can spend some time hiking around the lake. It's along the needles highway so hit up both!

I love the walking paths and the views! I would highly recommend that you visit this place. It is $20 to get into the park, and the gift shop is overpriced, but otherwise Sylvan was a very pleasant experience. I also recently found out that Sylvan lake was used in movie called National Treasure 2. You can find the rock that they filmed on in one of the pictures I attached.

Hard to beat Sylvan Lakewhen exploringCuster State Parkin theBlack Hills.Sylvan Lakewas created when Theodore Reder built a damacross Sunday Gulch Creek in 1882 andoffers wonderfulpicnic areas, rock climbing, small boat rental, and beautiful rocky vistas.Also a great base camp to exploreBlack Elk PeakandThe Needles. Check it out!

If you are going to Custer State park, go to Sylvan Lake. Parking could be a challenge but it is a beautiful place to visit. There is a loop trail around the lake and other trails nearby.

Beautiful place! The entrance fee is $10 per car that you can use for 7 days. If you have any of the National passes they don’t apply here. The visitor center seems a bit empty and the bathrooms were somewhat dirty when I was there later in the day- in the evening. I think they were having trouble with the bathrooms because there was water by the bathroom door and the smell was unpleasant. The parking was okay as far as cars since it was a bit rainy one day I was there. You can do a hike around the lake which is gorgeous. You can climb the huge rocks on the water too. Went another day with better weather and the parking lot was full. There’s other trials you can do/ including Black Elk Peek.

This is a beautiful lake in the Black Hills of South Dakota. An easy hike will let you experience the entire beauty of the lake.

A very scenic lake in Custer SP. The hike around the lake is scenic and an easy hike for families. The view today in the snow was spectacular.

Located just inside the entrance to Custer State Park, Lake Sylvan is one of the most picturesque and scenic areas I've ever been to! The only downside is that it attracts a lot of people, but we spent the day swimming/paddle boarding/hiking/fishing and just taking in the scenery in this beautiful area.

Very quiet relaxing stop. The hike around and behind the lake is more moderate than beginner and definitely not wheelchair accessible. There are several other hikes available, plenty of parking, cabins for rent, as well as a gift store and restrooms.

My favorite lake in America! So pretty and the rocks for climbing are super fun. Rock climbing tours available if that's your thing or doing it alone is very possible. Climbing up and the view of the lake is just as awesome. If I am in Custer this is a must stop for me even if it's just for a look!!!!!

I went with my girlfriend and dog over a long weekend. The lake was frozen over, but it was beautiful. Would highly recommend going during the winter as there were hardly any other hikers out on the trails.

Definitely a beautiful place to see. It was off season so I didn't experience what others are saying of too crowded. Clean bathroom to use before heading to Needles Hwy. It was very peaceful and calm.

Pretty lake with hiking trails. The trail around the lake gets confusing when you get to a crossroads with another trail. You have to climb up a lot of rock steps, and once on the top, there's hardly any indication of where to go. I climbed back down and back up, and I finally saw a hint of blue paint on a rock. I followed that and did a little rock climbing and found where the trail continues. Definitely needs a new sign at the top of the rocks. It was frustrating trying to figure out where to go and carrying my dog down and back up the steps. The store was closed for the season.

My favorite thing to do is kayaking and Houston enjoyed the water also. We saw other people kayaking and paddle boarding. Some were jumped off the cliffs into the water. It was beautiful. The Park has other lakes to kayak at so we plan on doing those also.

It's not an easy hike, not a baby stroller walk. Magnificent view. It could have a better sign to guide the direction. We were briefly lost in the wood, thanks for the holiday, there are plenty of tourists around.

One of our favorite stops while exploring Mount Rushmore area, Custer State Park and all. The scenery is spectacular, and there is a handicapped accessible trail around the lake. Nice gift shop with refreshments, and clean restrooms.

4.8

(601)

5.0

(2002)

East Custer, SD 57730, USA

9 lists

We planned our visit to be there just before dark to see the memorial and then stay for the lighting ceremony. It was an amazing experience. The ceremony does a nice job outlining the men memorialized on the mountain as well as gives nice detail and background to the undertaking of creating it. I would not change a thing about our visit, the weather was perfect, crowd size was great (busy but not packed) the drive up and down as well as parking was simple. Walking through the flags of all the states on the way to the amphitheater…just an amazing and moving experience. I recommend a visit to all.

I first visited here in 1992 and could just drive right up close without having to pay to get a view. $10 parking, $5 senior citizens discount price. I enjoyed the hiking trails and stayed past dark for the lightning ceremony that lasts about an hour. Arrive about an hour before dark for a good seat. I didn't mind standing at the back because I was 1st to exit ahead of hundreds of people.

An absolutely must see for any American! I would even say if you're a foreigner touring the U.S., you need to stop by and see Mount Rushmore. It's not too far of a drive if you're coming from Rapid City. I suggest bringing some snacks for the trip but there is a little town before you get into the main Mt. Rushmore area. It's an incredible monument and is definitely worth seeing.

The video was very informative. I was there Sunday, Feb 25, 2024, and there were very few people there. It cost $10 to park, and admission was free since it's a national monument. As you can see from one of my pictures I was literally the only person on the entire observation deck.

Visited Mount Rushmore in July. Easy to visit with plenty of parking and easy path up to view the monument. I’m sure you could spend longer here but we were in and out in less than an hour and thought that was plenty of time. There is a little car park just out side the park on the side of the road which gives you a great view if you don’t want to pay or have a different angle. I’ve put the map to it in my photos. We really enjoyed our visit and recommend.

Loved loved it! You gotta visit this monument at least once in your life. Parking is good for 1 year as well which is great. My little family and I took a trip to see this beauty during spring break. The weather was wonderful even in March. It was not crazy busy like it's prime season so I recommend it even though most things are not open until April and May. I still loved the fact that it was not overly crowded. We all loved the trail hike and seeing it up closer. A great nature trail walk. We also loved seeing all the flags of each state which was really cool.

This was one of our stops along the way on our cross-country road trip, and it did not disappoint. To be able to check this off my bucket list was great. Pictures do not do this justice. If you are road tripping and plan on visiting more than a couple national monuments or parks, I highly suggest getting yourself the America the beautiful park pass. It's good for a year, and well worth it. There's a bit of a walk up to it from the parking, and you have to pay for parking. There's a small cafe/restaurant that you can eat at while there, as well as the obligatory gift shop. Extremely glad we got to see this in person.

This is a memorial to American icons. Plain and simple. It is big and impressive and patriotic and all the things we are good at here in America. Seeing it in person is a moving experience, but it is crowded and hot in the summer. It is a must-see for anyone traveling through the Black Hills.

From the time i was very young, this place has been on my bucket list to visit. I finally made it to this national treasure/ wonders of the world.I came during the off-season and the evening time. No one was there but two people from Tennessee were two hours away from my house.I so enjoyed this moment and well cherish it for ever.I highly recommend coming November time less busy.

This is a MUST visit, and I'm not even American. After the disappointment at Crazy horse we visited this National memorial and it was awesome. We had the place for ourselves, it was freezing cold tho but a great experience. This is something you have to add to your bucket list. Don't forget if you are in the area to visit Badlands and Wind cave national park.

Finally dream from childhood achieved. When I was young, and watched TV, most of that time was Cartoon Network, and few time I saw that sculpture in few cartoons. Finally I can see them in my own eyes. I’m polish so most of American things is nice for me. Anyway, that possible to see 4 presidents of USA on a big mountain, something big. Catch some pics from that trip ✌️P.S. was cold 🥶

There are so many areas you can go to get an excellent view. Informative video. Don't forget to go see Crazy Horse! The museum and other buildings are packed full of details. They documented so much, and did it so very well! The scenic drive from Morning Star Lodge was a breathtaking 55 miles to MT. Rushmore.

What can I say about this historic monument that hasn't already been said yet? Mount Rushmore is a fantastic place to visit. The place is beautiful, clean, full of interesting information and family friendly for all ages.You only pay for parking, which is 10 dollars. The place built around it is very well done. It has a restaurant with several food options, restrooms scattered around the place, trails to see the monument up close, theaters showing a short but informative film about the place, etc. There is a huge gift shop with many interesting items too.Masks were not mandatory when I went (March 2022).

Always a great time visiting one of our countries monuments. We brought our Dog and Mount Rushmore is not so much Dog friendly. That being said it was still worth the stop. Me and my wife took turns in the gift shop and viewing area. Dog is only allowed right before the gates . There is a spot you can take your dog to the right of the park and you are able to view from there. Parking is only five bucks if you are senior, ten for everyone else. First picture is from pet viewing area.

We had a wonderful time, seeing the monument and learning about all the history together as a family. The parking was insanely affordable and also extremely accessible. It was an easy walk, and the crowds were minimal, allowing us to take a lot of cool pictures together. The staff were all very knowledgeable and extremely friendly.

It’s worth the trip, but it can’t be your only reason for going to South Dakota. I’d strongly recommend adding some other places to your trip, since really the most time I think you can really enjoy yourself here is like 6 hours max. And that includes the hikes and the tours. See some of the nearby caves or go a little further out of the way for some local foods. The whole area is gorgeous.

Sculptor Gutzon Borglum created this famous mountainside carving of the visages of four great American presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt.The carving is awesome and it looks more beautiful in person. The memorial is well maintained. There is paid parking service,they are charging for National park pass holders as well, which we didn’t liked.The gift shop is nice. The staff and park service officials are well knowledgeable and always help others and answers their queries nicely.

I was not sure what to expect when I saw the monument other than some guys heads on the side of a mountain. But this was an amazing experience to see the artistry and history behind the making of this monument. We went once in the morning when it was absolutely pouring so there was a weird effect that made it look like their noses were running, but, there was also no one there. We then went later that night to see it lit up by the spotlights which by then the rain had stopped and the stone dried to get some nice shots.The gift shop was also great and I bought far too many souvenirs while there!

Great artistic and patriotic work in the beautiful black hills of South Dakota! Truly astounding! A cafe, gift shop and restrooms are available. The best part would have to be walking the Presidential Trail and seeing Mt Rushmore from different point of views as well as the surrounding forestry, be warned however, it boasts 425 steps and will get you winded! Great area for birders as well! I went early on a weekday and not many people were around, perfect for reflective moments, soon as it started to get crowded in the afternoon I did feel like the area wasn’t big enough for so many people and it will definitely affect your experience if you go when it’s packed. All in all, it’s an experience every American and tourist should see for themselves!

My wife and I had visited in August of last year. It was crowded and hot and we had our pet with us. It was a nicel experience. This time we came with no pet and was able to take t he short .6 of a mile presidential trail. Believe the signs. It's definitely a workout but well worth it. You get a new perspective. It was a very enjoyable hike. Photos are all from the trail except one or two.

We visited the park as part of a group one year in October. It was windy and cold. But the park was easy to navigate and we had a lot of fun.It's amazing how close you can get. There's a lot of history, and you can even see right up their noses!

