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The Ultimate South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary: Where to Stop, What to Do, and More

Discover Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park, Custer State Park, Sioux Falls, and more on a road trip through South Dakota.

Scott Bay is a magazine editor specializing in travel, architecture, and gear. He was previously an assistant editor at Travel + Leisure . His work has also appeared in Wired , Architectural Digest , Wallpaper , Robb Report , Saveur , Daily Beast , and more.

South Dakota was made for road trips : There are scenic, paved roads that lead to national treasures, natural anomalies , perfectly preserved Wild West towns, and plenty of quirky attractions. Whether you're a history buff, foodie, or nature lover, this Midwest state delivers. Read on for the ultimate South Dakota road trip itinerary, including where to stop, what to do, and more.

Sioux Falls

The state's largest city and likely the place where you'd fly into, Sioux Falls is the logical starting point for a South Dakota road trip. If you're driving west, follow this route, but if you're heading east or flying into Rapid City on the western side of the state, flip it. Sioux Falls is an ever-growing and extremely walkable city with lots of incredible food options. Stay at the Hotel on Phillips for an example of the posh direction the city is headed. After checking in and exploring the nearby falls the city is famously named after, grab a happy hour drink on the PAve rooftop. Phillips Avenue Diner or Crave are the best spots for dinner, and make sure to enjoy a cocktail at The Treasury , an upscale bar conveniently located back at the Hotel on Phillips.

Must-see Stop: About an hour outside Sioux Falls, stop by the world's only Corn Palace in Mitchell, established in 1892 as a premier roadside attraction, for a look at the famous murals and a photo-op with a giant smiling ear of corn.

Wall Drug Store

Located just outside Badlands National Park and about four hours from Sioux Falls, this massive, 76,000-square-foot roadside attraction started from humble beginnings, with just the promise of free ice water to entice passersby. Now, there are signs lining hundreds of miles of highway and displaying the many offerings of the beloved shop. Wall Drug Store now sports giant dinosaur and jackalope statues, ample souvenirs, a shopping mall, an art gallery, a restaurant serving delicious homemade doughnuts, and, of course, free ice water for the roughly 20,000 people who stop in every day.

Badlands National Park

The surreal landscapes of Badlands National Park alone are worth the drive to South Dakota. From the rolling hills of the prairie lands protrude jagged spires that quickly expand to the horizon. The formations look like they could crumble with the slightest touch, but fear not, as they are solid and very fun to climb for all ages. Check into a cabin at the Cedar Pass Lodge for a night or two, and watch the sunset. The next morning, continue driving along the Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway to glimpse wildlife such as bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs.

Deadwood and Rapid City

Make Rapid City your base for exploring Deadwood and the surrounding area, as the city provides hub-and-spoke-like accessibility to many of the places on this list. About a 45-minute drive from Rapid City, take a step back in time in historic Deadwood, with its Old West-style main street full of boutiques, restaurants, and charm — and yes, this is where the HBO series Deadwood was based and where you can visit the graves of Wild West heroes like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane at Mount Moriah Cemetery. After role-playing as Billy the Kid, head to the Hotel Alex Johnson in Rapid City for the night. The city is set among the Black Hills, and the downtown area is a treat to wander through. The hotel's rooftop restaurant and bar, Vertex Sky Bar , is a nice spot for dinner. Another delicious spot is Murphy's Pub & Grill .

Must-see Stop: If you'll be spending a day or two in Rapid City, swing by Main Street Square , a public space that's home to family-friendly festivals, live music, a splash park in summer, and a rocking ice skating rink in winter. The Journey Museum & Learning Center is also worth a look, with exhibits highlighting the area's Native American culture and history as well as the Black Hills' dinosaur days.

Custer State Park

Leave early in the morning to enjoy the fresh pine air of Custer State Park , where herds of roaming bison regularly cause traffic jams (if this happens to you, just keep your distance, stay in your car, and get those cameras ready). Head to Blue Bell Lodge for a perfect few hours of horseback riding through fields of flowers and trickling streams in the surrounding forests. Then, grab a bite at the lodge's restaurant before heading to picturesque Sylvan Lake. After an afternoon of water activities, drive to Custer for a pint and dinner at Mt. Rushmore Brewing Company and Pounding Fathers Restaurant (open seasonally). Finally, cap off the day with some much-deserved shut-eye at Rock Crest Lodge & Cabins .

Must-see Stop: If time allows and you're heading from Custer up toward Mount Rushmore, make time to visit the Crazy Horse Memorial , an impressive monument carved into the side of a mountain that's dedicated to the life and story of the famous Oglala Lakota chief. Stop by the on-site museum to learn more about the area's rich Indigenous American history and culture, then snap some photos of the massive (and still-under-construction) mountain sculpture.

Mount Rushmore

On day four, it's finally time to see the Founding Fathers' faces carved into the mountain — the enormity of the sculpture is truly a sight to see. Under Canvas has set up camp near Mount Rushmore National Memorial (seasonally from early May to late September), so you can enjoy luxury tented accommodations that evening, along with on-site dining and camping activities.

Needles Highway

The last day brings a scenic, 14-mile drive along giant granite spires. On this drive, there will be breakneck turns, hand-carved tunnels, and vistas that will instill the wonder of South Dakota and solidify the past five days of incredible adventure in your memory forever. Continue your road trip through Wyoming, Utah, and Montana, or stop here — the choice is up to you.

Where Are Those Morgans

South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary (4 + 7 Days)

By: Author Mark and Kristen Morgan

Posted on Published: June 4, 2020  - Last updated: February 16, 2024

Categories North America Travel Blog

South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary (4 + 7 Days)

A South Dakota road trip offers scenic byways, famous attractions and national parks. You can drive Needles Highway to Sylvan Lake and Black Elk Peak, and you can drive Iron Mountain Road from Custer State Park to Mount Rushmore. South Dakota’s Black Hills are beautiful and filled with family friendly activities.

In this guide, we’re going to show you exactly how to plan the perfect South Dakota road trip itinerary for 4 days or 7 days based entirely on our own experiences in the area.

Introducing South Dakota

South Dakota road trip infographic with places to visit fun facts and important information

South Dakota is undoubtably most famous for Mount Rushmore, but there’s so much more to see in the beautiful Black Hills region.

We’re confident you will be left stunned by the awesome hiking and scenic drives on offer. And if you’re the type of traveler who prefers to get away from the crowds , South Dakota’s Black Hills are definitely for you.

Our South Dakota Road Trip Experience

Mark and Kristen Morgan from Where Are Those Morgans sat together on rocks at the end of Notch trail hike in Badlands National Park when driving a road trip through South Dakota

We’ve explored far and wide throughout South Dakota’s Black Hills on two separate occasions, first in the fall of 2019 and again in the spring of 2021. We love the area and consider the Black Hills as one of the best road trips in the US .

We’ve personally visited every place, attraction, park and scenic road listed in this guide. Our itineraries are tried and tested , so you can rest assured they work. Read more about us .

Here’s a short YouTube video we put together with a GoPro from our first visit to South Dakota.

About This Guide

Planning the perfect South Dakota road trip itinerary begins with creating a priority list of attractions, hikes and scenic drives.

We’re going to start by showing you the 4 most unmissable places to visit in the Black Hills, followed by other places you should visit with more time . Later in the guide we will show you exactly how to plan South Dakota road trip itineraries for 4 days and 7 days .

Unmissable South Dakota Road Trip Stops

Couple standing in front of Mount Rushmore in winter clothes with snow on the ground

So what are the places you simply cannot miss on your visit to South Dakota?

Well, we’ve seen all there is to see in South Dakota’s Black Hills and here are the 4 stops we think all first time visitors should prioritize.

  • Badlands National Park
  • Mount Rushmore National Memorial
  • Custer State Park
  • Black Elk Peak

Let’s take a closer look at each stop.

1. Badlands National Park

Awesome rocks formations at Badlands National Park stop on South Dakota road trip

Badlands National Park should be included in every South Dakota road trip itinerary. It’s unique landscape is incredibly photogenic , there’s loads of fun short hikes and it can be accessed in less than one hour from Rapid City.

We think Badlands is one of the best US national parks because it’s so easy to visit, there’s never any crowds and the topography is spectacular. You’ll only need around 4 or 5 hours to fully explore Badlands.

Read more in our Badlands travel guides :

  • Best things to do in Badlands National Park
  • The best hikes in Badlands National Park
  • How to hike Notch Trail in Badlands
  • Best hotels near Badlands National Park
  • Best Badlands National Park photo spots

2. Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Mount Rushmore at golden hour before sunrise near Keystone South Dakota

How could you go to South Dakota and not see one of America’s most famous monuments ? It would be like going to Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower. Mount Rushmore is located just 5 minutes drive from Keystone , which is one of the most popular places to set up base for a South Dakota road trip.

The iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial is carved into a towering granite rock formation, which faces directly into the sun at dawn . We watched a stunning sunrise at Mt Rushmore when the former presidents faces turned from grey to pink and orange.

You can either look up at Mt Rushmore from a huge amphitheater or you can walk the Presidents Trail which is a boardwalk with over 200 steps taking you closer to the giant sculpture.

Read more in our Mount Rushmore travel guides :

  • How to visit Mount Rushmore for the first time
  • 10 best things to do near Mount Rushmore
  • Best hotels near Mount Rushmore

3. Custer State Park

South Dakota road trip needles highway narrow tunnel along road gorgeous greens and yellows trees

Custer State Park is one of the largest and best US state parks . We’ve been to dozens of amazing state parks and Custer is definitely up there as one of our favorites. If you’re planning a South Dakota road trip with your family, Custer State Park is one place you definitely can’t miss.

You can drive an 18-mile wildlife loop to see animals, hike several picturesque trails and take on 2 of the most scenic drives in America. Here’s a time-lapse for one of the two drives called Iron Mountain Road .

Read more in our Custer State Park travel guide:

  • 6 best things to do in Custer State Park

4. Black Elk Peak Hike

Black Elk Peak Summit incredible views over Montana, Wyoming, Nebraska and South Dakota

Black Elk Peak is our top hiking recommendation for your visit to South Dakota. If you love to hike in new places, don’t miss the chance to summit this amazing trail. It’s a moderately difficult 7-mile roundtrip hike with magical views from the top.

We hiked Black Elk Peak during our first South Dakota road trip and it blew us away. You’ll find it included in our popular list of the 50 best hikes in the US .

Read more in our Black Elk Peak hiking guide :

  • How to hike Black Elk Peak Trail in South Dakota

Places To Visit With More Time

Hiker stood on rocks looking up at a huge rock tower

We’ve covered the absolute must visits on your South Dakota road trip, but there’s loads more fantastic places you can also explore if you have more time or you like to create action packed itineraries .

We consider South Dakota’s Black Hills to be one of the best US vacation spots for a reason!

Here’s a list of the places you should visit with more time:

1. Crazy Horse Memorial

Crazy Horse Memorial is a partially carved mountain sculpture , which has been under construction since 1948 but is still a long way from completion.

If it’s completed, Crazy Horse will be much larger than nearby Mount Rushmore. Entry fees are surprisingly steep for Crazy Horse but all proceeds go directly into furthering construction efforts.

2. Deadwood

Deadwood is a popular Wild West gold rush town , which has retained elements of its old western appearance.

You can stop for a hot chocolate in a quaint cafe next to the site where Wild Bill Hickok was assassinated in 1876, walk the historic main street and soak up the unique western architecture .

Further Reading: Where to stay in Deadwood SD

Photo looking up the historic downtown of Deadwood SD on a sunny day

3. Devils Tower National Monument

Devils Tower is a remarkable and quite literally unmissable rock formation just across the border from South Dakota into Wyoming. The enormous igneous rock formation dominates the skyline and it’s even more impressive from close up.

You can hike an easy and relaxing loop trail around the base of Devils Tower but we also highly recommend the awesome view from Joyner Ridge .

Further Reading: How to visit Devils Tower National Monument

4. Wind Cave National Park

Wind Cave National Park is one of the longest and most complex cave systems on the planet. It features unique formations known as boxwork.

You must join a daily ranger-led tour in order to walk through the vast Wind Cave network. Here are tour times throughout the year. Some tours can be reserved in advance but others are first come first served only.

There’s also a handful of nearby hikes with excellent views and you might even see wildlife roaming freely on the surrounding prairie.

Mark and Kristen Morgan at the summit of Black Elk Peak in South Dakota on a sunny but cool day in October

5. Jewel Cave National Monument

Jewel Cave is the third longest cave in the world with 208 miles of mapped and surveyed passages. Similarly to Wind Cave, ranger led tours at 9:00am and 2:45pm are the only way to go inside the Jewel Cave network.

Jewel Cave features more common cave formations like stalagmites and stalactites, whereas Wind Cave features boxwork which is a rare honeycomb-like formation. We think Jewel Cave is the more attractive cave , but there’s more to see and do around Wind Cave.

6. Spearfish Canyon

The 20 mile drive through Spearfish Canyon scenic byway is one of the best hidden gem spots in the Black Hills. It’s a lovely drive within itself, but there’s also loads of great places to stop along the way including waterfalls and hikes.

We stopped to hike Devils Bathtub Trail which turned out to be a really fun unmarked trail running alongside a creek with plenty of crossings.

Now you know the best places to visit on your road trip through South Dakota, let’s get into the itineraries.

4 Days South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary

We’re beginning with a 4 days South Dakota road trip itinerary that assumes you are booking a hotel in Keystone for the duration of your trip. Use the map above to see the attractions we recommend for each day.

Days 1, 3 and 4 are full with what we consider the most unmissable attractions. Day 2 has room for you to include your other top priorities, but we’ll also show you how we would spend the second day which you can see in the map above.

Day 1 – Badlands

Bighorn Sheep close up shot at badlands national park

Start the day by visiting the fantastic Minuteman Missile National Historic Site where you will learn all about the Cold War , including decommissioned US Nuclear Missile locations in South Dakota.

Next, enter Badlands National Park and spend the day hiking, exploring, wildlife spotting and taking photos of the alien-like landscape.

Later, drive to Wall which is just outside the northwest Badlands entrance to check out Wall Drug Store . Finally, drive to Keystone , grab dinner at old-west themed  Red Garter Saloon and check into your hotel.

Day 2 – Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore illuminated by pink sunlight at sunrise Black Hills National Forest South Dakota

The major thing to see on day 2 is Mount Rushmore . You can do that any time of day and it really only takes a few hours at the most. Personally, we think sunrise is the best time of day to see the sculpture because it’s really quiet and the colors are amazing. But we know sunrise isn’t for everyone!

Remember, you can go to an evening lighting ceremony at Mount Rushmore between June and September for a unique experience.

You’ll have action packed days 3 and 4 , so day 2 in this itinerary is the day to visit other places on your Black Hills wishlist like Deadwood, Wind Cave or even Devils Tower.

Personally we would do Mt Rushmore for sunrise, then drive to either Wind Cave or Jewel Cave (pre-booking a tour in advance), stop at Crazy Horse next on the way up to Deadwood , drive Spearfish Canyon and visit Devils Tower . It would be a long and busy day but it would mean seeing everything.

Day 3 – Custer State Park

how long to visit south dakota

Start the day by driving the super-scenic Iron Mountain Highway from Keystone to Custer State Park. You’ll love driving Iron Mountain Road which is essentially non-stop curves, hairpins, narrow tunnels with Mount Rushmore views and even pigtail turns.

Go to the Custer State Park visitor center and watch the movie narrated by Kevin Costner. Next, pay the $20 entrance fee for Custer State Park (good for 7 days) and drive the one way wildlife loop for 18 miles, Hopefully you’ll be able to see plenty of animals roaming. They’re most active in the morning and late afternoon.

After the wildlife loop, enter the east entrance to the awesome Needles Highway and drive as far as Cathedral Spires Trail , which is a popular short but moderately difficult hike. Complete the scenic Needles Highway drive, leaving to the west and without stopping at Sylvan Lake .

Day 4 – Black Elk Peak

Kristen at Harney Peak summit Black Elk Peak

Start the final day by driving to Sylvan Lake and the trailhead for Black Elk Peak . This amazing hike is the perfect way to finish a short but sweet South Dakota road trip. You already have your 7 day pass for Custer State Park so you won’t have to pay again to enter the Sylvan Lake area.

Hiking the moderately challenging 7-mile roundtrip Black Elk Peak Trail will take up a huge chunk of your day . However, if you’re an experienced hiker you can also take on the tough Sunday Gulch Trail which is located on the opposite side of Sylvan Lake.

Not a hiker? No problem!

You can change day 4 on this itinerary to instead visit the northern parts of the Black Hills. Your day would include Deadwood, Lead, Spearfish Canyon and Devils Tower. In this case, change your day 2 to focus more on the southern areas of the Black Hills.

7 Days South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary

Let’s move onto our 7 days South Dakota road trip itinerary which covers all points of interest and takes things slowly . This itinerary assumes you are booking different hotels throughout your trip for the most efficiency.

Use the map above to see the most efficient one week South Dakota road trip. We’ve included hotel icons at the end of each day so you know where to stay every night.

Day 1 – Badlands National Park

Woman in Badlands National Park on a South Dakota Road Trip

Pick up your hire car at Rapid City airport and drive east on I-90.

Stop at Wall Drug and visit the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site before spending the afternoon soaking up extra-terrestrial views from scenic overlooks, hiking and spotting wildlife in Badlands National Park .

Our to hiking picks are Notch Trail and Door Trail . We highly recommend you stop at every overlook but definitely don’t miss Yellow Mounds for something a bit different. Stay in Badlands for sunset.

Either camp in Badlands, stay at Cedar Lodge inside the park or drive to Wall to stay in one of five hotels.

Day 2 – Badlands + Wind Cave

Wind Cave National Park steps lit up yellow

The beauty of having more time is that you can make the most of the best light . We highly recommend heading back into Badlands in the morning for sunrise .

This is also the time to hike any trails you missed yesterday like Castle Trail . If you didn’t arrive into Badlands until later on day 1, hike Notch Trail and Door Trail today. Once you’re done in Badlands, drive all the way down to Wind Cave National Park .

There’s a great little hike you can do near Wind Cave called Rankin Ridge Trail , which leads a wonderful viewpoint overlooking the park. Next, stop in at Wind Cave visitor center to get information about cave tours for the next morning if you haven’t already booked a tour online.

Check into a hotel in nearby Hot Springs .

Day 3 – Wind Cave, Needles Highway + Cathedral Spires

Stunning needle like granite rocks with ponderosa pine trees green and yellow on a south Dakota road trip itinerary

Get an early start and be at Wind Cave visitor center around 30 minutes before it opens for the day. Cave tours are split between advanced tickets and first come first served which sell out quickly after opening. And you can do more than one tour.

Grab lunch in Custer and then drive the famous Needles Highway scenic byway beginning on the east side. You’ll pay $20 entrance fee for Custer State Park at Needles Highway south entrance and it’s good for 7 days.

Stop at Cathedral Spires trailhead and park on the tight U-bend. The Cathedral Spires trail really showcases the natural beauty of the famous granite rock formations in the Black Hills.

Drive back to a Custer hotel for the night.

Day 4 – Custer State Park, Sylvan Lake + Black Elk Peak

Sylvan Lake reflecting on still water with blowers and snow and ice

Arrive at Custer wildlife loop as early as you can to stand the best chance of seeing animals when they’re most active. Drive slowly through the one way park and maybe even get out of your car to walk up a hill for a better view.

Drive Needles Highway again or take SD-89 for a more direct route to Sylvan Lake . There’s loads to do around Sylvan Lake, especially when the weather is warmer. Families can relax and have a picnic, the kids can swim or hike around the lake in a loop, and the adults can even take on Sunday Gulch .

However, our top recommendation for day 4 is to hike Black Elk Peak . You can see into 4 US states from the summit and even the trail itself is picturesque.

Once you are down, drive back to Custer again for the night.

Day 5 – Jewel Cave, Crazy Horse, Iron Mountain + Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore grey on a cloudy day

Arrive to Jewel Cave early to ensure you get onto a cave tour before they sell out. Jewel Cave is just 15 minutes drive from the town of Custer. After your cave tour you could hike the 5.5 mile roundtrip Hell Canyon Trail or you can drive straight to Crazy Horse .

You can actually see Crazy Horse from the main road without having to pay entry, which is helpful to know if you’re trying to balance the budget or you’re short on time .

Next, grab lunch in Custer before driving to the southern entrance for Iron Mountain scenic byway near Custer State Park visitor center. At the other end of the awesome Iron Mountain Road it’s finally time for you to visit Mount Rushmore !

By now it will be getting to the later part of the afternoon or early evening. You might be able to see the sun disappear behind the presidents heads and you also might want to stay for the evening light show .

Check into a Keystone hotel.

Day 6 – Deadwood + Spearfish Canyon

Spearfish Canyon hike devils bathtub SD

If you’re interested in photography, we highly recommend you wake up early and see Mt Rushmore at sunrise . It is just a few minutes drive from Keystone so you are perfectly located.

Later in the morning you can take US-385 north for 1 hour until you reach the small town of Deadwood . Once you arrive, walk down the historic main street, learn about famous Wild West characters and stop in somewhere for a coffee or a beer.

Spearfish Canyon is one of our favorite parts of the Black Hills. From Deadwood, take US-14 southwest as far as Cheyenne Crossing and Savoy. Stop first at Savoy to see Roughlock Falls . You can also hike Iron Creek or Devils Bathtub , before stopping at Bridal Veil Falls on the roadside.

Check into a hotel in Spearfish .

Day 7 – Devils Tower + Rapid City

Devils Tower National Monument from Joyner Ridge an amazing way to end a south dakota road trip

Take either I-90 and US-14, or WY-24 to Devils Tower . We took the latter and it was a very peaceful drive. Spend the late morning walking around the base of Devils Tower and enjoying the views over this unique geological feature.

Before leaving, don’t forget to drive up to Joyner Ridge which has the best views of Devils Tower across the meadows.

Finally, you’ll drive I-90 to Rapid City to spend the afternoon relaxing around town. Rapid City is filled with excellent restaurants and it’s the best place to spend the night before flying out of Rapid City airport the next morning.

South Dakota Road Trip Packing

Couple crouched down on rocks pointing to a sign

Packing for your South Dakota road trip will depend entirely on what time of year you decide to visit.

We first visited South Dakota in October when the weather was perfect for hiking in shorts and t-shirts but it was cold in the morning and at night.

The second time we visited the Black Hills in April and there was a lot of snow on the ground , which of course meant it was much colder.

If you visit in summer you can expect hot days so your packing list will look very different to a spring or fall trip.

Here’s a quick packing list of items to remember no matter when you visit the area:

  • America the Beautiful Pass – REI
  • Car emergency kit – First Secure
  • In case of snow – Snow Brush
  • Hiking shoes – Men | Women
  • Day hiking backpack – Best day bags
  • Down Jacket – Men | Women

Further Reading: Essential road trip packing list

Where To Stay

Close up of a polystyrene coffee cup at Wall Drug Store in South Dakota

You won’t have any issues finding places to stay on your South Dakota road trip.

We’ve written a comprehensive guide to the best hotels near Mount Rushmore , which goes into far greater detail on choosing the perfect places to stay in the entire region.

You might also want to read our ultimate guide on how to book the cheapest hotels  to learn about ways you can save money.

Below you will find our recommended lodging options for each stop along this South Dakota road trip itinerary.

1. Badlands Lodging

Campgrounds

There are 2 campgrounds inside the National Park: Cedar Pass RV Park and Campground has facilities but Sage Creek Campground is primitive (without facilities).

Cedar Pass Lodge is the only accommodation located within the park.

There are five hotels in Wall near Badlands National Park:

  • Badlands Frontier Cabins
  • Best Western Plains Motel
  • Americas Best Value Inn Wall
  • Days Inn by Wyndham Wall
  • Travelodge by Wyndham Wall

Further Reading: Where to stay near Badlands National Park

2. Mount Rushmore Lodging

Camping is very popular around the Mount Rushmore area. Black Hills National Forest has around 30 campgrounds to choose between.

Keystone is the most convenient place to stay near Mt Rushmore. It has a very central location among the best things to do in the area.

Here are some of the top rated hotels in Keystone:

  • Rockerville Lodge + Cabins
  • Comfort Inn + Suites
  • Powder House Lodge
  • Roosevelt Inn
  • Rushmore Express + Suites

Further Reading: The best hotels in Keystone SD

3. Custer State Park Lodging

Custer State Park has 10 campground options available, including in the foothills of Black Elk Peak near Sylvan Lake.

If you’d prefer to set up a base closer to Custer State Park’s wildlife loop and Black Elk Peak, stay in the town of Custer which is in between the two attractions.

Here are the best value hotels in Custer to consider:

  • Chalet Motel
  • Chief Motel
  • Rocket Motel
  • Comfort Inn
  • Holiday Inn Express

Further Reading: The best hotels in Custer SD

Camping Special

Open grassy field with benches for camping in Badlands National Park

Are you planning to camp during your road trip through South Dakota?

We’ve teamed up with The Dyrt to offer our readers an exclusive no strings attached 30 day free trial with The Dyrt PRO .

This is our favorite camping app because it finds the best campgrounds along any driving route and there are no additional booking fees. You can also use Dyrt Alerts to receive notifications when sold out campgrounds have cancellations.

In Conclusion

South Dakota’s Black Hills region has a wide range of attractions and activities to suit travelers of all ages and preferences. If it’s your first time in South Dakota, you shouldn’t miss Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park and Black Elk Peak.

We’ve enjoyed two fantastic road trips through South Dakota. We think 4 days is easily enough time to see the highlights of South Dakota’s Black Hills but 7 days would allow you to slow down, see fewer attractions each day and have a more relaxing experience.

More From South Dakota

  • Exactly how to hike Black Elk Peak Trail
  • The best things to do in Custer State Park
  • Complete Mount Rushmore vacation planner

More US Road Trips

  • Best stops on a San Francisco to San Diego road trip
  • Best places to visit on a New England fall road trip
  • How to plan a Mount Rushmore to Yellowstone road trip
  • How to plan a Salt Lake City to Yellowstone road trip
  • Complete guide to the best Utah road trips
  • The perfect 3 day Zion to Bryce Canyon road trip itinerary

Want more South Dakota content? Head over to our South Dakota Travel Guides to explore Mount Rushmore, Badlands, the Black Hills and beyond.

We hope this South Dakota road trip itinerary guide helps with planning your Black Hills vacation!

Please let us know if you have any questions or need help planning your trip in the comments section below.

Happy road tripping,

Mark and Kristen

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South Dakota Road Trip 4 Day Itinerary 5 Unmissable Stops

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how long to visit south dakota

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

Share this article!

Jim Johnson

Monday 19th of December 2022

6 Seniors going on a South Dakota trip in May, Not many hikers in our group. What would be the best location to stay so we only have 1 location to drive out from each day. Moving each day is not real practical for us. Also, any ideas replacing the hiking parts of the tour. Great info, thanks so much.

Mark and Kristen Morgan

Friday 23rd of December 2022

Hi Jim, great to hear you have a trip to SD planned. Rapid City could be the best place for you to stay - it has a greater hotel selection, more places to eat and drink, and it has easy access to I-90 so you can easily reach Badlands, Devils Tower and all other spots in the Black Hills. If you'd rather be right in the Black Hills, you can stay in Keystone near Mt Rushmore, or in Custer which is close to Sylvan Lake and Wind Cave. It depends on how many days you are going for and what you would prefer to see, but there's plenty to keep you occupied even without the hikes. Have a great trip!

Graham Bedford

Thursday 4th of June 2020

Really enjoying your national park posts, keep them coming.

Mark & Kristen Morgan

Glad you're enjoying the US National Park posts Graham, we're enjoying writing them!

