Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Rapid City, South Dakota. #Top Attractions

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Rapid City, South Dakota, is an amazing travel destination. Look at our recommended travel activities and attractions in Rapid City, South Dakota, to get the most out of your time there. Check out the list of the best things to do in Rapid City, South Dakota, and places to go in Rapid City, South Dakota below. Wondrous Drifter is a cutting-edge, Web 3.0 travel startup that aspires to change the world.

America’s Founding Fathers Exhibit

America's Founding Fathers Exhibit, Rapid City, South Dakota
America’s Founding Fathers Exhibit is one of the best places to go in Rapid City, South Dakota

Anyone interested in American history or appreciating their current circumstances should visit this location.

The Founding Fathers Exhibit was established to pay respect to all individuals who placed their lives, fortunes, and reputations on the line for the independence of the United States.

This compelling exhibit describes the momentous event with a matching light and music performance. It features a life-size, three-dimensional reproduction of John Trumbull’s iconic Declaration of Independence painting.

It’s difficult to look away from the tableau, which has a realistic recreation of the 56 signatories of the Declaration of Independence and an engaging narration playing in the background. 

A genuine Revolutionary-era Kentucky long gun may be fired by guests outside the museum.

In addition, the exhibit sets out in an endeavor to educate visitors about the Declaration of Independence and the people. They were instrumental in its creation, although this endeavor is unlikely to succeed.

A guide welcomes and accompanies visitors as they enter the structure.

History lovers gasp in shock at the identification. At the same time, younger students realize this could be an incredible learning opportunity.

Address: 9815 S Highway 16, Rapid City, SD 57702, USA

Art Alley

Art Alley, Rapid City, South Dakota
Art Alley is one of the best places to go in Rapid City, South Dakota

Art Alley is a must-see while visiting downtown Rapid City, so plan accordingly.

The walls are covered with real, one-of-a-kind art pieces and personal and political views about local and international topics.

Numerous people, including artists, residents, and visitors, respect this area.

There is no admission charge for this show, which takes over an alleyway with eye-catching paintings and creative graffiti.

Graffiti alleyways are becoming a popular way for people to express themselves in an area, even though they are becoming more common.

The vibrant art pieces cover various genres, some of which feature fantastical beings, references to pop culture, and important social themes.

Visiting the same place twice will not be the same because of the fleeting nature of each piece of artwork.

It is a location where one may lose themselves in art while simultaneously finding themselves there.

Address: 599 7th St, Rapid City, SD 57701, USA

Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park, Rapid City, South Dakota
Badlands National Park is one of the best places to go in Rapid City, South Dakota

The Badlands National Park is one of the top attractions in South Dakota.

Rapid City’s closeness to the Badlands National Park is a big draw for many visitors!

It’s a great starting point for exploring the region, as it’s only an hour’s drive away.

Badlands tourists come from throughout the world because of their harsh beauty.

An abundance of fossils may be found in these spectacular geological formations.

Badlands National Park encompasses a total area of 244,000 acres and is well-known for its breathtaking views, opportunity to observe native species, variety of outdoor activities, and nighttime astronomy.

It goes without saying that Yosemite and the Grand Canyon are at the very top of the list. Still, the kaleidoscopic sandstone masterpieces create some of the most breathtaking scenery you’ll ever have the opportunity to experience.

There is a beautiful mixed-grass prairie ecology nestled among the granite peaks.

All kinds of activities are available for those who want to get out into the environment.

Even though the park has a reputation for being underrated, its natural beauty still blows people away.

Address: South Dakota, USA

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Bear Country USA

Bear Country USA, Rapid City, South Dakota
Bear Country USA is one of the best places to go in Rapid City, South Dakota

Being able to get so close to the wolves and bears was such a gratifying experience.

Bear Country USA, located only a short drive south of Rapid City, allows visitors to see some of the most frightening animals native to the U.S.

To say that there are a lot of bears around here would be an understatement; they’re everywhere. 

The adventure begins with an amusing drive-thru encounter. Foods, on the other hand, are not something that can be ordered here.

Bear Country USA is a tourist attraction over 200 acres located 8 miles south of Rapid City, South Dakota. 

It provides guests with up-close encounters with various North American animals.