Mount Rushmore, a symbol of American history and ingenuity, evokes a mix of emotions for visitors, from awe at its grandeur to discomfort over its controversial past.Set amidst the rugged beauty of the Black Hills of South Dakota, Mount Rushmore stands as a monumental tribute to some of America's most influential presidents. Carved into the granite face of the mountain, the larger-than-life sculptures of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln are a testament to the ideals and aspirations of the nation.For many, the historical significance of Mount Rushmore is reason enough to visit. Walking the Presidential Trail and gazing up at these iconic figures, one can't help but feel a sense of reverence for the leaders who shaped the course of American history. The accompanying exhibits and visitor center offer valuable insights into the creation of the monument and its place in the national consciousness.However, it's impossible to ignore the darker side of Mount Rushmore's history. The monument sits on land that is sacred to Native American tribes, and its creation involved the desecration of a site held sacred by the Lakota Sioux. For some visitors, this knowledge casts a shadow over the experience, prompting reflection on the complex and often painful relationship between indigenous peoples and the United States government.Practical considerations, such as parking, also merit mention. While the parking facilities at Mount Rushmore are adequate, the cost of parking can be a disappointment for budget-conscious travelers, adding an unexpected expense to the visit.Mount Rushmore is a site of undeniable historical significance, offering visitors a glimpse into America's past and the ideals it holds dear. However, its troubled origins and practical drawbacks may give pause to some, reminding us that even the most iconic landmarks are not without their complexities and controversies.

Beautifull. We parked the car there for 10 usd (ticket valid for 1 year after purchase) and then we walk for 3 - 4 minutes to the scenic area. The view is amazing. There is a museum downstairs and gift shops. In April was not busy at all and most shops in town were closed.

4.7

(47005)

4.5

(11924)

13000 SD-244, Keystone, SD 57751, USA

1 list

Amazing location, it’s soothing to drive among the trees & feel the breeze. The Mount Rushmore view is great from the top.when we entered to the forest, we got so much relaxed by the breeze, weather and so much peace.

Extraordinary views with an amazing scenery of the Buffaloes! Black Hills National Forest is located in southwestern South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming, United States. The forest has an area of over 1.25 million acres and is managed by the Forest Service. The forestry personnel are NOT FRIENDLY AT ALL!!! Go figure that one out… almost ruined my vacation considering I drove from Miami Florida!!

Nice lush green away from hustling city life... it's an escape from all chaos of life. We went to Custer and from there went to visit black hills. Morning sunrise views are mesmerizing. Also we took hot air balloon ride to see black hills forest from top. Would definitely recommend visiting. Very peaceful, quite since not much crowd like California.

We didn't know what to expect visiting here and it was breathtaking. If you have time, explore the needles highway (which goes through the state park nearby too). Check out the hiking throughout the black hills forest. It is gorgeous! I could have spent days just hiking and driving around taking in this beautiful site.

It is one of the most beautiful places. Camped there for a few days. Even got the pleasure of seeing a mountain goat as it was going up the mountain. Didn't realize they could climb so well. Amazing to see. We were there twice last year and would love to go back. There were some beautiful flowers too.

Loved driving through it. Lakes are beautiful and clean. A great spot and there is so much to do. Do carry a map to make sure you are visiting all points of interest and you can choose where to take a stop as well. Pactola lake in Black Hills Forest is one of the most beautiful lake. There are trails, paved driving route as well. Hiking, driving, boating, kayaking, swimming, photography, pickniking and so much fun..

This was absolutely breath taking!!!! Weather was amazing the day I went and getting to see the animals up close and personal was awesome!!! One of the highlights of my time living in South Dakota. Can’t wait to eventually go back! Totally recommend a trip through here.

This is a beautiful forest with healthy, beautiful trees, and some amazing views. Our visit was fabulous.

Great place to drive around so much to see and do. A lot of great hikes for inexperienced people like me😅 very beautiful place. Needless Highway is a must! There is a lot of curves when driving, so if it makes you sick take something before you start driving. The views are so impressive.

An area of intense green very beautiful to the eye with a lot of roads crossing it and even multiple roads encircling it allowing to drive around to contemplate the beauty of the nature that grew in that area compared to the surrounding areas. Almost as an oasis in the desert.

Stayed at free campsite on spring Creek road and it was nice scenery and dusty. Beautiful stolen land and rich in native Lakota history.

We went to a few parts of the Black Hills. The most impressive and scenic is more by Mount Rushmore. We did a bit of a trail and we did some birdwatching. The rock formations are really neat.

Beautiful!! Just WOW!!! If you love wildlife and pretty rocks and a view you won't ever forget, you must see in person! Loved it!! We will definitely be making another trip back there.

4.7

(181)

5.0

(913)

West Pennington, SD 57745, USA

4 lists

So much fun! Especially if you have kids! I would 100% opt for the shootout ride if you can swing it! Really fun (especially for the kids again), just make sure you are on the LEFT side of the train (looking up towards the engine when you depart Hill City) so that you are on the correct side to see the shootout. We switched sides on the way back and that was nice to get to see the scenery on both sides (so again, we sat on the LEFT side if your facing the direction the train is going to go, both ways). Gorgeous views of the black hills. The lady narrating was kind of silly and awkward, but the kids loved it!

We loved our train rode from Hill City to Keystone, the info during the ride was great, we loved learning about the history.The cars were clean and bright, easy to see out the windows, relaxing ride for a cool fall day, the colors this time of year are gorgeous.Highly recommend doing this if you have the time!!

This is an absolute must-do when up in the area. My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our ride from Hilly City to Keystone and back on the train. The views are breath-taking, the ride is full of so much history and information, and more importantly, the time spent together was wonderful. You get to see parts of the Hills you don't otherwise get to see, but to do it in historic train coaches was just perfect. Definitely will come and do again!

An amazing place and cool train to ride. My second time being here. 2015 and this year 2022. Lots of great photo opportunities, history of the train and the area. Highly recommend it to families, couples or even just yourself. Fun for all.

A fun, leisurely time.Bought tickets two days out with a two hour layover in Keystone.A narrated trip.You can just ride between the two towns. Each way is about an hour not including the time to reposition the engine.Very helpful and friendly staff, both, in the stations and on the train.

As a lover of vintage locomotive trains, this was a wonderful experience. We booked the round trip from Keystone to Hill City and back to Keystone, with a 3hr gap between rides so we could explore and eat lunch there. Riding the train was great and had informative historical audio playing describing the history of the towns and railroad. I highly recommend booking in advance, especially during tourist season/summer. Great fun.

The train ride was such an amazing experience!! The crew were fantastic, they answered any questions you may have and told us all about the train itself (over 100 yrs old) we saw lots of deer along the way in such beautiful scenery. Highly recommend!!!!! Can’t remember the price of the tickets, I do know it did not cost very much especially for a 2 hour train ride.

This was a fun adventure - our kids had never been on a train before. This ride takes you through the countryside and has neat historical sites and wildlife along the way! Our children range in age from 12-1 and they all enjoyed the experience!The day was a warm one, and the open air ride was perfect for keeping us comfortable. Strongly recommend this unique experience!

A fun train ride pulled by a steam engine. Very informative guide and friendly staff on board and working the gift shop and museum. A highlight for us was seeing Black Elk Peak. The highest in SD. I would suggest calling ahead to reserve seats if you know you wil be near Hill City or Keystone. The seats fill up fast, especially for larger families or groups.They have the old #7 engine that was used for movies and you'll see that history in the museum. Neat.

This is a steam engine train. The ride takes 2 hours round trip..Bonus ..watch for the dinosaur in the field it may or may not be out there!Saw lots of deer.Lots of historical information while the train is going.Loved this and will be back with family.

Such a wonderful day in South Dakota. 84 degrees and a slight breeze. We decided to take the 10 mile round trip from Keystone SD to Hill City SD via 1880 Train, an hour each way. What a nice trip. Wife's first time on a train and she really enjoyed the slow narrated tour of the countryside.The cars were open air and wooden seats. No restrooms on board and they do sell water and some small snacks for cash only.We saw a part of the area that is only accessible from train and crossed over many local streets.. We lost count of how many deer and turkeys we saw. We recommend this trip to all.

Went from Hill City to keystone it took around an hour. The train had awesome views and was very informative about the train and area. We stayed in keystone for 3 hours way too long for us. The town is the standard tourist trap all the shops had much of the same merchandise. The food was on the expensive side also ok nothing to get excited about.

We were enjoying the town when we decided to ride without any expectations and had a great time. The ride was narrated throughout and saw some great mountain views and plenty of deer. It was $96 for 2 round trip tickets and they sell popcorn and drinks on the ride to keystone.

My dad is an absolute lover of all trains. When we were in Keystone and he suggested a train trip, it was a chance not to pass up. Open air car is the way to go. Don't skimp on just going one way. it's better to get the full experience if you can spare the time.It was like you were stepping back in time to hear the whistle of the steam engine and see all of the steam escaping as we clicked along the old tracks and heard the tales of how everything came to existence and what still remained.The popcorn is crisp and salty to enjoy while taking in all the sights. The Black Hills, the train, all kinds of wildlife like the osprey nest and local visitors along the way.Jim was in town from San Diego and was full of fantastic information. He even included our question on the return trip, which we were just tickled over!We remarked it would be a little cooler to be able to see the actual water going into the containment from the water towers. I'm sure that's a minor change, and there must be a reason that it goes directly into the containment unit so as not to waste water.If you have the opportunity, please book your round trip tickets and take a little peek in their gift shop for ultra cute postcards and little trinkets that you might not realize that you need in your life!At the risk of sounding cliche or cheesy, it was a father daughter trip, and the best part of my journey was getting a chance to talk about trains with my Dad.

The museum was amazing. The curator..Rick Mills was friendliest, knew everything about trains, explained the design of the museum and his passion. The 1880 train ride was fun to experience. I can't wait for my next visit.

Slow paced 1 hour trip in each direction between Hill City and Keystone. Staff was incredibly friendly, helpful and informative. Really cool to get to enjoy a trip on and old steam powered locomotive. Only reason this is getting 4 stars and not 5 is I was disappointed in the lack of overlooking views with the mountains and valleys. In my mind I was expecting a trip through the Black Hills on a train to have glorious overlooking views and it was way more close up rock with all the cut throughs. In many cases you are only 2 feet from the walls of the rock they cut through and don't have a view at all. Outside of that the price ended up being $187 for 4 people after taxes and fees, which was a bit pricey. I will say this about the trip, it's not worth the money charged, but it is worth every minute of your time to make the trip!

4.7

(3432)

4.0

(1646)

222 Railroad Ave, Hill City, SD 57745, USA

1 list

We vacation in the black hills frequently and this has always been a must stop on my kids list. This is actually the #1 request for them. This year was amazing we went early in the morning right after opening time and we saw everything active. Another benefit of heading in early we had the park to ourselves essentially. One nice thing we encountered this year...we took my 93 year old grandpa. He was greeted by a golf cart in the parking lot that drove him through the park and told him about everything. Such and unexpected blessing, he was going to wait for us after walking to the gift shop and sitting on a bench. (Bear Country staff....you guys really hit the mark here. THANK YOU!!!). Not sure if it was the cooler weather or the feeding schedule. It looked like the bears had and were still eating. Keep the windows up and enjoy this ride I can't recommend it enough!!!! At 19 my oldest still makes a very vocal pitch to make time for a Bear Country stop!

Oh my this tops the list of cool animal places I've been! Had so many different animals that could walk right up to your car, the bears were the best though! Then when your done with being in your car go take a walk to the little zoo. Go to the end and see the black bear cubs playing.. They'll steal your heart! Nice gift shop too!