Wandermust Family

Ultimate South Dakota Road Trip Planner and Itinerary

By: Author Wandermust Mummy

Ultimate South Dakota Road Trip Planner and Itinerary

Are you looking for the ULTIMATE South Dakota Road Trip Planner?  With our South Dakota road trip itinerary we cover all of the main South Dakota attractions, tell you where to stay and what to see with 7 days in South Dakota. 

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you!

Table of Contents

South Dakota Road Trip Planner Tips and Tricks

South Dakota has to be one of our ultimate US Bucket List experiences and one of the best US road trips that you can do. 

And South Dakota really has something on offer for everyone from amazing national monuments and national parks, great hikes and wildlife experiences as well as some great quirky in town attractions. 

In this South Dakota road trip itinerary we will cover all of the main sights but before we get onto our South Dakota road trip itinerary we thought it would be good to answer some of your frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip. 

How Long do you need for Your South Dakota Road Trip?

Tips for Visiting Mount Rushmore with Kids or Without

Tips for Visiting Mount Rushmore with Kids or Without

When you are looking to put together the first thing you will want to know is how long do you need for your South Dakota road trip itinerary? 

With all that there is to see in South Dakota, and also the likely distance you are traveling to get to South Dakota we recommend having a good amount of time for your Black Hills vacation. 

When we went to South Dakota we had 7 days in this amazing state and I think this is the perfect amount of time to tour this state. For this reason we have outlined out prefect 7 day itinerary. However if you don’t have as long as this feel free to cut out the days that appeal least to you so you have the right amount of days. 

We recommend a minimum of 4 days in South Dakota to ensure you see a good amount of this state’s amazing scenery and attractions. 

Should I drive or Fly to South Dakota?

When you are traveling to South Dakota you really have two options of how to get there 

  • flying and 
  • driving. 

If you have a shorter amount of time for your South Dakota road your best option is to fly into the state. Most people who decide to fly into the state fo to either Rapid City or Sioux Falls and then rent a vehicle. 

Out of these two options we recommend Rapid City as this is more centrally located to the main attractions.

However if you have more time we recommend driving into South Dakota as this will reduce costs of having to hire a car on arrival.  South Dakota as a state really doesn’t have any public transport to speak of so you will need to have a car with you to fully experience this amazing state.

When we visited South Dakota as part of a large road trip to Yellowstone and Utah, we flew into Denver which is only a 6 hour drive from South Dakota.

If you plan to road trip from other states we recommend trying out some of our other road trip guides:

  • Denver to Mount Rushmore Road Trip. 
  • Mount Rushmore to Yellowstone Road Trip

Best Time to Visit South Dakota

There are definitely better time to visit South Dakota than others. 

Although not the official state motto, South Dakota is colloquially called the Blizzard State. Therefore it should come as no surprise that we don’t recommend taking your South Dakota family vacation in Winter or winter adjacent months. 

The best time to visit your South Dakota vacation for weather has to summer, however you should also expect crowds to be high during this period (But no where need as crowded as other Northern national parks such as Yellowstone). 

And if you are visiting South Dakota in summer you need to plan for walking in heat – so be sure to check out our South Dakota Summer packing list. 

Peak season in South Dakota technically runs from1st May and ends around 30th September which is when we recommend ed most people, particularly families with small children travel to South Dakota.

It is also worth noting that if you visit South Dakota in Fall (September or October depending on the year) you will see some amazing fall colors especially in the Spearfish Canyon area. 

Where to Base Yourself for your South Dakota Road Trip

Keystone Town Sign

Where to stay for this South Dakota Road Trip itinerary

The first questions when you plan a trip to South Dakota has to be about where to base yourself or whether to travel.

South Dakota is a large state with lots to see. However for 7 days in South Dakota we recommend basing yourself out of the West of the state in the Rapid City, Custer State Park and Black Hills area. 

If you only want to stay in one location for this road trip, which is especially helpful if you are doing a South Dakota road trip with family or with toddlers and kids, then we recommend Rapid City.

Rapid City is within easy driving of all the major South Dakota attractions so is very convenient. 

If you are looking for convenient places to stay in Rapid City with good family friendly amenities then the following are in prime positions:

  • La Quinta  
  •  Fairfield Inn & Suites

Alternatively you could based your self out of Rapid City for some of the itinerary before moving on to some lodges or more nature focussed accommodation near Badlands or Mount Rushmore. 

Some great places to stay with older children include:

  • Mount Rushmore Under Canvas or 
  • Custer State Park Lodges. 

The Perfect South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary

Note about this South Dakota Road Trip Planner and itinerary : The days here are put together to make the most of your time in South Dakota however the days are designed so they can be done in any order.

Day 1 of the perfect South Dakota Itinerary 

Today is all about the outdoors and the thing that was top of my SD Road trip bucket list was  The Badlands National Park.

Badlands National Park

Badlands with Kids - A must for your South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary

Badlands with Kids – A must for your South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary

Badlands National Park is one of the lesser visited parks but it is still worth getting to the Badlands National Park for sunrise. Watching the sun rise over the majestic geological formations of the Badlands is simply breathtaking and well worth the early start. You will also be rewarded with having the park entirely to yourselves. We visited over labour day weekend and we didn’t see people for at least an hour after our arrival.

Depending on which direction you are arriving from, will depend on which entrance you arrive through. We came in via the Pinnacles Entrance as this is the closest (less than an hours drive) from Rapid City.

The Badlands is name because historically this unique landscape was impassable to man. The local Lakota Tribe called the area mako sica traditionally which literally translates to land bad hence why we call it the Badlands today. 

It is worth stopping at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center at the Badlands as a great place to learn more about the park. Also if you are visiting this national park with kids you will want to pick a Junior Ranger pack. The Centre is open daily (Christmas and Thanksgiving exceptions). 

There are lots of great Badlands Hikes, including some easy Badland hikes that are suitable for novice hikers and people traveling to the national park with toddlers . 

Another must do in the Badlands, whatever type of traveler you are is to drive the Badlands scenic loop road, officially known as Highway 240. The views from this scenic byway are beautiful and take in many of the parks biggest highlights. 

The scenic highway is over 40 miles long and without stopping would take an hour to drive. However this would be missing out on so much. 

Our South Dakota Road Trip Planner featured the Badlands on Day 1

Our South Dakota Road Trip Planner featured the Badlands on Day 1

To be able to avail of some of the fantastic Badlands hikes as well as photo opportunities we recommend spending at least half a day of your South Dakota itinerary for this park. 

Also although there is plenty of things to do on the Scenic byway we also  recommend taking a slight detour at the start of your day to see Roberts Prairie Dog Town. These creatures are great to watch but if travelling with children please make sure they do not get too close.

South Dakota Road Trip Planner -

The Praire Dog Town should be on your South Dakota Road Trip Planner

Once you have visited the Prairie Dog Town you can continue down the road. This is optional but we were glad we did as we saw the most spectacular herd of bison running here. It was a better bison experience than we had even in Yellowstone.

South Dakota Trip Planner - Visiting Badlands

South Dakota Trip Itinerary – Visiting Badlands

Once you have detoured enough, head back towards the loop road. 

Some of our favourite hikes that we did on our trip with kids in Badlands were: 

  • The Notch Trail (1.5 miles)
  • Cliff Shelf Nature Trail (0.5 miles)
  • Fossil Exhibit Trail (0.25) – this was my toddler’s favourite hike and is sure to be a favourite amongst any kids with the bronze wast fossil replicas and is a very easy boardwalk hike.

There are a few more strenuous hikes for those feeling more adventurous.

For more information on the best and easiest hikes in Badlands National Park click here. 

For those that are in a RV or who enjoy camping there are campgrounds within this national park that you can stay at. The most popular place to camp in the park is at Cedar Pass Campground followed by Sage Creek Campground.

Permits are not required in the campgrounds but it is always prudent to inform rangers of camping plans in more primitive campsites.

But if you prefer a lodge accommodation over camping and want to stay in the park then there is just one option which is Cedar Pass Lodge. 

Cedar Pass Lodge is made of wooden lodge cabins and have beautiful views of the national park. However it is worth noting that as this is the only lodge in the park, that is gets booked up very quickly. Therefore we recommend booking Cedar Pass Lodge well in advance to avoid disappointment. 

If you are not staying the park though we recommend heading to

There is no way you can miss Wall Drug. Whatever direction you are driving towards Badlands from you will see constant billboards for Wall Drug and really can not be missed.

It is one of those great American roadside attractions and an absolute must see in South Dakota. It is a wild west themed souvenir superstore. But alongside the gift shops there are also restaurants, a museum, a dinosaur and more. Families will really love it. 

It is a great place to get souvenirs from, stop for refreshments and use have a wander. You simply must try the donuts when you stop.

No South Dakota itinerary is complete without stopping at Wall Drug

No South Dakota itinerary is complete without stopping at Wall Drug

If you want to stay close to Badlands, and you can’t get into the Cedar Pass lodge then your next closest place is the hotels in Wall. Again these hotels fill up quickly especially in peak season so again it is imperative that you make reservations early. 

We recommend spending one day of your South Dakota itinerary at the Badlands but if you want to do lots of hiking you could extend your time in the park. 

And as an added bonus, if you have extra time in your Badlands itinerary you could also stop at the Minuteman Missile Site. From the Ben Reifel Visitor Centre, it is only a 16 minute drive to get to the missile site. 

The Minuteman Missiles are a part of the Cold War history and were located in the great plains ready to be fired if need arose. At the site you can see the Missile launch areas as well as learn about the Cold War history. 

Day Two of the perfect South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary 

Today is another day of bigger hitter tourist attractions, indeed one of the biggest in the whole of the US and features the iconic Mount Rushmore alongside some other big South Dakota attractions. 

Mount Rushmore

Mt Rushmore view - Mount Rushmore Instagram Captions and Quotes

Mount Rushmore Instagram Captions and Quotes

For me no South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary is complete without visiting Mount Rushmore. Mount Rushmore is one of the most famous and iconic tourist attractions in the US and a must for any USA Bucket list and certainly at the top of most people’s South Dakota bucket list. 

AS this is one of America’s most famous and revered attractions it should come as no surprise that Mount Rushmore gets very busy. For this reason we advise you to get to Mount Rushmore very early. 

When we visited on the  Labour Day Weekend we arrived at 5am and literally had the place to ourselves. Therefore my top piece of advice for creating your road trip to Mount Rushmore vacation itinerary is to get to Rushmore early – very early.

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For those that don’t know Mount Rushmore is a a huge sculptural craiving in the granite of the Black Hills featuring four of America’s famous presidents – George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln.

The monument was completed in 1941, and was carved by sculptor Gutzon Borglum with his son and took just under 15 years to complete (1927-1941). 

I have been asked a few times since we went to Rushmore what was the experience like and how long we actually spent there. I will be honest, I didn’t time our visit but we spent well over an hour at the monument and we could have spent longer if we had done hikes while we were there.

Some of the attractions and things to include when visiting Mount Rushmore include: 

  • Strolling the Avenue of Flags
  • The Sculptors Studio 
  • Lincoln Borglum Museum
  • The  Presidents Trail – a hike which will take on an uphill trail to get a closer look at the sculptures.
  • Eat the Famous Memorial Team Ice Cream

toddler at Mount Rushmore - Mount Rushmore with kids

toddler at Mount Rushmore – Mount Rushmore with kids

The Avenue of Flags is a great place for those looking for great instagram photos and captions for Mount Rushmore as this avenue contains all the state and territories flags alongside the dates when they were admitted into the Union. 

In the Lincoln Borglum Museum has many interactive exhibits and is a great place to learn about the sculpting process. 

But perhaps the best thing to do at Rushmore is the President Trail. The trail is only 0.5 mile however don’t let the shortness of the trail fool you. It is more intensive than you think. There are well over 400 steps on this trail that takes you to get a closer look at the presidents heads. 

It is also a great place to spot wildlife though obviously not the best place in South Dakota for wildlife encounters

Also, although we recommend going to Mount Rushmore in the morning, if you can make your way back to Mount Rushmore in the evening, we recommend it. There is the Evening Sculpture Lighting Ceremony that is held nightly at the monument and is a beautiful way to see the sculpture all lit up. 

Now I wouldn’t plan a Mount Rushmore road trip itinerary as the only activity to do in one day but you could certainly plan to spend half a day there. 

For a complete guide to visiting Mount Rushmore including all of our top tips and for a full Mount Rushmore itinerary  check out this post.

Crazy Horse Monument

Crazy Horse Monument

Why you Should include Crazy horse on your South dakota Road Trip itinerary

Once you have finished at Mount Rushmore we recommend taking a short 25 minute drive from Rushmore to the Crazy Horse Monument.

The Crazy Horse Monument is not as well known as Mount Rushmore but just as impressive. Here instead of the presidents being sculpted into the Granite, Crazy horse, Lakota warrior is depicted instead.

The Monument has been under construction since the 1940s and is no where near completion however it is still worth a visit. As once this monument is completed it will be the largest sculpture in the world. 

There is also a visitor center here when you can learn more about the battles between the Lakota Tribe and Government as well as more on the life and heritage of the Lakota.

The final stop of the day will be your second national park of your South Dakota road trip as you are heading to 

Wind Cave National Park 

Wind Cave is actually one of the oldest National Parks in the country and one of the largest cave systems in the world too! 

It is a great place to view wildlife but on your national park bucket list should be one of the guided tours of the caves. Be sure to check tour timings online here and plan your day accordingly.

Alternatively you could spend the afternoon at 

Keystone 

Keystone is known as the gateway to Mount Rushmore and is a town full of activities. If you are short on time for South Dakota vacation and you are most interested in Mount Rushmore then Keystone is a great place to base yourself out of. 

A popular place to stay out of Keystone is Mount Rushmore Under Canvas. However this is really for those traveling as a couple or with older instead of those traveling with younger children or toddlers. 

If you are traveling to Mount Rushmore with kids then they may enjoy the gold panning activity. 

However one of the most popular activities from Keystone is the 1880 Train from Keystone to Hill City, South Dakota. The train is a two hour round trip and is something my train loving son would adore. 

Day 3 and 4 of Your South Dakota Itinerary 

While on our South Dakota road trip itinerary so far we have hit two national parks, today is all about one of South Dakota’s most famous and beautiful State Parks, Custer State Park. 

Custer State Park

Custer State Park is renowned for having some amazing scenic drives as well as some of South DAkota’s best wildlife opportunities. 

Custer State Park, in my opinion,  in any other part of the country is likely to be national park due to the wildlife and drives. And in fact this is the largest state park in the whole of the US. 

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There are 3 main parts of the scenic drive known as the Peter Norbeck Byway. These are:

  • the Wildlife Loop
  • Needles Highway, and
  • the Iron Mountain Road. 

On top of these roads are favorite things to do in Custer State Park are:

Driving the Wildlife Loop

The wildlife loop is actually an 18 mile stretch of road that forms part o the Peter Norbeck Byway. We recommend heading to this part of the drive first thing in the morning if you can. Otherwise head there for dusk.

It is well known that animals are more active at sunrise and sundown so if you want to see wildlife this is the best time to go. 

Wildlife that you can see on this drive and that we did see include:

  • Prairie Dogs
  • Whitetail and Mule Deer
  • Birds including eagles and hawks for instance. 

We actually found that we had better bison experiences in South Dakota over Yellowstone. And this is no surprise when you find out that there is a herd of 1000+ bison in Custer! In fact this herd is bigger than any other in the country.

This is definitely a highlight for any wildlife lover in South Dakota. 

Driving the Iron Mountain Road 

The Iron MOuntain Road is also known as 16A. There are lots of switch backs on this road and some amazing tunnels through the tunnels of the mountain. 

This road connects Mount Rushmore and Custer STate Park. 

Although they road is not all that long you will need at least an hour and a half to complete this road as the recommended speed limit on this is 20mph due to the bend and pigtail curves. 

Needles Highway

Perhaps the most famous of all the scenic roads in South Dakota is the Needles Highway. 

The Needles Highway, or Highway 87 (SD 87) as it is otherwise known, is a 14 mile long drive that goes through forests and amazing rock formations made of granite that shoot up from the ground like needles, hence the name. 

This is something you can definitely only do in South Dakota in Summer as this road shuts during the Winter. The reason for this is because it is quite a challenging drive and there are many tight tight tunnels to go through. 

Needles the best Scenic Drive on this South DAkota road trip itinerary

In particular the most notorious tunnel is the Needles Eye tunnel. Please note that only small cars can actually fit through this very small tunnel. RVs and Trailers and larger vehicles definitely can not pass through. 

As only one vehicle can get through this tunnel at one time we advise doing this drive very early in the morning. The reason for this is that later in the day there can become a real logjam as you wait for cars to come through from both sides. 

Also it is worth noting that this drive is very popular with motorcyclists, especially around the Sturgis Rally weekend. 

If you plan to drive both the Iron Mountain Road and the Needles Highway you can expect it to take 2-3 hours. But if you are traveling at peak season and later in the day then it can take longer. 

Other great things to do in Custer State Park include:

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  • having a picnic on Sylvan Lake. 
  • Black Elk Peak Hike if you are a more accomplished hiker. 

And on top of these natural attractions there are a few other activities that appeal to travelers but particularly for families. 

Some activities that you could do in Custer State Park include horse riding, restaurants, safari jeeps and more. We also recommend booking dinner in the park at the 

Chuck Wagon Dinner 

This is a traditional dinner from the Bluebell Lodge in the park. You take a 45 minute hayride through the park to go to a chuck wagon feast complete with food and singing. Just be sure to book this experience in advance as it does get filled up early. 

You can stay in the park at the Lodges, the most popular being the Bluebell Lodge, but be sure to make reservations early as this does get filled up very early. 

For more information on the perfect way to spend time in Custer check out our  two day Custer State Park Itinerary. 

Day 5 of your South Dakota vacation itinerary 

On Day 4 of our South Dakota vacation itinerary we recommend heading away from Rushmore and Rapid City towards the Black Hills and Deadwood. 

The first activity of the day is to drive the 

Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway

You may think after driving The Needles Highway and the Iron Mountain Road that south Dakota wouldn’t have many more scenic drives left to offer. However then you drive the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway. 

This road is 22 miles long and will take you roughly two hours to drive if you want to stop at some of the amazing overlooks. 

Some of the most popular stops are at the many waterfalls along the road including but not limited to:

  • Bridalveil Falls,
  • Roughlock Falls, and
  • Spearfish Falls

There is also a huge hydro power plan on the route that is worth stopping to see and film buffs will recognise much of the terrain as filming locations for the award winning film Dancing With Wolves. 

Once you have completed your drive we recommend the next stop on your trip as the town of Deadwood. 

Deadwood Cemetry

Deadwood Cemetry

Deadwood is renowned because of its connections with many of the Wild West Era heroes and because of its popularity on film and screen such as in the TV show Deadwood with Timothy Oliphant and Ian McShane and also in films such as the classic musical Calamity Jane. 

In case you haven’t watched the TV show which tells the story of the towns foundation, Deadwood was founded in 1876 during the Gold Rush. 

It attracted many of Wild West America’s most famous people such as Wild Bill Hicock and Calamity Jane, both of whom have graves in the Deadwood cemetery. 

Deadwood was a dangerous place and largely abandoned at the close of the Gold Rush but now it is a popular tourist attraction in South Dakota. 

Some highlights on a trip to Deadwood are strolling down main street, finding famous graves in the graveyard or watching a recreation shootout. 

Black Hills National Forest

For those looking for some more outdoor pursuits I recommend visiting the Black Hills National Forest and enjoy some more hikes. 

Or alternatively you could go to Sturgis the town famous for its Motorbike rally but also for having a great Motorcycle Museum. 

Day 6 of your South Dakota Road Trip 

Ok, I know that this is your South Dakota Road Trip planner, however we recommend nipping just over the South Dakota border into Wyoming to visit 

Devil’s Tower National Monument

DEvils Tower National Monument

DEvils Tower National Monument

It would be a travesty to close to a national monument and not visit which is why we recommend heading to the Devil’s Tower. 

Devils Tower is a stroking geological feature and was famously the filming location for the culmination of the film Close Encounters of the Third Kind. It truly is a great place to spend a morning. 

Once you are finished we recommend heading into Rapid City to spend your last afternoon. 

Rapid City is a great city that has a lot to offer no matter what kind of traveller you are. We have a whole guide on visiting Rapid city with kids here but for your afternoon we recommend heading to one or two of the below attractions, depending on which appeals to you most. 

Dinosaur Park

A visit to Dinosaur Park for your south dakota vacation itinerary

A visit to Dinosaur Park for your south dakota vacation itinerary

A visit to Dinosaur Park is a must for your South Dakota vacation itinerary.  The Dinosaur Park was created to capitalised on the tourists visiting the area to see Mount Rushmore and to help spark economic growth in the region. 

The Dinosaur Park in Rapid City contains seven dinosaur statues on a hill overlooking the city and is now on the National Historic Register of Places.

At the park you can see the five original dinosaurs ( an apatosaurus, a T Rex, a Triceratops, a Stegosaurus and a Trachodon) as well as two other statues added at a later date. 

Admission to see the dinosaur park is free so it is a great thing to do if you are on a budget.

While there it is worth completing the Skyline Drive as it offers unrivalled views of the city.

Storybook island

Things to do In Rapid City with kids / Best Things to do in Rapid city with toddlers

Things to do In Rapid City with kids / Best Things to do in Rapid city with toddlers

If you are visiting Rapid City with toddlers or younger kids this quirky free attraction is a must. It is a small park created by the Rotary club of Rapid City and contains statutes of all the main storybook and fairytale characters

President Walk

Things to do in Rapid City

Things to do in Rapid City

Another must in the centre of Rapid City is to walk the avenue of Presidents. The bronze life size sculptures are a really quirky way to end your visit to south Dakota.

All around the city you will find bronze statues of the presidents of the United States in famous poses. 

What else to add to your 7 day South Dakota Road Trip Planner

For your last day in South Dakota we recommend selecting the option that most appeals to you form the below, or covering something you missed off the above.

Some options for your final day include:

Bear Country

A drive through park that will guarantee bear spotting. This is a great addition to a road trip to South Dakota for people who want to see a bear but haven’t had any luck at seeing them in the wild. We tried during our trip but we didn’t see a bear unfortunately and this is a must do for us on our next visit to the area. 

The Reptile Gardens

The Reptile Gardens is a  guiness world record holding collection of reptiles. This was a huge hit with our toddler and I would say is one of the best things to do in Rapid City with toddlers. 

FAQS about planning a trip to South Dakota

How far out do you need to start planning a trip to south dakota.

We didn’t have much lead in time when we were planning a trip to South Dakota. We started planning about two weeks prior to our trip and we were travelling at peak season.

However we did find that some of the accommodation we initially considered such as places to stay near Mount Rushmore, Badlands and accommodation in Custer State Park were actually already fully booked.

If you want one of these accommodations, which I think really will enhance your experience then I would recommend that you start planning a trip to South Dakota about a year out however we are proof that you can plan last minute road trip to South Dakota. 

Should you buy an America the Beautiful Pass for this trip?

America the Beautiful Pass is an 80USD pass that grants you access to all the National Parks and some national monuments. However it does not grant access to the State Parks such as Custer. 

In this guide we recommend visiting Badlands (20USD Admission), Devils Tower (25 USD), Mount Rushmore (free)  and Wind Cave (free admission but tour is an additional fee). Custer State Park is outside of the America the Beautiful remit. 

Therefore if these are the only parks you plan to do in the year, it will not be a cost saving. However if you plan to visit more national parks and national monuments then the America the Beautiful Pass may be worth it for you. 

How far is Badlands National Park to Mount Rushmore – can you do it in a one day?

If you only have one day in South Dakota then it is possible to do Badlands and Mount Rushmore in the same day.

The time between Badlands National Park to Mount Rushmore is  about an hour and a half depending on traffic and which Badlands entrance you are at.

If you want to travel from Wall south Dakota to Mount Rushmore the driving time is around 1 hour 20 minutes. 

If possible however I would visit the Badlands and Wall on a different day to Rushmore to maximise time in your itinerary. 

Have you done a South Dakota Road Trip? What would you add to this itinerary? 

Saturday 15th of June 2019

Iron Mountain Road outside of Keystone is a must do. With the pigtail bridges, spectacular overlooks, and tunnels framing Mt. Rushmore I would put it on par with needles highway.

Angharad Paull

Monday 20th of May 2019

I've been to the Badlands - but a long time ago, I remember loving the name! This looks fab, what a great itinerary and I didnt know where Mount Rushmore was either! #fearlessfamtrav

Catherine’s Cultural Wednesdays

Sunday 19th of May 2019

South Dakota is now on my list, ashamed to admit that if asked I would not have been able to tell you where Mount Rushmore was before! #FearlessFamilyTravel

MomOfTwoLittleGirls

Saturday 18th of May 2019

That looks like an awesome family trip. It's definitely one I'm pinning for our future US trip. To see running bison is a must!! #fearlessfamtrav

Nicky@Go Live Young

Friday 17th of May 2019

What a fantastic destination for a family road trip. The scenery looks amazing. The US is somewhere we need to explore a lot more of #fearlessfamtrav

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A 4-Day Road Trip Through South Dakota’s Parks, Filled With Wildlife and Monuments

By Danielle Braff

card driving next to mountains

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The pandemic has inspired newfound interest in the U.S.'s wide open spaces—and South Dakota, one of the least sparsely populated states, is full of them. But there’s more to the Mount Rushmore State than square footage and the state's most infamous monument (though that nickname might lead you to believe otherwise). 

In addition to South Dakota's six national parks and the rolling plains, striking rock formations, and Indigenous history that fill them, an influx of buzzy restaurants and hotels have cropped up, making now an exciting time to visit. And when you are ready to get outside, you'll find a number of ways to enjoy the landscape—from ancient hot springs and upscale tented camps to butte-surrounded hikes that'll get your blood pumping.  

Consider this four-day South Dakota road trip, which shoots east to west from Sioux Falls to Hot Springs, the perfect introduction to the state. 

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Spring, summer, and fall are the best seasons to visit South Dakota—this route sees plenty of snow come winter, making it more difficult from December through February.

Start in Sioux Falls, South Dakota’s largest, most walkable city. Named after the Sioux Tribe of American Indians and the Big Sioux River’s waterfalls, the city has seen a slew of new restaurants, hotels, and developments. Start your day at Falls Park, where you’ll get to walk past the falls and over climbable rock formations on a series of walking trails (pop up to the observation tower for a bird's eye view). Once you've worked up an appetite, beeline to Watecha Bowl , a food truck-turned-restaurant serving traditional Lakota cuisine . The menu focuses on ingredients that were available in South Dakota when Native communities relied on hunting and fishing—make sure to try the fry bread tacos stuffed with buffalo, vegetables, and gravy made of seasonal berries.

lobby of Hotel On Phillips

The Hotel on Phillips in Sioux Falls is located in a former bank.

Spend your afternoon strolling through the SculptureWalk in downtown Sioux Falls, where the art on display rotates annually, highlighting professional and amateur artists (and if you spot something you like, note that all pieces go on sale after their turn on the SculptureWalk).

Grab pre-dinner cocktails at Highball , a swanky new cocktail lounge downtown in the new Railyard Flats building, and don't miss the Blueberry Lavender Lemon Drop. 

Spend the night just around the corner at Hotel on Phillips , which first opened in 1917 in the former the Sioux Falls National Bank and relaunched with a major upgrade in 2019 . The hotel kept the bank’s original chandeliers and its vault door, which serves as the entrance to the lobby lounge.

Just a few steps from the Hotel on Phillips is locally roasted coffee at The Breaks Coffee Roasting Co ., which transformed from a skateboard shop to a sleek warehouse-style cafe in the midst of the pandemic. Grab a cup—and maybe a few bags of their fragrant beans—then hit the road.