Driving through a wildlife park, you’ll pass various cages as you cruise for three miles in your automobile.

You’ll also find bears of the black and brown kind here, those of the gray and white variety, and the bobcat!

After parking the car, walk around the nature walk to see all of the animals.

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

Black Hills Caverns

Black Hills Caverns, Rapid City, South Dakota
Black Hills Caverns is one of the best places to go in Rapid City, South Dakota

The Black Hills Caverns is one of the best things to do in  South Dakota.

Your excursion to the Black Hills Caverns in Rapid City, South Dakota, will unquestionably be the most memorable part of your vacation there.

As far back as 1880, the Black Hill Caverns were unearthed by geologists for the first time in modern times.

The Black Hills Tunnels were first found by gold hunters in 1882, but the Lakota Indians had known about them for hundreds of years before that.

Although the cave is still being explored, fresh discoveries are being made in the stunning underground terrain.

Since time immemorial, the Lakota Native Americans have used the cave’s different limestone crystals, which are said to improve the clarity of mind.

Today, the caves are an excellent resource for learning about the area’s geology and rich cultural heritage.

Stalagmites and helictites fill 3,400 feet of the main cave, adorned with rock formations.

You’ll have a choice between two excursions conducted by your professional tour guide. To begin with, one must enter the cave’s lowermost level. 

Address: 2600 Cavern Rd, Rapid City, SD 57702, USA

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Black Hills Outdoor Fun

Black Hills Outdoor Fun, Rapid City, South Dakota
Black Hills Outdoor Fun is one of the best places to go in Rapid City, South Dakota

With Black Hills Outdoor Fun, you can relax and take in the view without worrying about anything!

It’s a terrific option for tourists who don’t want to study a map of the area too much.

Several other ATV rental establishments in the vicinity just provide you with a vehicle and a map, and wish you luck.

Explore the Black Hills trails with the help of local experts who know the best paths to go to get 

the best views.

You’ll have a secure, pleasant, and entertaining journey with a 4-hour guided tour.

The Black Hills may be seen in all their glory from this excursion.

The trails are suitable for all cyclists, from novices to experts.

However, despite the occasional rock outcropping and the possibility of a few mud puddles, they mainly stick to well-maintained Forest Service paths.

The greatest areas will be seen by all riders.

Also included is a short stroll on the Deerfield Trail, which provides spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and ancient farmsteads.

Address: 12780 Black Forest Rd, Rapid City, SD 57702, USA

Black Hills Symphony Orchestra

Black Hills Symphony Orchestra, Rapid City, South Dakota
Black Hills Symphony Orchestra is one of the best places to go in Rapid City, South Dakota

One must see at least one opera when visiting another country to consider the trip worthwhile.

The Black Hills Symphony Orchestra is a local orchestra in Rapid City, South Dakota, composed of musicians performing at a semi-professional level.

The number of people in the Black Hills Symphony Orchestra has grown over time, and there are now about 90.

The Black Hills Symphony Orchestra was formed in the 1930s with a modest number of string musicians.

The organization’s straightforward mission statement is to deliver the greatest orchestral production and classical music education for the residents of the Black Hills region.

The Performing Arts Center of Rapid City puts on different shows each year that correspond to the various seasons.

In addition, they work to build good relationships with the young people in the community and encourage musicians and artists from the area to take part.

The Black Hills Symphony Orchestra offers many ways for kids and young adults to learn about music and participate in musical activities.

Address: 601 Columbus St, Rapid City, SD 57701, USA

Chapel in the Hills

Chapel in the Hills, Rapid City, South Dakota
Chapel in the Hills is one of the best places to go in Rapid City, South Dakota

It’s hard to argue that Rapid City’s Chapel in the Hills isn’t the best piece of design!

The chapel’s building is a faithful copy of the famous Borgund Stavkirke in Laerdal, Norway.

Following its initial placement in the woods, it was eventually relocated to its current spot.

Its aim is to reach out to local residents and tourists trying to find a place to feel God’s serenity amid their hectic lives.

In this peaceful, natural place, people are welcome to walk around the chapel grounds at their own pace and feel God’s presence.

The Meditation Trail is the newest feature that has been added to the grounds.

Behind the church, a shady trail meanders through the woods. 