The initial drive through was pretty cool. There were many different types of animals you could see. At the end of the drive is where the bears are located which is definitely the best part. Many times they would walk around your car so you can see them up close. After the drive is an area where you can see baby bears and other smaller animals which was neat.

When we heard there was a whole hour wait for Cosmos, we decided to change our plans and ended up here instead. It turned out to be an absolute blessing in disguise! Despite the decent-sized queue, the wait was totally worth it. We had the incredible fortune of having various animals stroll right in front of us and even next to us. Every penny spent was a fantastic investment, and I can guarantee you won't leave here disappointed!

My wife and went to Bear Country USA on a whim this past Sunday and boy I'm glad we did. I've seen places like this on TV and people don't see most of the animals as they drive through.Bear Country USA is completely as advertised. We saw every animal on the map they gave us. The road you take has plenty of room for someone to pass so you can take your time and enjoy yourself.I could go on all day about the main attraction but there's more. At the end of the tour there's a gift shop and a small zoo that you can walk around. They have wolves, foxes, badgers, bobcats and more but the bear cubs were our absolute favorite. Watching them play together was awesome. One cub came right up to the wall as we stood and started watching us. He sniffed the air as he approached and sat under where my wife was standing. He could smell her perfume and we think he really liked it because he kept looking at her and giving her a grin.We highly recommend Bear Country USA.

I have to admit, I thought this place would be the typical tourist trap. I was so wrong.This place was amazing and worth every penny. It’s awesome for kids and adults. We saw at least 20 different bears. They were just walking around. We saw 3 types of wolves, various elk/reindeer, coyotes, foxes, horned sheep, and so much more. You drive through and it takes about 45 minutes depending on how slow or fast you drive.There is a separate part you get out and walk around to see the animals such as bear cubs. I wasn’t expecting to see many animals or animals this close! It was a great experience for all ages.

We really enjoyed this place! $20 per adult. The loop is only a couple miles, so take your time! Then after the safari part, you park and walk around to see the animals in enclosures (bear cubs, skunks, porcupines, otters, and more). That part is about a quarter mile loop. So we were only there for probably less than a couple hours, but it was really worth it... Seeing bears and wolves up close was so cool!!!Highly suggest getting there around opening time on a weekday to see the most activity from the animals, no waiting in line at the entrance, and it's less crowded.And yes, the gift shop is huge and has a lot of fun stuff!

We had a car load of 6 that visited on 7-1-23. Not a bad place to check out if you have little kids and want to see wildlife up close in a car instead of walking a zoo. They charge by the car load, up to $75 I believe. Before you enter the park, you can pull off to the side and clean your windows as you're supposed to keep your windows up during the tour. This isn't fast moving by any means as cars a head of you may stop to take pictures or have to stop because of animals blocking the road. Some animals are are to see but most we could easily see or were in the road (the day we went). The bear exibit was by far the largest and was plenty of them. Some were fighting and some were just relaxing in the water or what not. Worth checking out if you have time. Go on a good clear day for the best views. At the end, you can get out of car and walk the little zoo that have with baby animals.

You can either choose from paying per person or per vehicle. We went around 12:30 on Tuesday August 15, 2023. A lot of the animals were under their shelter trying to avoid the hot sun. They have elk, bison, wolves, bears, goats, and mountain lions in the area where you drive through. Seeing the bears was the best part because they were chasing a truck dumping food off for them. It looked like a zombie apocalypse, all the bears were chasing the truck. There were over 30 adult bears and we got to see them eat lunch.Walking around the exhibits was sort of boring. There were a lot of vacant homes. The only things there were a porcupine, skunk, some foxes, and bear cubs. There cubs were very cute. It was nice of them to install mist sprayers to cool people off.The whole experience was about 2 hours and we paid $75 for the vehicle. I will say that this was a great experience for adults and kids at a fair price.

This was actually fun. You may get stuck at the entrance, but sit tight and relax.There are more than bears. There are all kinds of animals here, and the bears are just hilarious.Once you reach the end of the driving lane, get out and stretch and walk around the walking exhibits. There is an otter there that will brighten your day.The gift shop is huuuuge. There is something for everyone there.Overall, if I find myself back in that part of the country, I will definitely swing through again. Kids will love it.

Many animals in a natural environment. They have elk, wolves, reindeer, bears, bighorn sheep, and many others! You stay in your car and drive through a safe roadway. Then there is a really nice separate section of smaller animals like fox, baby bears and porcupine. They have a beautiful gift shop with a lot of clothes and especially children's pajamas. It turned out to be a worthwhile stop. I highly recommend the approximately 2 hour visit.

I was pleasantly surprised by the tour. This is a sealf guided driving tour. We saw a lot of animals Dear, Bears both brown and black bears, Elk, Rain dear, artic wolf's. All the animals we visable and easy to see. At the end of the driving tour there is a very nice visitor center and gift shop and a small zoo type exhibits. Really enjoyed the visit.

Took the kids here for something fun to do before continuing our road trip. They said this was "the best ever!" We enjoyed driving through and seeing the animals wandering around - much better than other zoos where they are in a cage. There is a short walking part for smaller animals. They have a great gift shop too - lots of neat gifts.

It was about 5pm when we came through, so the animals were super hot, but they had the sprinkler on for the reindeer and the other animals could all be seen for the most part. The kids really enjoyed looking out.i was a bit nervous being so close to a MASSIVE bison with our rental van, but all was fine. The baby bears were entertaining and the small mountain lion in the walking part of the facility was vocal (barked/meowed to us). Again - all the animals were really hot, but seemed well cared for and had plenty of shade and resources to stay cool. I'm glad we stopped in.

We had such a great time as a family. $75 for our whole family of five to enjoy. A large gift shop at the end. Very clean and upkept park. Restrooms and window washing station after you pay and before you enter the park. Restrooms also in gift shop and at the wildlife walkway. Concessions were closed 9.3.2023, but drinks and ice cream treats were available in the gift shop. 100% recommend.

We had a great visit, there was no wait with the line, do you keep in mind that we arrived very close to the park opening.I will always back up rules that are in place at location where you’re visiting that has wild animals.The Rules are in place for a reason, your safety! Please take note of the them.You’ll find that when you’re at the drive-through Bear Country Park, you may not see all of the animals, but chances are, you’ll get to see them at the end, at the through portion of the park.As to the main feature, The Bears, upon first spotting them, we noticed that were sleeping or they were just coming around. It was incredibly amazing to see them in such a resting to awakening mode. I really can’t say which exhibit was my favorite, however, the Bears are amazing!Also, I highly recommend that you remember to visit the gift shop. I am not out here to encourage you spend more money, however, it was very comfortable warm and aesthetically, it was incredibly beautiful!I hope that y’all enjoy your visit as much as we did, and we can’t wait to visit again.

This was an awesome stop on our cross country road trip! We loved driving through the animal sanctuary & watching the bears try to understand how the cars were able to pass through the cattle gates but they weren’t, was hilarious. Equally entertaining was watching them stand up and scratch their backs on log posts, roll around and play with each other & splash in the water. The walking mini zoo was nice also, the only thing we were bummed about was that we couldn’t figure out where to go to play with the baby bears. So, I guess we’ll have to try again next time. The gift shop had tons of cute souvenirs too.

The men working at the gate were very nice. We used the station to wash our windows, and the restrooms were nice and clean. It was a chilly morning and the animals were inactive for the most part. Some of the animals were moving around, though. The bear area makes the entire experience. The walk through area to view animals was also well kept and nice. Had a picnic with the family outside the visitor center.

The cutest Place! They have the drive thru and then you can Park and do the walking Zoo part, Car ticket price is included for both making it worth the price. The bears Keep to their own, they are so cute. The cubs are separated in the walking part of the zoo.

We visited Bear Country on a Friday with a group of 8 adults. Each one of us genuinely enjoyed our experience. We spent about 1.5 hours here. About 30 minutes driving through the park and about an hour walking through the zoo area and gift shop. The park wasn't crowded at all and was so clean. There were plenty of animals to look at and all looked happy and taken care of. None of us were disappointed and we were all glad we went!

4.7

(8732)

4.5

(4255)

13820 US-16, Rapid City, SD 57702, USA

7 lists

Stopped here on a whim because I wanted to see it and my daughter didn't think the kids would enjoy it. We were all very impressed with the history. Even the prayer path was nice to wonder up...make sure to use bug spray first.This chapel is an exact reproduction of the original in Norway, built back in 1150.This one was finished in 1969.

A beautiful hidden gem! Off the beaten path but so worth it. They have a small scavenger hunt for the kids to keep them engaged. There's an audio narration you can listen to in the chapel itself and the prayer walk is so peaceful! The gift shop is full of Norwegian treasures. Highly recommended!

It is hard to believe that the 12th century church is still standing strong and beautiful on the hills. This is a wonderful architectural marvel in Rapid City. The entire edifice is made of wooden blocks and columns. Definitely recommend this church to everyone visiting Rapid city

I'm Christian but not to involved in my religion, but this place took my breath away and for the first time I teared up while looking at something so beautiful and meaningful, this place is astounding. Even if your not religious I highly recommend coming to see this beautiful wooden architecture.

Absolutely stunning! If you love Nordic Viking architecture and history then you gotta check this place out. Very informative staff and friendly. Beautiful views with a peaceful prayer trail that goes up into the hills behind the Chapel. The Chapel itself is absolutely awesome. There is a small little museum and gift shop on site as well. Defintley make time to visit the Chapel in the Hills.

A nice place to relax. The place is so serene. But it’s closed to the public at this time . They will resume on May .

Beautiful place. Walk the prayer trail and snap a photo on the way back of the statues with the church in the background. Listen to the narration in the church, interesting.

Wow! A hidden gem in the hills. Religious or not, this place is beautiful! Nice craftsmanship. Worth the stop! Nice little museum as well. I did not take the meditation trail out back as it was a hot day. No dogs allowed sign. On a cool day you could probably leave them in the car. I believe they just mean not in buildings or out of the car. Plenty of room to park a camper or trailer on a weekday and not during a church service. There is button in chapel for a narrative about chapel.

Good place to spend time. It's not crowded, so if you love non crowded place to spend time, this is good place.It also has very very short pathway into the forrest. And of course very close from Canyon Lake.

Absolutely beautiful! It's easy to find, parking is a breeze and it is free to get in, but they do accept donations. Everyone there was very friendly and informative. It was a very hot day today so we didn't stay long but we'll definitely be back.

Gorgeous Norwegian chapel with an audio tour at the chapel itself about its architecture and the history of the original. Friendly volunteers, small gift shop with fair prices, and a one-room museum. We enjoyed the prayer walk and its sculptures.Note: The trail might not be stroller friendly or wheelchair accessible. We carried our baby and so we didn’t have to think about wheels.

Very unique place to visit. The grounds were beautiful and fun to explore. The chapel is well worth the visit, as well as the museum and gift shop. The volunteers were very friendly and knowledgeable. Enjoyed our time there.

Incredible history! This is a great walk through for anyone, but extra special for those of Norwegian heritage. Intricate carving and impressive timberwork. They provided a scavenger hunt at the gift shop for the kids, which greatly increased their interest in the details! Small gift shop with some interesting things, including Norwegian candy.

In a word, stunning. The grounds on which the church sits are beautifully maintained. The gentleman who met us at the entrance offered a very interesting history lesson on the origins and construction of the church. The wood carvings in and on the building are a marvel. This is well worth a visit.