Then, you’re off to the Badlands. The national park is quintessential South Dakota, with otherworldly rock formations, swaying prairie grass, and steep canyons for exploring. The drive is 300 miles from Sioux City (allow four hours), heading west on I-90 until Highway 240, where you’ll reach the Badlands Loop Road. Thankfully, there are plenty of stops to make along the way, including, yes, the ridiculously tacky Corn Palace , which even boasts murals made of corn, and the more educational Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village archaeological site, which is open to visitors and offers regular tours.

exterior of guest tent with blue sky and green trees

Under Canvas Mount Rushmore

interior of guest tent. bed. wood. pillows.

The interior of a Under Canvas tent

The Badlands—named as such because the Lakota, who lived and hunted here for 11,000 years but now largely lives on the Pine Ridge Reservation—called it “Mako Sica,” which translates to “bad lands” due to its difficult terrain for traveling. The area has also been described as such thanks to its extreme weather: The rocks are slippery when it rains, it’s freezing in the winter, and temperatures are sweltering in the summer. But the landscapes you'll bear witness to in the Badlands National Park are well worth a visit. There are plenty of marked trails—try the Notch or the Exhibit Trails if you want relatively easy paths near the parking lot—or carve your own path anywhere off SD-240, as much of the park is open for free hiking and even backcountry camping. 

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When you've had your fill, drive 1.5 hours to the Black Hills, where you’ll be sleeping tonight. Under Canvas , a luxury glamping site on an original gold mining settlement just four miles from Mount Rushmore, is the spot to bed down. Don't worry about scrounging up dinner: Under Canvas offers locally inspired dishes like pan-roasted trout and grass-fed burgers, with nightly s’mores.

For many travelers, a road trip through South Dakota is about pulling over for Mount Rushmore. But the towering monument to past presidents, built on sacred, stolen Native American land by a man with ties to the Ku Klux Klan, has made some travelers reconsider a visit in recent years. For an Indigenous perspective on the site, check the schedule for the two days a week when Darrell Red Cloud, a former ranger and member of the Oglala-Lakota Nation, guides talks in the Lakota, Nakota, and Dakota Heritage Village. (Though some guides suggest the Crazy Horse Memorial, which depicts the Oglala-Lakota warrior, as an intentional alternative, there's more to the story there, too.)

Buffalo Roundup Custer State Park

The annual buffalo roundup in Custer State Park

Your next stop is Custer State Park. Yet another spot with room for institutional improvement—there's currently a petition to change the name—you won't want to miss the wildlife here. Drive the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road, and be prepared for animal crossings: a whopping 1,400 free-roaming bison call the park home, though you might also spot prairie dogs, coyotes, bighorn sheep, and elk along the way. The animals are most active in the morning, so try to get here before 10 a.m. for the drive. In warmer weather, bring a bathing suit and make a stop at Sylvan Lake, smack between the park's rock formations, where you'll find a swimming beach with paddle boats, kayaks, and paddle boards for rent. 

Come lunchtime, grab a buffalo burger at Black Hills Burger and Bun Co. in Custer. There's always a line, but it moves quickly—and trust us, this burger is worth it. The buns are baked fresh daily, and the meat for the patties is freshly ground each morning (vegetarians won't be disappointed by the salads, either). Pro tip: If you don’t want to wait, place an online order as you're leaving Custer—the 30-minute drive lines up perfectly with the half-hour wait for pickups. 

Your final stop is at the renovated Moccasin Springs , a natural mineral spa in Hot Springs—once known as Minnekahta, meaning “warm waters," which is 30 miles south on SD-79S. Dip into the four outdoor hot spring pools here, or schedule a spa treatment, and rest your muscles after a few long days of hiking and driving. 

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South Dakota Road Trip – 3 Day Itinerary

By: Author Hannah Lukaszewicz

Posted on Last updated: 11 June, 2021

South Dakota Road Trip – 3 Day Itinerary

When most tourists visit South Dakota they drive through with a quick stop at Mount Rushmore, but what they don’t realize is that there are so many more things to do in South Dakota. Don’t get us wrong, Mount Rushmore is amazing but honestly even cooler things than the big faces here in South Dakota.

How Many Days to Spend on a Road Trip in South Dakota?

Where to stay on a south dakota road trip.

  • 1.5 hours to Spearfish via Blackhills National Forest 385 goes through Deadwood 1 hour via 1-90 goes through Sturgis
  • 40 minutes Mount Rushmore
  • 1 hour Custer State Park
  • 1 hour Badlands National Park

Related Article: Things to do in South Dakota

South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary

Two lane hwy road in badlands national park in south dakota with rock formation at the end of the road

Day 1 Rapid City to Spearfish

Ariel Photo of Spearfish canyon - a highlight of a south Dakota Road trip

Check Hotel Rates Expedia | Hotels.com | Orbitz  

Day 2 Mount Rushmore

  • Cars, Motorcycles, and RVs – $11 per vehicle
  • Evening lighting ceremony of Mount Rushmore May 26, 2017 – Oct 1, 2017
  • $28.00 Per car – more than 2 people
  • $22.00 = 2 people in car
  • $11.00 = Per person
  • $5.00 = Per person on motorcycles, or bicycles

Custer State park in south dakota - road trip itinerary

T he Alpine Inn only serves two things for dinner, filet mignon or a Spaetzle Primavera. We opted for the 9-ounce bacon-wrapped filet for $13.95 and we weren’t disappointed. This place is a steal, for less than $50 we each got a 9-ounce steak dinner, dessert, two beers, and a glass of wine.

If you visit during the summer expect there to be a line before dinner service even starts. Their lunch menu is much larger. Click here for Trip Advisor reviews.

sunrise at badlands national park from the window trail

Day 3 Badlands National Park

Wake up early and head back to Custer National Park for sunrise and a morning hike before continuing on your South Dakota road trip. The Badlands National Park is 1.5 hours from Custer State Park, it’s an easy drive down I-90.

Woman ride large jackalope in the backyard of Wall Drug in Wall South Dakota - A must on any road trip

On your way to the park make sure to stop at Wall Drug in Wall South Dakota. You will see sign after sign along I-90. It’s a great place to stop and have lunch before heading into the park. We suggest staying at a hotel in Wall  it’s only a 10-minute drive to the entrance of the park and it has good options.

We suggest trying to arrive around lunch so you have most of the day to drive through the park and find the perfect spot for sunset. If you plan on waking up for sunrise the next day also scope out where to watch the sunrise, we suggest Window Trail on the east end of Badlands National Park.

woman sitting on a ledge during sunset in badlands national park on a south dakota road trip

Make sure to build time into your South Dakota road trip itinerary to watch the sunset in Badlands N.P.

The Badlands look out of this world. The park is 244,000 acres and is said to contain one of the world’s richest fossil beds. Apparently, even rhinos once roamed in South Dakota. Now you will find bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs.

For us the Badlands National Park perfectly summarizes this part of South Dakota, it’s amazing and nothing like what you expect. Before traveling to the Badlands and South Dakota we would have thought this park existed somewhere in the southwest of the country, not in South Dakota. The Badlands and our entire road trip in South Dakota surprised us in a very good way.

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Have you gone on a South Dakota road trip? What would you add to our route?

While Mt. Rushmore is what brings most people to South Dakota there is so much more to this beautiful part of the country. For more on South Dakota check out our Things to do near Mt. Rushmore Article .

This post was sponsored by Travel South Dakota . Thanks to Travel South Dakota for inviting to explore your amazing state. As always all of our opinions are our own. 

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Black Hills Road Trip Itinerary: South Dakota Here You Come

Badlands and Black Hills Road Trip – 7 Day Itinerary If you are looking for a classic All-American vacation, you are heading to the right place. A Black Hills road trip in South Dakota encompasses everything a trip should be: endless opportunities for scenic drives, unforgettable scenery, must-experience historic sites, and exhilarating outdoor adventures. Pick your favorite travel companion and get planning!

How Many Days to Spend in South Dakota

Whether you are planning to stop in South Dakota on a cross-country road trip (click here to see our full itinerary) like we did or it is the main destination, you will only be disappointed if you do not plan enough days.

This seven-day, fun-filled itinerary will help you create a memorable trip that you will be talking about for years to come.

A fun-filled seven day Black Hills road trip itinerary that will take you through unforgettable scenery and exhilarating outdoor adventures in South Dakota.

How to Get to the Black Hills

The Black Hills of South Dakota is in the southwest region of the state. Flying is the quickest form of transportation to the area. Flights are anywhere between one to four hours from many major U.S. cities. Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) is the closest airport. It houses Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Connection, Frontier, Northwest, and United. Rental cars are then available to get you around on your trip.

The Black Hills also provides a PERFECT opportunity to hop in your vehicle to see what you can find on the road. We drove the 850-miles or so from Chicago on a mega road starting with Badlands National Park.

READ NEXT: OUR TOP PICKS FOR A MIDWEST SPRING BREAK TRIP

If you are interested in renting an RV from your home state, check out RVShare, one of the largest RV rental marketplaces.

Where to Stay

Take your pick of lodging choices in the area, anywhere from romantic B&B’s to basic tent sites. There are options for any type of traveler. I would recommend one location for the first six days. Near Mount Rushmore, in Custer State Park or Rapid City and one overnight near Badlands National Park. We camped in Custer State Park and loved the location for a base.

Lodging Options near Mount Rushmore

  • Cabin with Black Hills Views ($$)
  • Holy Smoke Resort ($$)
  • K Bar S Lodge ($)
  • Powder House Lodge ($)

Lodging Options near Custer State Park

  • Rocket Motel ($$)
  • Custer State Park Lodges ($$)
  • Bavarian Inn ($)
  • Custer State Park Campgrounds ($)

Lodging Options near Rapid City

  • Emerald Hills Bed & Breakfast ($$)
  • Comfort Inn & Suites ($$)
  • Grand Gateway Hotel ($)
  • Country Inn & Suites ($)

Lodging near Badlands National Park

  • Travelodge Wall ($)
  • America’s Best Value Inn – Wall ($)
  • America’s Best Value Inn – Kadoka ($)
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, if you book through our link we will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting the blog.

A fun-filled seven day Black Hills road trip itinerary that will take you through unforgettable scenery and exhilarating outdoor adventures in South Dakota.la

Here’s your South Dakota road trip planner:

how long to visit south dakota

Begin the day exploring the largest state park in South Dakota, Custer State Park . If you need convincing to start here read our post about 10 Reasons to Visit Custer State Park .

Start with an early morning drive on the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road . Begin at the Visitor Center on the east side of the park. Pick up maps, use the restroom and fill up water bottles. It should take about an hour to drive through slowly and take pictures.

Be on the lookout for bison, elk, burros, prairie dogs, eagles, hawks, deer and coyotes. If you like to check out lodges like us, stop at the Blue Bell Lodge for breakfast (or just a coffee if you’ve already eaten) toward the end of the loop. The log cabin has a cozy indoor dining room or a patio overlooking the French Creek.

After your break, head north on SD Highway 87 to the Mount Coolidge Fire Tower . Drive up a 1.2-mile gravel road to the summit where you can soak up views of the Black Hills. You’ll be 6,023 feet above the forest.

On a clear day, you can see the major sites in the area including Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse and the Needles.

DETAILS: 1 – 7 day admission is available at Custer State Park per car. Only people traveling non-stop on US Highway 16A are exempt.

*TIP: Oversized vehicles & campers are not allowed on the road up to the fire tower.*

Take in a breather at Legion Lake for a picnic and/or Legion Lodge for lunch.

Then start the afternoon with an awesome ride on Iron Mountain Road , a winding two-lane road with stunning scenery to Mount Rushmore National Memorial .

Not only does Highway 16A have tree-lined roads and pigtail bridges, but the 18-mile drive also has three tunnels with framed views of the iconic Mount Rushmore to get you excited about your visit.

*TIP: Be prepared if you have any travelers that are prone to car sickness

Thus arrive at one of the most recognizable monuments in the world, Mount Rushmore National Memorial . The massive heads of Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln welcome you to South Dakota.

First, watch the short orientation film then walk the Presidential Trail for better views. Plan to spend about two hours here and don’t forget to try Thomas Jefferson’s original ice cream recipe.

DETAILS: Admission to the park is free but there is a charge for parking.

Take a drive to Keystone for dinner and choose the Old Western-style Ruby House Restaurant , get local wild game at the Powder House Restaurant or if you are traveling with children check out the Chuck Wagon Dinner Show .

CHECK OUT OUR BEST FREE APPS FOR A U.S. ROAD TRIP

how long to visit south dakota

Today is the day to get out in nature. Hike to not only the highest peak in South Dakota but east of the Rockies too, Black Elk Peak which was formerly known as Harney Peak.

Take Trail #9 near Sylvan Lake which is forested most of the way but opens to a few expansive views of the rock spires and Black Hills. It is 3.3 miles one way and is considered moderate difficulty. There are gradual inclines and some flat surfaces in the beginning that led us to steep inclines and stairs close to the tower.

Once you reach the 7,242-foot peak topped by a stone fire tower, you are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Black Hills National Forest. Without delay, take a break to have lunch at the top and to enjoy the scenery. The fire lookout, dam and pumphouse were built in 1939 and are listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Making the trail a loop, connect to Trail #3 then to #4 (it is well-marked) on the way down with a detour to Little Devil’s Tower . It is a 3-mile strenuous scramble that climbs 600 feet to spectacular views of Cathedral Spires and South Dakota’s highest peak. It was one of my favorite spots of the trip.

It’s been a long day. If you feel like getting off your feet and taking a ride, hop back in the car. Hill City is about 35 minutes north of the trailhead. It is the second oldest town in the Black Hills and is lined with restaurants, art galleries, shops, wineries and breweries.

It is also home to the 1880 Train, a steam locomotive that takes visitors on a scenic round-trip ride to the town of Keystone.

DETAILS: Don’t forget to pack a lunch and bring your Custer State Park pass.

This is fun-filled seven day Black Hills road trip itinerary will take you through unforgettable scenery and exhilarating outdoor adventures.in South Dakota.

Wind Cave National Park , the first cave to be designated as a national park in the world, is the first stop on your agenda. It is known for its unusual boxwork formations, mineral cave formations that resemble honeycomb patterns.

Take your pick from three regular walking tours: Garden of Eden (easy), Natural Entrance (moderate), and Fairgrounds (strenuous). For the most popular tour, join the Natural Entrance Tour, walking in the main entrance discovered long ago and lasting a little over an hour.

DETAILS: Go early and plan to wait if visiting during summer hours.

After the cave, let’s go back to the Ice Age at The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs . It is home to the largest concentration of mammoth remains in the world with currently sixty-one: 58 Columbian and 3 woolly mammoths. Enclosed is a prehistoric sinkhole that is still being excavated today.

Depending on the weather, you can stop at Evans Plunge , the world’s largest natural warm water indoor swimming pool. Natural spring-fed waters maintain an average pool temperature of 87 degrees Fahrenheit so certainly not something you want to do on a hot summer day. But with waterslides, a sauna and steam room it would make for a relaxing end of day activity.

how long to visit south dakota

Start the morning with a wonderful drive along Highway 87, otherwise known as Needles Highway ; it is 14 miles of hairpin turns, impressive rock creations, and one-lane tunnels. Immediately the drive will have you in awe of the natural beauty surrounding the area.

Along the drive, stop off to hike Cathedral Spires , a 3-mile moderate out and back. Shortly after the Needles Highway Scenic Overlook (you can find both on Google Maps), you’ll come to the trailhead. Do not let the “moderate” description frighten you, if you’re not an avid hiker. It’s achievable for most people and is a beautiful hike. It starts out easy taking you through open flatlands of a pine forest dotted with mammoth granite spires then gains some elevation towards the end. Take in the views of the hills at the end and don’t forget to look for mountain goats!

After the hike stop at Sylvan Lake Lodge to check out what the park considers its crown jewel. Picnic on the grounds or have lunch at the restaurant.

This afternoon visit the future world’s largest mountain carving at Crazy Horse Memorial . Begin your visit at the Orientation Center. The short film, “Dynamite and Dreams,” will help you gain an introduction to the memorial and its history. It’s entertaining and informative and will give you a better understanding of the sculpture.

Then walk through the Indian Museum of North American and Native American Cultural Center to learn about the American Indian heritage before heading out to the observation deck for views of the massive monument. For an additional fee, you can take a bus to the bottom of the monument for better views.

Don’t forget to stop at the information desk to get a return ticket for the “Legends in Light” laser light show they perform in the evening from the end of May to the end of September.

how long to visit south dakota

Drive through an outstanding landscape with soaring limestone bluffs, a glistening creek, wildflowers and three flowing waterfalls on Spearfish Canyon National Byway . The 20-mile byway is north of Custer State Park along Highway 14A and is an incredible road. Several scenes from the movie, “Dances With Wolves” were filmed in the canyon.

Coming from the south, pull over at Roughlock Falls, Spearfish Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. Gushing waters greet you after a short trek along boardwalks. If you are feeling really adventurous and you like swimming holes, look for Devil’s Bathtub , a favorite with the locals.

The town of Spearfish has many restaurants to choose from: Steerfish Steak and Smoke or Philly Ted’s are popular. If you enjoy breweries, Crow Peak Brewery was named the best in all of South Dakota by Thrillist.

Or you could wait until you head around to historic Deadwood, a throwback to the Wild West. Follow the footsteps of legendary characters like Wild Bill Hickock and Calamity Jane, gamble in one of the many casinos, stroll down Main Street, stop in the charming Celebrity Hotel, hit a gold mine, or learn a few things about the history of the Black Hills at the Adams Museum.

how long to visit south dakota

Start your day with a tour of the third-longest cave in the world at Jewel Cave National Monument . Arrive at least 30 minutes before opening as tours book up early. The Scenic Tour is one hour and twenty minutes bringing you 380 feet below the visitor center. Get the nitty-gritty on the history and current research of the cave tunnels, where the jewels are, and the full stalagmites – stalactite circuit. There are various other tours including a shorter Discovery Tour, strenuous Historic Lantern Tour and a Special Wild Caving Tour.

DETAILS: Annual National Park Pass does not include any tour. Discounts available for youth 6 -16 and children under the age of 5 are free.

Take a break at Baker’s Bakery Café in downtown Custer for breakfast/lunch. Not only is the food good – homemade bread and big portions – but they have pastries to die for. The cookies are the size of my head and the caramel rolls are mouth-watering.

Take the afternoon to get back to Custer State Park for a short hike like Badger Clark Historic Trail or for a water activity on one of their many pristine lakes.

how long to visit south dakota

Spend the day exploring the 244,000 acres of other-worldly landscape at Badlands National Park and the fun roadside attractions in the area. Do not miss the 31-mile scenic Badlands Loop Road taking advantage of every pull-off and overlook. Get on your feet and take our favorite hike in the park: Notch Trail. Also don’t miss the Window and Door Trails.

If you have time get off the beaten path on Sage Creek Rim Road to look for buffalo and bighorn sheep. Make sure to check with a ranger on road conditions before taking the drive.

Just northwest of Badlands National Park on I-90 is Wall Drug , a kitschy family-owned drug store opened since 1931. Roadside attractions are synonymous with American road trips so make sure to visit and experience this world-famous wacky place.

RELATED: Top 6 Things to Do in Badlands National Park

What would you add to our Black Hills Road Trip?

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A fun-filled seven day Black Hills road trip itinerary that will take you through unforgettable scenery and exhilarating outdoor adventures in South Dakota.

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The top things to do on a Black Hills, South Dakota vacation from scenic drives, animal encounters, hikes, and the must-see attractions. #southdakota #travel

  • About Author
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Angela E. is a travel writer from the Chicagoland area who has visited all 50 states in the US and has traveled extensively around the world. She is passionate about exploring the great outdoors and hiking in particular. Her love for nature has taken her to some of the most beautiful locations on the planet. She has written extensively about her travels on her own website, Dang Travelers, and has been published in collaboration with other travel websites and multiple visitor bureaus around the country.

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13 Responses

Vedante | the lavish nomad.

Thanks for creating such a detailed itinerary with so many tips and the maps definitely come in handy. Also, I’m sure the lodging options are going to be of so much help to people who are actually planning to take a similar trip. As for me, I am nowhere close to the US at the moment but when I get there, I will probably do a similar road trip in South Dakota 🙂

Dang Travelers

You are welcome! Definitely add South Dakota to your list when you make it over.

knycx.journeying

Thanks for sharing the maps and it’s a detailed itineraries for traveling in South Dakota! I think the Mount Rushmore is defiintely the highlight of the entire trip but I had no idea that there are so many places to explore in the area, including hills, national park, scenic drive, cathedral, and monuments~ I will make it down in case I am visiting the state in the future 🙂 @ knycx.journeying

Yep, there’s tons to do in the Black Hills!

aimee horgan

I love how detailed this post is, it goes through absolutely everything you need to know for a road-trip to South Dakota – I love the detail in the maps too. I haven’t been to this part of the U.S yet but I especially like Badlands National Park, all those rolling green hills remind me a little of New Zealand.

Thanks Aimee! Hopefully you get a chance to visit soon!

Sounds like a pretty epic trip. I would love to see this. Getting a camper sounds like a fun idea too. I would really like to visit and this is really detailed. Mount Rushmore is also on my list so its good to see options of where to stay.

Epic indeed. The Black Hills was surprisingly beautiful.

Tamara Wilcox

Sure enjoyed your detailed journey through Black Hills! I love how you added short hikes, stops for refreshment, and even the idea of checking out kitschy places like Wall Drug. Great idea to add ideas for lodging for all budgets. Great photos, by the way. This is a road trip my husband and I would love to make. Maybe even this fall!

Sounds like a plan

Thank you for this amazing Itinerary! We are heading there next week! We are in a 28′ RV. Other than renting a car to drive the Needles Hwy, are there any other roads we should be concerned by? Thanks!

Oh yay! That’ll be an amazing trip!! Iron Mountain Road was a bit windy and narrow with tunnels so that one might be an issue as well, but that’s all I can think of.

Kendall Cavender

This was super helpful for planning our trip – thank you for the detailed itinerary!

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How To Plan A Western South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary

plan a trip to south dakota,south dakota road trip

Over the past couple years of travel restrictions, I have finally done a better job of exploring my own country…the United States has such a wealth of amazing natural beauty, interesting culture, and cool cities that it’s insane not to.  And a South Dakota road trip was high on the list for me, because it’s where my dad grew up.

Tips for Planning a South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary | What to do in South Dakota, where to stay, things to do in Rapid City, how to visit Badlands National Park, and much more. How to plan a South Dakota trip, staying in Western South Dakota & visiting Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Spearfish Canyon, & some under-the-radar gems. Also tips for rental car insurance based on my experience. #southdakota #roadtrip #badlands #rapidcity #mtrushmore #custerstatepark

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We managed to get a family reunion of sorts put together, and spent 4-5 days revisiting some of their old stomping grounds and seeing some of the national and state parks in the area.

It’s an area that sometimes gets overlooked by people in favor of places like Zion or Yosemite, and that’s a shame.  It’s a perfect spot to spend a few days (or longer, if you prefer) exploring, as many of the parks and sights are clustered together, making for a compact and efficient itinerary.

And while I’ve done deeper posts (linked below), I wanted to pull together everything from our trip and the research I did ahead of time to help others plan a trip to South Dakota for themselves!

South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary - check out Art Alley in Rapid City - how to plan a South Dakota trip

Here are detailed posts to help plan your South Dakota road trip:

A First-Timer’s Guide To Rapid City, South Dakota

A Roadtrip Through South Dakota’s Badlands National Park

The One-Two Punch of South Dakota’s Mount Rushmore & Custer State Park

Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway: Under-The-Radar South Dakota

Tips to plan a trip to South Dakota (including transportation)

If you’re not driving from your original destination, you’ll want to fly into Rapid City (or Sioux Falls is an option if you’re wanting to see the whole state).

You definitely need a car for this itinerary (it is a South Dakota *road trip* after all), to explore more than just downtown Rapid City itself.  Renting cars in the U.S. is usually very easy and quite affordable.  Make sure to get unlimited mileage.

For renting a car, I always search in a few different places and compare both the prices and specific offerings/benefits.  My go-to’s are  DiscoverCars and  RentalCars.com as well.

The biggest thing to think about is what type of rental car insurance you need.  I always use the rental car insurance included with my Chase Sapphire Preferred card, and I’ve always had excellent experiences with it when something goes wrong, and it saves me a ton of money.

The biggest thing is to make sure that your rental car insurance explicitly covers glass and tire…hail storms are very common here, and in fact we got hit with a really bad one on my first day in South Dakota.  It cracked my windshield, but the rental car insurance through Chase ended up taking care of everything (it was a little nerve-wracking though).

Tips for Planning a South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary | What to do in South Dakota, where to stay, things to do in Rapid City, how to visit Badlands National Park, and much more. How to plan a South Dakota trip, staying in Western South Dakota & visiting Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Spearfish Canyon, & some under-the-radar gems. Also tips for rental car insurance based on my experience. #southdakota #roadtrip #badlands #rapidcity #mtrushmore #custerstatepark

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How to structure your western South Dakota road trip 

I’ve plotted everything mentioned in this post on this map (which you can view live here ).  Pink markers are things to do or see, green is places to eat, and blue are places I didn’t have a chance to try but were on my list or you might like.

Generally speaking, everything is pretty close and so you can accomplish a lot in any given day.  For instance, in just one day you could hit up Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Needles Highway, and a few fun little towns and local breweries or wineries.

But don’t underestimate the extra time needed for the more scenic drives (like Needles Highway or Spearfish Canyon).  And I wouldn’t cram each day too full unless you have to, because half of the fun is just stopping wherever catches your fancy to explore.

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Use Rapid City as a base

Rapid is one of those cool little American cities that’s seeing a revitalization.  It might not be a destination all on its own, but its location at the center of Badlands, the Black Hills, and Custer make it the perfect base for a western South Dakota road trip.

There are a number of cute indie shops, artists’ collectives, craft breweries, local eateries, and more.  I didn’t get to explore quite as much as I would have if I’d been on my own, but still managed to try a handful of coffee shops and diners.

See more about my time in Rapid City here!

South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary - downtown Rapid City is super cute - how to plan a South Dakota trip

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Find your favorite president immortalized in a bronze statue, as many of them are sprinkled throughout the downtown area.  They say they’re life-size, but if so I’m a giant!

Then take a stroll through Art Alley , which has cool street art in many different styles.  Make sure to have breakfast or lunch at Tally’s Silver Spoon , a really great diner that’s a local institution.

And one thing that’s quite nostalgic for me is to visit Sioux Pottery , where you can purchase unique and beautiful pottery made by the Sioux people.  I remember my parents always bringing home a new mug or vase each time we came to Rapid City when I was a kid.  Sadly I think they may have closed recently, but do seek out the pottery elsewhere!

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Where to stay in Rapid City

I stayed at The Rushmore Hotel & Suites in downtown.  It was fine, clean enough and I got upgraded to a nicer room.  Great location.  Overall I’d stay here again if needed, as the pickings were pretty slim.

If you’re staying with friends, a rental house is a great way to go though…there are so many beautiful houses out in the hills that are perfect for experiencing this beautiful area.

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Explore Badlands National Park

There’s really only one main road that weaves throughout the 244,000 acres of Badlands National Park, making it really hard to get lost.  There are frequent pullouts and parking areas along the road, with scenic viewpoints and occasionally paths for short hikes.  You’ll have to pay a fee to enter, unless you have the America the Beautiful national park pass.

The park boasts an otherworldly landscape, has some of the world’s richest fossil beds, and also has beautiful mixed-grass prairies, wildflowers, and lots of wildlife.  Similar to Custer State Park, you might see everything from bison to bighorn sheep to prairie dogs (and also snakes, so be alert!).

Read an in-depth account of our Badlands visit here!

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The one part of the park that we didn’t have time for is the optional offshoot Sage Creek Rim Road, a dirt road that is (supposedly) in pretty good shape and tends to have a lot of wildlife.