The route, which has seats and statues, gives people a new place to stop, worship, and think.

If you want to learn more about the history of this chapel and its predecessor, take a tour of the tourist center on the premises.

People from all over the world come to admire the church because of its natural beauty.

Address: 3788 Chapel Ln, Rapid City, SD 57702, USA

Cosmos Mystery Area

Cosmos Mystery Area, Rapid City, South Dakota
Cosmos Mystery Area, Rapid City, South Dakota / Shelby L. Bell / Flickr

Regarding family enjoyment in Rapid City, there’s no better place than the Cosmos Mystery Area.

This is especially true about the mystery home.

In 1952, two college-aged males went on a hunt in the Black Hills to find the ideal location to construct a summer cottage. 

While searching, they came across the Cosmos, a realm of mystery and wonder.

The guys decided to set up camp while investigating the strange phenomenon.

They came to the realization that there was something that would be of interest to the public. As a response, they started making repairs to the cabin to make it safe, leading to the displays currently being shown.

You’ll see a variety of optical illusions, such as water gushing upwards.

Visitors can participate in mind-blowing displays of the “Cosmos force” at the Mystery House, or they can go crystal mining for precious stones.

Tour guides have specialized training to incorporate elements of humor, scientific inquiry, and 

unsolved mysteries into their trips.

You’ll love this area if you’ve got a sense of adventure.

Address: 24040 Cosmos Rd, Rapid City, SD 57702, USA

Dinosaur Park

Dinosaur Park, Rapid City, South Dakota
Dinosaur Park, Rapid City, South Dakota / Jena Fuller / Flickr

Amid the city, this dinosaur park is among the few options for a family trip!

Several threads may be traced back to the time of the dinosaurs in South Dakota.

It is an important aspect of the state’s culture, and you will have the opportunity to participate in it right here in Rapid City.

Because of its elevated position, Dinosaur Park offers spectacular views of the city and is a popular destination for families. 

Walk around the park to witness all seven of the cement dinosaur models that are in existence.

There are plenty of dinosaurs in the park, including T-Rex, triceratops, and apatosaurus, for youngsters to pose with.

The majority of the Badlands’ rocks are too ancient to contain dinosaur fossils preserved inside them. Still, the area is rich in fossilized animal remains.

This spot is adorable and would make a terrific backdrop for some fun photos!

Address: 940 Skyline Dr, Rapid City, SD 57701, United States

Downtown Rapid City

Downtown Rapid City, Rapid City, South Dakota
Downtown Rapid City is one of the best places to go in Rapid City, South Dakota

The Downtown Rapid City is one of the best places to visit in  South Dakota.

With a wide range of activities for all ages and interests, downtown Rapid City is a great place to begin your journeys in this country.

Downtown Rapid City may be found between Omaha Street and Columbus Street, and it’s a place that’s always bustling with activity.

Playgrounds for children, a stage where summer music performances are held, and a variety of shops and restaurants make this a popular place for families to meet and socialize.

Additionally, the public art installation in Downtown Rapid City, which features 43 presidents, is one of this area’s most interesting and distinctive aspects.

A bustling Main Street vibe, stories from local farmers, and brilliant bursts of color amidst the pulse of live music may have you feeling up to the challenge of taking on whatever you encounter here.

Also, check out the fountains in Main Street Square, which is a perfect location for creating memorable experiences.

No matter what brings you to Rapid City, they offer everything you could need to make your time there one to remember.

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

Journey Museum

Journey Museum, Rapid City, South Dakota
Journey Museum, Rapid City, South Dakota / NatalieMaynor / Flickr

This establishment should have the title of Rapid City’s most popular entertainment spot!

The Journey Museum, which is all about the Black Hills, works hard to keep the area’s history, which goes back thousands and thousands of years, safe.

Everything you need to know about the Lakota people and their distinctive Native American history, as well as the pioneers who formed it, can be found here.

Every day, visitors may study and play in new ways through interactive exhibits that show that the borders between art, science, and culture are always shifting.

More than just a mountain range scattered across the Great Plains, the Black Hills are a cultural and natural wonder. 

Historic sites, Native American culture, and pioneering traditions are all found in this area, which is also known for its natural beauty.