Unique church on top of the hill. Full of history and unique architecture. Don't forget to walk the Prayer Trail if you have time, I found 2 fawns hiding in the bushes behind the church. The only complain is there's a swimming pool in the house division next to the Church. We can hear the children screaming, crying and hollaring while playing in the pool. It's a bit annoying especially when we try to absorb the tranquility and peaceful vibe.

4.8

(971)

4.5

(677)

3788 Chapel Ln, Rapid City, SD 57702, USA

29 lists

Storybook Island is a gem in Rapid City! What an amazing place for kids. There are so many fun things to see and do ranging from treehouses, slides, little fun story houses, playgrounds, musical areas, toddler area, merry-go-round, train, water features, pirate ship, and much more. They have a concession area as well as a gift shop. They have an amazing Christmas light display during the winter with reindeer and so many fun activities!

This place!!!!!! We have young toddlers who aren’t so aware of the characters/movies/stories and they still loved it. It really is a magical place. Give yourself some time to enjoy it! So many places to play; endless parks! Houses, tree houses, playgrounds, princesses, Dr. Seuss, Winnie the Pooh. The train was cute and had some funny music. Snow cone truck was nice on a hot day. Gift shop was small and cute.I think they could charge a small entry fee to get the money they are requesting to add on/upkeep. I wish they would stay open through the fall so more people could enjoy this without the heat.Clean bathrooms onsite. Free parking lot.This was a nice surprise and one of the highlights of our trip to Rapid City!

So, so much to see and do. My kids loved running from place to place. Several fun play areas with scenes from fairytale, Disney stories, nursery rhymes, etc. Wish we had more time here.

Great fun for kids and adults. Totally free. I nice place to get away from the crowds and give your kids a chance to get their energy out. Great place to rest and picnic if you're traveling.

Loved this park! Tons of different play areas and stories! Very clean, friendly staff and plenty of bathrooms. It's incredible to me that it's all free and that the train and carrousel are only 3$. My only complaint is that the gift shop have a few more things for parents/travelers such as post cards, pins or sticker. Excellent experience and I would definitely go back!

If you have kids who love fairy tale characters and playgrounds, you have to go here! It's free and such a cute place. The carousel and train are $1 to ride. My 7 and 4 year old didn't want to leave! Very fun and lots of photo opportunities.

This place is amazing. So wonderful. We went on a super hot day, so we only stayed about an hour. But a family could spend the entire day there if you wanted. Such a wonderful place.

If you're visiting the Rapid City area and have little ones definitely bring them here! Admission is free but they do charge $3 per person per ride for the carousel and train rides. Which compared to other prices in the area is great! We ate lunch before so I don't know about the food served there. I did see a sign with no outside food or drink. There is so much for little kids to do it was so worth it. Mine didn't want to leave. They have a donation box to keep it running so consider throwing a couple bucks in there.

Absolutely free!!! YES FREE!! Highly recommend a picture from Alyssa, she's extremely good with kids and very attractive. 😅 Amazing place for the whole family.

We absolutely loved this place! If you are in Rapid City and have children it is so fun! So many little playgrounds, slides, characters! You can pay 4/ person for the train and 3/ person for the carousel!

This place is great! We came before Christmas and the kids had so much fun identifying the fairy tales. It was extremely cold while we were there (-5) but they all stuck it out to walk the entire thing! They especially loved the Carousel!

A must see for anyone who visits Rapid City with kids! A place where imaginations can run wild and there's plenty of room to roam for little ones with lots of energy. My kids aged between 3-9 years old all LOVED it.

This place is awesome. I recommend any with kids in the Rapid City area visit. We loved it.

4.7

(2018)

4.5

(822)

1301 Sheridan Lake Rd, Rapid City, SD 57702, USA

32 lists

This was fun for the kids. The gift shop was really good and had excellent prices. To see the dinosaurs you have to go up some stairs which are pretty steep so be prepared. The view from the top was really nice though. The dinosaurs are huge but in need of a fresh paint job. It feels pretty run down. It is free though so I can't knock it!

I was amazed by the exceptional cleanliness and meticulous maintenance of the place I recently visited. From the moment I entered, I was greeted with a spotless environment that exuded a sense of freshness. The floors were immaculate, shining as if they had just been polished. Not a speck of dust or dirt could be found on any surface, and the air carried a pleasant aroma of cleanliness. The washrooms were impeccably maintained, stocked with supplies and maintained in a pristine condition throughout my visit. Every corner and crevice seemed to have received thorough attention, reflecting a true commitment to cleanliness. The staff members were constantly on the move, diligently attending to any mess or clutter that might arise. It was evident that they took great pride in their work. The overall level of cleanliness and upkeep in this place was truly exceptional, creating an inviting and hygienic atmosphere. I left with a sense of admiration and satisfaction, and I would highly recommend this place to anyone seeking a clean and well-maintained environment.

One of my kids loves dinosaurs, so here is a park with dinosaurs! With great views, trail, (visitor center: for us was closed for the season) it is not a big park, but it’s a great place to stay for around a hour, walk, take some pics, climb the dinos and enjoy the views of the city. Supposedly there are real dinosaur’s footprints, we can’t find them, or maybe I was misinformed. Enough parking.

Oh! My! GOD!!!This place was EVERYTHING I was hoping for!Kitschy, beautiful, dinosaury, wonderful!One thing to know, however, is that the entire place is under construction to make access easier. Check before you go if mobility is a concern (but it's on top of a hill with lots of stairs anyway. The new construction might address that.)It's exactly what you'd expect in an old roadside attraction.

Great little park to take the kids to. You can tell the statues are very dated, but the plaque said it was built in the 1930s and there's no admission fee so I suppose it's to be expected. Your kids won't care anyways.You have a 360 degree view of the city from the highest point and the sunset is gorgeous. Definitely come if you have kids who are into dinos, or even if you just want a nice view of the city.

Since we were staying the night in Billings Montana, found some free stuff to take the kids to do. This was on the list. It's okay if all your wanting to do is burn some energy off the young ones. Dinosaurs are in need of repair along with the signage.At the top is a nice view of the city.There is a little store, but I didn't go in it.

This was such a cool and fun place to take the kids to! My kids had a blast walking up to the dinosaurs. And the view from up top was amazing to see!They are remodeling the area so there was a little bit of construction but it only had one dinosaur that wasn’t accessible. The construction looks like the are going to upgrade the path to the dinosaurs. I Can’t wait to see it completed!The gift shop was nice and had a lot of stuff to choose from! And the person working the register was friendly.

For something that has been around for close to 100 years, it's very well taken care of. Little kids will love the dinosaurs, and adults will love the amazing views. A must see if you're vacationing in the area.

This place is super cool... Has a very jurassic feel to it.

Really enjoyed seeing all the dinosaurs and the visitor's center was great! The only disappointment was that there's a lot of construction going on right now. This means one of the dinosaurs was inaccessible entirely and it was a bit of a muddy hike right after a rain. It was still really fun!

Absolutely amazing place. More of like a great view of the city of Rapid City, the dinosaurs are what they are from 1936. Oh, but definitely a great hike and a lot of fun. I probably wouldn’t say make an entire trip out here just for that but while you’re out here, definitely stop by. And make sure and check out the gift shop. It is seasonally open which they close after October. But great prices on everything that is in the store. They also have snacks like hotdogs, ice cream and popcorn.

Fun little stop above the town. Good views of the valley. Most of all it showcases Rapid City's foundation as a tourist town. It was under repair when we were there and looks like it'll be months before it's done. In the meantime there's a dirt path hike of maybe a quarter mile to see the big beasts.

4.3

(2707)

4.0

(1142)

940 Skyline Dr, Rapid City, SD 57701, USA

11 lists

Specifically I was at the parking garage. I have learned that it is one of the best places to ponder, think, plan out a master plan for world domination. However world domination is incredibly last century. So instead I thought about how I can appear to be judging the subjects from above and they won't be thinking they are being judged. 10 out 10 would recommend.

Neat town to walk around downtown, seeing statues of all the president's, and many are in different poses - not just standing on the corners - the city did it right! Good places to eat, also.

Want something to do on a Thursday night?? Yep, me too. 7th and st Joseph is it!! The street is blocked off for concerts, dancing, food, vendors, and mingling. Adults can get wrist bands and wonder for beverages. Kid friendly event! A few stores are open to visit. Lots of fun food to eat your way through the event. My only regret....yep forgot my chair but it's ok! Always next time. A fun filled event for sure. Tonight's featured band " Flannel". A few originals and a few old school. Was fun watching people singing along.

Art alley is a must see. great antique stores, and lots of statues and historical sites. Also highly recommend armadillo ice cream!

It's a downtown.You will enjoy it.GO.

Had a great time. Enjoyed the shops and friendly people.

There are lots of statues in Downtown Rapid City. We got there around dinner time, walked around, spun lots of Pokestops, and were quite happy that they weren’t charging for parking at the time. Unfortunately, the place that we were planning to eat was closing almost at the time that we were going to arrive, so we went somewhere else. It was a nice walk, very clean, and felt very safe.

Went to Mitzi's Books and found a new baking book to play with. Also the St Joe antiques mall is always worth walking through. This stone lamp had me laughing and my mom confused.

4.5

(157)

4.5

(2341)

512 Main St Suite 980, Rapid City, SD 57701, USA

14 lists

I ordered late Wednesday night and I received my package Saturday morning! I ordered this for my boyfriend. He was very happy with everything. Packaging was great! Shipping was very fast!

Love this store. It’s a wonderful store with a bit of museum thrown in. Definitely check out the upper floors. Staff was attentive & helpful. Very glad we stopped in.

It was an awesome experience.Kind and informative staff, and a great selection of artifacts and beautiful art

Awesome store packed full of goodies! They have the most amazing collection of glass beads I've ever seen!? Teresa in the art gallery went above and beyond to show me around and answer all my dumb questions 😂🤦 cool store, go check it out! Press plus time on the parking meters for 15 free minutes.. ✌️

This is a store but also a Museum like. It is a big store with so much cool things to look at. So much to appreciate! The art all around is Just wow. Bring money, you're going to want a lot of things.

Awesome shop! Must stop by if in Rapid City. Someone could almost spend an entire day looking through the whole store, beautiful art throughout the store as well.

Very great place to find gifts and experience indigenous culture first hand. Tons of gifts and materials to further your knowledge on history. Stop by you won't be disappointed.

Definitely an up scale store for buyers with money to spend. Lots to look at. I adore the antique heads they have on display. I just swooned seeing all those old timey beads and old beaded items! 💜The do sell a lot of art created by Natives, which I absolutely support. Sometimes, they will have a local artist in the shop working on a piece.They do have a great section for buying beads and other regalia making supplies.They now sell sage from South Dakota and California...otherwise they would have gotten 5 stars.

I am not a shopping person yet found myself curious to look at all the many interesting things in there!

Omg so many things to see and such a feel good and tranquil atmosphere inside with the help and the music. The people that work here were amazing and so nice and helpful. If you are serious about a native American flute or other nice products of this sort, Frank is so great and helpful here. Great vibes here. Can't wait to come back!