A historical detail that I loved is that the name “Badlands” came from the local Oglala Lakota people, who called the rocky, harsh landscape mako sica , or “land bad”.  When the French arrived, they agreed, calling it “ les mauvaises terres a traverser” , or “bad lands to traverse”.  Which is…kind of a mouthful, but I can’t say I disagree when thinking about trying to navigate it on horseback or a covered wagon!

Tips for Planning a South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary | What to do in South Dakota, where to stay, things to do in Rapid City, how to visit Badlands National Park, and much more. How to plan a South Dakota trip, staying in Western South Dakota & visiting Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Spearfish Canyon, & some under-the-radar gems. Also tips for rental car insurance based on my experience. #southdakota #roadtrip #badlands #rapidcity #mtrushmore #custerstatepark

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There are two tourist sights near Badlands as well, if you’ve so inclined.  You can visit the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site (from the Cold War), or stop at the iconic Wall Drug .  We did a quick stop at Wall Drug on our way back to Rapid City and it was…I mean, it was touristy.

The pie, donut, and hot dog were adequate, though.  Could be worth a quick stop just for the kitsch and to say you did.

South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary - Wall Drug is super touristy but worth a super quick stop - how to plan a South Dakota trip

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Mount Rushmore

One of those weird icons of America (with a strong mid-century nostalgia), the Mount Rushmore memorial was begun in the late 1920s, but not finished until 1941.  There are a number of different angles from which you can stare at the heads of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt.

I’m not that into manmade monuments as much and had seen it a few times as a little kid, so for me this wasn’t a big draw.  But it’s pretty easy to hit and you only need to spend like 15-30 minutes there.  Because it’s a national memorial, it’s free to visit, but parking (privately operated) is $10.

See more from our Rushmore day trip!

Should Mount Rushmore be on your South Dakota road trip itinerary?

Check out Miner Brewing Company in nearby Hill City, or you can go on to the  Crazy Horse Memorial from here as well.

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Hippie Hole

This one is definitely more of an “under the radar” option, and I wouldn’t tell you it’s an absolute must-do.  But if you’re looking for something that feels kind of local and chill, this could be a great thing to do.

It’s a hike to swimming hole, and according to my family that made it there, it was really cool.  I didn’t make it, because the hike required walking through dense poison ivy (at least when we were there) and that is a HARD NO for me.  I am crazy allergic.

They had a blast swimming and jumping off the rocks, and said the hike was pretty too.  One thing to note, a 4WD vehicle is strongly recommended here, most cars can’t make it.

I’ve got a lot of important details on visiting Hippie Hole here!

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Iron Mountain Highway & local breweries/wineries

After extricating ourselves from the challenging dirt road to Hippie Hole, my mom and I set out on our own for a bit, first driving the Iron Highway.

I’m fairly certain we did it right, though it’s possible we missed a turn somewhere?  This arch was cool and I stopped for a quick pic, but otherwise it wasn’t something I’d go out of my way for.

South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary - Iron Mountain highiway...worth it?

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Along the way we ended up swinging into Prairie Berry Winery and Bistro along this part of the drive to try a flight of their local wines and a snack.  If we’d had more time, we would have headed next door to Sick-n-Twisted Brewery and Naughti Winery , and there are several others nearby.

I mentioned Miner Brewing Company earlier (also basically right next door), and I had several more local breweries and wineries on my list.  I couldn’t get to them all, but I’m happy we got to experience at least one of these.  You could make a fun afternoon just visiting all these clustered together.

South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary - try out the local wineries & breweries

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Custer State Park

Part of the reason we could just linger at the local wineries and breweries was that I REALLY wanted to see some of Custer State Park , which is a must on any South Dakota road trip.

Custer is South Dakota’s oldest state park, with many different scenic drives, hikes, fishing, and an abundance of wildlife (including over 1,500 free-roaming bison).

It costs $20 per car to enter, though we never ended up hitting a guard stand.  The way that we came in, we hit Sylvan Lake first and stopped for a walk around (though it was absolutely packed and parking was madness, so we didn’t stay long).  It’s a manmade lake and full of locals doing some watersports, kids playing, that kind of thing.

See more of our quick trip through Custer State Park!

Visiting Custer State Park - How to plan a South Dakota trip, South Dakota road trip tips

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We wanted to do Wildlife Loop Road , which sounds awesome, but it was late in the day at this point and we just couldn’t swing it.  You have a good chance of seeing bison, and you might see burros, elk, or bighorn sheep, but you should allow at least 45 minutes for this drive,

Instead, we turned toward the famous Needles Highway to take us back to the main highway.  It’s named for the cool granite peaks that come jutting out of the terrain (resembling needles), and is a MUST DO.  It covers 14 miles of narrow, winding mountainous roads, so you’ll need to go slow (it takes about an hour), but the views are great.

Plus you get to “thread the Eye of the Needle”…a.k.a. drive through three super short, narrow tunnels (as small as 8 feet, 4 inches wide by 9 feet, 10 inches tall!  It is disconcerting, to say the least.

South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary - Needles Highway is super cool - how to plan a South Dakota trip

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Exploring Spearfish Canyon

Spearfish Canyon flies a little more under-the-radar and doesn’t appear on most people’s South Dakota road trip plans, given everything else there is to do and see.  It’s even older than the Grand Canyon, though MUCH more narrow.  The 1000-foot-high limestone walls carved by the creek are only accessible by horseback but offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in the state—including a number of waterfalls.

Horseback wasn’t on the agenda for my family, so instead we spent an afternoon driving the beautiful 22-mile Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway.  It takes you through the canyon and provides plenty of amazing views.  The road twists and turns through the gorge, with the towering limestone cliffs on either side.

Plan on at least 2-3 hours for enjoying this (and more if you’re hiking, stopping to eat, etc.).

Read a more in-depth post of our Spearfish Canyon explorations!

South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary - Spearfish Canyon is an under the radar option - how to plan a South Dakota trip

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We didn’t have time for any real hiking, so looked for scenic stops along the way, and particularly waterfalls.  There are 3 waterfalls specifically that are easily accessed within a 5-minute walk (Bridal Veil Falls, Roughlock Falls, and Little Spearfish Falls).

For us, Bridal Veil was underwhelming (maybe because it was midsummer and there was less water).  We had trouble finding Little Spearfish Falls Trail and were running short on time at that point, so had to skip.  Our favorite was definitely Roughlock, and there you’ll find an easy, paved, but STEEP path down to the main falls viewing platform from the little parking lot.

A couple other things to note if you’re headed out this way…Deadwood and Sturgis are two other towns nearby that you’ll probably drive through anyway, if you have interest in exploring them.  Tis is also the direction you’d head to visit Devil’s Tower National Monument, just across the border in Wyoming.

Tips for Planning a South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary | What to do in South Dakota, where to stay, things to do in Rapid City, how to visit Badlands National Park, and much more. How to plan a South Dakota trip, staying in Western South Dakota & visiting Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Spearfish Canyon, & some under-the-radar gems. Also tips for rental car insurance based on my experience. #southdakota #roadtrip #badlands #rapidcity #mtrushmore #custerstatepark

So there you have a ton of options for your South Dakota road trip…whether you’re wanting to cram a lot into a long weekend, or spend a week luxuriating in the amazing scenery and Native American culture here.  Hopefully this helps  you plan a trip to South Dakota for yourself!

Other scenic road trip itineraries you’ll love:

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  • What To See On Iceland’s Golden Circle

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Tips for Planning a South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary | What to do in South Dakota, where to stay, things to do in Rapid City, how to visit Badlands National Park, and much more. How to plan a South Dakota trip, staying in Western South Dakota & visiting Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Spearfish Canyon, & some under-the-radar gems. Also tips for rental car insurance based on my experience. #southdakota #roadtrip #badlands #rapidcity #mtrushmore #custerstatepark

Comments (2)

how long to visit south dakota

Mary Walker

January 20, 2024 at 2:39 pm

My Partner, and friends are planning a trip in June. Staying in Rapid City, and want to see Cuaster State Park (I saw Bison wasy off in a distance in 2014) and I don’t want to miss seeing them. Mt Rushmore, Badlands, and Black hills, along with Deadwood and Spearfish. We are all in our early 70’s and in good health, but easy hiking for us.

how long to visit south dakota

January 20, 2024 at 11:00 pm

Hi Mary! I wish I had some good ideas for you but we didn’t do a ton of hiking. I would suggest asking the question with these details on the TripAdvisor forum for the Rapid City area and I’m sure you’ll get lots of recommendations that are also up-to-date based on more recent conditions. Safe travels!

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Ultimate 2024 South Dakota Road Trip Planner: Attractions + Itineraries

South Dakota Road Trip

Welcome to our ultimate South Dakota road trip planner!

Whether you are planning a Mt Rushmore road trip or Black Hills road trip, this is for you!

We created this planner to help you plan a trip to South Dakota and it contains all the essential information you need to plan your trip today including budget and costs, what to eat, where to stay, etc.

Love this itinerary? Get the eBook!

Make your trip planning easy with our in-depth South Dakota Road Trip eBook. Access itinerary recommendations, attraction information, and gorgeous photos on the go!

how long to visit south dakota

In this South Dakota travel planner, we show you how to drive to South Dakota and make the most of your time in the stunning landscapes and splendid isolation of our favorite Midwest US state.

Not many actually make this road trip due to its faraway location in South Dakota but those who do are rewarded by the stillness of the Badlands, the beauty of the Black Hills, and the magnificence of Mount Rushmore.

Also read: 35 Amazing & Incredible Things to do in South Dakota

Here you will find recommendations for a variety of South Dakota trip itineraries as well as get more information on South Dakota road trip must-see attractions including Mt. Rushmore, Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway, Badlands and surrounding area, Custer State Park, Deadwood, Spearfish Canyon, and Rapid City.

Our mission? To make sure you have a blast in South Dakota!

Mount Rushmore National Monument in Black Hills of South Dakota

“The road goes up hill and down, and it is rutted and dusty and stony but every turn of the wheels changes our view of the woods and the hills. The sky seems lower here, and it is the softest blue. The distances and the valleys are blue whenever you can see them. It is a drowsy country that makes you feel wide awake and alive but somehow contented.” ― Laura Ingalls Wilder

South Dakota is the ultimate road trip adventure. 

Driving through South Dakota involves Dusty unpaved roads through fascinating landscapes. Awe inspiring monuments and quirky roadside attractions. 

Wild West heroes and abandoned ghost towns. Gigantic underground caverns and stunning scenery. 

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Gold Rush legends and Cold War relics. Nuclear missiles, street art, and dinosaur fossils. 

Most who visit South Dakota are surprised by the sheer variety of iconic landmarks and attractions found here.

Our story is also similar.

A few years ago while planning our next trip we came across Mt Rushmore State.

After researching the best road trip stops in South Dakota, we were stunned by what we discovered.

Unofficially nicknamed the Flyover State, South Dakota was supposed to be not that touristy – and yet, everything that we laid our eyes on indicated that a South Dakota Road Trip was the best thing that could happen to us.

And so we began our South Dakota family vacation trip planning, and now almost half a decade later, Badlands and South Dakota remain one of our favorite travel destinations in the USA .

South Dakota Road Trip is an amazing experience

Why Visit South Dakota

South Dakota road trip means abundant wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and a feeling of utter isolation.

South Dakota vacation also means travel deep within the American heartlands and through small rural communities where life is hard but simple and the people are down-to-earth but friendly.

The Lakota flag flies strongly over South Dakota and the rich Native American heritage and culture are as tangible here as the wind among the prairies.

South Dakota was formerly called ‘the Sunshine State’.

We always feel that the name suits the state so much better than the current Sunshine State of Florida.

While the winter sun inspires crowded beaches and fun vibes in Florida, the summer draws out the rich wildlife in South Dakota.

And paints the spectacular landscape in vivid colors.

Some come here for the road trip to Mount Rushmore; others for a Badlands road trip. 

We invite you to take this epic road trip through South Dakota and discover your own reasons for falling in love with this amazing state.

Also Read: 5 Reasons Badlands is better than Grand Canyon (Plus 2 reasons it’s not!)

South Dakota has a rich cultural and natural history which is evident in many of its star attractions including Wind Cave National Monument, the iconic monument of Mt. Rushmore, Custer State Park, Badlands, Spearfish Canyon, and the Black Hills. 

South Dakota was purchased as part of the Louisiana Purchase of 1803.

Formerly an Indian land, the Lewis and Clark expedition explored the area and the first American settlers came here afterward. 

South Dakota was part of the Gold Rush of the 1800s and mining towns and local gold mines were established in the area.

Today the abandoned mines and villages act as tourist attractions of the American West. 

The discovery of gold in the Black Hills and the establishment of settlements led to the Black Hills Wars between the Lakota Indians and the American Government.

South Dakota’s Native American and Wild West history can be discovered in places such as Crazy Horse Memorial, the Battle of Wounded Knee, and Deadwood.

The state’s wildlife ranges from extinct dinosaurs and wooly mammoth fossils to giant herds of bison and pronghorn antelopes.

You can also see a variety of birds, critters, and even snakes in the state.

Because of the ample attractions, South Dakota vacations remain the ultimate summer family road trip adventure.

how long to visit south dakota

Where to start South Dakota road trip

The only way to see South Dakota is on a road trip.

The state has no public transport of any sort and the few airports are spread far apart and are too expensive to fly in. 

So, exactly how far is South Dakota? And how to get to South Dakota?

Most visitors fly into Rapid City or Sioux Falls and rent a car or RV their way across the state. 

Denver, being just 6 hrs away from Rapid City and western South Dakota, makes an excellent option if you have the extra time.

You can also go on an epic Chicago to South Dakota road trip or Minneapolis to Mt. Rushmore Road Trip if coming from the Midwest. 

South Dakota road trip stops are connected to each other via scenic byways which are a destination in themselves.

The wide-open expanse of the prairies and freeways that go straight for miles is sharply juxtaposed against the turns and twists of the Black Hills, narrow passages of Needles Highway, and breathtaking tunnels of Iron Mountain Road.

Vacation in South Dakota is made for relaxed and aimless driving.

This is one road trip that you will remember above all others and the many attractions of South Dakota will call you back year after year.

When to go on a South Dakota Road Trip

Another unofficial nickname for South Dakota is ‘the Blizzard State’.

If that isn’t self-explanatory; the winter weather in the state is too severe to consider any kind of vacations in South Dakota.

Spring and fall can also be accompanied by sudden temperature drops, wind chills, and snowstorms.

The best time to plan your South Dakota Road Trip is from a week or two before Memorial Day to a couple of weeks after Labor Day.

If you are planning a trip in the summer, the temperature gets extremely hot in July August.

You need to be prepared for the extreme heat, especially if planning to hike.

Pack sunscreen, a hat, coolers, and carry lots of water.

If you visit in September, you will be treated to spectacular fall colors, especially in the Spearfish Canyon area.

That said, we know of several people who have planned a winter trip to the state and fallen in love with the winter scenery.

However, lots of businesses and attractions are often closed during off peak season. 

So if you do plan a winter trip, we recommend sticking to most popular attractions and places of interest. 

Dates wise, the peak tourist season begins 1st May and ends on 30th September. Most attractions follow these dates. 

Best of South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary

In this itinerary, we recommend flying into Sioux Falls and then driving west on the I-90 before ending your trip at Rapid City. You can also complete the trip in reverse direction. 

Alternatively, you can also make a round trip from either Sioux Falls or Rapid City.

We have given plenty of options to customize your South Dakota itinerary. 

We recommend at least 4 to 7 days for this road trip to enjoy the many monuments, attractions, scenic drives, and hikes.

Note – Several of the attractions, especially the roadside ones, are operating with changed timings or closed due to the pandemic. We recommend researching before your trip. 

Here are the best things to do on a road trip to Mount Rushmore on a one week in South Dakota vacation.

Dotted Globe contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full  Disclosure  here. Thank you!

“The beauty and charm of the wilderness are his for the asking, for the edges of the wilderness lie close beside the beaten roads of the present travel.” – Theodore Roosevelt

Day 1: Sioux Falls & Mitchell

Start your South Dakota itinerary in the city of Sioux Falls.

Check out the major attractions of Falls Park, Sculpture Walk, and Old Courthouse Museum.

Enjoy the culinary scene of the city before seeing the roadside attractions on your way to Badlands National Park. 

Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls, located in eastern South Dakota is famous for its waterfalls on the Big Sioux River.

Start your day in Sioux Falls at the Falls Park.

At the park, the Big Sioux River tumbles down quartzite rock formations to create a series of beautiful waterfalls. 

Visitors can watch them from many observation platforms in the park and have a nice meal at the Falls Overlook Cafe.

The area surrounding the falls is beautiful and has many biking and hiking trails.

The park also has many historic buildings including the Queen Bee Mill, a horse barn, and the Millrace Dam.

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Other attractions in Sioux Falls include the St. Joseph Cathedral, Old Courthouse Museum, and the Pettigrew Home & Museum.

And off course, the legendary Sculpture Walk!

The Sioux Falls Sculpture Walk is an amazing outdoor gallery of stunning sculptures lining the road between Falls Park and the Washington Pavilion. 

If you have kids take them to see the Great Plains Zoo or the Butterfly House & Aquarium.

Also Read: Best Things to do in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Falls Park in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Where to stay in Sioux Falls

There are several options to stay in the city of Sioux Falls. You will find hotels, motels, and a variety of home stays. 

If you prefer to stay by the regional airport (FSD), then the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Sioux Falls – Airport is a great choice. Alternatively, you can also stay at AeroStay or Fairfield Inn & Suites. 

Downtown, stay near Empire Mall or in the City Center. 

For amazing views and character plus to stay close to the attractions, consider staying at Hotel on Phillips Sioux Falls . This is especially great for couples. 

Families love staying at the large rooms with kitchenette at Staybridge Suites – Sioux Falls Southwest or at Hyatt Place Sioux Falls South . Holiday Inn – City Center is also a convenient option. 

Click here to Book your Sioux Falls hotel now . 

We recommend spending about half a day in the city, having lunch, and then heading out to see the World’s Only Corn Palace at Mitchell.

The distance from Sioux Falls to Mitchell is about 75 miles and takes about 1 hour 15 minutes to drive along I-90. 

If you have more time, you can also check out some of the top attractions near Sioux Falls which we have listed below.

Optional: Palisades State Park

Palisades State Park is located about 23 miles away from Sioux Falls in Garretson. The park can be reached in under 30 minutes by car.

This state park is one of the most beautiful and stunning places in South Dakota.

Here you will find stunning Sioux quartzite formations lining the Split Rock Creek. 

The tall quartzite cliffs seem to rise vertically from the water.

Scenic overlooks located atop the cliffs can be reached by hiking or mountain biking. 

Canoeing and kayaking or fishing in the creek is also popular along with camping, wildlife watching, and photography. 

Palisades State Park near Garretson, South Dakota

Optional: Good Earth State Park at Blood Run

Another great option for a day trip from Sioux Falls is the Good Earth State Park at Blood Run.

It is located just 10 miles away and can be reached in 20 minutes. 

The park is a great place to visit for history and culture lovers.

The park and it’s surrounding area was inhabited by Native Americans for  thousands of years. 

In fact, it is one of the oldest sites to be continuously inhabited by humans in the US. 

At the park visitor center and museum, you can learn more about the Oneota Culture.

You will find several interesting exhibits and interpretative signs throughout the park. 

The park is also popular for hiking trails on the open grasslands, views of the Big Sioux River, and wildlife viewing opportunities. 

Optional: De Smet

De Smet is located 100 miles to the Northwest of Sioux Falls and is popular with literary travelers.

It was here that Laura Ingalls Wilder lived for many years and half of the Little House on the Prairie series books are set in De Smet. 

The primary attraction of De Smet in South Dakota is Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Homes.

Visitors can take a tour of the homestead and experience for yourself the prairie life in the books. 

Visitors can also see other historic sites in De Smet including the De Smet cemetery, the Surveyor’s House, and Main Street. 

The Wilder Welcome Center and De Smet Depot Museum are also great places to visit. 

After seeing all the attractions in and around Sioux Falls, head west on I-90 towards Badlands National Park. 

Alternatively, you can also stay the night in Sioux Falls and see the Corn Palace and other roadside attractions the next day.

Here are some of our favorite roadside attractions that make this road trip memorable!

Porter Sculpture Park, Montrose

Located at the Montrose exit off I-90, between Sioux Falls and Mitchell, you will find the Porter Sculpture Garden.

You can even see sculptures from the highway. 

This sculpture garden is located on private property of the sculptor and can be seen with tickets (10 for adults, kids under 12 free).

You can even meet the sculptor and talk with him. 

The collection includes several amazing sculptures of various sizes and they are accompanied by poems.

The sculptures are stunning and the park is one of the best Instagram spots in South Dakota. 

We definitely recommend stopping at this unique roadside attraction and appreciating the artwork.

Keep aside an hour or so to see the entire park. 

Mitchell Corn Palace

The Corn Palace at Mitchell – a one of a kind attraction – is a building completely decorated with corn. 

The Corn Palace is created to pay tribute to the efforts of the region’s farmers and to display the products of the harvest each year. 

On the exterior, you will find elaborate corn murals using grains, ears, and husks of different colors.

The effect is quite stunning.

Exhibits inside the palace showcase decorations from previous years and tell the history of Mitchell.

A new theme and design adorns the Corn Palace every year.

This is one of the popular tourist attractions in the eastern part of South Dakota

The Corn Palace is fun to visit, pretty unique, and photogenic – and also completely free!. 

To know more, read our Visitor’s Guide to the Corn Palace at Mitchell.

Mitchell Corn Palace, South Dakota

Other Things to do in Mitchell

The city of Mitchell has many other attractions besides the Corn Palace. 

Visitors can explore the Mitchell archeological site. It is a national historic landmark and you can see remains of a prehistoric Indian Village.

This is a great place to visit with the kids as they can understand the archeological process at a live site. 

The Mitchell site is located next to the shores of Lake Mitchell and is a great location to spend time outdoors.

The lake has biking trails and picnic areas.

You can also visit the Dakota Discovery Museum to understand life on the prairies and the state’s history.

Where to stay in Mitchell 

Mitchell is not very big, and you can easily stay near the Corn Palace and see nearby attractions in a day. 

Some of the best hotels to stay in Mitchell include the Thunderbird Lodge , which is popular with couples for its indoor hot tub or Hampton Inn Mitchell , which is popular with families. 

Other family friendly options include Holiday Inn Mitchell or the Ramada Mitchell .

For a budget friendly stay, consider Super 8 Mitchell or Motel 6 . 

Click here to Book your hotel in Mitchell now .

Dignity Statue, Chamberlain

In Chamberlain, on the banks of the Missouri River, you will find South Dakota’s newest tourist attraction. 

The striking Dignity sculpture is an amazing and awe-inspiring work of art.

The 50 feet tall statue represents a Native American woman and is created by sculptor Dale Lamphere. 

The traditional dress with the diamond quilt is one of the most beautiful things that you will see.

The majestic statue honors the Lakota and Dakota Native American tribes and their culture. 

The statue is located between exit 263 and exit 265 on the Interstate and is definitely one of the best stops on a South Dakota road trip. 

Dignity Statue in Chamberlain, South Dakota

Skeleton Man Walking Skeleton Dinosaur

Looking for something truly quirky and unique? Find the skeleton man walking the skeleton dinosaur! 

The sculpture has a skeleton man holding an axe and leading a skeleton T-Rex on a leash.

You can’t go near the sculpture, but it can be easily seen and photographed from far. 

Or to get even closer, consider visiting the 1880 Museum! 

This attraction is located before exit 170 on the westbound I-90. 

Original 1880 Town Museum

Just a short distance from the skeleton man sculpture, you will find the 1880 Town Museum.

In fact, it’s said that the skeleton man and skeleton dinosaur are walking towards the 1880 Town! 

This attraction is located in Murdo and has several historic buildings belonging to that era.

You will also see movie props from the film, Dances with Wolves. 

Other fun things to do include feeding popcorn to a camel named Otis, renting period costumes, and taking a close up photo of the dinosaur sculpture.

Optional: Sitting Bull Monument

3 hours north of Murdo, South Dakota you will find the Sitting Bull Monument. 

The monument is located near Mobridge on the banks of the Missouri.

This is said to be the final resting place of the Native American (Sioux) spiritual leader, Chief Sitting Bull. 

At the memorial, you will find a six feet tall bust of Sitting Bull.

It is carved by sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski who is also the sculptor of Crazy Horse Memorial. 

The Sakakawea Monument is also located nearby on SD Highway 1806. 

After seeing all the roadside attractions, drive towards Wall, South Dakota.

The total distance from Sioux Falls to Wall is roughly 4 hours without stopping at the roadside attractions.

However Custer / Badlands National Park and Wall is in the Mountain Time Zone while Mitchell is in the Central Time Zone, so you will gain an hour on reaching Wall.

You can stay in the town of Wall for the night or camp in Badlands National Park. (See below)

Travel Tip – If you have less time or are starting your road trip from Rapid City, skip this day. Continue straight onto Day 2 and start your trip from Custer / Badlands National Park.

Sitting Bull Monument, South Dakota

Day 2: Badlands National Park

Your next stop is the famous Badlands National Park of South Dakota. 

Hike up to the beautiful Badlands Wall to see the panoramic view and drive the Badlands Loop Road to see wildlife. 

Fall in love with the alien landscape and experience what the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright felt on seeing the Badlands.

On the way, check out the iconic Minuteman Missile National Historic Site.

Sip on coffee and take a photo with the mythical jackalope at the Wall Drug Store.

Badlands National Park

Located in the northern Great Plains, the Badlands are one of the major landmarks of the Midwest.

The formation of the Badlands began millions of years ago when the White River carved its way on the flat surface of the Great Plains.

Layer after layer of rock was exposed in a variety of geological formations as the river kept changing its course.

Over time, a maze of spires, pinnacles, gullies, buttes, mounds, and valleys covered this part of the great plains.

This unique terrain was almost inaccessible and unpassable to man, hence the name ‘badlands’.

The Lakota Indians were the first to call the area ‘mako sica’ literally meaning ‘land bad’.

The Badlands National Park protects over 244,000 acres of these badlands.

One of the best places to understand the park geology and see fossil specimens is the Ben Reifel Visitor Center.

The Badlands Wall, a 50-mile long escarpment of erosion, lies between the uneroded Upper Prairies and the completely eroded Lower Prairies.

The Upper Prairies are flat and grassy and give no clue of the unique topography on the other side of the Badlands Wall. 

Badlands National Park rock formations in South Dakota

Many hikes in Badlands National Park take visitors up to the Wall and offer beautiful panoramic views of the eroded landforms.

The Badlands Loop Road also takes you up the mountain passes where the Upper prairies transition to lower prairies.

The process of erosion continues even today. The Badlands continue to be sculpted by water, wind, and sun.

The park has two units: North Unit & South Unit. Most amenities and activities are in the North Unit.

There are several things to do in Badlands National Park, many of which we have highlighted below.

Watch the Wildlife At Badlands National Park

The Badlands are covered by sparse vegetation but are home to abundant wildlife.

Most of these animals survive on the stretches of prairie within the park. 

Visitors to the park can spot a lot of the Great Plains wildlife including herds of bison, deer, mountain goat, sheep, pronghorns, elk, coyotes, and prairie dogs.

You can also see a variety of birds including eagles, hawks, pheasants, western meadowlarks, and magpies. 

Mountain lions also live in the area and are seen by few lucky tourists.

Prairie Dogs in Badlands National Park, South Dakota

See the fossils in the park

While the bison, coyotes, and mountain lion are most dangerous to tourists today, many more dangerous and magnificent beasts lived on the Great Plains in prehistoric times. 

Some of these include Titanothere and Brontothere, belonging to the family of horses and rhinos.

Archaeotherium, belonging to the family of pigs and hippos, also lived here as did a variety of hippo ancestors, dog ancestors, rabbit ancestors, and camel ancestors.