Displays begin with mountain development and move through geological history.

After that, guests will learn about the region’s ancient past, including the relics that may be found here.

Visitors to The Journey Museum & Learning Center may find some of the most interesting things and features there. 

This is because the museum has a large collection and is important historically.

Address: 222 New York St, Rapid City, SD 57701, USA

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Rapid City, South Dakota
Mount Rushmore National Memorial is one of the best places to go in Rapid City, South Dakota

In any case, your trip to Mount Rushmore will go down in your history books as one of the most memorable experiences you’ll ever have.

A trip to a national memorial may be magnificent, especially when that memorial is Mount Rushmore National Memorial in South Dakota, which has presidential images carved into granite and is 60 feet tall.

Mount Rushmore is one of the most visited national monuments in the United States, with over two million people passing through its gates every year.

Mount Rushmore is a place where tourists may see the rich cultural legacy of the United States, from its first occupants to its current diversity.

It became an instantly recognizable landmark when it opened in 1941, and there were few other places like it in the world.

It does not cost anything to get to Mount Rushmore, and the surroundings of the park provide some very breathtaking vistas.

Stopping here is unquestionably worthwhile due to the famous nature of this location.

Address: 13000 SD-244, Keystone, SD 57751, USA

Museum of Geology

Museum of Geology, Rapid City, South Dakota
Museum of Geology is one of the best places to go in Rapid City, South Dakota

Free activities abound in Rapid City, making it an excellent choice for those on a tight budget and with children.

The Museum of Geology is a prime example of this type of establishment.

The Museum of Geology has a wide range of interesting displays, including ones on:

History and mineralogy (including gemology and crystallography) are two fields of study that are closely related.

Visitor groups of all ages may learn about local geology through exhibitions on mineral specimens and paleontological fossils.

While exploring, you’ll find a ton of information about what’s going on below ground.

Going to the museum without being impressed by the incredible reptile collection is hard.

In addition to self-guided tours, the Kid’s Zone offers a variety of activities for children of all ages.

The free treasure hunt available for children to participate in was a success. 

Nearby is a wonderful gift store, and visitors are welcome to make donations since all of the proceeds go toward maintaining the museum. 

Address: 501 E St Joseph St, Rapid City, SD 57701, USA

Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries

Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries
Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries is one of the best places to go in Rapid City, South Dakota

If you want to learn more about the indigenous culture of Rapid City, this is a great place to start.

Take a closer look at the city’s indigenous people by engaging with their art and culture.

Indigenous Northern Plains artists’ work may be found at Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries in the form of art galleries and retail stores selling their wares.

Among the wares offered are textiles, plants, novels, musical works, and art materials.

Masonry, wood, and glass were used to bring the storefront back to its 19th-century glory.

Inside, the smell of sage and sweetgrass and the sound of the Lakota flute make the room feel like it’s in the Old West. The wooden floors and shiny cabinets add to this feeling.

Art, craft items, and dried medicines from the Native American community are available at the shop.

This is a must-see location! There are many local artists, reasonable pricing, and a wide selection of goods.

Address: 606 Main St, Rapid City, SD 57701, USA

Reptile Gardens

Reptile Gardens, Rapid City, South Dakota
Reptile Gardens is one of the best places to go in Rapid City, South Dakota

Even if you’re afraid of snakes, this is a must-see while you’re in town!

At this location, you will get the amazing opportunity to get up close to a diverse collection of reptiles worldwide.

The city’s reptile gardens are home to a wide variety of reptiles, including lizards, snakes, and crocodiles, among other species.

Everyone will turn into a reptile fan after seeing this!

Many of these fascinating creatures have been the subjects of engrossing television programs.

Attractions such as snake shows and gator shows draw large crowds to the gardens each weekend.

But don’t let the name fool you; the Reptile Gardens are home to various animals, not only reptiles.

An extensive range of birds, including hawks, owls, and eagles, may be found here.

Over 40,000 flowering plants have been planted on the property, making it a real botanical garden that people can walk through and enjoy. 

It is an attraction that tourists just cannot miss since it is the source of many pleasant childhood memories.