What can be said about Prairie Edge Trading Co and Galleries That hasn't been said. Itsan all out amazing place. As soon as you walk in the door and look around its an experience you will never forget.They have cutlery,wind chimes high quality clothing,jewelry,herbs and spices its endless what you will find here.I was really amazed by the buffalo hides awesome also the native hunting artifacts not to mention the old swords This stuff is breath taking a place to definitely experience in Rapid City SD there was so much to look at downstairs i dint even get to check out the upstairs part of it.Dont take my word Come and see for yourselfs.

Prairie Edge is a must stop shop in Western SD! For a distinctly SD/Black Hills gift, artwork, beadwork, etc… this is the place to go. The customer service is world class, and the shop is well stocked at all times. Do yourself a favor and grab a braid of sweet grass… unforgettable.. just like the store itself. Kudos Prairie Edge!

I usually order on line but it was good to get hands on buying leather for crafts the customer service can be improved however some prices were rather fair and some were raised since the last trip I made...good store thou...

This store is to die for!! As a native Cree/Ojibwe, it was dreamy to be walking through such an excellent tribute to the native cultures and talents of the local artists. We were very glad to have our credit card on us! I can't wait to come back in the spring to see what new things they might have for us to see.

4.7

(856)

4.5

(567)

606 Main St, Rapid City, SD 57701, USA

24 lists

A must see if you love military planes. Great to see the B1,B52,B25,B29 and others up close! Hopefully the museum will acquire a B2 and an A10 someday. If you’re lucky you might see a B1 take off from the base like I did! Totally awesome!! We’ve had some great military planes protecting our sky’s!

We stopped by while visiting Rapid City. Lots of older aircraft with a couple modern bombers. Pretty cool to check out if your an airplane enthusiasts.

Relatively small museum who's pride and joy is clearly the exterior static displays. I've been to many air & space museums and this was the first with a B-29 (and a gorgeous example at that). A B-1, B-52, a rare F-111, A7, an ICBM and many other interesting and lovingly maintained examples of the United States military might can be viewed up close outside the museum. Highly recommended.

So cool seeing all the planes!! Its fun to read about the planes and what they were used for!! They are alot of planes outside that you can just walk around and see them. There are stands that give information on the planes and they are really interesting. There are some bombers, fighters, missiles, trainers, and lots more. You are able to walk right up to the planes and check them out and you can see inside some of them. I would love to be able to go inside the planes!

Great free air museum. Worth a visit if you have an hour to spare in rapid city.Inside hangars were closed when I was there.

Lots of aircraft, some of which I'd never seen. Some aircraft not really well kept up. The museum/gift shop was closed, which was disappointing. Would have liked more detail on the informational displays. You only get the most basic information on the aircraft, and I'd have liked more. For instance, engine power and manufacturer, etc.It is free! It's definitely worth a stop.

Finally made it out to the South Dakota Air and Space museum in Box Elder, SD on my way back from the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The museum was only a couple minutes off the highway and easily accessible. You can park and walk around the grounds for free and check out dozens of actual aircraft on the grounds. Jet fighters, bombers, helicopters and anything else you can think of. I didn't have time to check out inside the buildings, but I will definitely be stopping in the next time I am out in the area.

This was recommended to us by a local hotel owner. Unfortunately, the inside display was closed for renovations. But some great planes outside.

A vast collection of USAF planes from trainers to B1b bomber. Unfortunately the hangers are closed right now. 9/2020. Still an excellent display of WWII to the current B1. Each has a spec sheet and interesting facts for each. As this is a major air base they have some important individual planes.Not a lot of modern fighters outside.All laid out around concrete walkway and arranged well close together.While I was there I got to see a bomber land AND takeoff. The takeoff was amazingly LOUD!!

The inside portion of the museum was under renovation but it is definitely worth going to see the outside portion. We enjoyed the fact that you could walk right up to the planes and the amount of information on them was excellent. A great way to spend an hour or two!

My husband is retired Navy & I am retired USAF. We both thoroughly enjoyed our visit and continue to appreciate military aircraft and service members that have forged our combat history in the fight for defending our nation's freedom. Thank you for preserving our military heritage so well for others to learn about & appreciate the sacrifices that have been made by men & women serving in the US Armed Services. We actually met a gunner that flew in this specific aircraft during Vietnam. My only regret is that I didn't take his picture at the time we met him.

Worth stopping in to see some historic aircraft, as well as a guided tour through a Minuteman Missile Installation! On our stop they we’re running maneuvers with Stealth Bombers being refueled in the air as well as multiple types of aircraft flying in and out of the air base! Timing is everything, we were lucky to catch all the activity happening in the area. The small fee to tour the missile silo was worth it. Our guide had multiple stories and historical references. The multitudes of aircraft to greet you when you arrive will capture that kid at heart feeling! So much to see and take in when you come to visit! Make the stop to see this location!

I love it here! Such a fun place! I will definitely be back! So many planes and cool things! I saw big planes, small planes and giant planes! Their were guns and missiles and so many other cool things! The museum was closed for renovation but the outside was amazing! Fun for everybody! You get to learn so much about these old planes, just read the signs near the planes. I loved looking in the planes and seeing the controls. You can go right next to the planes! I definitely recommend this place for anyone who wants to have a great time!

Museum was closed but it was fun walking around and getting up close to the airplanes. The B 52 alone is worth the trip.

Sadly the inside of museum is closed "for renovations" when we visited on 5/8/23. However looking online it appears this has been a status for several years now. The outside aircraft and missle displays are great. The interpretive signage is in very good condition and had helpful info. The parking lot is nice and large but if traveling in an RV swing wide to enter thru the gate as it's a bit tight. Bc the museum is closed we essentially had the parking lot to ourselves. 4 other vehicles came in while we were touring the outside exhibits and once they saw the buildings were not open they left. I only wish that the operators of the museum would be sure to monitor online listing across the internet and have up to date info on their website as to fact the museum itself is closed until further notice so no one makes a huge trip here for just the outside stuff. We happened to already be staying on the base at their campground so we were ok. When and if it ever opens, currently their site says free to go inside. Perhaps they should start charging to raise some needed funds for operations??

4.6

(1941)

4.5

(953)

2890 Davis Dr, Ellsworth AFB, SD 57706, USA

New owners!! They're cleaning up around the edges but keeping the Gulch vibe, oh yeah!! The Sunday music jams are legendary...

What a fun place! Old fashioned, laid back restaurant and bar. Great bar food. Good place to check out and grab some grub. The small town had craft and a few other places to check out.

I'm not from around here, but I've come up here on 20+ vacations, and we never will miss moonshine gulch saloon. Beer is cheap, the atmosphere is basically a time warp in the most wonderfully nostalgic way, the gal that runs it (Betsy, I think) is a true gem. Last time I was there, I ran into a group of people from a few miles from where I grew up. It is worth the drive and there's so much to look at. It's a major hole in the wall and I love it.

(Originally published on TripAdvisorYou need to go to know. Food is tasty but greasy. The beer is cold. The staff treats you like kin, and the Sunday music is great. I used to play my flat top box here on many Sundays. I have since moved and miss this place so much. Love this place.(Update - the last time I was here in September 2021 I was told there was no longer a Sunday jam).Date of experience: December 2018

One of my favorite bars in the Black Hills. Great friendly people and a great location. Historic tavern. Enjoy the music on Sunday afternoons when the local musicians come in and play.

A old saloon in the hills? I’m there!Fun place to hang if you are hungry, thirsty, or just need to cool off after a nice days ride. Burgers were delish, beer was cold, staff friendly and the atmosphere unbeatable. PUT THIS PLACE ON YOUR LIST!

Fun Old Western style bar in the center of the Black Hills!! Friendly staff and cold beer. Food smelled amazing but only had the fries.

What a great spot! Rick's one hell of a dude when you get to know him 🤘 this spots 10 miles off the beaten path but great drive and great people! If you've been there in the past and are used to only beer, it's changed they've got everything now. Thanks Rick!

We had an awesome lunch here. Amazingly friendly staff, great food and a very unique place.

What an AWESOME place lost in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Owner Betsy and her son Dan are so great to talk to. They make you feel like you've always known them and you belong in this little saloon. Good burgers and hot dogs, and their fries are the best. Hand cut and perfect. Cheap beers and you can buy 6 packs to go as well. I'll definitely be coming back here the next time I'm in SD.

We go jeeping every year and stop there, fabulous host, good food and place is looking great. Keep up the good work, I will bring in some more wood next year.

Nice little stop off the beaten path. Had a drink sat on the front porch rocking chair. Nice visit with some of the locals. Friendly service, planning on coming back while we are in the area.

4.7

(284)

4.5

(25)

22635 N Rochford Rd, Hill City, SD 57745, USA

A worthwhile stop. The cave may not be the most gorgeous one, but there are some neat formations to see and the tour guide was great. I've never been on a tour of a "live" cavern before, complete with dripping ceiling, etc. That's not a negative comment... other caves I've visited look more like abandoned mines, whereas this one is more active.

What a great cave experience. Wonderland Cave is an absolute gem. My mom was visiting town and always wanted to see a cave, Wonderland was fortunately still open for the season so we chose them; it did not disappoint.We had a very short wait and then joined just a small group of people with a phenomenal tour guide, Sean.The cave was very impressive with lots of amazing formations to look at. You do have to descend close to 130 steps, so wear good shoes.The best part was our tour guide, Sean. He was extremely informative and hilarious, a true professional at his job.I would recommend Wonderland to anyone looking for a great cave experience and as a bonus it is an incredibly beautiful Black Hills drive to get there.

Really glad we went! It wasn’t part of our original plan, but my wife and I both enjoy caves. Alex, the tour guide, was very entertaining and educational. Don’t lose hope, it seems very far away if you are following the signs, but it is only 5 miles from the main road. The climb out of the cave is 127 steps. Take it slowly!

5 stars for a few reasons:1) is cool, I recommend.2) Warning: DO NOT TAKE BETHLEHEM ROAD TO GET HERE. The road is blocked off and you will have to turn around. If you are coming from Sturgis, you do not have to get on the interstate for this attraction. If you are coming from the south, take the intestate to exit 32 and go south from there. Google will reroute you correctly after that.

These caves are awe inspiring. This is a living cave. There a quite a few stairs on the decent down into the cave, but worth each one to behold this caves beauty. The guided tour is amazing thanks to our wonderful guide Shawn. He made the tour so much fun! Thank you Shawn! The gift shop has plenty of great merchandise to choose from to remember your experience. Loved it!

Once you get through the winding roads you take a dirt road into the site... Which may seem like forever but it's not I promise. It's a beautiful drive. Inside the cave was great experience of some beautiful sites good for all ages. There is a slightly narrow and steep staircase down which for some might be difficult though. Our guide was informative and so much fun. The staff inside the store was so wonderful as well! Next time we're out that way we will definitely go back!

The cave was a fun place to visit. There is a lot of period artifacts as well as many geological formations. There is a lot of stairs going down into the cave that you must traverse and the same amount of stairs obviously coming back out. People with difficulty walking I would not recommend it others however it was really fun. Great family place to visit

Very cool ( literally..haha ) place to visit! Our tour guide Shawn was great! Shawn was very informative and funny. We would definitely recommend!

This was my first time in a cave and it was very cool. Tour guides were knowledgeable and it was interesting to learn how it was discovered. There was a decent wait time as they only let a certain number of people in at a time, but you can shop at the gift store or spend time outside while you wait!