Many rich fossil beds are hidden in the Badlands and preserve these extinct mammals.

These fossils attract many paleontologists and biologists to the Badlands.

The area has also yielded fossils of extinct species of turtles, crocodiles, snails, and birds.

Visitors can see them at the Visitor Center and on the Fossil Trail. 

Contrary to popular reports, no dinosaur fossils have been discovered in the park.

Mountain goat in Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Drive the Badlands Loop Road

Driving the Badlands Loop Road is an unforgettable experience.

We can never forget the first time we drove the park loop road.

The views from the road are beautiful.

And if you happen to drive during a rain shower in the summer, you may be able to see a rainbow!

We did – it rose majestically, before our eyes, over the never-ending prairies of the Upper Plains. 

And then the road dipped over a pass and the green grasslands suddenly gave way to the desolate awe-inspiring colorful badlands!

We had no inkling, no clue – the abruptness of the transition took our breath away. 

It was the most wonderful introduction to this iconic national park.

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Plan a memorable road trip today. Visit Mt. Rushmore, Badlands, and the Black Hills. Enjoy hiking and scenic drives. Explore hidden gems including Historic Deadwood and Mitchell Corn Palace. Make the most of your time in South Dakota with our guide!

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The Badlands Loop Road, officially known as Highway 240, is among the top 5 Scenic drives in the state . 

It is a two-lane paved road that takes visitors through the Northern Unit of the Park.

The road is 40 miles long and needs an hour to drive through without stops. 

The road has many scenic overlooks and trailheads, so we would recommend keeping aside half a day to a day for this road.

Most visitors stop every now and then to explore the park and view its highlights.

Each scenic overlook provides a unique view over the Badlands.

Driving the Badlands Loop Road is exciting and amazing.

The road has spectacular landscapes and many overlooks to explore the Badlands.

Gorgeous rainbow at sunset in Badlands National park at Panorama Point

Go Off-roading At Badlands National Park

Along with the Badlands Loop Road, there are many other opportunities for off-roading and driving along gravel and unpaved roads inside the park.

Visitors can follow many of these roads to see beautiful, unobstructed views of the park.

The Sage Creek Rim Road is a gravel road along the North Rim of the Badlands Wilderness Area.

This road is recommended for high clearance 4WD vehicles only but it is in great condition for a gravel road and we could easily drive it with a 2WD vehicle.

It provides many opportunities to see wildlife, landscape, and geological formations up close. Keep aside an hour or two to drive this road.

To explore the Sheep Mountain Table area, visitors need to take the Sheep Mountain Table Road.

Hiking on the Notch trail in Badlands National Park

Enjoy the hiking trails at Badlands National Park

Hiking the badlands is our favorite way of exploring this National Park.

While the Badlands Loop Road takes you around the beautiful vistas, hiking lets you explore the badlands from within.

You can climb around the pinnacles and buttes and appreciate their beauty and barrenness up close.

The national park has many miles of designated trails to satisfy everyone from preschoolers to the most adventurous explorers. 

Some of them are accessible and family-friendly while others take you uphill to the Badlands Wall.

Some of the most popular trails include the Door Trail, Window Trail, Fossil Exhibit Trail, Notch Trail, and the Castle Trail. Most of the trailheads are along the Badlands Loop Road.

Our personal favorite by far is the Notch Trail. It is famous for its exceptional views.

The trail is strenuous, along cliff edges, and has a vertical log ladder to ascend the Badlands Wall. The view from the top is breathtaking.

To read more about hiking in Badlands National Park, see our Guide to Hiking in the Badlands .

Camp At Badlands National Park

If you have the time, we definitely recommend camping at Badlands. 

Camping in Badlands National Park and seeing the starry night sky is an amazing way to experience this dramatic landscape. Plus, you wake up to stunning views of the Badlands Wall.

Also Read: Best Camping in the USA

The most popular place to camp is the Cedar Pass Campground. 

The campsites at Cedar Pass are located smack dab in the middle of the prairies and surrounded by the unique Badlands formations.

The campground has about 100 campsites with covered picnic tables.

All the sites are located on flat ground.

The views at sunset and sunrise from the campsites are gorgeous.

Camping in Badlands National Park is an amazing experience

The other campsites are located in the Sage Creek Campground near Badlands Wilderness Area.

These campsites are primitive and can be accessed via an unpaved road. The Badlands wildlife, including bison, frequently wander near the campground.

Apart from the designated campsites, Badlands also offers backcountry camping. 

Backcountry camping offers best-uninterrupted views of the Badlands and complete solitude from other visitors.

This is a popular option for backpackers.

While a permit is not required, informing park rangers of your camping plans is highly recommended.

Badlands campsites are surrounded by the Badlands Wall and have beautiful views

Best Places to Stay near Badlands National Park

If you prefer not to camp, the only option to stay inside Badlands National Park is the Cedar Pass Lodge.

The lodge has beautiful Black Hills pine cabins which are tastefully furnished with handcrafted furniture and have relaxing deck chairs to enjoy beautiful Badlands views.

However, the cabins are limited in number and we recommend booking them in advance.

The Cedar Pass Lodge also has dining amenities.

Colors of the Badlands look more vivid after rainfall

Where to stay in Wall, South Dakota

Visitors often prefer staying in the town of Wall, which serves as the gateway to the national park. 

There are many hotels and motels located in the town near the Wall Drug. 

Most popular chains including America’s Best Value Inn , Days Inn , and Best Western Plains Motel are located here.

These hotels also fill up fast during the peak summer season and advance reservations are highly recommended.

Not many AirBnBs and vacation rentals are located near Badlands.

Click here to book your hotel in Wall, South Dakota now . 

While we have suggested a minimum of one day at Badlands, we ideally recommend 2 to 3 days to explore this extraordinary landscape. 

Plus there are other attractions near Badlands which make excellent reasons for spending more time in the area.

Delta-01 Launch Facility at Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, South Dakota

Optional: Minuteman Missile National Historic Site

If you are a military enthusiast, then you will love visiting the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site. 

Minuteman Missiles played a very important role in the Cold War. Several were located in the Great Plains, ready to be deployed at the slightest need. 

After their decommissioning, most of the missiles were removed but the one near Wall, South Dakota was converted into a tourist attraction. 

The national historic site comprises 3 distinct areas located about 10 miles apart near the town of Wall along the Interstate. 

Delta-01 Launch Control Room is located at Exit 127 and can be seen on a ranger guided tour.

You can also see the Delta-09 Minuteman Underground missile silo on a self-guided tour at exit 116. 

And lastly, there’s the Visitor Center at exit 131.

Here you can understand the history of the Civil war, see exhibits, and learn more about the nuclear missiles. 

Teens and warfare enthusiasts love visiting the site to see the nuclear missile. 

Delta-09 Missile Silo at Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, South Dakota

Optional: Wall Drug

The town of Wall, located near the entrance to Badlands National Park, is home to the Wall Drug Store, one of the area’s major tourist attractions.

The Wild West-themed sprawling shopping mall had humble beginnings as a pharmacy store and now attracts over two million tourists every year.

You will see large billboards advertising the Wall Drug throughout your South Dakota Road Trip, especially on I-90. 

Visiting the ‘Wall Drug’ is a fun and fascinating experience.

The whole Cowboys / American West theme is attractive and elaborately executed.

The mall is really huge.

It has gift shops, restaurants, photo booths, a western art museum, and even a dinosaur! Talk about being a hit with families.

And yes, it offers free cups of ice water and bumper stickers, as promised in the many ads.

This is a good place to buy South Dakota souvenirs and get food. 

There is also a Dairy Queen in the town of Wall and the blizzards and ice-creams feel great on a hot summer day.

Warning – The Wall Drug is rather touristy and always crowded, so if you hate fudge/popcorn/taffy/kids rides/old time photos style typical tourist attractions, then maybe skip a visit!

Wall Drug dinosaur near Badlands, South Dakota

Day 3: Custer State Park & Crazy Horse Memorial

Next, make way for Custer State Park. Spot the famous bison herds and see a roundup if you are lucky. 

Go hiking in the park, swim in the mountain lakes, and enjoy the scenic views.

Drive the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway which is made of 3 amazing roads: the Wildlife Loop Road, Needles Highway, and the Iron Mountain Road. 

Save time by visiting the famous Crazy Horse Memorial as a day trip from the park on this day.

Custer State Park

Custer State Park, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, is the largest state park in the country.

The park is famous for its abundant wildlife sightings.

The state park’s Wildlife Loop Road is one of the best places to see wildlife in South Dakota.

The drive from Badlands to Custer State Park is about 1 hrs 15 mins or 70 miles. 

Here are some of our favorite things to do in Custer State Park.

Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park, South Dakota

Drive the Wildlife Loop Road

The Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park is an 18 miles long scenic drive which is part of the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway.

The best time to drive the road is at sunset and just before sunrise for watching wildlife.

The scenic road is one of our favorite places to spot wildlife in the USA.

This is also the best place to watch American bison.

In fact, Custer has a herd of 1300 bison that freely roams inside the park and they will cross your path! 

While driving the Wildlife Loop Road, visitors often need to stop to let a herd of bison pass at a leisurely pace.

You will also see prairie dogs near the prairie dog town.

It is fascinating to watch the prairie dogs stand over their burrows and keep watch for predators. 

Other wildlife that you will see on the road includes mountain goats, deer, and begging burros.

The road has many opportunities to photograph the wildlife and we recommend carrying a good camera as well as a quality new zoom lens on your road trip – you will definitely put it to great use throughout the South Dakota road trip.

The Wildlife Loop Road is also popular with wildlife photographers and nature lovers.

To see incredible pictures of the wildlife in Custer State Park, read our post Wildlife of South Dakota and Northern Great Plains

Begging burros in Custer State Park, South Dakota

Camp At Custer State Park

One of the best ways to experience Custer State Park is by camping.

The park has 9 different campgrounds and all have scenic campsites.

Most of the campsites are on a first come first serve basis, so you need to reach early to select a good site.

The most popular campgrounds include the Blue Bell Campground and Center Lake campground which has a same-day reservation policy – hence popular with many. 

All of the campsites in Center Lake are located around the mountain lake and shaded by pine trees.

They have grills and picnic tables.

There are lots of water activities available on the lake including trout fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.

The lake also has a boat dock to launch boats and a swimming beach.

Overall, Center Lake Campground is a great place to base your stay in Custer State Park.

The park also has furnished cabins with electricity but you need to book these far in advance.

Blue Bell Lodge has over 20 cabins while Legion Lake Lodge, Sylvan Lake Lodge, State Game Lodge also have many rustic cabins that are perfect for a relaxing stay. 

Bison herds in Custer State Park, South Dakota

Other things to do at Custer State Park

Besides the Wildlife Loop Road and camping, Custer State Park has many other things to do for couples, families, and kids.

Fishing for trout in the mountain lakes is a popular activity.

The park has a total of 4 large mountain lakes that are stocked with fish in the summer.

There are also many hiking and biking trails in Custer State Park.

The park also has equestrian trails and horse camps and is great for those who love horse riding.

You can also drive along the backcountry roads to explore the park and enjoy the fresh mountain air and open pastures. 

Custer State Park is one of the best family destinations in the country.

If you have more time, you can easily spend 3 to 4 days in the park.

To see an epic bucket list of all the activities that you can do in the park and plan your trip, read our post on Best Things to do in Custer State Park .

Wild pheasants in Custer State Park

Crazy Horse Memorial

After spending some more time in Custer’s wilderness and driving the Wildlife Loop Road, make a day trip to see Crazy Horse Memorial. 

The Crazy Horse Memorial is dedicated to the Lakota warrior Crazy Horse. 

The carving is still a work in progress, but when complete it will be the largest mountain carving in the world.

The memorial is located in the Black Hills of South Dakota and half an hour’s drive away from Custer State Park Visitor Center. It makes a great day trip from the park.

The memorial is being built in honor of the Lakota warrior, Crazy Horse, who fought against the American settlers and US Federal government in the 19th century to preserve the Indian territory.

The sculpture has the Oglala Lakota warrior, Crazy Horse, sitting on a horse and pointing towards the Black Hills. 

The memorial is constructed entirely on private land using private funds.

Proceeds from visitor tickets go towards the completion of the sculpture.

Crazy Horse Memorial in the Black Hills of South Dakota

The memorial also has a visitor’s center, where you can read exhibits about Crazy Horse and the 25 years’ worth of battles between Lakota Indians and the US Government.

The visitor center also offers many opportunities to learn about the Lakota way of life, heritage, and culture.

Seeing the memorial up close is amazing.

The sculpture is colossal and immense. Learning about the Lakota history of the area is a poignant experience.

The memorial also has an on-site museum with a vast collection of Native American artifacts and artwork.

This is a unique roadside attraction and a must while visiting the Black Hills of South Dakota. 

We would recommend everyone to visit the Crazy Horse Memorial as a tribute to the great Lakota warrior.

To plan a trip to the memorial, read our post Visitor’s Guide to Crazy Horse Memorial in South Dakota

After seeing the memorial, return to your campsite in the park or lodging in Custer. 

If you have more time, go swimming in the park’s mountain lakes or hike or put up a hammock against the pine trees and read a book.

Travel Tip – If you are short on time, you can see Custer State Park’s Wildlife Loop Road, other scenic drives, Crazy Horse Memorial, as well as Mt. Rushmore in just one day. It will be hectic but manageable since the attractions are fairly close to one another. 

Custer State Park camping

Optional: Custer

Many visitors often skip the town of custer itself for the many attractions in the Black Hills. 

However, if you have the time then definitely spend some time exploring Custer and its charming streets. 

Custer is the oldest town in the Black Hills.

Within the town, you will find fun things to do including the 1881 Courthouse Museum and the Four Mile Old West Town. 

Walk in the town and enjoy local shopping in stores like the Custer Candy Company and the Good Karma Jewelry. 

To get outdoors, rent an ATV or go for a hot air balloon ride over the Black Hills or learn rock climbing among the spires of needles Highway.

A variety of outdoor gear and tour operators are located in Custer. 

You can also attend events like the Old Country Fair, Gold Rush Days Festival, and the Tesla Car Rally. 

Where to stay in Custer, South Dakota?

If you don’t want to camp in Custer State Park or stay in one of its pine cabins, then stay in the city of Custer. 

Custer provides an excellent base to see all the attractions in the Black Hills including Mt Rushmore, Custer State Park, Crazy Horse, and even Hot Springs. 

One of our top recommendations for a great place to stay in Custer is the EO Bungalows Black Hills .

The 19th century buildings and atmosphere make it a favorite with couples and those looking for a relaxing getaway. 

For families, we recommend the Bavarian Inn in the Black Hills which has a swimming pool or Chalet Motel in Custer , which has really pretty cabins and a very convenient location. 

Another great option is Rock Crest Lodge & Cabins .

You will love the pretty cabins and the location on the prairies amidst the Black Hills. 

Other comfortable and convenient options include Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Custer or Best Western Buffalo Ridge . 

Bison herds on Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park, South Dakota

Day 4: Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway & Mt. Rushmore Itinerary

Next day, get ready to explore the rest of Custer State Park’s scenic drives.

This is, by far, our favorite day in the Black Hills.

You will be driving on the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway, through the granite tunnels on Iron Mountain Road, and see the incredible Needles from Needles Highway Scenic Overlook before arriving at Keystone, South Dakota.

Then see the iconic monument of Mt. Rushmore.

This is one of the most revered attractions in the country and Mt Rushmore family vacation is one the bucket list of most travelers.

Explore the charming town of Keystone that has sprung up beside the memorial and have fun at its many attractions.

You will also have one of the best meals at our favorite restaurant in Keystone.

Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway

As road trip lovers, we enjoy driving on twisting and challenging roads.

Hence, we particularly looked forward to this scenic byway.

The three scenic drives of Wildlife Loop Road, Iron Mountain Road, and the Needles Highway are together called the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway.

The scenic drives are truly breathtaking and open up to beautiful vistas.

They pass through fascinating geological landforms and are constructed in awe-inspiring ways.

This route is consistently placed among America’s Top 10 scenic byways.

It has also been named as one of the Most Outstanding Byways in America.

The Iron Mountain Road and the Needles Highway parts of Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway represent unique driving challenges and are delightful to drive.

Tunnel on Iron Mountain Road in Black Hills, South Dakota

Iron Mountain Road

First up on your itinerary is the spectacularly engineered Iron Mountain Road, otherwise known as Scenic Highway 16A. 

The road connects Custer State Park with Mount Rushmore National Memorial and is a highlight of the trip.

“Legend says that engineers once declared the road unbuildable – and then the Iron Mountain Road as it is today took shape and form.”

The road has three pigtail bridges – which are spiral bridges that loop continuously over themselves – and three precise rock-cut granite tunnels. 

The tunnels are by far the star attractions of the byway.

The magnificent Black Hills scenery is always in view.

Driving the Iron Mountain Road is a delight. 

The recommended speed limit is about 20 mph. This is a road to be savored. 

Driving slowly allows drivers to negotiate the turns and twists in the road safely plus appreciate the beautiful mountain landscape. 

The lookout points are ideal to get down and enjoy the view.

The pigtail bridges and multiple switchbacks are gorgeous while the single-lane narrow tunnels are thrilling.

Mount Rushmore is in clear sight through the last two tunnels. 

Pigtail curves of Iron Mountain Road, South Dakota

The last tunnel in particular symmetrically frames Mount Rushmore and offers an incredible photo opportunity. 

This road is also popular with motorcyclists and bikers – you can easily rent bikes in Rapid City to drive the byway. 

You will need about an hour and a half to complete the drive at a leisurely pace. 

We recommend driving this route in the morning when the sun is behind you to enjoy the beautiful views.

While Mount Rushmore National Memorial is directly in front of you after exiting the last tunnel on Iron Mountain Road, there is another scenic drive to look forward to before reaching the Memorial.  

Needles Highway

Next up is the Needles Highway – a spectacular 14 miles long drive through dense pine and spruce forests and needle-like granite formations. 

The Needles Highway drive takes about an hour to complete and is closed in winter.

The Needles Highway is officially Highway 87 (SD 87). 

Driving the Needles Highway is not for the faint-hearted.

The road makes several sharp hairpin-turns and passes through incredibly tight tunnels.

For most of its length, the road is surrounded by craggy, sharp granite formations that seem to rise towards the sky and jab the clouds.

Hence their name, the needles.

Needles granite formations on Needles Highway, South Dakota

The granite needles are a product of millions of years of erosion by the wind, rain, snow, and sunshine.

The highlight of Needles Highway is the Needles Eye – a fantastic rock formation just southeast of Sylvan Lake end of the drive.

The formation is visible only on walking out of the car.

There are parking spaces near the side of the road before the Needle’s Eye. 

The area near the Needles Eye has big sharp rock formations and is a haven for rock climbers.

The Needles Eye tunnel is not easy for larger vehicles to pass through and needs extra care while driving. 

It is suitable only for smaller cars and not for RVs or trailers.

The scenic byway has many opportunities to see wildlife along the route.

We saw whitetail deer and mountain goats while driving the Needles Highway.

Driving both the scenic byways of Iron Mountain Road and the Needles Highway should not take more than 2-3 hrs and once you near Mount Rushmore, the road is pretty much straight.

Tunnel on Needles Highway in Black Hills, South Dakota

Keystone, South Dakota is the gateway to exploring Mount Rushmore National Memorial. 

It is a charming but touristy town with many other attractions apart from the memorial.

Keystone is also the perfect place to base your stay near Mount Rushmore Memorial.

The town has many lodges and hotels that cater to visitors. It also has eateries and restaurants.

Keystone is a great place on your South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary to learn more about American history in a natural setting.

While Mount Rushmore is Keystone’s premier attraction, the town’s other beloved activities include Big Thunder Gold Mine where kids can pan for gold and the National Presidential Wax Museum which has lifelike figures of all US Presidents.

The Gutzon Borglum Historical Center in Keystone is dedicated to the life and work of the sculptor of Mount Rushmore.

The Keystone Historical Museum is dedicated to local Keystone history. 

The museum is also a great place to learn about the Ingalls family and the life of Carrie Ingalls, one of South Dakota’s pioneer women.

Carrie Ingalls was the younger sister of Laura Ingalls, who wrote the celebrated Little House on the Prairie series of children’s books. 

If you love literary trivia, then the museum is a must-visit.

To try some of the Midwest’s famous home cooking, visit Peggy’s Place.

This is a great spot to enjoy breakfast or lunch in Keystone.

You can order comfort food like chicken fried steak and a buffalo burger.

The prices are high since it’s near a tourist attraction, but we really enjoyed our meal here.

Needles formation on Needles Highway in South Dakota

Where to Stay in Keystone

There are plenty of places to stay in Keystone, South Dakota for all budgets. 

Our top favorite is Under Canvas Mt. Rushmore .

You will be glamping in the gorgeous Black Hills scenery near Mt Rushmore. 

The Luxury tents here are popular with families as well as couples.

You can enjoy s’mores by the campfire at night, star gaze, or hike on trails around the property. Book this hotel now . 

Other great options include the historic building with terrace at Roosevelt Inn Mount Rushmore or the K Bar S Lodge located inside the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve.

It has great views of the landscape from its terrace.

Powder House Lodge is also an amazing place to stay and enjoy the nearby attractions. 

Another option is to stay in nearby Hill City at the charming Best Western Golden Spike Inn & Suites which has a great atmosphere and swimming pool.

If you want a charming pine cabin with a balcony, then consider the Mountain View Lodge & Cabins . 

Click here to book your hotel near Mt. Rushmore National Memorial now. 

Entrance to Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota

Mt Rushmore National Memorial

For most Americans, this is a highlight of the South Dakota road trip. 

One of the iconic images of America, Mount Rushmore is everyone’s travel bucket list.

Mount Rushmore is a behemoth sculpture of 4 US President heads carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore. 

It is located among the Black Hills of South Dakota and is fantastic to explore.

Completed in 1941, the Memorial was specifically planned and executed to bring visitors to South Dakota. 

Well, it has succeeded and how!

Today Mount Rushmore receives over two million visitors annually and is South Dakota’s top tourist attraction. 

The Memorial has also been featured in many movies, books, and other works of fiction.

The 60-foot sculptures of heads of US Presidents who are carved on the mountain include George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.

The monument was carved by sculptor Gutzon Borglum with the help of his son Lincoln Borglum from 1927 to 1941.

Visiting Mount Rushmore National Memorial is an amazing experience.

It is one of the best places to learn about the birth and growth of the USA.

Our other top favorites include Washington DC, New York , and Philadelphia.

View of Mount Rushmore from the road

Things To Do At Mt. Rushmore

Contrary to what many people think, Mount Rushmore vacation is not just about seeing the sculpture from a distance, taking a few photos, and rushing off.

Sure, you could do that but you will be missing out on a lot.

Consider below recommendations while planning a trip to Mount Rushmore.

The on-site museum has interesting information about the Memorial and there are many things to do around the sculpture.

The memorial is beautifully designed and planned.

Take the kids to see Mt. Rushmore!

Be inspired and awed. Make magical memories. Plan your trip with our South Dakota Road Trip guide. Access itinerary recommendations, attraction information, and gorgeous photos on the go!

how long to visit south dakota

The Avenue of Flags contains all state and territories flags and the dates they were admitted to the Union.

The Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center has many interactive exhibits and videos.

Visitors can watch on film the methods used to carve the hard granite rock. 

Of course, you must hike the Presidential Trail. This is by far the #1 thing to do when visiting Mount Rushmore. 

Avenue of the Flags at Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota

The 0.5-mile-long trail goes around the base of the monument and has 422 stairs.

Hiking the trail takes you up close to the sculpture.

On the trail, you can see the carvings from different vantage points.

You can also spot wildlife on the trail including mountain goats and deer.

The memorial also has Junior Ranger programs and Evening Sculpture Lighting Ceremony.

We definitely recommend visiting towards the evening to see the sculpture lit up.

To explore other attractions at the memorial including George Washington’s favorite ice-cream, read our post Visitor’s Guide to Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

Side view of Mount Rushmore

Optional – Black Hills Railroad

If you have more time – Consider a trip down a vintage 1880 Train from Keystone to Hill City, South Dakota!

The Black Hills Central Railroad was built back in the day to carry the gold found in the Black Hills.

It later also serviced the mills and carried timber.

The railroad is the oldest continuously operating railroad in the US. 

On the route, you can see views of Mt. Rushmore, the Black Elk Peak, and lots of wildlife.

The trip is 2 hours long roundtrip and has an additional 15 minutes of layover.

The depot in Hill City also has an adjacent train museum which is fun for the kids. 

Travel Tip – These scenic drives have many twists and turns and are not popular with those who get car sick. But do not miss out on the spectcaular scenery! You can drive at slow speeds (~10 – 12 mph) and take some Dramamine to make the trip smoother.

Black Hills Railroad Steam engine, South Dakota

Day 5: Black Hills Itinerary

Use this day for planning a trip to the Black Hills.

Wake up to a fresh day in Custer State Park, pack your tents, and enjoy the early morning sun filtering down the pine trees. 

Today, you will be exploring the many things to do in the Black Hills of South Dakota. 

There are many attractions in the Black Hills.

We recommend picking your favorites and spending a day here to see them.

If you want to see everything in the area, then we recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days in the Black Hills.

Here are some of our favorite things to do in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Also Read: 38 Amazing Things to do in the Black Hills of South Dakota

Wind Cave National Park

South Dakota’s Wind Cave National Park is one of the most underrated national parks in the country. 

Under the flat grassy prairies, lies the beautiful Wind Cave.

This geological wonder is one of the largest and longest cave complexes in the world. 

Inside the cave, you can see intricate box work and frostwork calcite formations on a guided tour. 

The caves’ complex, interconnected passages cause air to rush out from the openings, leading to its name, the Wind Cave. 

On the grasslands above the cave, you will find a variety of wildlife including elk, deer, and bison. 

Boxwork formations inside Fairgrounds Cave in Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota

The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs

The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs is famous with budding paleontologists for the large number of intact Columbian and woolly mammoth skeletons discovered in the on-site sinkhole. 

Visitors can view the active dig site on a self guided tour.

Along with the Mammoth fossils, you can also see fossils and remnants of other Ice Age animals including sloths, camels, llama, and more. 

The Mammoth Site is an amazing interactive educational experience for the kids. 

Closeup of tusks of wooly mammoth at the Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, South Dakota

Optional: Jewel Cave National Monument

Jewel Cave, located in the Black Hills, is also famous for its intricate jewel-like calcite formations. 

Jewel Cave is the third longest cave in the world. Visitors can see the cave on a guided tour.

There are tours of varying difficulty for all skill levels. 

The area around the cave also had many hiking trails and canyons, which are popular with outdoor explorers.

You can also spot wildlife in the area. 

Optional: Black Elk Peak

Black Elk Peak is the tallest peak in South Dakota.

It is located in the Black Hills and the trailhead begins in Custer State Park at Sylvan Lake. 

The climb to the top is strenuous but you are rewarded with stunning views of the area.

A fire tower built by the CCC on top of the peak still stands. 

Black Elk Peak in Custer State Park, South Dakota

Optional: Black Hills National Forest

Black Hills National Forest is an amazing wonderland of pine trees, dense trailheads, spectacular wildlife, waterfalls, and recreation activities. 

We definitely recommend stopping at the Black Hills National Forest if you have the time. 

Travel Tip – This day and the attractions are entirely optional if you have only 7 days to see South Dakota. 

Day 6: Rapid City

Rapid City is one of the best cities to visit in South Dakota.

We definitely recommend spending a day here to see all the tourist attractions, especially if you have kids. 

The many dinosaur themed attractions in the city make it very popular with families.

Here are some of the best things to do in Rapid City . 

Dinosaur Park

Right in the middle of downtown, located on the top of a hill, you will find the Rapid City Dinosaur Park.

This park was built during the Great Depression era and is one of the oldest dinosaur attractions in America. 

