10 Things to Do in the Black Hills of South Dakota

If you’re planning on visiting the gorgeous Black Hills of South Dakota, here are a few places worthy of a stop.

1. Mount Rushmore. There are far more places to visit in the Black Hills besides those famous faces carved on a mountain. However, Mount Rushmore is definitely our favorite thing about the Black Hills. While you’re there, don’t forget to stop by the ice cream shop and get a scoop of Thomas Jefferson’s vanilla ice cream. A local creamery makes special batches of Jefferson’s own recipe–the most simply perfect vanilla ice cream you’ll ever eat. If you’re there in the evening, it’s worth it stick around for the lighting ceremony, held from late May to September 30th, starting at dusk.
2. Custer State Park’s wildlife loop/Needles Highway. You can’t visit South Dakota without seeing some buffalo. When you enter the park, make sure to ask a park ranger where the buffalo have been spotted that day. If you see them, they are magnificent–but definitely keep your distance. Before or after you do the loop, take the quick drive up to Needles Highway. You won’t regret it. You don’t have to go all the way around, but at least thread your way through the eye of the needles where you’ll definitely want to stop and get some pictures.
3. Sylvan Lake. If you’re looking for a super family friendly hike, you absolutely must stop at Sylvan Lake. The movie National Treasure 2 was filmed here, for good reason–the scenery can’t be beat. The hike will take you all the way around the lake for some magnificent views. If you’re looking for a more difficult hike, the Sunday Gulch hike behind Sylvan Lake is a great one. It’s steep going down, so there are handrails to guide you. Definitely don’t do this one without proper footwear.
4. Hill City. If you need a break from hiking but still want to enjoy the views, take a ride on the 1880 Train in Hill City. You’ll get a short, relaxing ride on a real steam train that will take you to an old Keystone Mine and then back again. Afterward, stop for lunch or dinner at Alpine Inn. Lunch is authentic German food that’s to die for. But you can’t go wrong with dinner either–bacon wrapped filet and the best wedge salad ever. During tourist season, if you aren’t in line at least 45 minutes before it opens, be prepared for a long wait.
5. Reptile Gardens. If you need a change of pace, or your kids are bored driving around, spend the morning or afternoon here. Think of it like a mini-zoo geared around reptiles. There’s an alligator/crocodile show, bird show, and snake show that will keep your kids entertained. Plus, there’s a fun playground and a loop through more reptiles that will keep your kids busy for quite awhile.
6. Storybook Island. If you’re traveling with young kids and they need a place to run around for awhile, this is the perfect spot. It’s free (though they encourage a donation), a bit old school, but will take you back to your own childhood. (Note: if you’re looking for a more educational activity for your children, I recommend the Journey Museum. It talks about the history of the Native Americans in the area and has many hands-on activities for kids.)
7. Spearfish Canyon. There are many fantastic hikes up this canyon, including Devil’s Bathtub (a bit more advanced) or Rough Luck Falls (super easy), but you can’t go wrong with whatever you choose. This whole canyon is super picturesque–especially in the fall.
8. Pactola Reservoir or Sheridan Lake. Pactola is a manmade reservoir built over an old mining town and it is gorgeous. You can rent pontoon boats or just play on the beach. You’ll be surprised by how many times you’ll be saying that word when you visit the Black Hills. It’s truly a hidden gem. Additionally, Sheridan Lake also boats stunning views and a great place to camp, just play on the beach or rent kayaks.
9. Deadwood. Three times a day, six days a week, you can be entertained with a Wild West shoot out on the Main Street of Deadwood. Plus, the town is just cool to drive through–somehow, over all these years it has maintained its western, historic feel.
10. The Badlands. This place is crazy cool–unlike most things you’ve probably seen in nature. It’s a great place to hike, rock hunt, or off road.

Things you can pass if you’re short on time:

-Crazy Horse. I know, I know. How can you skip Crazy Horse? Here’s the thing. Don’t skip it– it’s a beautiful monument to a Native American legend. But if you’re short on time, get a good look as you drive by. Admission is quite pricey and unless you pay an even bigger fee to get closer to it upon admission, the street view is just as good as in the park.

-Dinosaur Park. This place is all over tourist brochures and billboards, but trust us, unless you have super young kids who are crazy about dinosaurs, this place is underwhelming. Yes, it’s a historical part of the city with a cool view, but, sadly, it isn’t in the best of shape and there’s not really a whole lot to do once you get up there.

-Wall Drug. It’s just a tourist trap plain and simple. Stop if you must, be you’ve been warned.

Favorite restaurants:

–Alpine Inn (Hill City, more info above). Their German lunch menu is incredible (also, save room for dessert). For dinner, they only have two items: bacon wrapped filet or spaetzle primavera.

–Tally’s Silver Spoon (downtown Rapid City). You cant go wrong with their breakfast!

–Thai Thai (Rapid City). Perhaps Thai food isn’t what you’d expect in the Black Hills, but this place is a local favorite for good reason.

–Himalayan Kitchen (Rapid City). If you love Indian food, you can’t go wrong with this place.

–Murphy’s Pub and Grill (downtown Rapid City). It might not be what you’d expect in this part of the country, but their fish and chips are my favorite!

–Black Hills Burger and Bun (Custer). During tourist season, be prepared for a wait. But it’s worth it.

–Del Monicos (downtown Rapid City). This is a good option if you’re in the mood for something fancier.

–Dakota’s Steak House (Rapid City). This is another fancier option, but they have some local fare like buffalo.