Wonderland Cave deserves a 5 star rating without a doubt! This place is simply magical, with amazing natural formations that will take your breath away. Our tour guide was a friendly and very knowledgeable girl, which made the experience even more enriching.The cavern itself is a treasure, with really beautiful rocks and tunnels that transport you to another world. Although there is a short unpaved stretch on the road to get to the site, I assure you it is worth every step. The beauty you will find inside is simply unmatched.In addition, the gift store at Wonderland Cave offers a unique variety of rocks and details. It's the perfect place to find special souvenirs or for those geology enthusiasts who want to expand their mineral collection. You will be impressed by the diversity and quality of the products available.In short, visiting Wonderland Cave is an unforgettable experience. From the magic of the place and the amazing natural formations, to the friendliness and knowledge of the tour guide, the beautiful rocks and fascinating tunnels, and the opportunity to take home unique treasures from the gift store, this destination is simply exceptional. Don't hesitate to visit and immerse yourself in the wonder it has to offer.

Fair price for the 45 minute tour (ours was around an hour) of natural wonders. Great information from our tour guide and interesting. It's around 130 stairs to get in and out of the cave; most of the areas are large and well lit, only a couple narrow and short ceiling areas.DO NOT TRUST GOOGLE MAPS to get you there! Be sure you end up using Vanocker Canyon road... DO NOT USE BETHLEHEM ROAD.Gift shop has interesting items at reasonable prices, folks working there were very friendly.

Gaven was our tour guide. Had lots of knowledge and knows about the cave. I just can't descibe how great this spot is. Definitely worth checking out.. There is so much to look at.. Gift shop is reasonable. Got many of gifts. My favorite gift is for my husband. A grenade hot sauce.. Just FYI if you tour cave. Bring a jacket. It's cold once you get down 127 stairs. loved it tho. I think you will thumbs up.. Have fun and safe travels.

The cave was nice. The tour was absolute trash. No information provided by the tour guide - group members asked questions to get witty remarks from the guide. It seemed like the other tour group had gotten an actual tour - ours was nothing more than a teenage kid walking us through a cave saying this is where he wants to come and party at. Beautiful cave but for an actual good tour with information, go elsewhere.

Our tour guide Cadence was really awesome! She was sweet and kind and her jokes really just added to the whole experience. We came at a non-busy time so we got a more private experience which was so nice! Cave had very impressive formations and the guide was very knowledgeable on the history of the cave. Would recommend, however there are 140+ stairs you have to walk up and down so be aware of that if you have physical limitations. 10/10 would go again!

The tour guide Lila was great, very informative and knowledgeable! If it was a review on solely the staff it would be 5 stars, but the cost for the somewhat quick tour is a bit steep. The cave is very interesting and fun to go through but for $18 per person I would have hoped for a little longer tour, it is only about 40 minutes. There is a large amount of stairs, I believe 128, that can be difficult if you have health conditions like asthma or knee related injury.

4.4

(755)

4.0

(114)

12634 Alpine Rd, Nemo, SD 57759, USA

Honestly, we took a wrong exit on the freeway and just happened to stumble upon this and boy were we all glad we did! What an amazing place! Its so beautiful and humbling to experience. Everyone should stop by and pay your respects when in the area.

Always professionals. These people take pride in caring for our veterans from making family members feel appreciated right down to sifting the rocks out of the dirt. What a beautiful cemetery too

BEAUTIFUL final resting place and very well taken care as well for those who served this Country. I know because I have 5 FAMILY members and several friends that are at rest now and a few more family members that will be laid to rest there in the next couple of years. Blessing, love and honor to all those who have served this country without question. Thank You!Since the time I wrote this, we have laid my father in law to rest as well.Four family members are now at rest in this beautiful place for our vets and spouses.Sadly! My mother has passed and she will be laid to rest with my father, SFC Harvey Varns.The National Cemetery makes the final preparations so comforting and easy.What a Blessing all those who work to help with the final preparations at the National Cemetery truly are!

This is a stunning landscape for honoring this nation's deceased veterans. It is the final resting place for many vets and this cemetery recognizes their service to the United States.

Internment of my uncle Sgt Jerry Jensen, USA, infantryman Vietnam. Reverent and beautiful location. Professional staff and salute guard.

well done. much gratitude to those that are responsible.

My father died suddenly at the age of 61. We were all shocked and didn't know what to do. He always said he wanted to be buried in Sturgis to rest with other Veterans and because it was close to home, Sheridan, Wyoming and Miller South Dakota. Not knowing how to even go about doing all this, the employees were very helpful so that we could honor his wishes. We were able to set everything up with ease, and they even remembered me the next time I came back to visit him. That in itself was very heart warming that they remembered me even after all the veterans that they laid to rest after my dad. The view from is plot is AMAZING and I could not ask for a better place for him to rest. Thank you so much and I will visit as often as I can 🥰🥰🙏🙏

4.8

(42)

5.0

(52)

20901 Pleasant Valley Dr, Sturgis, SD 57785, USA

18 lists

This historic house is in immaculate condition! Our tour guide was one of the best I’ve experienced, she was informative, clear and concise, answered questions, and was funny! This tour gives a lot of history regarding Deadwood that helps to tie all of the people and events together!

If you're in Deadwood, I highly recommend visiting the Adams House. The decor was stunning and home has been well-preserved for the era. We arrived about 1045am just in time to take a guided 40 min tour of the home at 11am. There were about a dozen people in our tour which was comfortable but not crowded. You may take pics (no flash) along the way. If you only have a small amount of time in town, this home is definitely worth the stop.

Ab excellent tour of a gilded age house. Settled by Jewish immigrants and built by them after making a good living and investing in gold. They became prominent and early investors in IBM and Disney. Very beautiful and lovely american story

This house is wonderfully preserved with original furnishings and belongings. Our tour guide was really knowledgeable and able to answer all questions asked of him. I highly recommend this tour if you’re in the area.

A very lovely Christmas tour of the beautiful Adam's house in Deadwood. During December the tours are self guided and not very crowded.

Our tour guide Nicholas was excellent. Learned a lot about Deadwood and this amazing property in this stunning home. A Deadwood must do!

What an awesome experience! The near pristine condition of this Queen Anne style home is well worth your time! The tour guide weaves the stories of the home's owners with the history of Deadwood. Just delightful!

This was an amazingly detailed glimpse into past life. It was very well done and we enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide was great and very knowledge.

Loved the informative tour we received. Everything is in place as if we had stepped back in time. We heard some steps upstairs and believe the house is haunted by Mr. Adams. Great tour!

Stunning old Victorian home! The house was renovated for everyone to be able to tour. The items inside were like walking into a time capsule! The items and house were immaculate. The tour guide was very helpful in learning the history of the house, the families that lived there, and was very nice to families. My 18 month old was very welcomed.

You get to learn a lot of local history and history of the families that lived in this home. It's beautiful and so well taken care of. The tour guide was very informative and really took the time to answer questions. She explained all the changes the house and the town has went through over the years. A very good tour!

I absolutely loved the tour we had. Sure did learn a lot of history about the home and the families that lived there.

4.7

(475)

4.5

(517)

22 Van Buren St, Deadwood, SD 57732, USA

33 lists

No fee to enter during off-season! I went at the beginning of November. It was cool to walk around and see the history. Of course, you have to check out the few famous Graves as well. There's a hike up a steep hill if you want to see Seth's grave. There were a lot of deer, turkey, chipmunks, and squirrels throughout at 9 am. I don't know anything about Wild Bill, but I enjoy cemeteries, and it was nice to go for a walk here. I surprisingly spent about 1.5 hours here. It's not good for handicapped as it's a lot of hills. Not walker/wheelchair friendly. I'm curious what the stack of rocks up by Seth's grave is for. Also, I didn't like that people were placing rocks all over the headstones. Makes the place look very messy.

Great stop to connect with some of the legends of the old west... Make sure to check out the visitor center as it has some neat historical items on display and interesting info. Its also better to visit earlier in the day as the parking area is kinda small so best to catch it before it fills up. I'm glad that I made the longer trek up the hill to visit the Bullocks burial area.

The cemetery was WAY bigger than I expected! Be prepared for a lot of uphill hiking (especially if you plan on going to Seth Bullock's grave). You definitely could spend many hours here if you want to explore the whole thing. Great overlook of the city of Deadwood and the gulch.

This cemetery holds a lot of the history for Deadwood. Most people go just to see where Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane are buried, but there’s so much more then that. It explains how scarlet fever, smallpox, and diphtheria came through the town and killed a lot of children. They also explain about the Chinese buried there. Inside the little gift shop is more history of the cemetery.

Very steep walk, but absolutely worth it in good weather. Wild Bill and Calamity Jane are near the bottom, but don't miss all of the other gorgeous and historical grave sites higher up. Seth Bullock is quite a hike, up a non paved, non maintained path, but extremely lovely and peaceful once you get there.

If you get the privilege to visit Deadwood, the Mount Moriah Cemetery is a must visit. Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane are buried there. These two along with Seth Bullock were instrumental in establishing Deadwood as a legendary mining town. The Black Hills National Forest is a beautiful backdrop.

Nice stop and a good 1 mile hike from Deadwood to the lookout to Bullock’s grave. $2 / adult and kids are free.

Came here to see Wild Bill & Calamity Jane’s graves. It’s well maintained and the views of the city are nice so we heard. (Didn’t hike all the way up) It’s $2 to get in and it’s a short hike (maybe 5 mins) to their stones.

Fantastic staff and only $2 per person to visit. Wild Bill and Calamity Jane graves are just a short walk up from the entrance. Seth Bullock's grave is a much longer walk up a hill.

It costs $2 a person to enter. There are a few main attraction celebrity gravesites. It is quite steep hiking up and down the cemetary as it is indeed on the side of a mountain. The trail to Seth Bullock's grave will lead you all the way to the top. I definitely recommend going all the way up as the scenery from the top overlooking Deadwood is beautiful.

While visiting Deadwood you must visit Mount Moriah Cemetery where Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Hickok are buried. I would not suggest trying to walk to the cemetery from Historic Old Town. The cemetery is a the top of a very steep hill overlooking the town. One of the people at the visitor’s center told me that even the people in the very best condition have found it extremely difficult. So, cemetery visitors should drive up the steep curvy road to the small park lot and visitors center. Parking is very limited but once you find a parking spot, make your way to the small visitors center where I paid the $2.00 fee for a map to use for the self-guided tour. You must walk when touring the cemetery and it is rather hilly, but the Graves of Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Hickok are just a short walk from the entrance gate. If you have the time, use the map from the visitors center to explore some of the other notable graves in this cemetery including Seth Bullock who was sheriff of Deadwood. Also, most people just come to visit the graves of Calamity Jane and Wild Bill, but if you continue a little farther toward the flagpole you come to a very nice veterans memorial and an overlook that give you a very nice view of the Town of Deadwood below. All total I spent about 90-minutes walking around the cemetery. I was able to visit many of the graves on the map. If you just want to visit Calamity Jane and Wild Bill’s grave, you can certainly accomplish this in as little as 30-minutes. But there is so much history here you should probably allow at least an hour to see some of the other sites here. A visit to Mount Moriah Cemetery is a must for anyone coming to Deadwood and the $2.00 fee and map are well worth it.

Wild Bill is one of our best American men who carved out the west. This is worth the trip.