Kids can climb the dinosaurs including T-Rex and Triceratops.

The views of the city from the park are also pretty. 

If you love street art and murals, consider visiting Art Alley in Rapid City. 

This attraction is located between 6th and 7th Street on Main Street in downtown.

It is located close to restaurants and shopping. 

Night sky while camping at Sage Creek in Badlands National Park in South Dakota

Here you will find the alley covered with vibrant, beautiful, and thought provoking artwork.

The murals cover a variety of subjects and are very interesting. 

This spot is a great hit with those who love taking photos for Instagram. 

Museum of Geology

If you want to see even more dinosaurs, then visit the Museum of Geology.

Here you will find a variety of fossils, skeletons, and other remains of the prehistoric beasts. 

Kids love seeing the almost complete skeletons of several dinosaurs.

Other museum collections include gems and minerals, historic artifacts, and are fascinating to see. 

Plus the best part is that it is free, making it very popular with those on a budget. 

Reptile Gardens

Reptile Gardens Zoo in Rapid City is home to a variety of snakes, alligators, other reptiles, and animals. 

They have a lot of amazing exhibits and the zoo is a great place to visit for the whole family. 

Kids enjoy seeing the prairie dogs, turtles, crocodiles, alligators, snakes, and bald eagles at the zoo. 

We recommend about one and half to two hours to see the zoo. 

Chapel in the Hills

If you like seeing unique buildings, then visit the Chapel in the Hills in Rapid City, South Dakota. 

This chapel is modeled after the famous Borgund stavkirke in Laerdal, an original stave church in the Norwegian style of architecture.  

The exact replica has many beautiful architectural features, rich wood carving, and is a very beautiful building. 

Teepees or tents of the Oglala Lakota and Sioux tribes at Badlands National park

South Dakota Air & Space Museum

The South Dakota Air and Space Museum is located just outside the Ellsworth Air Force Base in the Black Hills. 

The museum has a large collection of aviation exhibits including vintage aircrafts, bombers, nuclear missiles, and more. 

The museum is free and a fun thing to do for aviation and aircraft lovers. 

Where to stay in Rapid City

We recommend staying close to Downtown Rapid City. 

Popular hotel chains in this area include Best Western Rapid City Rushmore or Holiday Inn Rapid City – Rushmore Plaza or Staybridge Suites Rapid City . 

Courtyard By Marriott or Residence Inn by Mariott is also a great choice for families due to their spacious suites with sofa beds. 

We have also enjoyed our stay at Best Western Ramkota in the past.

However, this is one of the most popular budget friendly chains and we definitely recommend advance reservations. 

If you like independent and boutique hotels, then try the Hotel Alex Johnson Rapid City .

This historic hotel has charming architecture and an on-site Irish pub!

It is especially popular with couples looking for a romantic getaway. 

Grand Gateway Hotel with its indoor pool and a waterslide is great for families.

However, it gets sold out pretty fast for popular weekends so book now . 

If you want to stay near the Rapid City Regional Airport, then good nearby hotels include Baymont By Wyndham and Home2 Suites by Hilton . 

Sunset at Badlands National park in South Dakota

Day 7: Deadwood & Spearfish Canyon

Today, you will enjoy the many things to do near Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills.

Spend the day in Historic Deadwood. Watch a shootout reenactment on the Main Street, visit the Deadwood cemetery, and see the Tatanka bison sculpture.

Then drive down Spearfish Canyon and enjoy the waterfalls.

End your day trip at the Motorcycle Museum in Sturgis. 

Historic Deadwood is one of the most fun things to do in South Dakota.

This Wild West Town was established in 1876 when gold was discovered in the Black Hills of South Dakota. 

It attracted many popular Wild West heroes including Calamity Jane and Wild Bill.

Violence, gun fights, and bar brawls were common and Deadwood was a dangerous place to be. 

The mining town was abandoned after the Gold Rush and has been converted into a popular tourist attraction. 

Visitors can enjoy a trip to Deadwood and admire the historic buildings, gamble in a casino, visit a museum, see the graves of Wild West heroes in the Deadwood cemetery and watch a reenactment of the shoot out. 

Spending a day in Deadwood is great fun and definitely one of the amazing things to do in South Dakota. 

Main Street of Historic Deadwood, South Dakota

Tatanka Bison Sculpture

A few miles away from Downtown Deadwood, you will find the Tatanka Bison Sculpture.

Commissioned by Kevin Costner, the sculpture pays tribute to the Native American legacy and culture. 

Spearfish Canyon

Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway is one of the best scenic drives in South Dakota. 

The road is 22 miles long and takes about 2 hours to drive considering the attractions.

You will be driving along the curving Spearfish Creek. 

The route has many scenic vistas, overlooks, picnic areas, trailheads, and waterfalls.

Bridalveil Falls, Roughlock Falls, and Spearfish Falls are most popular to visit. 

The road is stunning in fall when trees lining the canyon floor turn color.

You can also bike the canyon or drive a motorcycle to enjoy its scenic vistas. 

View along Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway in Black Hills of South Dakota

Optional: Sturgis

If you have more time, consider visiting Sturgis, South Dakota.

The city is famous for its annual motorcycle rally. 

Visit the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame to see vintage bikes and memorabilia.

History lovers will enjoy the Old Fort Meade Museum and its many interesting exhibits. 

That’s it!

Return back to Rapid City for your flight home after the awesome South Dakota road trip. 

Next Step: Book Your Trip

Click here to Book hotels in South Dakota now

If you have less time: Western South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary 4 Days

Visitors can also complete this Great American road trip in less time by focusing on a Mount Rushmore road trip. 

If you are short on time, we would recommend 4 Days in South Dakota road trip itinerary as follows.

You will be seeing the top 3 attractions of Mt Rushmore, Badlands, and Black Hills. 

Spearfish Falls in Spearfish Canyon, South Dakota

Rapid City – 1 Day

Rapid City is the closest airport to Mount Rushmore.

Use this as your base for visiting South Dakota on a tight timeline. 

Spend a day in the city, pick up your rental car, and visit Rapid City’s top attractions including Dinosaur Park, Art Alley, and Reptile Gardens. 

Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse – 1 Day

The next day, make your way to Keystone to see Mt Rushmore. 

See the carved sculptures and the visitor center, hike the Presidential Trail, and spend some time in downtown Keystone. 

Then visit the Crazy Horse Memorial and understand about the Lakota Culture.

Stay the night at Custer. 

Custer State Park Scenic Drives & Minuteman Missile Site – 1 Day

On this day, spend time in Custer State Park.

Drive the scenic drives of Wildlife Loop Road, Iron Mountain Road, and the Needles Highway. 

See the state’s amazing wildlife and be enchanted by the tunnels and bridges along the way.

Hike inside the state park and go for a swim in the lakes. 

See the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site and stay in the town of Wall. 

Badlands National Park & Wall Drug – 1 Day

End your trip at Badlands National Park. Drive the Badlands Loop Road to enjoy the dramatic vistas from the overlooks.

Hike the park trails to get closer to the geological formations. 

Also see Wall Drug along the way and drink it’s 5 cent coffee.

Head back to Rapid City for your return flight. 

Let us help plan your trip!

With its diverse range of tourist attractions, phenomenal landscapes, and sheer beauty – this is undeniably the trip of a lifetime! Get all the information in this post without ads, right on your phone, or print it out to refer to on the go!

how long to visit south dakota

4 Day South Dakota road trip will be hectic but possible.

However we do not recommend keeping any less time for this road trip. 

Some other alternatives to shortening your itinerary include skipping the day in Black Hills or seeing the attractions in eastern part of the state on a separate trip if you have 5 to 6 days. 

You can also start your trip in Sioux Falls and drive straight to the Black Hills.

The distance from Sioux Falls to Mount Rushmore is 5 hrs 30 mins or 370 miles. 

Views of the Badlands from the Badlands Loop Road

If you have more time: South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary 10 Days to 2 Weeks

We have a couple of more South Dakota Vacation Ideas for those who like slow travel and enjoy experiencing more off the beaten path attractions. 

The state has enough attractions to keep you busy for months.

Custer State Park alone is worth a week-long trip for the entire family.

2 Weeks in South Dakota

For this detailed South Dakota itinerary, see all the attractions in the state, including the most underrated ones that we have listed above as optional. 

Experience a shootout in Historic Deadwood and enjoy the underground geological formations at Jewel Cave National Monument.

Take the Black Hills Railroad from Keystone to Hill City. 

For more adventure, take the hiking trail to the top of Black Elk Peak, the tallest point in South Dakota.

See the Reptile Gardens in Rapid City. 

Road trip through the granite spires of Needles Highway, then spend time camping at Custer.

Drive the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway and enjoy the waterfalls along the way. 

Spot wildlife including bighorn sheep in Black Hill National Forest and see the Minuteman Missile near Wall Drug. 

Let the kids experience a day as a paleontologist at Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, then take them to climb the dinosaurs at Dinosaur Park in Downtown Rapid City. 

You can also consider a trip along the southeastern part of the state near Yankton & Vermilion.

The major attractions here include the following:

Motorcycle museum and Hall of Fame, Sturgis, South Dakota

Lewis & Clark National Recreation Area

In Yankton, along the banks of the Missouri, you will find the Lewis and Clark National Recreation Area.

The park has an excellent campground and great scenery. 

The lake is also beautiful and the area and its variety of outdoor recreation activities are popular with families. 

National Music Museum, Vermilion

Vermilion’s National Music Museum is one of the hidden treasures in South Dakota. 

This is said to be one of the best music museums in the US and has a variety of musical instruments from different countries and continents. 

The collection spans hundreds of years and you can see vintage musical instruments from many countries.

The museum is a must visit attraction for those who love music. 

Or you can see the Petrified Wood Museum in Lemmon near the northern border. 

Petrified Wood Museum, Lemmon

In northern South Dakota, you will find the town of Lemmon.

A major attraction here is the Petrified Wood Park and Museum located in the center of the town.

The park was built by the town men during the Great Depression.

They used the nearby Petrified Wood fossils to create a beautiful rock garden. 

Visitors can see a variety of sculptures including a castle, wishing well, fountain, and conical trees.

Inside the museum, you will find historic artifacts and exhibits from the pioneer era. 

Fossilized skeletons at Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, South Dakota

South Dakota Wyoming Road Trip

Many visitors plan a combined road trip to South Dakota and Wyoming.

This is certainly feasible if you have more time. 

You can easily see highlights such as Yellowstone and Devil’s Monument. 

Devil’s Tower National Monument

One of the best ways to spend more time in the region is to combine it with a trip to Wyoming and see Devil’s Tower National Monument. 

Devil’s Tower National Monument in Wyoming is located just a little over 1 hour 30 minutes away from Rapid City, South Dakota.

The distance is about 110 miles. 

This iconic butte located in the Black Hills of northeastern Wyoming is a unique granite formation.

It rises 1267 feet above the surrounding landscape and looks stunning in pictures. 

This is the very first national monument to be established in America.

Visitors can hike the trails around the base of the monument while rock climbers can attempt to reach the very top. 

A lot of Native American legends surround the Devil’s Tower making it a sacred place for the indigenous people.

Yellowstone National Park prismatic spring in Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park

For even more amazing natural wonders, visit the geothermal playground of Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. 

It is 9 hrs away from Rapid City and one of the top visited national parks in the country.

There are many things to do in Yellowstone. 

See the Old Faithful geyser erupt or go on the park’s scenic drives.

Have amazing wildlife encounters or enjoy hiking in the area.

Spot bubbling sulphur pools and take a dip in a hot spring in the park. 

Grand Teton National Park

Also located in Wyoming, south of Yellowtsone you will find the beautiful Grand Tetons. 

This national park has stunning scenery, jaw dropping mountain views, amazing hikes, abundant wildlife, and gorgeous fall colors. 

The panorama of snow capped mountain peaks and lush green valleys are a stark contrast to the mixed grass prairies of South Dakota. 

Reflection lake in Grand Tetons National Park in Wyoming

Best of Dakotas Road Trip

For the truly unbeaten path, consider extending your South Dakota vacation itinerary to North Dakota and Medora. 

This charming mountain town is the gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park and the North Dakota Badlands. 

Enjoy your trip to Medora with a quick stroll around the town.

See the historic buildings, many souvenir shops, and the Western vibe of this place. 

End your day with the amazing Medora musical and steak fondue dinner.

This amazing show dedicated to the life and legacy of FDR is absolutely must see. 

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Spend a day hiking in Theodore Roosevelt National park and experience the difference in North Dakota’s badlands and South Dakota’s badlands. 

See the bison and wild horses in the park.

Understand Roosevelt’s legacy at the visitor center. 

There are several other things to do in the park including panoramic outlooks and unique geological formations. 

Charming town of Medora, North Dakota

Visit the nearby town of Dickinson and the amazing Badlands Dinosaur museum with kids. 

This is honestly one of the best dinosaur museums in the country and has complete skeletons of many prehistoric beasts.

Their gem collection is also great.

Dickinson also has great street art and murals as well as many cool restaurants.

More Destination Guides

Read our South Dakota travel guides below to plan your trip now

Badlands National Park Guide

Mt Rushmore Guide

Custer State Park Guide

We hope you liked our guide to the ultimate road trip to South Dakota.

Do you need any more information for trip planning? Let us know in the comments.

11 thoughts on “Ultimate 2024 South Dakota Road Trip Planner: Attractions + Itineraries”

I loved reading about your experience in South Dakota. Your descriptions really made it come alive for me. Happy travels!

After reading your post I would like to share my story. 15 years ago I came home from work and told my children we are going to Mount Rushmore. At the time they were teens of 16 and younger. The response was what is there to do? Long story short to this day they all talk about the vacation being the best ever! Thanks for the memories.

Thank you so much for outlining this amazing trip! We are following it exactly and we are so excited! Your coverage is so complete and including the history of the area is fantastic as well. I did find another lodging option for The Badlands area…Frontier Cabins in Wall, SD- it’s only about 8 miles form the park entrance. We can’t wait to start driving from Denver!

What a wonderful description! I love all the details you included. Thanks to you we are even more excited to visit SD. I originally planned to see Badlands on our way from Sioux Falls to Custer, but now I see that we need to spend more time there – I had no idea it was so beautiful. Thank You and happy travels 🙂

Thank you for such an inspiring and comprehensive post. My family will be doing a week long South Dakota road trip around Memorial Day and this post is great for planning purposes. Thank you!

We hope to travel this summer end of August. Any issues pulling a travel trailer? 30’ in length.

Thank you for an inspiring post! We are headed to the Badlands for our first “long” RV trip later this month. I am definitely excited to visit an area that I only have vague memories of as a child. I’ll appreciate it much more as an adult!

Great post! Thanks so much!

Planning a trip to Mount Rushmore next year with our grandchildren. Thanks for a very informative article. Appreciate the history as well as your itinerary and pictures but also what to see and do if you have less time in a specific area. I’ve read a lot of trip reports but this was by far my favorite.

Thank you for sharing! We are making a return trip to celebrate our 40th anniversary in mid-May. Our first trip was 30 years ago and our boys were very young. We drove across Nebraska for Day 1 and entered Custer Park the next morning. We also took in free museums, gold mining, and of course Bear Country. It was a great trip then and I’m sure we will enjoy it again. Thank you for your info on the scenic drives – we did not know about these then and we will definitely be doing these drives.

Thank you for taking the time to put this together. Driving from Connecticut to south Dakota soon. This was helpful as we will only be here 2 days. Wish me luck

Comments are closed.

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Ultimate 4-day Black Hills Itinerary + Tips For Your Visit

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

Look no further for the best all-encompassing Black Hills itinerary for spending up to 4-days in the Black Hills of South Dakota!

This article features the best things to do in the Black Hills as well as details our epic 4-day Black Hills itinerary on where to stay and how to get around this iconic US vacation and sightseeing destination.

With our ultimate Black Hills itinerary , you’ll have plenty of time to experience the best Black Hills views, attractions, family-friendly things to do.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. For more info, see disclosure.

Table of Contents

Black Hills Itinerary: Best Time to Visit

The Black Hills are a small mountain range in western South Dakota that extends into Wyoming, USA.

Because of its varying elevations and four distinct seasons, the weather in the Black Hills can be unpredictable and vary quite drastically from community to community.

The most popular times to visit are during the months of June, July, and August when temperatures are the warmest and children are not in school.

Some feel that the best times to visit the Black Hills are during the months of September and October, and April and May, as crowds and prices are less.

We suggest not planning your Black Hills itinerary during the winter months due to its cold temperatures, frequent road closures related to snow accumulation, seasonal attractions being closed, and fewer hours of daylight.

Click here for a 4-day Black Hills Itinerary that is perfect for seeing the top attractions, from top US family travel blog, Travel With A Plan!  #BlackHills #familytravel

Black Hills Itinerary Ideas

The Black Hills region is a popular road-trip tourist destination for those of us that live in the Midwest. In addition, the Black Hills top the list of most United States family bucket lists for its classic and outdoorsy appeal.

Whether you’re visiting a historic monument, exploring Custer State Park, or spending 1 day in the Badlands , a visit to the Black Hills is iconic, memorable, scenic, and exciting!

We visited the Black Hills area when our boys were 8, 6, and 4 years old. I wouldn’t have gone with the kids being any younger, and we will perhaps go again once they get older.

Several of the attractions in the Black Hills, such as Storybook Island and Dinosaur Park, are definitely suited for younger children.

However, the monuments, parks, and awe-inspiring landscapes will definitely make more of an impression on elementary-aged children up to older adults.

Black Hills Itinerary road sign

All of our top recommended restaurants, landmarks, and attractions are bolded. Their physical locations fit into the flow of this itinerary. If you choose to substitute a restaurant or attraction in their place, be sure to adjust the timing of your itinerary accordingly.

Black Hills Itinerary: Day 1

  • Travel to Rapid City, South Dakota.
  • Stop at the Mitchell Corn Palace along the way.
  • Have lunch at The Depot Pub & Grill in Mitchell.
  • Continue on down the highway and stop to tour the South Dakota Air And Space Museum.
  • Upon arriving in Rapid City, visit the free Dinosaur Park and Storybook Island . Be sure to take lots of photos!
  • Have dinner and drinks at Independent Ale House ; awesome pizza, beer, and a chill atmosphere.

Rapid City, South Dakota

U.S. Interstate 90 is the main route for ground travel into the Black Hills region.

Opting to take this route, we left our hometown in Minnesota at dusk to begin our 8 – hour road trip to Rapid City, SD.

Black Hills Itinerary: Corn Palace

Mitchell Corn Palace

A right-of-passage when road-tripping to the Black Hills, we powered 300 miles to Mitchell, SD to visit the “World’s Only Corn Palace”.

Constructed in 1892, the Mitchell Corn Palace was built as a way to promote local agriculture.

Its crop-art decorated expo hall and uniquely designed corn murals attract more than a half-million visitors a year.

Luckily the Corn Palace is free to visit, as there is nothing overly exciting or intriguing about visiting other than to simply say that you have done it.

Tour the local shops, grab lunch and get back on the road.

Time spent at Mitchell Corn Palace: 30 minutes

Black Hills Itinerary: Air and Space Museum

South Dakota Air and Space Museum

Another free attraction, we found The South Dakota Air and Space Museum to be a real treat to visit as we continued our travels into Rapid City.

Our kids loved the outdoor airpark filled with WWII, Korea, Vietnam, and present-day aircraft.

Similarly, four indoor hangars showcase additional military history and technology displays, as well as include a great gift shop.

Bus tours of the local Ellsworth Air Force Base are available for little cost during limited months.

Time spent at the South Dakota Air and Space Museum: 45 minutes

Read our family-friendly Black Hills Itinerary from top U.S. family travel blog, Travel With A Plan!

Dinosaur Park

As one of the Black Hills’ first tourist attractions, this free family attraction has been open since 1936.

Dinosaur Park is home to giant concrete statues of dinosaurs and is located high up on a ridge overlooking the Black Hills.

Somewhat of a quirky roadside attraction, one can’t help but appreciate its historical age and spectacular 100-mile views.

Be mindful that there are quite a few uphill steps required from the parking lot to the dinosaur viewing area.

Time spent at Dinosaur Park: 30 minutes

Kids at Storybook Island

Storybook Island

Storybook Island is a beautiful children’s park that has whimsical play areas based on storybook characters.

There is not much that is off-limits at this giant play space as children are encouraged to play and climb on all of the character replicas.

Another free attraction in Rapid City, there is, however, a carousel, train ride, and bounce house with tickets for purchase.

Storybook Island is open Memorial Day to Labor Day, daily, from 9 AM – 7 PM, weather permitting.

Time spent: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Black Hills Badlands area

Alternate Option: Day 1

The other option for the afternoon of Day 1 is taking a one-hour drive to East to Badlands National Park.

Badlands National Park consists of a big area of colorful sharply eroded buttes and pinnacles, along with the largest undisturbed mixed grass prairie in the United States.

The rugged beauty of the Badlands draws visitors from around the world to view its dramatic layered rock formations and steep canyons.

Its incredibly unique landscapes and plentiful opportunities for exploration will make this an additional highlight on your family vacation to consider.

Additional planning tip: Looking for a similar experience to Badlands National Park? Consider visiting Theodore Roosevelt National Park in Medora, North Dakota.

This is another one of our favorite U.S. National Parks!

Black Hills Itinerary: Day 2

  • Grab a coffee at the Pour Bean Coffee House in Rapid City before getting on the road.
  • Travel along Highway 16 out of Rapid City and stop to visit Bear Country USA and/or Reptile Gardens .
  • Make your way to Mount Rushmore and take your time exploring there.
  • Eat lunch onsite at Carvers’ Cafe for excellent food and views of Mount Rushmore.
  • Travel to the Cosmos Mystery Area and have a blast!
  • End the day with a round of mini-golf at Pirate Cove in Rapid City.

Southern Black Hills

Mount Rushmore is the main draw to this area, so it is only fitting to include a visit to Mount Rushmore early in your Black Hills itinerary.

Likewise, if the weather becomes an issue, you’ll have the flexibility to visit on a different day.

Highway 16, the road to Mount Rushmore, is lined with several of the best Black Hills attractions for kids .

You will probably need to pick and choose what you want to stop and experience because this is where the admission costs will definitely start to add up.

Black Hills Itinerary: Bear Country USA

Bear Country U.S.A.

Head down Highway 16 W from Rapid City and in 9 miles you will come across signs for Bear Country U.S.A .

Bear Country is a drive-thru wildlife park that is ranked #8 in terms of things to do in the Black Hills.

Black bears, reindeer, elk, buffalo, and mountain lions can be viewed roaming free in their natural environment from the comfort of your car.

We had gone to a similar attraction before, so Bear Country U.S.A. was not one of our stops, but it is considered to be a slam dunk family experience.

Reviews mention getting there right away in the morning as that is when the animals are most active.

Admission is paid per person, or a maximum vehicle rate of $65.00. Get directions and other visitor information here.

Time spent at Bear Country U.S.A.: 2 – 3 hours

Reptile Gardens

If you would like to consider a different type of animal experience, it’s worth looking into visiting Reptile Gardens.

This Black Hills attraction is the world’s largest reptile zoo and is home to some of the world’s most venomous snakes.

Deemed both fun and educational, Reptile Gardens is ranked #4 in Trip Advisor’s recommended thing to do in the Black Hills and is located only 8 miles from its counterpart, Bear Country U.S.A.

Admission is steep at $18.00 for adults, $12.00 for children ages 5-12, children ages 4 and under are free.

Time spent at Reptile Gardens: 2-3 hours

Mount Rushmore with our kids

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

14 miles further down the highway is the majestic Mount Rushmore.

This is the one attraction you must see in the Black Hills as it tops the list of one of the best places to visit during a South Dakota road trip !

Mount Rushmore features the faces of 4 great U.S. Presidents carved 60 feet high out of the granite mountainside.

After admiring the enormous faces, there are numerous other ways to experience this site and immerse yourself in its surroundings.

Visitors can watch a 14-minute film depicting the history and carving of Mount Rushmore or walk the Presidential Trail to get up close to the mountain sculpture.

Children ages 3 and up can complete the Junior Ranger Program. (Booklets are available at the information desk.)

There is no entrance fee for Mount Rushmore Memorial, however, an $ 11 per vehicle fee is required to park.

Read my post on the Ultimate Guide to Visiting Mount Rushmore to learn exactly what to expect when visiting the memorial!

Time spent at Mount Rushmore: 1 – 2 hours

Black Hills Itinerary: Cosmos Mystery Area

Cosmos Mystery Area

Located 15 minutes from Mount Rushmore is Cosmos Mystery Area.

Known as ‘the strangest location in the Black Hills’ the Cosmos is a physically unforgettable family experience.

This was a highlight of our Black Hills itine r ary and a place that we recommend here at Travel With A Plan.

Read all about the Cosmos Mystery Area and its entrance fees here.

Time spent at Cosmos Mystery Area: 1 – 2 hours

Pirate Cove Adventure Golf

We capped off our day back in Rapid City with a round of mini-golf at Pirate Cove Adventure Golf.

I always like to include one stop at a mini-golf location in all of the ‘tourist-y’ cities that we visit. Pirate Cove was a great choice!

Additional planning tip: If any of these locations do not appeal to you, other places on this route that you could opt for include: Old MacDonald’s Farm , Rushmore Tramway Adventures, National Presidential Wax Museum , and the 1880 Train, among others.

Black Hills Itinerary: Day 3

  • Pack the car and a picnic for an entire day spent exploring the great outdoors!
  • Take time exploring Custer State Park while twisting and turning on Needles Highway , and looping through Wildlife Loop Road .
  • History buffs may want to check out nearby Crazy Horse Memorial . Adventure seekers will like Jewel or Wind Cave . And finally, kids will love the Mammoth Site Museum . All are a great choice!
  • Have dinner at our family favorite, Texas Roadhouse , back in Rapid City.

Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park

Custer State Park

Custer State Park is one of the few truly wild places that remain in this country.

Home to a famous herd of 1400 free-roaming bison, the park is also known for its awe-inspiring scenery, scenic drives, and prairie dog towns.

No trip to the Black Hills is complete without a visit to Custer State Park.

We loved every minute here – and so will you! With so much to see and do once there, you’ll definitely want to read this ultimate guide to Custer State Park !

Time spent at Custer State Park: 2 hours (There is enough to do here for 1 full day, however.)

The Best Things to Do in the Black Hills with your Family featured by top US family travel blog, Travel with a Plan: image of Needles Highway

Needles Highway

The 14-mile Needles Highway within Custer State Park is an absolutely spectacular drive through pine forests and rugged mountains.

The road’s name comes from the needle-like granite formations in which the highway was carved out.

Due to its high elevation, hairpin turns, and narrow passageways, this drive can be a bit stomach-churning. Its beauty is so captivating, however, that even the faint of heart is sure to appreciate it.

When making travel plans, be sure to allow ample time to travel at a safe speed – generally 25 MPH or slower.

Time spent driving Needles Highway: 45 – 60 minutes

The Best Things to Do in the Black Hills with your Family featured by top US family travel blog, Travel with a Plan

Wildlife Loop Road

The 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road takes visitors through open grasslands, red-walled canyons, and pine-covered hills to experience mother nature at its finest.

Depending on the day you might see buffalo, bighorn sheep, elk, whitetail deer, burros, prairie dogs, eagles, and hawks.

At the Loop Road’s southeastern tip, wild burros frequently approach car windows to ‘beg’ for treats. Occasionally, travelers will experience ‘wildlife jams’ as some of the park’s 1,400 roaming buffalo clog up the roadway.

Time spent driving Wildlife Look Road: 45 minutes

Crazy Horse Memorial

Crazy Horse Memorial is the world’s largest mountain carving and has been under construction since 1948.

Considered the Eighth Wonder of the World in progress, Crazy Horse attracts 1 to 1.5 million visitors a year who seek to watch history being made.