Address: 8955 US-16, Rapid City, SD 57702, USA

South Dakota Air and Space Museum

South Dakota Air and Space Museum, Rapid City, South Dakota
South Dakota Air and Space Museum, Rapid City, South Dakota / James St. John / Flickr

Everyone should visit the South Dakota Air and Space Museum, but aviation and history enthusiasts should definitely do so.

The South Dakota Air and Space Museum has a collection of historically important planes, warplanes, and artifacts from all over the world that will take you back to the 20th century.

There are several ways to discover the rich aviation heritage of South Dakota and the nation as a whole, showcased in various galleries, displays, and actual planes. 

The thirty warplanes on display, all of which flew during World War II, are certain to be among the most memorable aspects of your trip.

Outside of the context of conflict, it is possible to learn about the trailblazers of aviation history and to gain an appreciation for how far new technology, science, and construction have progressed. 

The Ellsworth Air Force Base and the Missile Silo are both available for tours from the middle of May until the middle of September, but the museum is open continuously throughout the year.

Address: 2890 Davis Dr, Ellsworth AFB, SD 57706, USA

Storybook Island

Storybook Island, Rapid City, South Dakota
Storybook Island is one of the best places to go in Rapid City, South Dakota

A day at the park with small children would not be complete without stopping here!

Since it first opened to families more than 60 years ago, Storybook Island has kept them entertained with a mix of fairy tales and nursery rhymes. 

Rapid City is home to the 8.5-acre, family-friendly theme park known as Storybook Island, which does not charge entry.

It is possible to reach Storybook Island from the heart of Downtown Rapid City in only a few minutes via car during the summer months when the park is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

On the Storybook Island Line, which goes through Middle Park, kids can use their imaginations in more than a hundred different places based on stories and nursery rhymes.

Whether you use the park train or stroll about on foot, you and your kids will surely come across more than a hundred magical scenarios.

In addition to that, there are regularly scheduled theatrical productions.

Rapid City possesses a number of wonderful assets, and the park is unquestionably among the best of them.

Those who visit this location will be awed by its magic.

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

The Golf Club at Red Rock

The Golf Club at Red Rock, Rapid City, South Dakota
The Golf Club at Red Rock is one of the best places to go in Rapid City, South Dakota

Is there a sport you’d want to participate in while you’re on vacation? When it comes to golf, you can count on the golf club.

Since it was first opened in 2003, just outside Rapid City, South Dakota’s Golf Club at Red Rock has been ranked as the state’s best golf course.

The lovely grounds of the Red Rock golf course are framed by natural grasses and towering pine forests. 

The Red Rock golf course is threaded through the landscape of the Black Hills and is situated just minutes from Rapid City.

The Golf Club at Red Rock was built to give golfers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros, an unforgettable round of golf in the Black Hills.

Come on for a bite to eat and take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the golf course while you’re there!

At The Rock Bar & Grill, you may enjoy your lunch on the outside terrace or within the clubhouse.

They also provide a complete bar with your favorite beers, wines, and liquors for your enjoyment.

Address: 6520 Birkdale Rd, Rapid City, SD 57702, USA

Watiki Water Park

Watiki Water Park, Rapid City, South Dakota
Watiki Water Park is one of the best places to go in Rapid City, South Dakota

Summer fun at Watiki Water Park is sure to beat the heat!

When it’s time to cool down on a hot summer day, head to Watiki Water Park, a large complex with various exhilarating water slides and refreshing swimming holes.

The WaTiki Indoor Waterpark Resort is still the biggest indoor water spot in South Dakota, with water activities that combine for more than 30,000 square feet of space.

For those who are worried about missing out on the excitement of the park in the dead of winter, don’t. It’s open all year round!

It’s a terrific spot to catch up with friends or spend time with your family.

Swimming, body slides, and an underwater basketball court are just a few of the many attractions here.

In the event that you feel hungry while you’re at the water park, you have a number of different food alternatives to select from.

If you’re planning a celebration, such as a birthday party or family reunion, or just want to have a good time, WaTiki is the perfect venue.

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Is there anything else holding you back from making Rapid City, South Dakota, your next vacation destination? Visit reasons to visit Rapid City, South Dakota, at least once in your lifetime here.

Address: 1314 N Elk Vale Rd, Rapid City, SD 57703, USA

 

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