I went here for the history but the views were just as great. Its a short but steep hike to the top.

4.5

(194)

4.5

(1868)

10 Mt Moriah Dr, Deadwood, SD 57732, USA

32 lists

Lots of Deadwood history is saved here. There are relics from early to modern Deadwood along with some good background on famous figures. I'm not sure why Potato Creek Johnny isn't more well known. His story needs to be heard!

Husband and child #3 went snowmobiling for the day and we found this little treasure of a museum. I wouldn’t drive an hour JUST to see it, but I would absolutely stop if you have time to lolligag around. It has many little interactive exhibits for the kids and at $9 for all of us total, it was a great way to spend 1.5 hours!

So interesting! The history of deadwood and its people are fascinating. Three stories of well thought out exhibits. There is something for everyone there.

The Adams Museum is well worth the suggested donation of $5! You can easily spend 2 days here reading and seeing everything and still not seeing everything they have! They have everything thing from local flora and birds, gems, dinosaur remains, American Indian artifacts, and artifacts from Wild Bill and Potato Creek Johnny. There’s also interactive things that kids and adults alike would enjoy.

The best museum in Deadwood and a highly recommend stop. You learn the history of the town from the beginning and all the characters that helped shaped the town.

Fun museum experience. So many unique exhibits. The kids had a great time.

Loved checking out the history! So much information. Thank you for being open on the off season

So much more inside than we thought there would be! A $5 suggested donation at the door, but not required. It was well worth the stop and the money. Check out what could quite possibly be the most unique fossil you'll ever see also.

I enjoyed the Museum. There were a lot of interesting items on display. The signage throughout the museum was also pretty informative.

Wonderful hands on experience, children would love this place. Large enough but small enough to keep up with the kids.

A must-see family-friendly attraction in historic Deadwood! Feel like you're right there in the thick of the action as you walk back in time inside the museum's three full floors. Your kids won't just read about history, they'll experience it! With multiple interactive exhibits (including a one-room schoolhouse classroom and kinetic sand), this is an excellent educational and fun place for the whole family. Donations are appreciated (and please give if you go!), but admission is free. Don't miss it!

Went in October of 2021.Small, but has a REALLY great and varied collection! Actual gold nuggets, a real locomotive, a full plesiosaur skeleton, 2-headed calf, Native American beadwork, and a TON of old western memorabilia!There are descriptions and explanations for literally everything! Really informative, and also really cheap (about 5 bucks per person as a donation). So it's well worth the time.Like most of Deadwood, parking at the location is non-existant, so walking to it from a public lot or close by is your only option... so be prepared if you need to use a wheelchair.

4.6

(728)

4.5

(729)

54 Sherman St, Deadwood, SD 57732, USA

3 lists

It was a bit difficult finding parking in Deadwood on our first visit. One public parking said closed, but it had cars in it, some didn’t seem to say anything and we weren’t sure where we’d have dinner. We ended up parking further away than we wanted, but it was a public parking where we could figure out how to pay for the parking.We went into one of the first casino/hotels that we found and were going to have dinner there, but they couldn’t get us in until 9 pm (2 hours later) and the same with the buffet. In spectacular news, we got reservations at Snitches on OpenTable! We walked to Tin Lizzie’s, had an amazing meal, and rolled ourselves back to our car. Snitches is our new high expectations for what a steak should be and the price was awesome. We probably should have taken the $1/person shuttle to Tin Lizzie’s, but it was a good walk and we got to play tourist a little.There were many Pokemon Go stops/gyms along the main drag.

In its liveliness, Deadwood presents itself in first-class taste of the western frontier that gives you a feel of the years, way back to its establishment, all the way through to today. Old fashioned saloons, reenactments, original buildings, and artifacts line Main Street from top to bottom. There isn't anything short of fine dining and great eats here. Most notable are Mavericks, Mustang Sally's and the Social Club above Saloon 10. However, there isn't anything to present to youngsters besides food, a relatively small mini golf course up the hill and the small events of being inducted into the sheriff's department.

Parking is hard to do. Pretty fun Main Street with old cowboy stuff and food.

Not bad for Wild West fans but not as great as Tombstone. It has a lot of expensive stores, restaurants, and the history is less preserved.

Did the downtown Deadwood bus tour. Seniors $20. One hour.

We were there when a huge art/craft fair was going on in June. The first thing to be aware of is that parking is impossible. There are not enough spots. And if you have an RV, get in town super early. I had to drop the trailer outside of town and drive back.It has developed a number of tourist traps with overpriced goods. We are not big on museums, and what is left after that is not all that historic.

I was disappointed, the town is over built with many casinos. Takes away from the old mining town. Take the time to enjoy the museums.

What I hoped the family and I would've found in Dodge City, we found in Deadwood instead. This felt historic. You could still see the history, not a replica trying to mimic. Good job!

Has all the historical dedication of a Pirate’s Cove mini-golf course. If you’re looking for superficial experiences, “Historic” Downtown Deadwood has got you covered.

4.1

(30)

4.0

(1215)

480-484 Lower Main St, Deadwood, SD 57732, USA

It's pretty cool. There is not a lot to do in the winter, but it has a lot of snow compared to surronding areas. The frozen waterfalls are cool though.

Best road trip drive. Short and sweet with cool stops

We went on a Beautiful & Scenic Drive Through Spearfish Canyon today ,It is Just Breathtaking ! So much to See ! Highly Recommend this Drive ,

Spearfish Canyon S.D. is such a beautiful area and has the most amazing star-filled skies. Camped for two nights in the canyon and it was great. Very peaceful, even with the biker festival going on at Sturgis nearby while we were there. Tons of bikers rode the scenic highway but none seemed to camp there.

Beautiful place to see. The scenery is breathtaking. The falls are very nice to see also.

Family favorite. We hiked to Spearfish Falls this time. Well worth the effort

I like walkable places. Spearfish strikes me as a gorgeous place that could have become too rich and successful to accommodate a traveler like me who has not very much money to spend. This feels to me like a good place for walking around. Or riding your bicycle. Or driving along the creek through the canyon. So if you've only got an hour or two (or a day or a week) to visit the Black Hills of South Dakota, you might consider Spearfish as a destination.

Must see in the hills .. one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit in the world

Great beauty of the forest and little stream.. few good stopping points. Def got to stop for the trail somewhere in the middle little pull off on dirt road.

My wife and I have been here a few times and we are in AWE every time! Love it, love it, love it.. A must do at least once for everyone!!

WOW...what a beautiful place.

4.8

(211)

4.5

(964)

US-14A, Spearfish, SD 57783, USA

4 lists

5.0

(832)

South Dakota, USA

This used to be an awesome place really went down hill. Still a fun place to people watch if I was staying downtown not quite sure I would make the ride.Michael Ballard awesome guy always says hello super friendly a legend among legends Once you've met him you'll feel like you're part of the family. Perhaps I'm just partial to their old location 😔I

Absolutely incredible. The story of the wall dedicated to the first location that burned down was wild. The cage with the rider was one of the coolest things I've seen. Lots of beautiful art to look at, and fast / friendly service. Pool is incredible and so needed on a hot day. Did not get to explore here as much as I wanted and will be back next year.

We LOVE the FTS & cannot wait to return this year & the next & the next for the Sturgis Rally! The place is huge, well-organized, wonderfully outfitted, fun & friendly with tons of food options & entertainment! Can't wait to possibly try out the new Premium Cabins this time around! Regardless, we'll be there to stay!

We didn’t stay at FT but we did stop in here for a day. The we tried to find a shirt to bring home for our daughter and we finally did but there weren’t many options. Finding a spot to sit and rest is nearly impossible no chance getting more than one spot at the bar. We loved the art they had everywhere. Cool place overall I recommend everyone go see this slice of history.

Epic and unforgettable!!! I recommend adding this spot to your list if your heading to Stugis. This is an experience, not just a bar! You walk inside and it's so much more than you can imagine. You'll find multiple bars, a distillery, food, shopping, music, and ambience. Rescued bikes from the original location will tug on your heart a little♥️. I can't wait to visit again next year!!!

My father is a real fan of this place and he was not disappointed. The place is HUGE and has industrial, blue collar equipment everywhere. It's impressive, from the trucks hanging on the wall to all the bikes elevated on pedestals. Beer was fine too and savanna was very sweet.

We didn't eat there. However it was a must do for us. We arrived about two weeks before Sturgis was scheduled to start and the grounds team was getting prepared for the upcoming events. It was a great time to visit as there was no crowds.

This is a must see when you are at the Sturgis MC Rally. There are many choices for food. We had the steak tips and they were good. The beer was cold and you had a very large selection. I had a Sierra Nevada Brewing Company Pale Ale which was excellent. Full Throttle Saloon offers a 24 oz heavy glass beer mug at a great price and you keep the mug. There are several bar's outside. They have live music, check out the website for a schedule. The gift shop offers many great items.

Love all the metal and machinery repurposing, the atmosphere is cool. Most of the staff is fast and friendly and definitely cute to look at. Great layout and a fun time. And because we stayed at the pappy Joel campground, you can’t beat how close it is to camp. A Sturgis must. See you in 2022.

We went to see Jackyl at Full Throttle Thursday night during the 2023 rally and all I can say is wow! This place is HUGE and has so much to look at. We spent quite a bit of time exploring before enjoying the concert!In addition to the main stage, they have several other sections with bars and live music too! Also, motorcycle stunts like the wheel of death happen throughout the day! It's definitely a must stop!

Worlds largest biker bar! Must see if you are in the area. They add new stuff every year. Lots of old machines and history spread all around the venue.Every flavor of moonshine you can imagine. Great bands, lots of beers on tap. The Full Throttle Saloon is one of my favorite places near Sturgis.

Always Heard of this incredible place,. through the lore of Bikers, travellers and I guess now....Even reality TV...But to experience this place, and it's awesomeness, words can hardly describe it...I wasn't sure if I was walking through a "Beyond ThunderDome" movie set, or a museum of industrial art Throughout the last half century....It's a cathedral of metal and hard work...I can only imagine this place during Biker Week in Sturgis... Truly impressive, and the draft beers!!!...Enjoyed a fast beer buzz,.with a great Boulevard brewery wheat beer, and a Raspberry something or other...Nice bartender and a very nice woman in the gift store.... Good place to watch it rain the other day...I hope I can come back here one day.

What Michael Ballard has created on the rolling plains outside of Sturgis is his vision of a steampunk circus. There are so many things to see, to drink, and to listen. One thing that was interesting is what seems to be flexible pricing. One group paid $22 for the exact same drinks we only paid $14 for. 🤔 Very, very interesting, no?FYI had some slices of pizza out by the main stage that were outstanding. 🤘

Based on my experience here, this place is large, unique, and cool. Worth a stop if you are driving through. Would recommend.

I can't say enough about the customer service! Kimm was amazing today, helping me over the phone, find a shirt that my husband lost, and was rather attached to.I appreciate the time you spent making sure we found the correct one.

Awesome place! We visited during the day when it was quiet, but this place is mega huge, and I bet it's jumpin' at night. You should really check it out if you can. 🌹🤠

4.6

(2325)

4.0

(223)

19950 SD-79, Vale, SD 57788, USA

Well worth the price. Nice facilities and knowledgeable staff.We ended the tour by trying out an atlatl, which is a Native American spear throwing device.