People either choose to see Crazy Horse Memorial in conjunction with Mount Rushmore or Custer State Park.

For this 4-day Black Hills itinerary, Crazy Horse Memorial is best visited after or during your visit to Custer State Park.

Time spent at Crazy Horse Memorial: 1-2 hours

The Best Things to Do in the Black Hills with your Family featured by top US family travel blog, Travel with a Plan

Jewel or Wind Cave

For those that are not claustrophobic like me, a trip to the Black Hills area would not be complete without a famous cave tour.

South Dakota happens to be home to some of the longest caves in the world. Likewise, the Black Hills feature two caves that are also National Parks.

Equally beautiful, however, each providing a unique experience, consider a visit to either Jewel Cave National Monument or Wind Cave National Park.

Fellow family travel blogger Allison from Tips for Family Trips provides the following comparison to help you choose.

Both within 25 minutes of Custer State Park, but in opposite directions, map out their locations to determine the most efficient travel plan.

Keep in mind that Jewel Cave is located closer to Crazy Horse Memorial.

On the other hand, Wind Cave is a short 15 minutes from Mammoth Site Museum.

Time spent: 2 hours per cave

Mammoth Site Museum

More than 26,000 years ago, dozens of woolly mammoths and other animals were trapped and died in a pond, which is now Hot Springs, SD.

The site was discovered during excavation for a housing development and is now preserved as an active dig site and public museum.

Mammoth Site Museum is fascinating and definitely worth seeing. There are hands-on dig experiences for children and knowledgeable guides that provide a fun and educational experience for the entire family.

General admission for Mammoth Site Museum is around $10 for adults, $7 for kids ages 4-12, and children 3 and under are free.

Time spent at Mammoth Site Museum: 1 – 2 hours

Black Hills Itinerary: Day 4

  • Visit the DC Booth Fish Hatchery and be sure to feed the fish and ducks while there.
  • Spend the day traveling through Spearfish Canyon stopping at ponds, rivers, and waterfalls.

Northern Black Hills

The last region to hit in this Black Hills itinerary is the region locals call the Northern Black Hills.

Here you’ll find many family-friendly things to do in the towns of Spearfish, Sturgis, Deadwood, and others.

Black Hills itinerary: DC Booth Fish Hatchery

Spearfish-DC Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery

We started off Day 4 by touring the beautiful grounds of the DC Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery.

DC Booth is one of the oldest operating hatcheries in the country dedicated to fish culture and resource management.

The hatchery covers ten park-like acres with paved walkways and lovely landscaping featuring flower gardens and sculptures. The grounds are well-maintained and very clean.

Attractions include ponds and “raceways” full of trout, a museum dedicated to fish culture, the historic home of the Booth family built in 1905, a boat and a railroad car that were used to transport fish, a cute gift shop, two hiking trails, and an underwater fish-viewing area.

Admission to t he hatchery grounds if free though they have quarter machines outside to buy food to feed the fish.

You can also buy bags of fish food in the gift shop for $1 or $2.

Time spent at DC Booth Fish Hatchery: 1 hour and 30 minutes

The Best Things to Do in the Black Hills with your Family featured by top US family travel blog, Travel with a Plan

Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway

Spearfish Canyon is a deep, but narrow gorge carved by the Spearfish River.

The 21-mile long Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway winds its way through the 1000-ft deep canyon and allows visitors a pristine view of multiple natural wonders.

Rock climbing, biking, hiking, and fishing are just a few of the activities that can be done throughout Spearfish Canyon. Our favorites were the up-close-and-personal encounters with the multiple waterfalls in the area.

Bridal Veil Falls, Roughlock Falls, and Spearfish Falls are all well worth the short walks to get to.

If you really want to discover the canyon off-of-the-beaten path, rent a bicycle or ATV at Spearfish Canyon Lodge.

Time spent: Several hours depending on how many stops you make.

Additional planning tip: To further customize your tour of the Northern Hills region, you can consider alternate stops at Devils Tower National Monument, the Black Hills Mining Museum in the town of Lead, or Bear Butte State Park in Sturgis.

Spearfish Canyon waterfall

Where to Stay When Visiting the Black Hills

Popular cities to lodge in during your Black Hills itinerary include Keystone, Hill City, and Custer , South Dakota.

We chose to stay in Rapid City, South Dakota. Rapid City has a central location, city-like conveniences (fast food, convenience stores, etc.), and an ample amount of lodging options.

Here, there is also a wide range of accommodation choices including family-friendly hotels, cabins, camping at campgrounds , or staying in vacation rentals .

Check here for the best deals on Rapid City hotels .

Black Hills Itinerary: Conclusion

We hope that this itinerary has provided you with fun inspiration for a Black Hills family vacation.

I recommend leaving your hotel by 8:00 or 9:00 AM every day and packing a picnic lunch on most days during your visit.

Similarly, be sure to pack a cooler with water and snacks to keep everyone content along the way.

Any Black Hills itinerary requires spending a lot of time spent in the car getting from place to place. It is worth consulting our essential road trip tips , and road trip food list to keep the kids calm and happy while traveling from place to place.

Would you add any other ‘must-dos’ to this Black Hills itinerary? Please comment below; we’d all love to hear from you! -Jen

*Before leaving, be sure to check our Travel Resources Page to find exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

If you liked this post on our 4-Day Black Hills Itinerary , click here to check out our Related Posts:

  • 15 Best Things to do in the Black Hills with Kids
  • United States Bucket List: Places to See Before the Kids Leave the Nest
  • How to Master a Family Road Trip and Enjoy It Too
  • Our Ultimate Family Camping Checklist (with FREE printable!)
  • 3-Day Glacier National Park Itinerary For Families

Pin it!

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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Wow! This is amazing! I have done a lot of reading on places to go and things to do and this is by far my favorite. Any way you have this in PDF or word document form that I can print or customize/edit to our family? [email protected]

Thank you so much! I am so glad you found our Black Hills itinerary helpful! I don’t have a pdf, but hopefully you were able to take some notes and that you have an AWESOME trip!!

Jen, I’ve shared this post with three other people. THANK YOU for your detail–you are making our vacation plans a breeze!

Awesome! Thank you so much! I am so glad to hear this! Where are you going to next??

Great information! Thank you for adding approximately how long to plan to visit the sites so I can plan our days.

You are very welcome! I hope that you have a fabulous time!!

I am planning a trip out here this summer with my 2 kids. This is exactly what I have needed to finish the details. You have several things listed here that we want to do and now I know what days we should do which adventures!! Thanks so much for putting this together.

You are very welcome! I’m glad you found this article helpful! Have a great trip!!!

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24 Top Things to Do in South Dakota

Boasting fascinating historic sites, the Mount Rushmore State has much to offer.

Top things to do in South Dakota

Getty Images

Exploring the stunning and otherworldly landscape of the Badlands is just one of many things to do in South Dakota.

Across a vast expanse of natural beauty, South Dakota is rich in history, outdoor activities and one-of-a-kind experiences. The state boasts two of the longest caves in the world, the world's largest mammoth research facility, the final resting place of western legends, sacred Native American sites and many other unique attractions the whole family will love.

Ready to start planning your trip? From Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills to Badlands National Park and Crazy Horse Monument, read on for a list of the top things to do in South Dakota.

(Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

Crazy Horse Memorial: Crazy Horse

This larger-than-life mountain monument is dedicated to Crazy Horse (Tasunke Witco in Lakota), who led a band of Lakota warriors against George Custer's battalion at the Battle of the Little Bighorn. The Crazy Horse monument, which has been under construction since 1948, is located in the heart of the Black Hills and is the world's largest sculptural undertaking. Despite the fact that the monument remains unfinished, it attracts more than 1 million visitors every year.

During your visit, you can also check out the Indian Museum of North America, which houses artwork and artifacts from more than 300 Native Nations, as well as the Native American Educational and Cultural Center, where you can learn about Native American history and culture through hands-on activities and instruction from Native artists.

Throughout the year, the campus also hosts cultural performances, speaker series, art workshops, laser light shows and more. You can also dine at the Laughing Water Restaurant before you leave. Visitors say the memorial is a great place to learn about the Indigenous people of the region and to witness history in the making.

Address: 12151 Avenue of the Chiefs, Crazy Horse, SD 57730

Mount Rushmore: Keystone

Top things to do in South Dakota

Carved into the Six Grandfathers Mountain, as it was known by the Lakota Sioux, Mount Rushmore is a tribute to four presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. Located less than 25 miles southwest of Rapid City, the monument was first carved in 1927, and the final drilling took place in 1941. The end result was four faces, each 60 feet tall – the original plans included the presidents' bodies down to their waists, but the project ran out of funds.

Past visitors call Mount Rushmore a bucket list item and recommend taking one of the ranger-guided tours. One of the top attractions in the U.S. , monument is busiest during the summer months, so if you want smaller crowds (without the cold weather), time your visit to Mount Rushmore for May, September or October.

Address: 13000 state Highway 244, Keystone, SD 57751

[ Mount Rushmore Tour Options: Meals, Music & Mount Rushmore | Mount Rushmore Bus Tour ]

Custer State Park

Top things to do in South Dakota

Located roughly 30 miles southwest of Rapid City, Custer State Park boasts rolling hills, granite peaks and crystal-clear water. Whether you're planning a daytrip or want to stay overnight (the park offers campgrounds and the historic Custer State Park Resort), there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Options include hiking, biking, fishing, boating, hunting, horseback riding, swimming and snowshoeing.

The park is also famous for its herd of nearly 1,500 free-roaming bison, as well as a variety of other wildlife, including deer, antelope, mountain goats, elk, coyotes, bighorn sheep, wild turkeys and more. Many visitors particularly recommend a visit to Sylvan Lake, which features calm water and stunning rock formations that make it a popular wedding destination.

[Read: The Best Midwest Vacations for Families .]

Badlands National Park

Top things to do in South Dakota

About 60 miles southeast of Rapid City, you'll find Badlands National Park. The park's otherworldly landscape is a labyrinth of pinnacles, buttes, spires and canyons, which formed over the course of 75 million years. It's also home to ancient fossils of saber-toothed cats and three-toed horses, among other species. Even if you just want to drive through the park via the Badlands Loop Road, you'll likely want to make several stops to take in the region's fascinating topography. Recent visitors praised Badlands National Park's excellent hiking trails, but the Badlands are also a great place to observe wildlife, ride horses, go for a bike ride or spot constellations in the night sky – the park even hosts an annual Astronomy Festival every summer. Plus, for visitors looking to stay overnight, the park offers two official campgrounds.

Wind Cave National Park: Hot Springs

Top things to do in South Dakota

Wind Cave, named for the barometric winds coming out of the cave's entrance, is the first cave in the world to be declared a national park. According to Lakota oral tradition, the cave is a sacred place from which humans and bison first emerged to live on the earth's surface. Spanning more than 150 miles, Wind Cave National Park is the sixth-longest cave in the world and is home to the world's largest concentration of boxwork formations – a rare structure of honeycomb calcite on the cave's walls. If you're planning a visit, make sure you reserve a ranger-guided tour early, as they often sell out a few hours in advance.

Above the cave, you can experience the biodiversity of the prairie. There are more than 30 miles of hiking trails, and you'll be able to see free-roaming bison, prairie dogs, elk, various birds and more.

The park has an official campground, but backcountry camping is also an option for more experienced adventurers. Recent visitors say the rangers and visitor center staff are very knowledgeable about the area, and even if you don't get to tour the cave, the park is worth a visit.

Address: 26611 U.S. Route 385, Hot Springs, SD 57747

National Music Museum: Vermillion

Located at the University of South Dakota in Vermillion – about 60 miles south of Sioux Falls – the National Music Museum reopened its doors in 2021 after three years of extensive renovations. While the museum's permanent exhibits are still closed – select spaces will open in 2022 – the museum hosts various events where guests can experience different musical styles and genres via live performances.

As exhibits begin reopening, visitors will be able to learn about the art and craft of musical instruments and the role they play in our lives. You'll also be able to see and learn about the various musical instruments that have been used throughout human history in different cultures and civilizations. For anyone who appreciates music and its contribution to the human experience, recent travelers highly recommend the National Music Museum.

Address: 414 E. Clark St., Vermillion, SD 57069

Jewel Cave: Custer

South Dakota's intriguing Jewel Cave, located roughly 50 miles southwest of Rapid City, is the third-longest cave in the world. With more than 210 miles of mapped and surveyed passages, the cave provides a fascinating array of colors, fragile formations and scientific mysteries.

Guided cave tours are available, though they tend to sell out quickly, so book in advance. Keep in mind, tours range from moderately difficult to strenuous, so consider your health and potential physical limitations before booking. The historic lantern tour is a half-mile route through low and narrow passages with a tour guide dressed in 1930s garb, and the only light is provided by lanterns. The scenic tour, the cave's most popular tour, is another half-mile route that includes a visit to various chambers and passages along a paved trail with electric lighting. Meanwhile, the discovery tour is a short 20-minute introduction to Jewel Cave and is an excellent option for those who require a wheelchair or have difficulty climbing stairs. Past visitors to this tourist attraction say that the cave is an otherworldly experience and a great activity for families with small children.

Address: 11149 U.S. Route 16, Building B12, Custer, SD 57730

South Dakota Air and Space Museum: Philip

Situated less than 12 miles outside of Rapid City, the South Dakota Air and Space Museum is home to an extensive collection of aircraft, documents and artifacts that provide a complete history of Ellsworth Air Force Base, which played a crucial role in the Cold War. Here, visitors will be able to see B-29, B-52 and B-1 bombers; Titan I and Minuteman intercontinental ballistic missiles; an intact missile silo; and other artifacts.

Entrance to the museum is free, but there is a small fee for the bus tour to the missile silo. As you plan your trip, note that the indoor galleries are closed in January and February and tours of the base and the missile silo are only offered from mid-May to mid-September. Recent visitors called the South Dakota Air and Space Museum an excellent educational experience, particularly if you're an aviation or history buff.

Address: 24545 Cottonwood Road, Philip, SD 57567

Old Courthouse Museum: Sioux Falls

Sitting in downtown Sioux Falls, the Old Courthouse Museum is a restored 19th-century quartzite building with various exhibits detailing the history of the region. Inside the courthouse, you'll find granite pillars, slate stairs, tiled fireplaces and stained-glass windows. Meanwhile, 16 large murals, painted in the early 20th century, adorn the museum's hallways and depict early life in the Dakota Territory – the territory, which formed in 1861, initially included both North and South Dakota, as well as portions of Wyoming and Montana . The courthouse also features various exhibits where visitors can learn about the radiomen of World War II, the city planning efforts of early Sioux Falls, Native American tools and more.

Past visitors say that the museum provides an interesting look at the region's history, and the architecture of the building alone makes it worth the trip. Both admission to the museum and two-hour parking are free of charge.

Address: 200 W. Sixth St., Sioux Falls, SD 57104

The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs: Hot Springs

Top things to do in South Dakota

Courtesy of The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs

This paleontological site and museum, located in Hot Springs, is ideal for history buffs. Despite the age of its ancient inhabitants, the site was only recently discovered when a heavy machine operator struck a 7-foot-long mammoth tusk while leveling the ground for a housing development in 1974. Still an active dig site, this attraction has produced a variety of Ice Age fossils, including bones from mammoths, mollusks, giant short-faced bears, camels and more.

The museum also offers self-guided tours, along with various classes, learning activities, summer classes and other opportunities to learn about paleontology, archaeology, animal tracks and other related topics. Past visitors say The Mammoth Site is a great experience for both adults and children and offers fascinating archeological displays.

The site is open year-round, with the exception of select holidays, and charges a fee for admission (kids 3 and younger are free).

Address: 1800 Highway 18 Bypass, Hot Springs, SD 57747

Spearfish Canyon

Top things to do in South Dakota

Predating the Grand Canyon , Spearfish Canyon is one of the most beautiful places to visit in South Dakota. The canyon stretches between Spearfish, which is near the South Dakota-Wyoming border, and Cheyenne Crossing, 20 miles to the south. Driving through the canyon, expect to see towering limestone cliffs, spruces, Ponderosa pines, aspens, birches and other tree varieties. You may also come across deer, mountain goats, porcupines and bobcats.

Some of the major attractions you'll want to include on your itinerary are Roughlock Falls, Spearfish Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, a cascading 60-foot waterfall with an observation platform. Plan your trip between September and October to experience Spearfish Canyon's beautiful fall foliage . Locals never tire of driving through the canyon, but some visitors say that you'll need to get out of your car and hike to get the full experience.

Bear Country USA: Rapid City

On the road to Mount Rushmore from Rapid City, you'll find Bear Country USA. Open from spring through late November, the drive-thru wildlife park allows you to get up close and personal with a variety of animals, including black bears, elk, mountain lions, buffalo and reindeer, all from the comfort of your car. There's also a Wildlife Walk area at this tourist attraction where you'll find demonstrations, programs, keeper chats, a restaurant and a gift shop.

Many past guests say it's a great experience to see the animals in a more natural setting, although some note that depending on the time of day, it can get busy and the animals may be sleeping. Keep in mind, the park charges based on the number of occupants in each vehicle, not per vehicle. Understandably, convertibles, motorcycles and soft-top vehicles aren't allowed, but the park does offer free courtesy vehicles you can use.

Address: 13820 U.S. Route 16, Rapid City, SD 57702

Historic Deadwood

Top things to do in South Dakota

Established in 1876, Deadwood was a Wild West town established by gold prospectors. About 15 miles southeast of Spearfish, the town is now filled with attractions and fun activities. You can visit Mount Moriah Cemetery to see the graves of legends like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane, visit the town brothel to learn about Deadwood's history of prostitution – which didn't end until 1980 – and check out the Adams Museum, which was founded in 1930 and provides a look into the history of the Black Hills. Some of the artifacts on display include a pencil sketch drawing of Wild Bill Hickok and Potato Creek Johnny's original 7.346-troy-ounce gold nugget.

The town is also home to several casinos and gaming halls, a handful of breweries and wineries, and shops where you can buy souvenirs, Amish furniture and a variety of other wares. Visitors say the charm of the Wild West is well preserved in the town and particularly enjoy the daily shootout reenactment.

Sturgis Motorcycle Rally: Sturgis

Motorcycles at Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

Courtesy of Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

If you're a hardcore biker, there's nothing quite like the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Every year, hundreds of thousands of motorcyclists descend on the small town of Sturgis for one of the largest and longest-running motorcycle rallies in the world. Some non-bikers visit the town during the rally, which begins on the first Friday of August and lasts for 10 days, just to take in the experience. The rally hosts several events, including an opening ceremony, a pub crawl, a golf tournament, a beard and mustache contest, and a 5k run. There are also concerts with a mix of home-grown bands and household names.

With so many people visiting this small town at once, be prepared to plan your accommodations well in advance. Options include hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, cabins, cottages, vacation rentals, campgrounds and RV parks.

Reptile Gardens: Rapid City

Just 7 miles south of Rapid City, Reptile Gardens is in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the world's largest reptile zoo. You won't find more species and subspecies of reptiles at any other zoo or wildlife park anywhere on earth. This unique park is set in beautiful botanical gardens, which feature a variety of flora and fauna, and it even houses some of the world's deadliest snakes, along with turtles, tortoises, lizards, crocodilians, birds, amphibians, bugs and some species that are native to South Dakota. In addition to the exhibits, which include a nearly 16-foot-long saltwater crocodile and giant tortoises you can mingle with, the park also hosts bird and snake shows, oceanic art, a gift shop and a cafe.

Admission prices vary based on what time of the year you visit, with the summer season costing more than the others. Visitors recommend going early in the day to beat the crowds, but note that if you go during the offseason when admission is cheaper, you may miss out on some shows and experiences.

Address: 8955 U.S. Route 16, Rapid City, SD 57702

Good Earth State Park at Blood Run: Sioux Falls

South Dakota's newest state park is located just outside of Sioux Falls near the Iowa border. The National Historic Landmark is an important cultural and historical site, as it's one of the oldest sites of long-term human habitation in the country. The combination of the river, flood plains, wildlife, pipestone and protection from winds made the area a gathering place for ceremonies and a trading center for Native Americans between A.D. 1300 and 1700.

At the massive visitor center, you can check out the exhibits and programs that highlight the area's historical and cultural significance. You'll also find hiking trails, fishing holes, picnic tables and other activities that allow you to connect with nature. Past visitors of the park have noted that the hiking trails are relatively easy with great views and the visitor center exhibits are impressive.

Address: 26924 480th Ave., Sioux Falls, SD 57108

Needles Highway

Top things to do in South Dakota

This 14-mile scenic byway lies just 30 miles south of Rapid City, but you'll feel like you've entered a completely different world. Completed in 1922, the road has you traverse sharp turns and narrow tunnels, dwarfed at every turn by needlelike granite spires. You'll also pass through tranquil meadows surrounded by birch and aspen trees. The drive takes about 45 minutes to an hour, and you'll want to take it slow, not only for safety reasons but also to savor the stunning views. However, recent visitors suggest going early in the day to avoid congestion on the road.

Note that Needles Highway closes every year with the first snow of the season and doesn't reopen again until April 1, or possibly later, depending on the weather conditions.

Storybook Island: Rapid City

A lot of the top places to visit in South Dakota are focused on the state's natural beauty and historical and cultural significance. But if you're looking for a fun place to entertain your kids, Storybook Island in Rapid City should be on your radar. Just keep in mind, the theme park is only open during the summer season. It doesn't charge admission, but there is a small fee for rides on the park's carousel and train.

The family-friendly theme park provides more than 100 storybook and nursery rhyme settings where children can play, as well as live theater productions to entertain the whole family. Past visitors call this unique attraction a must if you have small children, and while some exhibits are showing signs of age – the park has been around for more than 60 years – it doesn't appear to take away from the experience.

Address: 1301 Sheridan Lake Road, Rapid City, SD 57702

Porter Sculpture Park: Montrose

Top things to do in South Dakota

Courtesy of Porter Sculpture Park

A little more than 30 miles northwest of Sioux Falls, Porter Sculpture Park offers a fascinating set of eclectic, larger-than-life metal sculptures created by Wayne Porter. The park is home to more than 50 installations, including a 60-foot-tall bull head, a butterfly, potted flowers and a pink rocking horse. You're more than welcome to touch and even climb on the art, making the park an excellent destination for families with children, and if you have trouble walking, there are golf carts available.

If you're on your way to or from Sioux Falls, visitors say it's worth the detour. Admission is affordable, and kids 12 and younger can get in for free. Keep in mind, the park is only open between mid-May and mid-October.

Address: 25700 451st Ave., Montrose, SD 57048

Black Elk Peak

Top things to do in South Dakota

If you're an avid hiker, Black Elk Peak should be on your bucket list. The mountain is the highest point between the Rocky Mountains and the Pyrenees Mountains in France. At the 7,242-foot peak, hikers will be able to take in views that stretch to North Dakota, Montana, Nebraska and Wyoming. At the top, visitors can also check out the stone fire tower that was built in 1938 by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

There are more than a dozen different trails that you can take to get to the top of Black Elk Peak, most of which range from 7 to 13 miles round trip. Note, however, that some trails require paid entry to Custer State Park. Visitors say the hikes range from moderate to difficult with some rocky areas and steep inclines, but the views are worth it.

Butterfly House & Aquarium: Sioux Falls

Top things to do in South Dakota

Courtesy of Butterfly House & Aquarium

Located in Sioux Falls, the Butterfly House & Aquarium is perfect for children and adults alike. At the Butterfly House, visitors will get the chance to walk among more than 800 free-flying butterflies. You can even purchase feeding equipment to have the insects eating out of your hand. At the aquarium, you'll get to see hundreds of species of fish and coral. There's also a Pacific tide pool, where you can see and touch some of the animals that are found along the coast from Southern California up to Alaska.

Past visitors say the Butterfly House is a calm and serene experience, and while the aquarium is on the small side, there's still a lot to see.

Address: 4320 S. Oxbow Ave., Sioux Falls, SD 57106

Falls Park: Sioux Falls

Top things to do in South Dakota

If you only have time to do one thing in Sioux Falls, locals recommend Falls Park, which is where the city got its name. Spanning more than 128 acres, the park lies north of the downtown area and features a stretch of the Big Sioux River where it flows over three tiers of rose-colored quartzite. On average, 7,400 gallons of water drop 100 feet over the falls every second.

Visitors can take in the majestic falls from various viewing platforms throughout the park, including a five-story observation tower. For a more active park experience, check out one of the park's many walking and biking trails. Falls Park is easy to reach and is a great free activity the whole family can enjoy.

Address: 131 E. Falls Park Drive, Sioux Falls, SD 57104

Termesphere Gallery: Spearfish

Top things to do in South Dakota

Courtesy of Termesphere Gallery

Located near Spearfish, the Termesphere Gallery is one of the more unique experiences visitors can have in South Dakota. Termespheres are spherical paintings that their creator, artist Dick Termes, calls a three-dimensional exploration of an entirely closed universe. Some recent visitors call the artist's work a hidden gem in the Black Hills. You can even purchase one of Termes' pieces through his website. The gallery is open seven days a week, but entrance is by appointment only. To make an appointment to visit, call 605-642-4805.

Address: 1920 Christensen Drive, Spearfish, SD 57783

Spirit Mound Historic Prairie: Vermillion

If you've ever wanted to walk in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, Spirit Mound Historic Prairie is one South Dakota attraction you don't want to miss. Due to the ever-changing course of the Missouri River, other sites they visited are in doubt. In the area near Vermillion, the pair of explorers visited the top of Spirit Mound in an attempt to understand the site's mysterious legend. The local Sioux, Omaha and Otoe tribes believed that 18-inch humans with large heads lived on the mound. In fact, Indigenous people feared the area, believing the little people to be devils who would kill anyone who approached. Today, visitors can enjoy a tranquil hike to the mound while contemplating its historical and spiritual significance.

Address: 31148 state Highway 19, Vermillion, SD 57069

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' class=

The great advice on the forum suggests we'd like Hill City as our base in this area. But how long should we stay?

We're national park / scenery / walking folk and are keen to see Mount Rushmore, Black Hills , Badlands, Jewel Cave, Crazy Horse Monument, Custer State Park and doubtless more great sights I haven't even come across yet.

How does 4 nights sound?

Any advice would be most welcome!

' class=

To see what other things there are to see and do in the Black Hills, I recommend you order the free South Dakota Travel Planner at: http://www.travelsd.com which they will send internationally.

You might also want to order the “Moon Guide to Mount Rushmore, the Black Hills and the Badlands”. I have found it a good resource for my trips to the BH.

Note: You will want to avoid the Black Hills during the first 2 weeks of August due to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally which bring tens of thousands of bikers to the region.

In SD, I also recommend The Mammoth Site

how long to visit south dakota

We did this last summer with a ten year old and four nights worked well.

Day 1 - Mt. Rushmore

Day 2 - Badlands NP, Wall, would have done Jewel Cave but there were elevator problems, back to Mt. Rushmore for lighting

Day 4 - Bear Country (highlight for the 10 yr old), President in Rapid City

Day 5 - Mammouth Dig, Crazy Horse

I highly recommending spending 2 nights in Cody, WY, to see the Buffalo Bill Museum complex. which takes an entire day to see. This is a great stop on the way to the Tetons and Yellowstone.

You will definitely want to avoid SD during the Sturgis Rally next August. The dates are Aug 7-16.

Thanks for all the great advice!

how long to visit south dakota

I would plan the wildlife loop if for nothing else, you would get to see the begging burro's. You won't see those in Yellowstone.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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how long to visit south dakota

Just Short of Crazy

14 Memorable Things To Do In South Dakota

In the midst of an epic trip, we discovered a great number of Things to do in South Dakota.

Our trip had us traveling across the entire state via I-90 and there were many, many farm fields that guided us across the state.

We would drive for miles and miles seeing nothing but endless fields. 

However, along the way, we found amazing views, cultural attractions, and more fun than we were able to handle on this trip.

There are so many great things to do in South Dakota that we are making plans to visit again soon.

Things To Do In South Dakota

Here are some of the great attractions in South Dakota that you just might want to experience. 

Whether you are taking a long road trip as we enjoyed, or your destination is one specific South Dakota location, this list is amazing.

Fun Outdoor Adventures in South Dakota

Panning for gold in the Black Hills. We only found 2 small pieces of gold, but we had a lot of fun panning for gold.

Jewel Cave is well worth the visit. We took a tour that included lots and lots of stairs but it was completely worth it. Simply stunning.

Of course, Mount Rushmore is a highlight when you visit South Dakota. It is a pretty impressive piece of work.

Everyone needs to camp at Custer State Park at least once in their life. The wildlife viewing alone is worth the visit.

Taking a tour of the Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary is a great way to spend the morning. We had a lot of fun getting (fairly) up close and personal with the wild horses.

Unique Roadside Attractions

If you are driving through South Dakota you MUST stop at Wall Drug Store. It has enough quirkiness to keep you busy for hours on end.

You will see billboard signs for Wall Drugs all along I-90, traveling west you will probably see at least 50. 

Continuing with interesting things to see when traveling through South Dakota be sure to visit the World’s Only Corn Palace.

Located just off of I-90, there is a whole lot of corn going on at the Corn Palace and it is definitely something to see.

Along your trip you will cross over the Missouri River. There is a rest stop on the east side of the river that offers fantastic views.

Falls Park in Sioux Falls is a great place to get out and stretch your legs.

Enjoy the warmth and beauty inside the Butterfly House and Aquarium in Sioux Falls.

Learn about outdoor activities, cooking, and more at the Outdoor Campus in Sioux Falls.

Looking for a bit of rainy day fun? Head over to the Washington Pavilion in Sioux Falls. It is three great attractions in one: Science Museum, Art Center and Performing Art Center. Fun for the entire family.

Take a walk on the wild side at the Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum of Natural History.

In the midst of an epic trip, we discovered a great number of Things to do in South Dakota. Our trip had us traveling across the entire state via I-90 and there were many, many farm fields that guided us across the state. We would drive for miles and miles seeing nothing but endless fields.  However, along the way, we found amazing views, cultural attractions, and more fun than we were able to handle on this trip. There are so many great things to do in South Dakota that we are making plans to visit again soon. Things To Do […]

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  • 8 Most Overlooked Towns In South Dakota

Of the two Dakotas in the  US , the most geographically iconic and culturally defining is  South Dakota . Once the hunting grounds and territory of the proud Dakota and Lakota Sioux peoples, South Dakota is now home to some of the most overlooked towns that will surprise and amaze you. In towns like Custer and Hill City, where seminal and monumental faces gaze out into the land, history and nature beckon with the remains of a bygone era as seen in Deadwood and Wall.

Enjoy the simple pleasures of this friendly state’s atmosphere; South Dakota does not discourage nor displease. On your journey through the geographical center of the US, try not to overlook the many incredible towns South Dakota has to offer.

Aerial View of Custer, South Dakota at sunset.

The American wilderness and famous national parks come alive in the town of Custer. Only about 41 miles from Rapid City, there is a reason why Custer is often an overlooked town in the area. Most people would rather explore the  Custer State Park , the  Wind Cave National Park , the Crazy Horse Memorial, and the  Mount Rushmore National Memorial  to see the iconic features and creations of both nature and man. Yet the town itself is not to be underestimated nor disregarded.

As the oldest town in the  Black Hills , there is a stunning degree of history and culture to cherish as you explore other monumental attractions surrounding Custer. For example, from September 26 to 28, one can witness the annual Custer State Park Buffalo Round Up & Arts Festival, where modern-day wranglers corral thousands of thunderous buffalos. On September 29, the Crazy Horse Volksmarch challenges people on a 6.2-mile pilgrimage to the face of Crazy Horse. No need to feel lost and worried in Custer because a selection of lodgings—Calamity Peak Lodge, Bavarian Inn, The Ponderosa, and Shady Rest Motel & Cabins, among others—will cater to your needs.

The Capitol Building of South Dakota in Pierre, South Dakota.

Despite being the capital city of South Dakota,  Pierre  is the second least populous US state capital, with a population of about 14,000 people in comparison to the much larger population at  Sioux Falls . Because of its position in the  Missouri River , Pierre is the geographic center of South Dakota and was once the settlement of the Arikara and Sioux, who Lewis and Clark visited during their expedition. As the state capital, one can marvel at the governor’s mansion, which has retained much of its austerity since 1937. You might also be interested in visiting the Flaming Fountain, a memorial for war veterans, or learning about Pierre’s past at the Cultural Heritage Center.

If you want a direct window to the past, then tour the grounds of Fort Pierre, the original fur-trading nexus of the Northwest from 1832 to 1855. There, a monument marks the spot where a 1743 lead plate claiming South Dakota for France was buried. Nearby, the Oahe Dam regulates the flow of Lake Oahe, the Missouri River, and the Cheyenne River. For accommodations, consider the Historic Farr House or Hitching Horse Inn as options among many.

Downtown Hill City, South Dakota.

The vibrant Hill City shares many of the natural amenities one can enjoy at Custer, which is approximately 14 miles away. Although Hill City is also a good jumping point to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and other natural features that Custer similarly promises, what sets Hill City apart from its neighbors are a handful of features unique to the town.

The Jewel Cave National Monument , for example, is the third largest and longest cave system in the world, with stunning subterranean formations and depths that entice the curious spelunker. The CCC Museum of South Dakota elaborates on the region’s cultural and environmental impacts, while the Museum @ Black Hills Institute exhibits the many dinosaur and prehistoric fossils uncovered from the Black Hills and the surrounding area. There are many more surprises to find in Hill City, but first, you ought to book a room at the Alpine Inn, the EverSpring Inn & Suites, or the Black Hills Trailside Park Resort.

Aerial View of Brandon, South Dakota in Winter

Brandon is an excellent, 18-minute-away getaway from the high populations of Sioux Falls. There are many ecological and local features that will surely be worth the exploration. The Big Sioux Recreation Area is a hotbed of biodiversity, containing unique creatures and offering many hiking and trekking trails for your recreational leisure. Nearby, the Great Bear Recreation Park offers several exciting opportunities for snowboarding and skiing in the last wintry months of the year, while the Beaver Creek State Nature Area entices explorers to more of South Dakota’s wilderness.

Elsewhere, the Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum and East Sioux Falls Historic Site is a lush and vibrant location riddled with rapids and brimming with floral delights. As magnificent as Sioux Falls can be, it is a refreshing experience to be away from the big city and enjoy the simplicity that Brandon has to offer.

Large 80-foot dinosaur at the entrance of the town of Wall,

Welcome to the town of Wall, just 50 minutes east of  Rapid City . Notwithstanding the imposing name, Wall is a gateway to the untamed and ferocious landscapes of the  Badlands National Park . Within those striated mesas and wind-carved rock formations are several photo-worthy points, such as the Badlands Wilderness Overlook, Yellow Mounds Overlook, and Pinnacles Overlook, to name a few.

At the Sage Creek Wilderness Area, the booming herds of buffalos roam wild and free. In the town itself, visitors can sample free ice water from the foundational and iconic Wall Drug Store while admiring the Delta-09 Minuteman Missile Silo—a relic from the Cold War —and playing around with paleontological trinkets at the Wall Drug Backyard. When all your excitement and adventures get you weary, settle down at the Hansen Inn & Cabins for a peaceful evening.

Campus of the University of South Dakota in Vermillion.

Cherish the autumnal atmosphere and the vermillion delights of Vermillion, located near the border between South Dakota and Nebraska. Striding atop a bluff overlooking the Missouri River and approximately 38 minutes from Sioux City, travelers will find Vermillion an enlightening and enjoyable village. As home to the University of South Dakota and one of  the best college towns in South Dakota , there are many educational attractions to please the most clerical and scholarly of people.

The National Music Museum (also known as America’s Shrine to Music) is particularly enchanting and informative, while the W.H. Over Museum and the Austin-Whittemore House are prime spots to learn more about Vermillion’s history. Cultural venues such as the South Dakota Shakespeare Festival on June 6 to 9 are must-sees. Should you wish to stay a while at Vermillion, do accept Prairie Inn as one of your choices of establishment.

Historic downtown of Deadwood, South Dakota.

Deadwood came alive in 1876 when it was a crucial site for prospectors and gold miners to seek their fortunes. The town came alive again when the 2004 TV series  Deadwood  portrayed the lawlessness of the area and the legendary cowboys like Wild Bill Hickok,  Calamity Jane , and Seth Bullock, who plundered Deadwood’s treasures. Nowadays, you can visit the graves of these historic figures at the Mount Moriah Cemetery. Take pictures of the still and metallic statues of the Tatanka Story of Bison, or hike up to the Mount Roosevelt Friendship Tower for panoramic sights of the area.

To understand more about Deadwood’s tumultuous upbringing, read all about the town’s past at the Adams Museum, in addition to seeing a plesiosaur fossil and buckets of gold nuggets. Venture into the wild and unchanged realm of the Black Hills National Forest by braving the George S. Mickelson Trail for scenic explorations of the place. And to spend a much longer time in Deadwood, find accommodations at the Lodge at Deadwood or Historic Bullock Hotel.

Aerial view of Spearfish, South Dakota.

About 20 minutes from Deadwood, the town of  Spearfish  is a pleasant and arboreal place to soak in the soft chills and warmth of South Dakota. Lush and verdant trails, mixed with beautiful waterfalls, dominate the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway on your route toward the D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery. There, you will be educated and entertained by the preservation of the aquatic ecosystems of South Dakota. The Termesphere Gallery provides a surreal tour through strange and mesmerizing artworks.

In Spearfish Creek, one can stumble upon unique natural pools called “Devil’s Bathtubs.” Remnants of the Westward expansion—like a stagecoach, chuck wagon, and a model homestead—can be admired at the High Plains Western Heritage Center. Similar to Vermillion, Spearfish is home to the prestigious Black Hills State University, an epicenter for learning and enlightenment in South Dakota.

From the rushing waters of the Missouri River to the  presidential faces of Mount Rushmore , there are many locations and sites that will leave even the most hardened and callous adventurers astounded. The most overlooked towns in South Dakota are especially promising when delivering cultural and geological treasures for you to cherish. If Deadwood’s Wild West history of gold and lawlessness does not appeal to you, if Crazy Horse, Mount Rushmore, Wind Cave, and more at Custer do not leave you breathless, and if Brandon’s laidback atmosphere or Vermillion’s rosy delights do not suffice, then nothing will. But for the sake of enjoyment and adventure, immerse yourself in the most overlooked towns in South Dakota.

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Super Tuesday has arrived. Here's what to expect

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Ximena Bustillo

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A woman drops her ballot into a ballot box on Monday at the Los Angeles County Registrar in Norwalk, Calif. Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

A woman drops her ballot into a ballot box on Monday at the Los Angeles County Registrar in Norwalk, Calif.

Voters in 16 states and one territory will make their voices heard Tuesday in the biggest primary election day of the 2024 cycle. Also known as Super Tuesday, this biggest single primary contest day will result in over a third of delegates assigned to determine the Republican presidential nominee.

As a result, this is effectively former U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Nikki Haley's last shot to slow former President Donald Trump's path toward nomination. Ahead of the mammoth election night, Haley's campaign launched a seven-figure national cable and digital ad buy to run through at least Tuesday in hopes of winning over voters. Her campaign has also been crisscrossing the U.S. in the final days ahead of March 5 to meet as many voters as possible.

Trump will be entering the week coming off wins in Haley's home state of South Carolina , winning 60% of the vote there, and Michigan , where he secured about 70% of the vote. While Trump does lead on delegate count and votes, having won every primary but one thus far, Haley is still securing a third of voters, which could be an eventual concern for Trump in what's shaping up to be a general election rematch with President Biden on Nov. 5.

Delegate tracker: Trump leads GOP presidential candidates on road to nomination

Delegate tracker: Trump leads GOP presidential candidates on road to nomination

Super Tuesday is not the end of the primary season. The remaining states will vote through the summer and fall on their primary slates. Republicans will gather in July in Milwaukee for their convention to officially nominate the GOP candidate for the general election, and Democrats will gather in Chicago in August to select their candidate.

What is Super Tuesday, and which states are voting?

It's known as Super Tuesday because that's when votes will be tallied from the most states at once in the presidential primary. The states holding primary elections that conclude on March 5 are Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont and Virginia. Democrats in the U.S. territory of American Samoa will also be caucusing, and Democrats in Iowa will release the results of their presidential preference caucus. (American Samoa's Republican presidential caucus will be held on Friday.)

Get caught up on the delegate count of each Republican presidential candidate with NPR's tracker.

When will we know results?

Because voting will be taking place across six time zones, it may take hours and days to determine the winners of delegates and the winning party candidates to move onto the general elections for governor, state legislature and congressional seats.

In some states, it may take longer to count mail-in ballots. For example, in California, mail-in ballots must be postmarked by March 5 and received by county election offices by March 12 , meaning not all votes will be tallied on Tuesday, especially for races with close margins.

Final polls will start closing at 7 p.m. ET — in Virginia and Vermont.

Whom are people voting for on Super Tuesday?

Really basically, Trump and Haley will be the options on the Republican presidential primary ballot. President Biden will be the option for Democrats, though Democratic Rep. Dean Phillips of Minnesota is still running a long shot challenge.

But candidates who have dropped out will still appear on the ballot in some places because of the rules to get on a ballot in each state. So, while voters might be able to vote for entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy or businessman Ryan Binkley on the Republican side, those candidates are not in the race.

As for third-party options like Robert F. Kennedy and professor Cornel West , those candidates will not be on the major-party primary ballots because they are not running on a major-party ticket.

While most eyes will be on the presidential race, particularly for the Republicans, voters will also be making decisions on their final slate of candidates in Senate, House and governors races that can determine political control of Congress and states for the next two to four years.

  • California voters will get their say on the Democratic nominee for the Senate seat long held by the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein, now occupied by Sen. Laphonza Butler. Because it is a solidly blue seat, the primary will likely signal the front-runner for the election in November, though it may take several days to determine the winner due to mail-in voting counts.
  • North Carolina votes in a high-stakes gubernatorial race. The state legislature is currently controlled by Republicans, and Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper has reached his term limit — leaving an open seat.
  • Texas will pick the Democratic challenger to Sen. Ted Cruz, who is seeking a third term. Nine Democratic candidates are looking to be Cruz's opponent in the fall.
  • Alabama will be voting under a new congressional map that opened a new district in the state's southwest corner. Last fall, a federal court decided on Alabama's new congressional map, which is likely to result in a Democratic member of the U.S. House.

Correction March 4, 2024

An earlier version of this story incorrectly said Donald Trump has won every Republican presidential primary election thus far. In fact, Nikki Haley won the Republican presidential primary election in the District of Columbia.

Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips ends Democratic primary challenge and endorses President Joe Biden

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips of Minnesota ended his long-shot 2024 Democratic presidential bid on Wednesday after failing to win a primary contest against President Joe Biden.

Phillips told WCCO Radio in Minneapolis that he was endorsing Biden, saying “there is only one choice” in an expected fall matchup with Republican Donald Trump.

Phillips, a 55-year-old multimillionaire who is among the richest members of Congress, built his White House bid around calls for a new generation of Democratic leadership while spending freely from his personal fortune. But the little-known congressman ultimately failed to resonate with the party’s voters.

Phillips was the only elected Democrat to challenge Biden for the presidency. Phillips’ failure to gain traction is further proof that Democratic voters are behind the 81-year-old Biden even if many have misgivings about his age or his reelection prospects.

Biden called Phillips on Wednesday after the congressman ended his candidacy, according to a person familiar with the matter who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the private conversation.

FILE - Democratic presidential candidate Rep. Dean Phillips, D-Minn., gestures while...

The president has long cast himself as uniquely qualified to beat Trump again, and Biden’s reelection campaign largely ignored Phillips except to point out that the congressman voted with the administration nearly 100% of the time in Congress.

Phillips often argued Biden was too old to serve a second term. But in a social media post Wednesday, Phillips noted that Biden had once visited his home while Biden was vice president and that his “decency and wisdom were rarities in politics then, and even more so today.”

Phillips said in the WCCO interview that while he thinks Biden “is at a stage in life where his capacities are diminished, he is still a man of competency and decency and integrity. And the alternative, Donald Trump is a very dangerous, dangerous man.”

The congressman’s endorsement of Biden foreclosed the prospects of third-party challenge by Phillips on a potential No Labels ticket. But he said he hopes Nikki Haley, the last major Trump rival on the Republican side, who suspended her campaign Wednesday, considers an independent bid. Phillips said that would draw votes away from Trump and help Biden’s reelection chances, while other independents in the race would just peel off Biden votes and aid Trump.

“I believe wholeheartedly, effusively, there is only one choice, and that is Joe Biden. ... At the end of the day, this is really a very stark choice and a very simple contrast,” Phillips said.

A centerpiece of Phillips’ campaign to upset Biden was in New Hampshire, where he campaigned hard, hoping to capitalize on state Democrats’ frustration over a new plan by the Democratic National Committee, championed by Biden, reordering the party’s 2024 presidential primary calendar by leading off with South Carolina on Feb. 3.

But instead of pulling off a New Hampshire surprise, Phillips finished a distant second in the state’s unsanctioned primary, behind a write-in campaign in which Democrats voted for Biden despite his name not appearing on the ballot.

After that defeat, Phillips pressed on to South Carolina and the primary’s formal start. But the DNC didn’t schedule any primary debates, and some states’ Democratic parties, including North Carolina and Florida, are not even planning to hold primaries — making it even more difficult to challenge the sitting president. Phillips lost South Carolina and every other state in which he competed.

Before Minnesota’s primary on Super Tuesday, hardly any of nearly two dozen Democratic voters interviewed in Phillips’ congressional district mentioned his presidential campaign. James Calderaro of Hopkins knew Phillips was a candidate but dismissed him as “a distraction.” Calderaro and others said they were backing Biden for the best chance of stopping Trump in November.

Phillips finished a distant third in the Minnesota primary with about 8% of the vote, compared with about 19% for “uncommitted” and 71% for Biden.

Phillips has already announced he’s not seeking reelection in his suburban Minneapolis congressional district. He is heir to his stepfather’s Phillips Distilling Co. empire and served as that company’s president, but he also ran the gelato maker Talenti. His grandmother was Pauline Phillips, better known as the advice columnist Dear Abby.

Driving a gelato truck helped Phillips win his first House campaign in 2018, when he unseated five-term Republican Erik Paulsen. While Phillips’ district in mostly affluent greater Minneapolis has become more Democratic-leaning, he stressed that he is a moderate focused on his suburban constituents.

While running for president, however, Phillips moved further to the left, endorsing fully government-funded health care through “Medicare for All.”

Weissert reported from Washington. AP White House Correspondent Zeke Miller in Washington contributed.

Follow the AP’s coverage of the 2024 election at https://apnews.com/hub/election-2024 .

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

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IMAGES

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  2. 10 Best Things to Do in South Dakota

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  3. Top 11 Sights to See in South Dakota

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  6. 15 Best Things to do in South Dakota: The Ultimate Bucket List

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COMMENTS

  1. One Week in South Dakota Itinerary: Black Hills & the Badlands

    South Dakota Itinerary: Day 1. Arrive in Rapid City, Drive to Badlands National Park. On the Road: 72 miles, 1.5 hours (this includes the drive to Wall and the Pinnacles Overlook in Badlands National Park) On this South Dakota itinerary, you will fly in and out of Rapid City Regional Airport. Try to plan your flight so you arrive in the morning or the early afternoon.

  2. The Ultimate South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary: Where to Stop ...

    Courtesy of South Dakota Department of Tourism. Located just outside Badlands National Park and about four hours from Sioux Falls, this massive, 76,000-square-foot roadside attraction started from ...

  3. South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary (4 + 7 Days)

    Day 4 - Black Elk Peak. Start the final day by driving to Sylvan Lake and the trailhead for Black Elk Peak. This amazing hike is the perfect way to finish a short but sweet South Dakota road trip. You already have your 7 day pass for Custer State Park so you won't have to pay again to enter the Sylvan Lake area.

  4. Ultimate South Dakota Road Trip Planner and Itinerary

    Best Time to Visit South Dakota. Where to Base Yourself for your South Dakota Road Trip. The Perfect South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary. Day 1 of the perfect South Dakota Itinerary. Badlands National Park. Wall Drug. Day Two of the perfect South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary. Mount Rushmore. Wind Cave National Park.

  5. The Perfect South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary: 7 Days of Wonder

    But first, you will finish adventuring on the scenic roads of the Black Hills National Forest before you head east. Hop back on 16-A, Iron Mountain Road, and take it all the way up to Route 16. Then take the 16 Bypass to pick up Route 44 east. Take a left from 44 to hit Sage Creek Road.

  6. South Dakota Road Trip: A 4-Day Itinerary Filled With Wildlife and

    A 4-Day Road Trip Through South Dakota's Parks, Filled With Wildlife and Monuments. The state has otherworldly rock formations, Indigenous cuisine, and elevated camping experiences. The pandemic ...

  7. South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary: Best Things to Do in the Black Hills

    I've wanted to visit South Dakota for a long time, mainly because I really wanted to see Badlands National Park. But once I got there, I realized I didn't know exactly just how awesome South Dakota really was! From scenic drives with rock-carved tunnels, to epic mountain hikes, to caves, and even mammoth fossil sites, South Dakota surprisingly has it all!

  8. South Dakota Road Trip

    Then the next day (day 1) Badlands for the day and then drive to near Custer State Park and spend the night. The day 2, Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore, and stay overnight near there. On day 3, take the scenic route to Spearfish with plenty of stops along the way.

  9. Black Hills Road Trip Itinerary: South Dakota Here You Come

    Hit Ctrl when clicking the map to open an interactive Google Map in another window. Begin the day exploring the largest state park in South Dakota, Custer State Park.If you need convincing to start here read our post about 10 Reasons to Visit Custer State Park.. Start with an early morning drive on the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road.Begin at the Visitor Center on the east side of the park.

  10. Suggested Itineraries

    Black Hills & Badlands Tourism Association (605) 355-3700 (Information Center) (888) 945-7676 (Booking Information) Terms & Policies

  11. How To Plan A Western South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary

    Use Rapid City as a base. Rapid is one of those cool little American cities that's seeing a revitalization. It might not be a destination all on its own, but its location at the center of Badlands, the Black Hills, and Custer make it the perfect base for a western South Dakota road trip. There are a number of cute indie shops, artists ...

  12. Road Trip Itinerary: The Best of North and South Dakota

    Badlands National Park to Mount Rushmore, South Dakota. Badlands National Park. 1 h 30 m. 75 mi. Mount Rushmore. Route: Today is a quick drive but if you're a photographer and want to get the ...

  13. Plan Your Trip

    The Travel South Dakota Stories. South Dakota is where buffalo roam, gunslingers entertain, and mountains & monuments stand tall over open land. Produced by the award-winning Armchair Productions and recorded on-location throughout South Dakota, this audio adventure podcast is designed to do more than just let you hear what it's like to be there!

  14. Ultimate 2024 South Dakota Road Trip Planner: Attractions

    Plan the ultimate South Dakota road trip itinerary to see Mount Rushmore, Badlands, Black Hills, & Custer State Park now. Plan perfect South Dakota road trip itinerary to see Mount Rushmore, Badlands, Black Hills, & Custer State Park now. ... My family will be doing a week long South Dakota road trip around Memorial Day and this post is great ...

  15. Ultimate 4-day Black Hills Itinerary

    Deemed both fun and educational, Reptile Gardens is ranked #4 in Trip Advisor's recommended thing to do in the Black Hills and is located only 8 miles from its counterpart, Bear Country U.S.A. Admission is steep at $18.00 for adults, $12.00 for children ages 5-12, children ages 4 and under are free.

  16. 24 Top Things to Do in South Dakota

    Options include hiking, biking, fishing, boating, hunting, horseback riding, swimming and snowshoeing. The park is also famous for its herd of nearly 1,500 free-roaming bison, as well as a variety ...

  17. How long to spend in South Dakota?

    Feb 06, 2024. South Dakota during Thanksgiving week 2024 Feb 06, 2024. 2-3 week trip itinerary adive requested early June Feb 02, 2024. Mickelson Trail Feb 02, 2024. Yet another itinerary question Badlands, Custer State Park Jan 31, 2024. Mitchell SD to Badlands/Black Hills - 70th birthday trip Jan 28, 2024.

  18. How to Visit Badlands National Park

    From I-90, you take one of two exits for Highway 240 (Exit 110 or 131), which is also called Badlands Loop Road. It takes you to most sights in the north unit of the park. You can visit the south unit of the park, also called the Stronghold Unit, at points along Highway 27 south of Scenic, South Dakota.

  19. How to Visit Mount Rushmore: 10 Things to Know Before You Go

    2. The Controversy Behind Mount Rushmore. The Black Hills of South Dakota are sacred to the Lakota Sioux, the people who lived on this land before white settlers arrived. In 1868, the US government promised the Sioux that they could remain on the land, including the Black Hills of South Dakota.

  20. The Complete Guide to Visiting Deadwood, South Dakota

    Almost 100 long arms and 20 handguns are displayed as you learn about guns throughout American history and in the Black Hills. ... Another gem to visit on a trip to South Dakota is the Badlands. The Badlands have a scenic loop that provides miles and miles of geological landscapes, canyons, views, ...

  21. Drive Badlands Loop Road (Highway 240)

    Badlands Loop Road (SD 240) is a spectacular way to see the North Unit of Badlands National Park. This two-lane paved road is appropriate for all motor vehicles but does include several steep passes and sections with reduced speed limits. Drive carefully, as wildlife is common along the Loop Road. Please use overlooks and pull-outs to stop for ...

  22. Plan Your Visit

    Consider visiting before 9:00 a.m. or after 3:30 p.m. Use the links below to plan your visit to Mount Rushmore and the surrounding Black Hills. Basic Information. Get the information you need to help plan a visit to Mount Rushmore. Directions and Transportation.

  23. 14 Memorable Things To Do In South Dakota

    Whether you are taking a long road trip as we enjoyed, or your destination is one specific South Dakota location, this list is amazing. Fun Outdoor Adventures in South Dakota Panning for gold in ...

  24. Plan Your Visit

    Those with a special interest in the Cold War or nuclear weapons could spend a half day or more at Minuteman Missile National Historic Site. The park consists of three sites along a fifteen mile stretch of Interstate 90 in western South Dakota: the Visitor Center, Launch Control Facility Delta-01 and the Delta-09 Missile Silo. To get the latest ...

  25. 8 Most Overlooked Towns In South Dakota

    The CCC Museum of South Dakota elaborates on the region's cultural and environmental impacts, while the Museum @ Black Hills Institute exhibits the many dinosaur and prehistoric fossils uncovered from the Black Hills and the surrounding area. ... 9 Oldest Founded Towns To Visit In South Dakota Visiting these age-old South Dakota towns ...

  26. Super Tuesday states and results timing: an election guide : NPR

    Voters in 16 states and one territory will make their voices heard Tuesday in the biggest primary election day of the 2024 cycle. Find out who is voting and what's at stake.

  27. Rep. Dean Phillips ends his long-shot primary challenge against ...

    U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips of Minnesota ended his long-shot 2024 Democratic presidential bid on Wednesday after failing to win a primary contest against President Joe Biden.

  28. Privately owned vehicle (POV) mileage reimbursement rates

    For calculating the mileage difference between airports, please visit the U.S. Department of Transportation's Inter-Airport Distance website. QUESTIONS: For all travel policy questions, email [email protected]. The shortcut to this page is gsa.gov/mileage.