They offer different tour options, from self-guided to guided. The guided is $9/person and well worth it. Our guide was a local, history majoring student from the university and did a great job with the tour. The tour includes three parts. First, you look at the hole from above and learn about the technique. Next, you go into the tipi museum to see maps and learn more about the tribes and the process. Finally, you head down to the dig site, which was my favorite part. Here you see lots of the bones and other artifacts, as well as learn more about how all the things the bison were used for. This place was definitely worth the nine dollars and was an interesting leg stretch during a long car trip. The whole guided tour takes 30-45 minutes depending on how many questions you ask. Beware: going to the bottom of the sink hole must be done by foot. There is a paved trail going down, but it is steep and I imagine it would be quite difficult to get a wheelchair up and down it safely.

Excellent tour of the fascinating site of how the plains Indians drove the Buffalo between 1550-1800 into this sinkhole. The layers of the well preserved bones and artifacts is incredible. If you are close and have never seen an actual archaeological dig you must stop. The tour guide was extremely knowledgeable. Very friendly and professional. Very surprising , educational and an excellent value.

Worth a short stop. People are very nice. Very informative displays. A neat bit of history.

Awesome place to check out! Great tour guide, she was super friendly and knowledgeable. Theres alot of neat stuff to look at. Definitely stop by if you're going through.

Interesting place definitely worth stopping for. Natives used to herd buffaloes over cliffs and once the buffaloes fell and died, it was ...harvest time. According to the guides, only a very small percentage of the fallen buffaloes could be processed into pemmican as it took a long time to dress each animal with the rudimentary tools they had. After 5 days, the stench became such that the tribe had to leave the area.

One of our most favorite visits during our time in South Dakota. Interesting, educational, informative, well worth the time. Makes you realize how resourceful and ingenious the Native Americans were in the way they prepared, hunted, and used every part of the buffalo (except for the atlas bone, you'll hear about that if you take the tour). Also very neat about how the cross-bred dogs and wolves and made them dependant on them. VERY worth taking the time for a visit!!!!

We arrived at 5:30 p.m. and they close at 6. The tour is about 45 min. Do plan to take this piece of history in. There wasn't time for our tour, but we viewed the cliff native Americans ran the buffalo off to butcher to survive. There is lots of artifacts in the building and archeological dig showing buffalo bones intact. It's a suggested $10 donation for the upkeep.

Decent place to visit and definitely worth checking out if you traveling as it's right off the interstate. College student employees in the summer can work on their people/communications skills, but I understand they dont talk with their mouth that often as they would rather text.

4.5

(260)

4.5

(118)

369 Old U.S. 14, Sundance, WY 82729, USA

It’s not your typical general store, it’s the center of this tiny 30-acre town with population 15.It’s on our way from Rapid City to Devils Tower. We spent about 30 mins to walk through the total 2 floors. Lovely and Interesting!!

Nice little general store. Very interesting. Had all kinds of things from your everyday things you need to souvenirs. Great store for a town with only 15 people. We even talked to the owner for a little bit, very nice gentleman & very welcoming

A neat little mom & pop type store that has a bit of everything, including locally sourced items. There is also an antiques area on the second floor. The cashier was very nice and offered advice on nearby places to visit. The store, from what I gathered, is approximately 130 years old and is one of five such stores left in Wyoming. It's a nice stop on your way to or from Devils Tower.

Can't believe anyone would write a bad review of this place. Could be them! Staff was super helpful. Place is so neat. Take the time to go upstairs and see everything they have to offer. The bar is the coolest thing about the whole deal. Super neat and just one of those places you will remember about your trip.

Beautiful little store, total tourist trap, VERY expensive, $20 pint of honey, $17 jerky ...

Nice place to visit lots of unique stuff to see and Buy. They have a Unusual Bar inside also.

I love this store!! Everything I go, it's like stepping into an entirely new world of the past! And always new merchandise to look through too. The prices of things are awesome. The service is friendly. And the owner is amazing! Always hilarious and talkative!

Great store with its own bar!! Things you Never knew you needed are here! Nice stop off after a hot day of riding. Friendly staff too

4.7

(357)

4.5

(45)

3983 WY-24, Aladdin, WY 82710, USA

Great hands-on museum with incredibly helpful people. They’ll even give you a free brochure map to the actual geographical center of the nation if you’re crazy enough to go off in the snow by yourself.

Located in the geological center of the United States. Very very cool museum too. Fascinating and full of information. Admission is free.And the staff was super helpful at recommending other interesting nearby attractions.You may not be the center of the universe but you'll be the center of the continental United States here.Absolutely worth a visit.

A must see ...center of US....great staff and wonderful displays

Easy to find, lovely veterans Memorials, small gift shop inside museum, 1st two story log cabin,and the center of nation dial is cool.fun for pictures. Watch out for bees!

Did not get to enter the museum as it was closed. The granite tributes to Korean and Vietnam War veterans and casualties are reminders of our country's finest. The granite marker of the Geographic Center of the United States is a beautiful tribute to Belle Fourche, but the true center is a 20-mile drive away.

Fun visit. Just stopped by for the center of the nation monument but it is more. Also found it cool many service orgs worked together to male it happen. Chamber, Freemasons, Daughter of the American Revolution...very cool. Fun stop...and free!

Nice stop at the geographic center of the USA. Has an old cabin that you can tour as well as a covered wagon and Teepee outside. There is a nice free little museum inside.

Found this place from a sign on the highway so we diverted here. Great decision. Cool spot! Worth the change of plans. 👍👍

Truly excellent local museum with plenty of hands-on learning opportunities. We went for the Geographical Center of the USA monument, and stayed for the Tri-State museum.Great place for families to take their kids. Highly recommend!!

I traveled with dogs so did not go in the buildings. Outside area is very nice. I could hear the volunteer in the historic building was very friendly.

Museum was good. Center of the nation monument was great.

The center of the North AmericaFollow along on Tic Tok or Facebook#misadventuresinlolligaggingdon't forget to share and follow

We stopped by because it said it was the center of the nation. Outside where two monuments ones dedicated to the service men and women of the Korea war and the other to the ones of the Vietnam war. Once we got there and got inside there was so much more than one would expect. There was a museum in the back section with a little bit of everything.

4.7

(204)

4.5

(78)

415 5th Ave, Belle Fourche, SD 57717, USA

This monument is well curated. Very interesting artifacts, that are well taken care of and come from many local families. The museum includes artifacts from many aspects of early rural life throughout the history of the area. Information is well put together an understandable for a wide age range. The gift shop has many unique items if you are looking for gifts to bring home.The outdoor monument for the center of the nation makes for good photographs and a small flag park of the nation's states. An enjoyable way to stretch your legs on a long road trip.I recommend visiting this location.

Well, the monument was a disk on the ground and we took a pic. But what we really enjoyed was the little museum attached. Lots of fun stuff for the kids to do, and old timey stuff like pianos and clothes and exhibits!

I was actually quite surprised how interesting this stop was. The monument is in a lovely, green space, but the star was the attached museum and visitor center. Totally worth the stop. Highly recommended for fans of SD history, and especially Seth Bullock.

If you're driving by, this is worth a stop. The museum and cabin may not be open, but you can still access the monument. We spent about 30 minutes here taking pictures and walking around. I would have loved to have to of toured the cabin.

Now we can say we've been there. Is in the middle of everywhere US. It's a cool spot to see if you're already in the neighborhood, but there's not much to see as a destination. Disc golf nearby if you're a disc golfer.

Nice place. I didn't see any food, didn't look too hard though. Anyways, I was severely disappointed by how they treated the Utah flag, but I'm not too worked up about it. Definitely check this place out if you happen to be in the middle of nowhere in Belle Fourche!

I love this place. I hadn’t even known of its existence until a Tiktok friend knew of my travels and suggested we stop there. Boy are we glad we did. Here’s what I know about it: While the actual center of the nation is located on private property, the Geographic Center of the Nation Monument is located in Belle Fourche in western South Dakota. The National Geodetic Survey designated Belle Fourche as the town closest to the actual site and the monument was placed there. The 21-foot diameter monument is located next to the Center of the Nation Visitor Center and the Tri-State Museum and is accessible year-round.

Cool monument, even though only close to and not actually the geographic center. It's not very busy here so was super easy to get some pictures and walk around the museum and buy postcards and such.

Very nice museum, lots to look at. Very nice staff on site. Glad we stopped.

Neat stop at Belle Fourche (pronounced “Foosh”) - few miles off the interstate is this rest stop and the geographic center of the United States. We did this traveling from Mt. Rushmore area going northwest to North Dakota to visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park.Vote suitors center was closed as it was up in the day. Nice hiking/walking path in the back where monument is. Also beautiful Vietnam and Korean War & Peace Monuments out front.Fun to say you’ve been there! Great photo op.

What an interesting place. A great place for a family pic and then plenty to do afterwards. Take a walk, have a picnic or go to the Museum onsite. Plenty to see and do. Awesome free fun!

This is a neat monument in Belle Fourche to designate the geographic center of the entire United States. The actual center is nearby on private land, but I'm glad they have this marker to take pictures at.They've got all the state flags around too as well as a park for relaxing and picnic tables. Would definitely recommend to stop by especially since it's always open and free.

I've been to the Geographic Center of the 48 States in Kansas and on this road trip I had a chance to come to the Geographic Center of the US that includes AK and HI. Yes, the actual center is in a field near here but this monument is a great way to celebrate the size of the US.Hopefully in the future I can make my way to the center of North America near Rugby ND. Till then I was happy to add this to my travels.

Visited in July 2020 right after visiting the actual center of America. I could tell I was one of just three who had just been there (by how dirty our cars were). A nice monument to America and all 50 of our states (especially Alaska and Hawaii...). Also some interesting history inside. Highly recommended.

Cool little museum to stop by and check out. Follow along for more adventures on Facebook and Tic Toc#misadventuresinlolligagging

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4.0

(217)

415 5th Ave, Belle Fourche, SD 57717, USA

5.0

(81)

11132 Valley 1 Rd, Belle Fourche, SD 57717, USA

Really good place and they have some improvements going on so it's only going to get better.i recommend it.theres gas and a grocery store with a decent deli and good selection just down the way so stop in see the place enjoy the dinosaur stuff and then next time you go you can see even more stuff.its a good visit with everything from local history to dinosaurs and there's something for everyone. As a bonus your near the Amidon car as featured in roadside America so happy visiting.

Great little museum with nice variety of items, worth the $5 entry fee. Recommend

We stopped, hoping to see exhibits about the recent K-T Boundary finds in the area, but this info is still (July 2019) under wraps. These folks look well able to respond when K-T materials become available. Current paleontological and local-history exhibits are well worth the visit.

Wonderful place! So well organized, explained, and easy to follow. Full of interesting information

Really impressive little museum - the best-done small town museum I’ve ever seen. Thoughtfully laid out, well-researched and displayed. Would absolutely recommend. Also discovered really good food, hotel, and car repair places in town - Bowman has a lot going for it!

A great museum for a nice town. Jean was especially customer service oriented. Short staffed she still man the booth and allow people to come in close to closing time. As an aside, we found the people of Bowman very friendly

Didn't have time to tour the museum but did enjoy the prairies walk and rock garden

small museum. cowboy and Indian exhibits were nice

4.6

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4.5

(28)

12 1st Ave NE, Bowman, ND 58623, USA